10 Hidden Small Towns in Oregon That Are Worth Exploring
Oregonians, get ready for this insider’s tour of inviting small towns hidden away in our beautiful Beaver State. These gems, set in the craggy coastline, lush Willamette Valley, or high desert, offer rich history, unique local businesses, and charm only found off the beaten path.1. Joseph
Tucked away in the Northeastern corner of Oregon, Joseph is a delight to discover. This lovely town gets its name from the revered Nez Perce chief, Chief Joseph. Surrounded by the towering Wallowa Mountains, spend your time exploring Iwetemlaykin State Heritage Site or venturing onto Wallowa Lake with a rented kayak. Remember to visit Valley Bronze, a foundry producing bronze statues showcased nationwide.2. Silverton
Just beyond the bustle of Salem lies Silverton, a place known for its historic small-town charm. Stroll down Main Street, exploring independently owned shops like Lunaria Gallery. Silverton is also home to Oregon Garden, a sprawling 80-acre botanical paradise. Don’t forget to visit the remarkable Silver Falls State Park just east of town.3. Yachats
Situated between forested mountains and the wild Pacific Ocean, Yachats is a coastal retreat. Check out Yachats State Park for breathtaking views, then head to Luna Sea Fish House for sustainably caught local seafood. For a blast from the past, visit the Little Log Church and Museum. It’s worth the detour!
4. Brownsville
A step into Brownsville is a leap back in time. History buffs will appreciate the Moyer House, a Queen Anne style beauty built in 1881. Filming location for the movie “Stand By Me”, a yearly celebration is a reminder of that moment in its cinematic history. For a pick-me-up, hit Randy’s Main Street Coffee for a cuppa Oregon-style.5. Sisters
Named after the Three Sisters mountains, this Central Oregon town exudes a welcoming rustic vibe. Known for its quilt show and folk festival, Sisters offers plenty to do. Book lovers should check out Paulina Springs Books while coffee aficionados demand a trip to Sisters Coffee Company. Sisters also is the gateway to the scenic McKenzie Pass, a real visual treat.6. Wheeler
Wheeler is a jewel nestled along the Nehalem Bay. A kayaker’s paradise, there’s lots to explore without the crowds. The local Wheeler Station Antiques offers an assortment of vintage gems to take home, a memento of your visit.7. Manzanita
Another classic coastal stop is Manzanita, offering seven miles of sandy beach framed by Neahkahnie Mountain. Be sure to stop in at Manzanita News & Espresso before taking a quiet morning walk along the beach. And with just a short hike, you can reach the gorgeous view at Neahkahnie Mountain Vista Point.8. Cottage Grove
Known as the Covered Bridge Capital of the West, Cottage Grove gives you a taste of classic Americana. After exploring some of the six covered bridges in the area, pop over to Main Street for some shopping, then grab dinner at Jack Sprats, known for its scrumptious vegan and gluten-free options.9. Jacksonville
Once a bustling Gold Rush town, Jacksonville brims with Oregon history. Delight in the historic downtown area, a National Historic Landmark, where you can visit the Beekman House and savor local cuisine at Frau Kemmling Schoolhaus Brewhaus. Pair history with the local wine scene for an enriching escape.10. Talent
Despite its small size, Talent offers big delights. The Camelot Theatre puts on a fantastic variety of plays while Downtowne Coffee Shop is the place to fuel up before embarking on vineyard tours at Paschal Winery nearby.So, there you have it. Ten not-so-hidden-now towns in Oregon that promise grand adventures and quaint retreats. So pack up, lace your boots, and connect with this beautiful state in a whole new way. Just remember, while traveling might take you to new places, it’s the exploration that creates the journey. Enjoy discovering your magnificent Oregon.