A Native’s Guide To Oregon’s Best Cider Houses and Apple Orchards
Oregon is forever a cornucopia of the Pacific Northwest, its rich soil nurturing a wondrous array of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. It’s during apple season when this bounty seems to truly flourish, filling the friendly corners of our orchards and cider houses with hues of red and gold. If you’re looking for the best places to experience this apple bounty, this local’s guide will lead the way.
1. Portland Cider Company
Located in the heart of the Hawthorne district, Portland Cider Company is a beloved local establishment. Sumptuous ciders are crafted with apples sourced from the Hood River area, resulting in drinks that are both flavorful and smooth. Pair your cider with one of their local cheese plates for an authentic Oregon experience.2. 2 Towns Ciderhouse
Situated in Corvallis, 2 Towns Ciderhouse makes inventive ciders using Northwest apples. For the adventurous at heart, the seasonal offerings with ingredients like marionberries and Oregon-grown hops are must-tries. Remember to take home a growler, an insider’s secret to keeping the ciderhouse experience alive back home.
3. Kiyokawa Family Orchards
Nestled in Parkdale, within the scenic Hood River Valley, Kiyokawa Family Orchards offers a dazzling array of over 120 apple varieties. Their Honeycrisp apples are a firm local favorite. And while you’re there, take a moment to soak in the view of Mount Hood looming majestically overhead.4. Bauman’s Farm and Garden
A friendly, family-owned spot in Gervais, Bauman’s Farm and Garden is a destination for everyone. While the apple cider donuts are legendary, it’s worth mentioning that their cider press, working since the 1970s, is still producing some of the best cider around. If you want a quintessential fall day in Oregon, Bauman’s is the place to be.5. E.Z. Orchards
Just outside of Salem, lies E.Z. Orchards, a haven of Roman Beauty and Golden Delicious apples. Their cider-making process can be traced back to French traditions, lending some old-world charm to your visit. In October, make a point to partake in their Harvest Fest – a hot ticket for locals in the know.6. Cider Riot!
Making your way back to Portland, stop in at Cider Riot! This upbeat cidery specializes in rare, traditional English cider apple varieties, delivered with Oregonian flair. The tasting room, with its laid-back vibe, is a prime spot to unwind on a leisurely afternoon.7. Blue Mountain Cider Company
Heading east to Milton-Freewater, the Blue Mountain Cider Company awaits. Crafting a fine blend of Pacific Northwest apples into refreshingly crisp ciders, this cidery is becoming a fast favorite among locals. And while you’re there enjoy a walk among their apple orchards which stretch as far as the eye can see.8. Dragon’s Head Cider
Tucked away on Vashon Island, Dragon’s Head Cider captures the pure essence of apples. Their traditional approach respects the fruit’s original qualities, resulting in cider that’s delicate and well-balanced. An insider tip – leave time for a jaunt at Point Robinson Park for a post-cider cooldown.9. Apple Valley Country Store
The Apple Valley Country Store in Hood River is not only an apple-lovers’ gem, but also a window into the Columbia River Gorge’s stunning natural beauty. Pick a peck of apples from the bins, savor their home made apple pie, or warm up with a mug of their famous hot apple cider.10. Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider
To conclude your Oregon apple adventure, make a final stop at Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider in Portland. Known for its bold, unconventional ciders, Reverend Nat’s is not afraid to experiment. Their signature revamp of the classic apple cider, dubbed “Revival,” is a locals’ seal of approval.From the windswept landscapes of the Hood River Valley to the bright lights and bustling streets of Portland, Oregon gives apple and cider lovers an experience to remember. As the leaves turn color, the season of the apple truly shines in the Beaver State, a testament to Oregon’s fruitful land and innovative spirit.