Hidden Oregon: 10 Small Towns Worth Exploring
From mountains to high desert, Oregon’s robust natural beauty is matched only by the charm of its small towns. Peppered throughout the state, these local gems are often overlooked in favor of popular tourist destinations. No matter, they’re just waiting for the willing explorer.1. Fossil
In the heart of Oregon’s arid, semi-desert country is Fossil, a tiny town named for the ancient fossils found at a nearby school. The quaint Wheeler County Seat offers their Past Time Antiques and The Clarno Basket Company for craft lovers. Go and dig up some history at the nearby fossil beds!2. Manzanita
Nestled between Nehalem Bay State Park and Oswald West State, Manzanita is a coastal haven. Enjoy locally roasted coffee from Manzanita News & Espresso and a freshly baked pastry from Bread and Ocean Bakery. Don’t forget to take in a stunning sunset over Neahkahnie Mountain.3. Joseph
Joseph is a thriving art community just steps from the Wallowa Lake shore. The city’s Main Street is lined with bronze statues by local artists. Chase a hike in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest with a visit to Stein Distillery for some homegrown rye whiskey.
4. Gearhart
Just a few miles north of Seaside, Gearhart is a serene coastal escape. Stroll along Gearhart Ocean State Park and treat yourself to a fresh doughnut from the Pacific Way Bakery and Cafe located within a 100-year-old Hardware Store building.5. Sisters
Nestled at the base of the Three Sisters mountains, this town boasts spectacular views and unique boutique shopping. Attend their annual Sisters Rodeo or hike the Tam McArthur Rim Trail for the full experience. Quench your thirst at Sisters Saloon and Ranch Grill, housed in a restored 1912 hotel building.6. Carlton
This wine lover’s paradise is home to over 50 wineries and tasting rooms. Don’t miss out on the Pinot Noir at Carlton Cellars. If you prefer hops, try a brew from the Grain Station Brew Works and learn about the town’s farming heritage.7. Yachats
Perched between the lush Siuslaw National Forest and the rugged Pacific Ocean, Yachats offers stunning natural beauty. Visit Cape Perpetua for whale watching or hiking, followed by a chill evening at the Drift Inn Historic Cafe and Bar.8. Echo
Echo is a step back in time. Visit the historic Oregon Trail ruts at the Echo Meadows site, or taste local wines at Echo Ridge Cellars. In autumn, don’t miss the annual Echo Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch event.9. Brownsville
Brownsville is so authentically old-time Oregon it was the backdrop for the movie ‘Stand By Me’. Uncover history at the Linn County Historical Museum, swing by Randy’s Main Street Coffee for a refreshing kicker, or check out the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in spring.10. Silverton
A place of idyllic gardens and waterfalls, Silverton is the gateway to Silver Falls State Park. It’s home to the famous Oregon Garden and Oregon Garden Resort. Have a dining experience at Gather and savor the homemade recipes!There’s a wealth of small-town charm to be found within Oregon’s borders, far from the more prominent tourist routes. So why not venture off the beaten path? You just might find your heart’s delight tucked away in some corner of our stunning, and often hidden, Oregon.