Hidden Gems: Small Towns in Oregon Worth Exploring
Good day, fellow explorer! As anyone who truly knows and loves Oregon will tell you, the main highways only scratch the surface of what our beautiful state has to offer. Here’s a guide to a handful of charming, off-the-beaten-path small towns that really showcase our unique culture, stunning landscapes, and that famous Oregon hospitality.1. Silverton
Nestled between Salem and the Silver Falls State Park, Silverton is a town full of quaint charm and natural beauty. The shops lining Main Street carry anything from handmade knickknacks to artisanal cheeses, while the historic Palace Theatre still shows the latest releases. Explore the Oregon Garden for a stunning display of our state’s flora, or venture a little farther to the Silver Falls State Park and experience the Trail of Ten Falls.2. Sisters
With the stunning backdrop of the Three Sisters peaks, this Central Oregon town has a lovely Old West aesthetic. Sisters is known for its annual quilting event, the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show, and the quaint downtown area is filled with unique shops and inviting eateries. Don’t miss a multiple-course dinner at The Open Door followed by a cozy evening at The Belfry, a music venue in a repurposed historic church.3. Manzanita
This serene coastal town, located about 25 miles south of Cannon Beach, offers wide sandy beaches and a charming downtown. For local bites, try the fresh bakery goods at Bread and Ocean, then take a leisurely stroll along the beach. Don’t forget to explore the Nehalem Bay State Park, known for its beautiful campsites and trail for sandboarding.
4. Jacksonville
Designated a National Historic Landmark, Jacksonville is a well-preserved gold-mining town. Start with a visit to the famous Britt Music & Arts Festival—an open-air amphitheater known for hosting eclectic musical performances. Consider a meal at Deja Vu Bistro and Wine Bar, and explore local wineries, like Quady North, part of Oregon’s stimulating wine scene.5. Fossil
True to its name, Fossil offers a chance to dig for, well, fossils! The Fossil Beds behind Wheeler High School are open to the public, allowing you to bag a few million-year-old finds. The well-preserved courthouse and Jake’s General Store lend this town an authentic old-world charm.6. Joseph
Home to the pristine Wallowa Lake and the Eagle Cap Wilderness, Joseph dishes out some of the finest outdoor vistas Oregon has to offer. Mountain hikes here end in panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. The town’s bronze statutes add an artistic flair and exemplify the locals’ impressive craftsmanship.7. Wheeler
This coastal treasure offers myriad ways to revel in Oregon’s distinctive coastal beauty. Go crabbing in Nehalem Bay, explore the antique shops, or relax in Wheeler Waterfront Park. And no trip to Wheeler is complete without dining at the Tsunami Bar & Grill with their delicious local seafood.8. Sisters
Few places invoke an Oregonian Old-West charm like Sisters. Surrounded by mountain peaks, this town has an annual quilt show and a bustling downtown. Don’t miss the chance to sample The Open Door’s well-curated menu, engaged in Sisters’ vibrant arts scene.9. Hood River
In the shadow of Mt. Hood, this town is known for its vibrant food and drink scene. Visit the Hood River Fruit Loop for an array of farm-fresh produce and delightful sips at local wineries. And, for an exciting outdoor adventure, head to the Columbia River for amazing wind and kite surfing opportunities.10. Bandon
Along Oregon’s southern coast, Bandon teems with incredible seaside views and wildlife attractions. Check out the Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint or take a walk at the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. Be sure to stop by Tony’s Crab Shack for their famous crab sandwich.Oregon is abundant with delightful small towns that capture its unique charm and spirit. So log off, lace up those hiking boots, pack a picnic, and set that GPS to ‘adventure’. We’ve just scratched the surface of what’s out there, so start planning your next trip today and discover an Oregon that you didn’t know existed… yet.