12 Must-Visit Small Towns in Oregon

From lush evergreen forests and towering mountains to breathtaking beaches and rocky ocean cliffs, Oregon is one of the best places to live and visit in the country. This underrated state is known for its abundant wildlife, recreational opportunities, wineries, and quaint country towns. Check out these 12 must-visit small towns in Oregon and discover what makes them unforgettable.

1. Pacific City

The small beach town of Pacific City sits along the Pacific Ocean in Northwestern Oregon. It’s home to the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area and miles of pristine beaches surrounded by dunes, rocky cliffs, and forested hills. While it’s not known for its tourism, especially compared to other high-traffic areas, Pacific City is one of the last truly unspoiled and charming western coastal towns. Whether you’re a surfer or just someone who enjoys sipping wine and eating fresh seafood at a quaint beach restaurant, Pacific City is a must-visit.

2. Astoria

While you may know it as the filming location for the famous 1985 film The Goonies, Astoria is a fantastic fishing village with mega charm. It’s located at the mouth of the Columbia River near the coast and features endless forests of Douglas fir, spruce, and hemlock. The community is tight-knit, and the weather is mild year-round, perfect for exploring the many historic sites and museums.

3. Lincoln City

From quaint shops and tribal casinos to lush parks and beach resorts, Lincoln City is the perfect stop for a trip down the coast. Not only is it close to larger cities, but it also has plenty of amenities and lodging options for the perfect summer vacation. The Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area is a favorite spot for camping and hiking, and the lake provides excellent boating and fishing opportunities.

4. Cannon Beach

This small coastal city in Northwest Oregon is known for its miles of natural beauty. Cannon Beach offers residents and visitors a year-round playground with stunning views of the ocean, lighthouses, coves, and Haystack Rock. Check out the tide pools and sea caves, or stroll along the charming downtown area dotted with boutique shops and art galleries.

5. Hood River

Are you looking for the perfect spot in Oregon to check out local wineries and breweries? If so, Hood River should be on your radar. This small port city sits on the Columbia River and is named after the nearby Hood River. It is a destination spot for windsurfing, hiking, and mountain biking, and offers some of the best craft breweries and farm-to-table restaurants in the state.

6. Tillamook

If you’re a dairy lover, you may recognize the name of this small Northwest Oregon town. Tillamook operates a highly successful dairy business that is famous for its cheese and ice cream. It is also an excellent spot for finding fresh farm-to-table or ocean-to-table family-run restaurants. With a central location, about an hour and a half outside of Portland and an hour from Cannon Beach, Tillamook is a must-see town in the area.

7. Ashland

Famous for its Shakespeare festival, Ashland is a charming small town in Southern Oregon. It is also an excellent visit for nature lovers, as you will find nature centers, themed gardens, rose gardens, duck ponds, and many hiking trails through lush vegetation. Ashland is a cultural hotspot featuring award-winning galleries, restaurants, and more.

8. Jacksonville

The town of Jacksonville is a National Historic Landmark in Southern Oregon. Like any good Oregon town, Jacksonville is famous for its boutique shopping, local eateries, arts festivals, wineries, and hiking trails. As it was the site of one of the first gold claims in the area, Jacksonville is full of historic areas to explore.

9. McMinnville

Located at the confluence of the Yamhill River in the Willamette Valley, McMinnville sits in the heart of Oregon wine Country. It’s nestled in the native Kalapuya lands and is surrounded by parks and picturesque neighborhoods. During your stay, check out the museums, waterpark, and vineyards.

10. Klamath Falls

The town of Klamath Falls is one of the best and safest places to live in Oregon. Klamath Falls enjoys 300 days of sunshine annually and features mild year-round weather, perfect if you’re an outdoor lover. It’s surrounded by extensive forests and parks and the Upper Klamath Lake is just outside the city, where people enjoy boating, fishing, and other water activities.

11. Baker City

Located in Northeast Oregon, Baker City is a popular attraction for those traveling through the eastern part of the state. Its famous downtown area has more than 100 historic buildings to explore, including the 1889 Geiser Grand Hotel. You can also check out the local brew pubs and wineries or visit a nearby mountain ski resort.

12. Rockaway Beach

Where the mountains meet the sea, Rockaway Beach is as picturesque as it sounds. This popular coastal city in Tillamook County is home to miles of scenic beaches, old-growth cedars, and wetland habitats. Be sure to check out the funky downtown area, with eclectic shops and delicious eateries.

A Summary Table of the 12 Must-Visit Small Towns in Oregon