Explore the Best of Willamette Valley with Our Guide

The Willamette Valley is the ideal destination for a sumptuous escape in the Pacific Northwest. From its undulating hills, plush vineyards, and verdant forests to its meandering rivers and tranquil farmlands, this ravishing valley offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re seeking to investigate some of Oregon’s best wineries and vineyards or test your mettle with challenging mountain biking trails, you can always find exciting activities to partake in within the Willamette Valley. Located between Portland in the north and Eugene in the south, it enjoys a temperate climate that permits visitors to explore all year round!

The area also prides itself on nine small towns with distinctive attractions such as museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, and more!

With so much beauty surrounding each corner along with varied things to do nearby – you’ll be sure of having an unforgettable experience when visiting the Willamette Valley!

Best Towns Near Willamette Valley

Below are the nine best towns in the Willamette Valley, each offering something unique for travelers:

• Salem: Located at the center of the Willamette Valley, Salem is Oregon’s state capital. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, you’ll be sure to find plenty of activities such as a visit to the Capitol Building and its surrounding parks, meandering through galleries and museums, exploring shops in the downtown area, or sampling some of Salem’s famous food carts!
• Eugene: Located in the southern part of Willamette Valley, Eugene is a vibrant city with plenty to offer. Whether it’s catching a Ducks game at Autzen Stadium, visiting the Saturday Market, or exploring one of its many parks – there are always things to do! In addition, you can also get your fill of culture by taking in some art shows, plays, and more!
• Mcminnville: McMinnville is a charming town located in the northern part of Willamette Valley. It’s known for its quaint downtown area, wineries, and breweries, as well as its outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking on the Willamette River. The town also hosts several festivals throughout the year including the International Pinot Noir Celebration which draws people from all over the world!
• Corvallis: Located in the mid-Willamette Valley, Corvallis is a college town known for its active outdoor activities. From mountain biking and hiking to fishing and kayaking, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore nature while here. Corvallis also boasts some great food options with many locally owned restaurants that offer fresh ingredients from local producers.
• Newberg: Newberg is a small town situated near the southern end of Willamette Valley. It’s known for its vineyards and wineries, as well as its quaint downtown area. There are plenty of cultural activities to enjoy in Newberg, from galleries and museums to live music venues and art shows. Plus, you’ll find some delicious eateries serving up farm-to-table cuisine like seafood, Mexican dishes, Italian fare, and more.
• Woodburn: Woodburn is a small town located just south of Portland. It’s home to some great restaurants, shopping centers, and a vibrant downtown area. The city also offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing that are perfect for all ages! Woodburn also has some unique attractions including the Saturday Market which features local artisans selling their wares alongside live music, food trucks, and more.
• Silverton: Silverton is a quaint town located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. It’s known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, and its historic downtown area with shops and restaurants. Silverton also hosts several festivals throughout the year that celebrate local artisans and their craftsmanship. From film festivals to music events, there’s something to enjoy here all year round!
• Cottage Grove: Cottage Grove is a small town located in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. It’s known for its lush landscape, local wineries, and outdoor activities such as fishing and boating on the nearby Dorena Reservoir. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year including Cottage Grove Music Festival which features regional acts performing live music, art galleries showcasing work from local artists, food vendors offering delicious eats, and more!
• Falls City: Falls City is a small town located in the foothills of the Willamette Valley. It’s known for its breathtaking waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and local wineries offering tastings and tours. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year including Falls City Bluegrass Festival which features regional bluegrass acts performing live music, art galleries showcasing work from local artists, food vendors with delicious eats, and more!

Best Things to do in Willamette Valley

The Willamette Valley offers plenty of attractions for travelers interested in culture, history, and nature. Here are some of the best attractions in the region:

Winery & Vineyard Tours

The Willamette Valley is renowned for its exquisite Pinot Noir wines, so why not experience them firsthand by visiting one of the valley’s many wineries?

Enjoy a tasting or take part in an organized tour to gain further insight into the art of winemaking while admiring some stunning natural beauty. With tours ranging from vineyard hikes to barrel tastings and more, there’s something for everyone!

Whether you’re looking to learn more about Oregon’s wine country or just have a great time with friends, this is an excellent option.

Farm Life at Leaping Lamb Farm

Located just a short drive away from Salem, Oregon, Leaping Lamb Farm is the perfect destination for those looking to experience authentic farm life. Visitors can tour the grounds and learn about sustainable farming practices while interacting with an array of animals such as sheep, goats, horses, and chickens.

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this rural area as you get up close to these gentle creatures and take in all that nature has to offer. Whether it’s a day trip or an extended weekend stay, be sure to add a visit to Leaping Lamb Farm when planning your next Willamette Valley adventure!

Take a Scenic Drive

If you’re looking for a wonderful way to take in the breathtaking beauty of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, then why not embark on a scenic drive?

There are numerous routes to pick from; two of the most beloved ones include Highway 22 which meanders along the Santiam River and Highway 126 which parallels the majestic McKenzie River. Both roads provide gorgeous views of lush mountains, abundant forests, and shimmering rivers that make it an absolute must-see experience.

So if you’re seeking out remarkable outdoor adventures, be sure to add these drives through Oregon’s picturesque Willamette Valley to your list of activities!

Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour Route

Experience Oregon’s unique architecture and immerse yourself in its history with the Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour Route. This scenic tour takes travelers through five gorgeous covered bridges, each offering a glimpse into the culture of the Willamette Valley.

The journey begins at the Historic Stewart Covered Bridge, built in 1925 and recently restored to preserve its original features. After that, it’s on to Currin bridge, which spans across Coast Fork River and was built in 1928 by Curtis W. Grover Sr., who used hand-hewn Douglas fir timbers for its construction.

Next up is Chambers Railroad Bridge–a spectacular structure constructed more than 100 years ago that has been converted from an old railroad bridge into a pedestrian walkway over the Row River.

Finally, you’ll visit Mosby Creek Bridge–a nearly 200-foot-long double-span truss bridge that was constructed in 1921 using local materials such as cedar posts and hemlock planks–and Dorena Bridge–an iconic landmark of Lane County since 1949!

Along this amazing route, you’ll discover fascinating stories about each of these bridges while taking in panoramic views of rolling hillsides draped with lush forest canopies—all within Oregon’s beautiful Willamette Valley region!

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park, located near Salem in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, is an outdoor paradise. With over 9,000 acres of serene forests and cascading waterfalls, it’s no wonder why this lush state park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Pacific Northwest.

Explore miles of trails that lead through old-growth trees and along crystal-clear creeks to discover stunning views from rocky cliffs and multiple waterfalls!

Take a dip on a hot summer day or spend some time fishing at South Falls Lake; there are plenty of activities for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon trek or a weekend getaway, Silver Falls State Park has something to offer everyone.

Trail of Ten Falls

The Trail of Ten Falls, located within the picturesque Silver Falls State Park in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, is an 8-mile loop trail that takes travelers through an incredible natural wonder.

As you make your way along the winding path, be sure to stop and admire each of these ten stunning waterfalls – from South Falls at 177 feet tall to Lower North Falls at 27 feet tall.

With views as diverse as a misty rainforest grotto or a sunlit meadow filled with wildflowers, this is certainly one of the most unique hikes in The Beaver State. And don’t forget your camera!

Visit Spruce Goose

The Spruce Goose Museum in McMinnville, Oregon is a must-see destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs. Located just an hour away from Portland, the museum houses Howard Hughes’ legendary flying boat of the same name – Spruce Goose.

A marvel of engineering, this aircraft made its only flight on November 2nd 1947! Visitors to the museum can learn about aviation history while viewing this iconic aircraft up close.

Not only that but they can also explore other exhibits such as scale models of various airplanes and get a glimpse into Hughes’ life with memorabilia like photographs and documents. There are also interactive activities like remote-controlled planes for visitors to enjoy!

Willamette River

The beautiful Willamette River is an idyllic spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Stretching through much of Oregon, the river provides plenty of opportunities to explore and relax in nature.

Whether you’re an experienced angler looking to catch some trout or a novice kayaker seeking adventure, this majestic body of water has something for everyone! If fishing is your game, then you won’t be disappointed- the area is teeming with salmon and steelhead.

For those who prefer to take it slow, there’s nothing quite like a leisurely stroll by the riverbank while taking in the stunning views. The serene atmosphere makes it perfect for a romantic picnic or just spending quality time with family and friends!

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a great way to experience the beauty of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. With numerous companies offering guided rides, you can explore the area with an experienced guide who knows all the best spots. Or if you prefer more independence, some of these same companies offer horse rentals so that you can roam freely and discover hidden gems at your own leisurely pace. Either way, it promises to be an unforgettable adventure!

Hiking & Biking Trails

The Willamette Valley offers an abundance of trails for outdoor enthusiasts, whether they are hikers or bikers. From leisurely walks through picturesque parks to more strenuous mountain hikes and biking journeys, there is something here for everyone.

For the truly adventurous, Highway 58 and 48 traverses the McKenzie Pass and Santiam Pass respectively, offering a thrilling ride with breathtaking views! No matter your skill level or experience, you’re sure to find a trail that will fit your needs in this wonderful valley.

Bonus Attractions

Here are some bonus attractions that are worth checking out while in the Willamette Valley:

• Tulip Farm: Located near Woodburn, this 10-acre farm offers stunning views while showcasing over 50 varieties of tulips each springtime.
• Space Museum: Located near Eugene, this museum houses numerous artifacts related to space exploration including moon rocks and replicas of spacecraft such as Apollo 11.
• Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge: Located near Corvallis, this bridge offers stunning views of Mary’s Peak from either side while providing access to both pedestrians and cyclists alike across Mary’s River Gorge.

Best Places to Stay in Willamette Walley

The Willamette Valley is home to numerous lodging options from luxurious resorts and hotels to cozy B&Bs. Here are some of the best places to stay in Willamette Valley:

The Allison Inn& Spa: Located in Newberg, The Allison Inn & Spa is a luxurious retreat with modern amenities and stunning views of the Willamette Valley. It features an onsite spa as well as two restaurants and an outdoor pool – perfect for those looking to relax!

Valley River Inn, situated along the banks of the Willamette River in Eugene, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations at affordable prices. It features a restaurant, bar & lounge area, fitness center, and indoor pool.

Abbey Road Farm is a unique bed & breakfast located in rural Carlton and offers a peaceful countryside feel. Guests can take part in various activities such as biking, bird watching, fishing, or simply enjoying the views of the picturesque Willamette Valley. Abbey Road Farm also features an onsite farm store where visitors can purchase local produce and homemade products.

To plan your trip properly, make sure to check out our best hotels in the Willamette Valley post for accommodation options.

Best restaurants in Willamette valley

Pura Vida

Pura Vida, located in McMinnville, is the perfect place for an enjoyable dinner and night out. Offering Latin-inspired dishes such as tacos, quesadillas, and burritos, Pura Vida has a cozy atmosphere with friendly staff that makes it ideal for dining with family or friends.

George + Violet’s Steakhouse

For a truly remarkable dining experience in Willamette Valley, George + Violet’s Steakhouse is the spot to be! They specialize in classic steaks and seafood cooked to perfection right before your eyes in their wood-fired ovens. All of the ingredients are locally sourced from nearby farms and ranches so you can be sure that everything you eat is fresh!

Complete with plush leather booths and full bar service featuring unique seasonal cocktails and craft beers from local breweries – this steakhouse will not disappoint.

Abbey Road Farm

If you’re looking for something more rustic yet equally beautiful then Abbey Road Farm should definitely be on your list of places to visit while exploring Willamette Valley. This organic farm offers U-pick flower fields where guests can pick their own blooms for extra special experiences, workshops, farm-to-table dinners as well as weddings!

The restaurant on site serves tasty dishes made using the ingredients produced by the farm itself along with craft beers & wine from local wineries – plus jams & jellies available to take home too! It’s a great option for families wanting some quality time together or visitors who want an immersive experience

Conclusion

The Willamette Valley offers something for everyone – from wine-tasting tours to scenic hikes or bike rides through lush forests, there’s something for all ages & interests within this beautiful region! Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, make sure to check out some (or all!) of these top attractions while visiting this stunning part of Oregon!

Additionally, if you’re interested in biking trails throughout the region make sure to check out the International Mountain Bicycling Association website which provides detailed information regarding the best trails & routes available!