Things To Do
in Forest Grove
Forest Grove sits along the Tualatin Valley in Oregon, home to a picturesque main street, Pacific University, and easy access to Willamette Valley wineries. The town blends small-city charm with a rural backdrop of farmlands and vineyards, offering a relaxed base for exploring the broader Portland metro area. Expect lush greenery, historic architecture, and a thriving local food scene rooted in farm-to-table ingredients.
Year-round, Forest Grove serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, cultural events, and approachable Northwest hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Forest Grove and settle into your accommodations. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the vibrant downtown area, admiring the charming shops and historical architecture.
Visit the nearby Fernhill Wetlands, a beautiful nature reserve perfect for bird watching and enjoying scenic walks. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy among the serene landscapes, or sample local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Spend time taking photographs and connecting with nature in this peaceful setting.
As the sun sets, grab a casual dinner at a family-owned eatery, experiencing the local flavors. After dinner, take a drive to witness the stunning views of the Tualatin Valley at dusk. Wind down your evening with a cozy bonfire if your lodging permits it, sharing stories under the stars.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before preparing for an exciting wine tasting tour in the Willamette Valley. Visit several acclaimed vineyards, learning about the winemaking process while sampling a variety of exquisite wines. The lush surroundings make for a picturesque backdrop as you sip and savor.
Continue your vineyard tour with a gourmet lunch at a winery restaurant, featuring seasonal dishes that pair perfectly with their wines. Spend the afternoon at another vineyard, exploring their offerings and perhaps purchasing a bottle or two to take home. Also, consider joining a guided tour to delve deeper into the art of viticulture.
Return to Forest Grove for a relaxing dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, showcasing local ingredients. Share your experiences from the day's tastings with fellow travelers and enjoy the friendly atmosphere. End the night with a leisurely walk around the town, appreciating its quaint charm.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨One-night hotel room | $90-180 |
| 🎟️Museum or activity entry | $5-15 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gas for a road trip | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town vibe with access to Willamette Valley wine country
- Proximity to Portland while maintaining a quieter pace
- Limited nightlife within the city
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
Places to Visit in Forest Grove
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic-inspired architecture, manicured quads, and reflective ponds provide classic Northwestern campus photography.
Brick sidewalks, storefronts, and murals along Main Street with river views nearby.
Bird-rich wetlands with boardwalks and water reflections ideal for sunrise or sunset shots.
Elevated trails offering sweeping views of the Willamette Valley and surrounding farmland.
Food in Forest Grove
Forest Grove Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Oregon berry pie featuring Marionberries, commonly found at local bakeries and farmers markets.
Must-Try!
Creamy chowder made with locally sourced salmon, a nod to Oregon’s fishing heritage.
Dishes highlighting fresh produce from Willamette Valley farms, available on many menus.
Assorted regional cheeses featuring local dairy from Oregon producers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market halting at Reynolds and Main with locally grown produce, baked goods, artisan foods, and prepared foods from area vendors.
A rotating mix of cuisines around Pacific University campus offering quick bites and coffee.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Northwest friendliness: greet with a nod or hello; hold doors for others and maintain a courteous pace in public spaces.
Respect nature and follow Leave No Trace in trails; pack out trash and stay on marked paths.
Safety
Tipping in Forest Grove
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, standard tips range from 15-20% in restaurants and for service workers. Tip more for exceptional service.
Cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted; some farmers markets or small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, warm days with long evenings; outdoor dining is popular and winery patios are busy. Occasional heat waves can occur.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; harvest season and wine tours in nearby valleys.
Mild but rainy; layering is key and indoor activities and coffee shops are popular.
Green landscapes refresh; blooming fruit trees and garden tours become common.
Forest Grove at Night
Hiking in Forest Grove
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Well-marked loop with forest, meadow, and sweeping valley views; easy to moderate.
Extensive network of trails with forest landscapes and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Forest Grove by plane.
Major airport about 25 miles from Forest Grove; accessible by car or shuttle to the metro area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents are students and faculty, contributing to a vibrant campus culture.
Long-term residents and commuters to Portland and Hillsboro.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at Pacific University and local leagues; campus games and community clubs.
College basketball on campus; occasional community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Forest Grove.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian plates; look for veggie burgers, salads, pastas, and seasonal vegetable dishes; ask for dairy-free options if needed.