Forest Grove

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Forest Grove's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Wine Tasting Adventure
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner, then gear up for a day of outdoor exploration at the nearby Banks-Vernonia State Trail. Rent bikes and take advantage of the well-maintained paths as you soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and fields. The cool morning air will invigorate you as you pedal along.

afternoon
:

Stop for a packed lunch along the trail, finding a scenic spot to rest and recharge. Afterward, continue your bike ride or opt for a hike in the nearby parks, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Explore the waterways and enjoy possibly spotting some local wildlife along your journey.

evening
:

Catch the golden hour by heading to a lookout point for captivating sunset views over the valley. Return to town to freshen up before dining at a cozy restaurant that specializes in comfort food. Share tales of your adventurous day with your travel companions over a warm dessert.

day 4
Cultural Day in Forest Grove
morning
:

After breakfast at your hotel, head to the Forest Grove Museum for a dose of local history and culture. Engage with interactive exhibits that tell the story of this charming town and its surrounding areas. Take your time exploring the artifacts and historical displays.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a quaint café nearby before visiting a local art gallery to view works by regional artists. Spend time appreciating varied art styles and perhaps indulge in some creative inspiration. If time permits, consider attending a workshop to try your hand at art-making yourself.

evening
:

Dine at a locally renowned restaurant before attending a community event, such as a concert or theatrical performance at the local community center. Immerse yourself in the cultural vibe of Forest Grove and meet locals who share your enthusiasm for the arts. After a full day, unwind at your accommodation, reflecting on the diverse experiences you've had.

day 5
Nature and Relaxation Day
morning
:

Indulge in a leisurely breakfast before heading to the Gales Creek County Park for a tranquil day in nature. Choose a scenic trail to hike, surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you embrace the peacefulness of the great outdoors.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic to enjoy by Gales Creek or spend time simply relaxing in the lush environment, reading a book or taking a nap in a hammock. Afterward, visit a local spa for a rejuvenating treatment to unwind and refresh. The afternoon is all about restorative activities enveloped in natural beauty.

evening
:

Once refreshed, return to Forest Grove for dinner at a restaurant that emphasizes their local partnerships for ingredients. Reflect on your day of relaxation as you enjoy a hearty meal with fresh, wholesome flavors. Finish the evening with a calming walk through a nearby park under the stars, soaking in the tranquility.

day 6
Explore Local Businesses
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a family-run café, trying out their signature dishes that highlight locally grown produce. Afterwards, visit the Forest Grove Farmers Market, usually vibrant with local vendors offering fresh produce, crafts, and artisanal foods. Engage with stall owners and enjoy sampling unique products.

afternoon
:

After the market, head to a local distillery or brewery to learn about their production process and enjoy tastings. Spend the afternoon exploring boutique shops and artisans' studios in Forest Grove, finding unique souvenirs to take home. The friendly community spirit will enhance your shopping experience.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a restaurant that showcases the bounty of local farms and suppliers. Engage with local chefs who may even share insights into their culinary inspirations. After dinner, consider visiting a local bar for live music, enjoying a vibrant atmosphere and good company.

day 7
Scenic Drives and Relaxation
morning
:

Enjoy a scenic drive through the rural landscapes surrounding Forest Grove, perhaps stopping at a viewpoint for photos. Have breakfast at a picturesque café en route, reveling in the leisurely pace and fresh air. Explore local artisan shops that you encounter along the way.

afternoon
:

Continue your drive to the coast, spending the afternoon at the scenic Oregon coast beach, indulging in beachcombing or simply relaxing by the waves. Grab a seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the local catch of the day. Capture the serene beauty of the coastline while taking in the brisk ocean air.

evening
:

After a day at the beach, head back to Forest Grove to unwind from your travels. Dinner can be enjoyed at a relaxed venue featuring comfort food, perhaps a favorite local spot. Reflect on your scenic escapade as you share memorable moments from the day.

day 8
ADay of Adventure and Discovery
morning
:

Rise early for breakfast before heading to the coast range for a day of adventure, perhaps participating in activities like kayaking or zip-lining. Fuel up with a hearty meal and prepare for a thrilling day full of excitement. Be sure to check local operators for opportunities tailored to your interest.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon embracing the great outdoors, trying out an exciting new activity such as rock climbing or exploring hidden waterfalls on a guided excursion. Take some time to pause and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the wonderful scenery around you. The sense of discovery will invigorate your spirit.

evening
:

After a fun-filled day, return to Forest Grove to relax and enjoy a celebratory dinner at a restaurant specializing in post-adventure cuisine. Reflect on the day's thrills with your travel companions, sharing laughter and excitement over a well-deserved meal. Cap the night off with a leisurely evening stroll through the illuminated downtown.

day 9
Departure and Farewell
morning
:

Enjoy a final breakfast at your favorite local spot, taking time to reflect on your Forest Grove experience. Check out of your accommodations, ensuring you have memories to take home with you. A casual stroll through the town can reveal a few last-minute treasures before you leave.

afternoon
:

As you prepare for your departure, consider stopping by any remaining shops or attractions that caught your eye. Pick up unique souvenirs and local delicacies to savor at home. Reminisce about your adventures as you soak in the last moments of your Oregon getaway.

evening
:

Depart from Forest Grove with a heart full of memories and stories to share. Plan your next adventure as you head home, thinking about all the experiences that made this trip special. Perhaps keep in touch with newfound friends made along the journey.

Discover Forest Grove

Read more in our Forest Grove 2025 Travel Guide.

Forest Grove Travel Guide