Hermiston

Day Trips

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

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh coffee and pastries. Afterward, stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and unique storefronts. Don't forget to stop by the Hermiston Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.

afternoon
:

For lunch, indulge in a hearty meal at a family-owned restaurant, famous for its homemade dishes. Post-lunch, explore the local parks, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or a game of frisbee with friends. Take some time to relax by the water at the nearby McNary Dam, enjoying the scenic views.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for a tasting session of craft beers brewed on-site. Enjoy dinner at a nearby steakhouse, where the menu features local meats and farm-fresh ingredients. Wind down your evening with a casual stroll through the downtown area, where you might catch live music or a community event.

day 2
Outdoor Adventure at Hat Rock State Park
morning
:

Begin your day with a picnic breakfast at Hat Rock State Park, surrounded by stunning views of the Columbia River. After your meal, embark on a scenic hike along the trails, taking in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Capture the moment with photos of the unique rock formations that give the park its name.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch by the riverbank, soaking in the beauty of nature. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on the Columbia River, where you can experience the tranquility of the water. For a bit of adventure, try your hand at fishing or simply relax on the shore with a good book.

evening
:

As evening approaches, gather around a fire pit for a cozy outdoor dinner with friends or family, roasting marshmallows under the stars. Share stories and laughter while enjoying the warmth of the fire. Before heading back, take a moment to stargaze, as the park offers a beautiful view of the night sky.

day 3
Wine Tasting in the Columbia Valley
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local diner, where you can refuel for a day of exploration. Then, embark on a scenic drive through the beautiful Columbia Valley, known for its exquisite vineyards and picturesque landscapes. Your first stop will be at a vineyard for a morning tasting of their signature wines.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a gourmet picnic on the vineyard grounds, surrounded by lush vines and rolling hills. After lunch, continue your wine adventure by visiting several more wineries, each offering unique varieties and stunning views. Take guided tours to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the region.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Hermiston and enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from one of the vineyards you visited. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the river, reflecting on the flavors and experiences of the day.

day 4
Family Fun at the Hermiston Splash Park
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a family-friendly café, offering a variety of options for everyone. After fueling up, head to the Hermiston Splash Park, where the kids can enjoy a day of water fun in the sun. Watch as they splash around in the water features while you relax on the nearby benches.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy at the park's picnic area, allowing everyone to recharge for more fun. After lunch, engage in friendly competition at the nearby sports fields, where you can play soccer or basketball. As the afternoon heats up, revisit the splash park for more water activities and games.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, treat the family to dinner at a local pizzeria, where everyone can create their own custom pizzas. Share stories about the day's adventures and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Finish the evening with ice cream from a local shop, savoring a sweet treat before heading home.

day 5
Wildlife Watching at McNary Wildlife Refuge
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to the McNary Wildlife Refuge. Bring along binoculars for a morning of birdwatching, as the refuge is home to a variety of species. Take a leisurely stroll along the trails, keeping an eye out for wildlife in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the designated areas of the refuge. Spend the afternoon kayaking or canoeing on the calm waters, where you can observe animals from a different perspective. Capture photos of the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife as you paddle along.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, return to Hermiston for a relaxing dinner at a bistro that offers local and seasonal dishes. Reflect on the day's wildlife encounters and share your favorite moments with your dining companions. End the evening with a stroll through a nearby park, taking in the serenity of the evening air.

day 6
Cultural Exploration at Local Art Galleries
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a charming café, fueling up for a day of art and culture. Afterward, visit the Hermiston Art Gallery to discover local artists and their works, gaining insight into the region's artistic community. Take time to engage with the exhibits and perhaps meet some of the artists on-site.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby eatery that features local ingredients and a creative menu. Spend the afternoon exploring more galleries and studios, each showcasing a different aspect of art and culture in Hermiston. Participate in any workshops or classes offered, allowing for a hands-on experience in the creative process.

evening
:

As the day wraps up, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that celebrates the local art scene with themed décor and artistic dishes. Share your thoughts on the day's discoveries and perhaps even purchase a piece of art to take home. Conclude your evening by attending a local performance, whether it be a play, concert, or dance show.

day 7
Farm Tours and Fresh Produce
morning
:

Begin your day with a wholesome breakfast using fresh ingredients from local markets. Afterward, take a tour of a nearby farm, where you can learn about sustainable farming practices and the crops grown in the region. Engage with farmers and discover how they contribute to the local community.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at a local restaurant that highlights seasonal produce and meats sourced from nearby farms. After lunch, visit a farmer's market to explore a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and artisanal goods. Sample local treats and chat with the vendors about their products.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Hermiston for a dinner that celebrates the day’s culinary experiences. Opt for a restaurant known for its commitment to local sourcing and seasonal menus. Finish the evening with a relaxing stroll through town, perhaps stopping for dessert at a local bakery.

day 8
Hiking and Scenic Views at the Umatilla National Forest
morning
:

Start your day early with a nutritious breakfast at a local diner before heading to Umatilla National Forest. Choose a scenic trail to hike, taking in the lush greenery and fresh mountain air. Keep your camera handy to capture the stunning vistas and wildlife along the way.

afternoon
:

Pack a hearty lunch to enjoy at a scenic overlook after your morning hike. Spend the afternoon exploring more trails or trying your hand at fishing in one of the forest's streams. Take advantage of the beautiful surroundings for some relaxation or meditation time.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way back to Hermiston and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant that features local flavors. Share stories about your hiking adventure with friends or family, reminiscing about the breathtaking views. End the day with a quiet evening at home or at a local park, reflecting on the day's experiences.

day 9
Exploring Local Cuisine and Food Trucks
morning
:

Kick off your culinary day with breakfast at a popular local spot, known for its unique twists on classic dishes. After your meal, embark on a food truck tour around Hermiston, sampling a variety of cuisines from different vendors. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you discover new flavors and dishes.

afternoon
:

Continue your food adventure with lunch from a food truck that specializes in international cuisine, offering a taste of far-off lands. Spend the afternoon exploring local shops and boutiques, perhaps picking up ingredients for a homemade dinner. Engage with food truck owners to learn about their inspirations and recipes.

evening
:

As evening approaches, gather with friends for a casual dinner at a local brewery that features rotating food trucks. Enjoy the lively ambiance and try different dishes while sipping on locally crafted beers. Wrap up the culinary journey with dessert from a dessert truck, savoring sweet treats to end the day on a high note.

Discover Hermiston

Read more in our Hermiston 2025 Travel Guide.

Hermiston Travel Guide