Things To Do
in Lake Oswego
Lake Oswego is a scenic suburb of Portland set on the southern shore of Oswego Lake, blending tree-lined streets with a vibrant downtown. It offers a charming mix of waterfront parks, lakefront benches, and family-friendly activities just a short drive from urban Portland. The town is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and accessible outdoor recreation.
Visitors often come for relaxed lakefront strolls, waterfront dining, and easy access to the broader Portland metropolitan area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Lake Oswego Farmers' Market, where local vendors showcase fresh produce, artisan breads, and handmade crafts. As you stroll through the market, enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with the sounds of local musicians and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Don't forget to grab a breakfast pastry from one of the stalls to fuel your adventure.
Head to the Oswego Heritage House, a charming historical site that offers insights into the area's past. Spend some time exploring the exhibits and learning about Lake Oswego's transformation over the years. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque streets lined with beautiful homes and historic buildings.
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a local eatery, such as the popular The Diner, known for its comfort food and friendly atmosphere. As the sun sets, take a scenic stroll along the waterfront at George Rogers Park, where you can enjoy stunning views of the lake. End your evening with a scoop of ice cream from a nearby shop, savoring the sweet flavors as you reflect on your day.
Kick off your morning with a peaceful hike at the Tryon Creek State Natural Area, where you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Wander along the well-maintained trails, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and enjoying the tranquility of this hidden gem. The fresh morning air will invigorate you as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest.
After your hike, find a cozy spot at the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation area for a delightful picnic lunch. Pack a basket filled with your favorite snacks and enjoy the serene atmosphere while overlooking the shimmering lake. You can also take a moment to relax and play frisbee or toss a ball around in the expansive green spaces.
As evening approaches, head over to the Lakewood Center for the Arts, where you can catch a live performance or art exhibition. Immerse yourself in the local arts scene, appreciating the creativity and talent on display. After the show, enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby bistro, discussing the highlights of your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $1,700-2,300 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful lakefront scenery and easy access to outdoor recreation
- Strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere
- Proximity to Portland's city amenities while maintaining a small-town feel
- High-quality dining options with farm-to-table and local produce
- Nightlife tends to be quieter compared to nearby Portland
- Some services and amenities require a short drive into the city
- Summer weekends can be busier around the lakefront and markets
- Weather can be rainy outside of the dry summer months
Places to Visit in Lake Oswego
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm waters, reflective surfaces, and boats framed by greenery make for classic lake-portrait lighting at golden hour.
A quintessential lakeside scene with evergreen backdrops and water views ideal for wide-angle and portrait shots.
Colorful storefronts, tree-lined streets, and the lakefront provide charming street photography opportunities.
Picturesque crossings and pockets of greenery along the historic core offer sample-worthy urban-lake blends.
Food in Lake Oswego
Lake Oswego Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salmon fillet finished with a glaze made from Marionberries, a Northwest specialty, often served with seasonal greens or roasted vegetables; commonly found at lakeside and farm-to-table spots.
Must-Try!
Creamy risotto with local mushrooms and herbs, highlighting the region’s harvests; available at several contemporary American and Italian-inspired restaurants in the LO area.
Dessert featuring Oregon-harvested hazelnuts and local chocolate, a good finish after a lakeside meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, breads, cheeses, pastries, and handmade goods from local growers and artisans; great for sampling and picking up picnic ingredients.
Seasonal pop-ups and small-truck street food vendors occasionally set up near the core of downtown Lake Oswego, offering quick bites and beverages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain a respectful, low noise level in neighborhoods, especially in early mornings and evenings.
Tipping is customary for service workers; follow standard percentages where applicable.
Wait to be seated in casual spots; keep conversations at a considerate volume in public spaces; greeting with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi' is common.
Safety
Tipping in Lake Oswego
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. practice: 15-20% for dine-in service at restaurants; $1-2 per bag for hotel porters; $2-5 per day for housekeeping if service is satisfactory. Additional tips for bartenders and taxi/ride-share drivers are customary when service is excellent.
Most places accept cash and major credit/debit cards; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely supported. Some smaller venues may be cash-only; it’s handy to carry a small amount of cash just in case.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry days with highs typically in the 70s to low 80s (F). Perfect for lake activities, outdoor dining, and sunset photos. Pack sun protection and stay hydrated; expect occasional weekend crowds around waterfront areas.
Mild days with crisp evenings and colorful foliage. Rain begins to appear later in the season; great for autumn hikes and harvesting events at local markets.
Generally wetter and cooler, with temperatures often in the 40s (F). Suitable for indoor cultural activities and quiet walks when weather allows.
Milder temperatures with blooming trees and gardens. Frequent light showers can occur, but many trails and parks come alive with color and fresh produce at farmers markets.
Lake Oswego at Night
Hiking in Lake Oswego
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular, well-maintained forest trails with multiple loop options suited for all skill levels and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Scenic bluffs and wooded paths offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and lake-adjacent terrain.
Airports
How to reach Lake Oswego by plane.
Primary regional gateway about 20-30 miles from Lake Oswego, accessible by car, taxi, or the MAX light rail to downtown Portland and surrounding areas.
Smaller public airport offering general aviation; a convenient alternative for private flights and regional travel, located to the west of the metro area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of families attracted by good schools, parks, and a safe environment.
Many professionals commute to Portland or nearby tech hubs; amenities tend to support a balanced, suburban lifestyle.
Active older adults who enjoy lakefront living, cultural events, and easy access to outdoor activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular recreation and pickup games in parks and community centers; local gyms host leagues and youth programs.
Several public and private courses in the wider Lake Oswego area and surrounding suburbs; scenic greens with water features.
Water-based activities on Oswego Lake and nearby rivers are common in warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lake Oswego.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Lake Oswego through farm-to-table and Mediterranean-inspired spots. Look for dishes made with fresh vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts, and local produce; many restaurants can accommodate dairy-free and egg-free requests with advance notice.