Oregon
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Oregon's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive in Portland and check into your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at one of the city's renowned cafes, sampling local ingredients and famous pastries. Take a stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden to begin your adventure in a serene setting.
Explore the vibrant Pearl District, filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and breweries. Visit the Portland Art Museum, where you can immerse yourself in a diverse array of artworks and exhibitions. Stop by Powell's City of Books, the world's largest independent bookstore, and get lost in its vast collection.
Dine at a food cart pod, experiencing the diverse culinary scene of Portland. Afterward, take in the city skyline at one of the riverside parks or enjoy live music at a local venue. End your day with a nightcap at a rooftop bar featuring stunning views.
Drive to the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge, renowned for its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails. Start your day with a hike to the iconic Multnomah Falls, where you can marvel at the cascading water and surrounding lush forests. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature at one of the scenic viewpoints.
Continue exploring the gorge by visiting other notable waterfalls such as Horsetail Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Experience the rich history of the area at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, where you can learn about the natural and cultural heritage. Take a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway to soak in panoramic views.
Return to Portland in the evening and relax with dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Explore the Portland waterfront, where you can enjoy a leisure walk while watching the sunset over the river. Finish your evening with a cozy night at a local brewery sampling unique craft beers.
Leave Portland early for a scenic drive to Mount Hood National Forest. Upon arrival, enjoy breakfast at Timberline Lodge, a historic building with magnificent views of the mountain. Afterward, take a short hike on one of the many trails that showcase the stunning nature of the region.
Spend the afternoon engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, or visiting Trillium Lake for some quiet relaxation by the water. If it's winter, have fun skiing or snowboarding at one of the local resorts. Capture photographs of the stunning scenery that makes Mount Hood a popular destination.
Enjoy dinner at a local cabin restaurant, perhaps trying some specialties of Oregon's cuisine. After dinner, stargaze in the tranquility of the forest, where the night sky unfolds with brilliant stars. Return to your accommodation nearby to reminisce about the day's adventures.
Drive to Bend in central Oregon, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Enjoy breakfast at a local café specializing in artisanal offerings and fresh coffee. Once fueled, explore the beautiful Deschutes River via a leisurely walk or bike ride along the river trail.
Visit the High Desert Museum, where you can learn about the unique desert ecosystem and Native American culture. Spend the afternoon doing outdoor activities like paddleboarding at Mirror Pond or hiking in the nearby Cascade Mountains. Stop by a local brewery for a midday tasting of Bend's acclaimed craft beers.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant with beautiful views of the water. Participate in Bend’s vibrant evening scene by visiting local shops, galleries, and perhaps catching a live music performance. Wind down your day by indulging in a dessert from a popular bakery.
After breakfast, venture out to Smith Rock State Park, a place known for its dramatic rock formations and excellent climbing opportunities. Choose a hiking trail that fits your energy for stunning views of the Crooked River and surrounding vistas. Enjoy the fresh air as you take in the natural beauty around you.
Spend the afternoon engaging in various activities like rock climbing, hiking to the summit of Misery Ridge, or simply relaxing in the park. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you explore the trails and enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by stunning scenery. Experience the park from different angles by taking advantage of its numerous viewpoints.
After a full day of adventure, head back to Bend for dinner. Opt for a hearty meal at a local steakhouse to replenish your energy. Cap off the night with a relaxing stroll or a drink at a nearby distillery to enjoy the local flavors.
Travel south to Crater Lake National Park, famous for its deep blue waters and stunning landscapes. Start your day with breakfast in a nearby town before heading into the park. Upon arrival, take a drive along the Rim Drive for breathtaking views of the caldera.
Spend your afternoon hiking one of the park’s scenic trails, such as the Garfield Peak Trail, where you can enjoy magnificent views of the lake. Bring along a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic overlooks. Learn about the park’s history and geology at the visitor center.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a cozy lodge restaurant nearby. Take a moment to relax by the lake, watching the sunset illuminate the water in a riot of colors. Experience the park's serenity as night falls, making for a peaceful close to your day.
Head towards the stunning Oregon Coast, beginning your day with breakfast at a local café with ocean views. Explore the picturesque coastal towns of Cannon Beach or Manzanita, famous for their unique art scenes and stunning beach landscapes. Stroll along the beach, taking in the fresh sea breeze.
Visit Haystack Rock and spend time exploring the tide pools filled with fascinating marine life. Consider trying out water activities like kayaking or taking a scenic boat tour. Stop for lunch at a seaside restaurant that offers fresh seafood.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. Take a leisurely evening walk along the sandy shore as you reflect on your day by the ocean. Finish your coastal day by cozying up to a beach bonfire under the starlit sky.
Depart for Florence, a charming coastal town nestled near the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Enjoy breakfast at a local diner before heading out to explore the expansive sand dunes. Rent an ATV or go on a guided tour to experience the incredible landscapes.
Spend your afternoon hiking or sand boarding the dunes, feeling the thrill of adventure. Visit the nearby Sea Lion Caves, where you can observe seals and sea lions in their natural habitat. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a scenic spot overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Head back to Florence for dinner at a seafood restaurant offering local catches. Walk along the boardwalk, enjoying the enchanting views of the ocean at sunset. Cap off your evening with a stroll through the charming downtown, filled with shops and galleries.
On your last day, make your way back to Portland while enjoying the landscape of Oregon one last time. Stop for breakfast in a quirky café along the way, savoring local favorites. Take a moment to visit any spots you missed during your arrival.
Spend your final afternoon exploring Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S. Choose a trail to hike through and enjoy the peace of the woods before heading back to the city. Visit the International Rose Test Garden for a last view of Portland’s beautiful flora.
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a beloved local restaurant known for its unique cuisine. Reflect on your journey through Oregon while soaking in the vibrant ambiance of the city. Prepare for departure, cherishing the memories of your amazing 10-day adventure.