· US

Hillsboro

Hillsboro, Oregon, United States

Discover Hillsboro: Where Innovation Meets Recreation in the Heart of Oregon Wine Country Nestled at the foot of Oregon's majestic Coast Range mountains, Hillsboro offers a charming blend of small-town hospitality and bi…

#Hillsboro#Oregon#United States#Suburban#Tech Hub

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Hillsboro.

Top Hotels in Hillsboro

Top Flights to Hillsboro

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Hillsboro.

Tours

Explore Orenco Woods Nature Park

A serene park offering walking trails, a nature play area, and bird-watching opportunities.

Visit Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals

Discover fascinating geological treasures from around the world at this renowned museum.

Shopping

Shop at The Streets of Tanasbourne

A premier shopping destination offering a variety of stores and dining options.

Outdoor

Golfing at Topgolf Hillsboro

A modern sports entertainment venue offering golf games for all skill levels.

Explore Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve

A wildlife preserve ideal for bird watching and peaceful nature walks.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Hillsboro.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
As of the most recent estimates, the population of Hillsboro, Oregon, is approximately 112,000.
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Hillsboro
Jan
rain
8°1°
Feb
rain
11°2°
Mar
cloud
14°3°
Apr
cloud
17°5°
May
cloud
21°7°
Jun
sun
24°10°
Jul
sun
28°12°
Aug
sun
28°12°
Sep
clear
24°10°
Oct
cloud
18°7°
Nov
rain
12°4°
Dec
rain
8°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Hillsboro.

What people love

Hillsboro, located in Oregon, United States, offers a variety of attractions and activities that make it a great destination for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Hillsboro:

  1. Outdoor Recreation: Hillsboro is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including parks, hiking trails, and forests. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking in places like Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, Rood Bridge Park, and Noble Woods Park.

  2. Wine Tasting: Hillsboro is part of the Willamette Valley wine region, known for its world-class wineries and vineyards. Travelers can explore local wineries, sample a variety of wines, and learn about the winemaking process.

  3. Cultural Attractions: Hillsboro has a rich cultural scene with museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. Visitors can explore the Washington County Museum, the Glenn & Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center, and attend events and performances at the Venetian Theatre.

  4. Farmers Markets: Hillsboro is home to several farmers markets where visitors can shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. The Hillsboro Farmers Market and Orenco Station Farmers Market are popular spots to experience the local food scene.

  5. Tech Industry: Hillsboro is known for its thriving tech industry, with companies like Intel having a significant presence in the area. Travelers interested in technology and innovation can visit the Intel Museum or explore the Silicon Forest Innovation Center.

  6. Convenient Location: Hillsboro is located just a short drive away from Portland, offering easy access to the city's attractions and amenities. Travelers can enjoy the best of both worlds by staying in Hillsboro while also exploring nearby destinations like the Oregon Coast and the Columbia River Gorge.

Overall, Hillsboro offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers, from outdoor adventures to cultural activities, making it a great destination to visit in Oregon.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Hillsboro, Oregon, may include:

  1. Weather: Hillsboro experiences a relatively high amount of rainfall compared to other parts of the United States, particularly during the fall and winter months. Travelers may need to be prepared for wet weather and potentially damp conditions.

  2. Traffic: Like many cities in the United States, Hillsboro can experience congestion and traffic issues, especially during peak commuting hours. Travelers should be prepared for delays when traveling by car.

  3. Limited public transportation options: Hillsboro's public transportation system may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger cities, making it more challenging to get around without a car.

  4. Limited nightlife and entertainment options: While Hillsboro has a charming downtown area with some restaurants and shops, it may not offer as many nightlife or entertainment options as larger cities. Travelers looking for a bustling nightlife scene may need to explore neighboring cities like Portland.

  5. Limited cultural attractions: While Hillsboro has some cultural attractions, such as museums and theaters, it may not offer the same level of diversity and variety as larger metropolitan areas.

Overall, Hillsboro offers a quieter, more suburban lifestyle compared to larger cities, which may be a con for travelers seeking a more vibrant and bustling destination.

Hillsboro, Oregon, is a city with a rich history that spans from its early indigenous roots to its development as a technology hub. Here's a detailed overview:

Early History

  • Indigenous Peoples: Originally, the area was inhabited by the Atfalati tribe, a subgroup of the Kalapuya Native American people. They lived in the Tualatin Valley, where Hillsboro is located, for thousands of years before European settlers arrived.
  • European Settlement: The first European settlers arrived in the early 1840s. David Hill, one of the early settlers, is a significant historical figure after whom the city was named. He settled in the area around 1842.

19th Century

  • Tualatin Plains: The region was initially known as the Tualatin Plains. The settlers were primarily engaged in farming and agriculture, benefiting from the fertile soil.
  • Establishment of Hillsboro: Hillsboro was officially founded in 1842 and later incorporated in 1876. David Hill played a crucial role in this process. The city was named after him following his death.
  • County Seat: In 1850, Hillsboro became the county seat of Washington County, which contributed to its development as a regional center.

20th Century

  • Economic Development: The early 20th century saw Hillsboro grow as a center for agriculture and dairy farming. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century had already spurred economic growth.
  • World War II Era: During World War II, Hillsboro's economy diversified, with the establishment of industries related to the war effort.
  • Post-war Growth: After the war, the city experienced suburban expansion as people moved from nearby Portland, leading to population growth and further development.

Modern Era

  • Silicon Forest: In the late 20th century, Hillsboro became an integral part of the "Silicon Forest," a nickname for the concentration of high-tech companies in the Portland metropolitan area. Companies like Intel established large facilities in the area, transforming Hillsboro into a technology hub.
  • Continued Growth: The tech industry continues to play a significant role in Hillsboro's economy, driving population growth and urban development.

Significant Landmarks

  • Washington County Museum: Located in Hillsboro, the museum features exhibits on the county's history and heritage.
  • Hillsboro Civic Center: This is a focal point for city government and community events.
  • Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve: A significant natural area known for its wildlife and educational programs.
  • Historic Downtown Hillsboro: Features several preserved buildings and sites that reflect the city's historical development.
  • Glenn and Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center: A local arts venue that hosts performances and exhibitions.

Historical Figures

  • David Hill: Early settler and namesake of the city.
  • Joseph Meek: An early pioneer and influential figure in the Oregon Territory, often associated with the history of Washington County.

Hillsboro's history reflects a transition from an agricultural center to a modern city with a diverse economy, while still retaining its historical roots and community spirit.