· US

Oregon

Oregon, United States

Oregon: Where the Wild Things Are (And So Much More) Oregon isn't just a state, it's a feeling. Imagine towering forests dripping with emerald moss, rugged coastlines where whales breach against a fiery sunset, and snow-…

#Pacific Northwest#West Coast#Outdoor activities#Mountains#Forests

1/10

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Oregon.

Top Hotels in Oregon

Top Flights to Oregon

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Oregon.

Tours

Visit Crater Lake National Park

Explore the stunning Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the U.S., known for its crystal-clear water and beautiful scenery.

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Experience the breathtaking vistas and waterfalls along the iconic Columbia River Gorge.

Shopping

Shopping in Portland's Pearl District

A vibrant neighborhood known for its art galleries, boutiques, and fine dining.

Outdoor

Explore Oregon Coast

Discover the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast with its stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs.

Wine Tasting in Willamette Valley

Tour the picturesque vineyards of Oregon's wine country, known for its pinot noir.

Location videos

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

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Oregon.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

4.2 million

Languages

English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese, Russian

Local guide

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

What people love

Oregon, located in the United States, offers a wide range of attractions and activities that make it a popular destination for travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Oregon:

Natural Beauty: Oregon is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the rugged coastline, lush forests, and majestic mountains. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Crater Lake, Columbia River Gorge, and Mount Hood.
Outdoor Recreation: Oregon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, and surfing. The state's diverse terrain provides opportunities for all kinds of outdoor adventures.
Wine Country: Oregon is home to several world-renowned wine regions, including the Willamette Valley. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours, vineyard visits, and dining at award-winning wineries and restaurants.
Vibrant Cities: Oregon's cities, such as Portland and Eugene, are known for their vibrant arts and culture scenes, eclectic dining options, and unique shopping experiences. Portland, in particular, is famous for its food carts, craft breweries, and hipster neighborhoods.
Sustainability: Oregon is a leader in sustainability and environmental conservation efforts. The state has a strong commitment to protecting its natural resources and promoting eco-friendly practices, making it an attractive destination for eco-conscious travelers.
Outdoor Festivals: Oregon hosts a variety of outdoor festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and food to art and film. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the vibrant community spirit of the state.

Overall, traveling to Oregon offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and sustainability initiatives that make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a diverse and enriching vacation experience.

What to know

Traveling to Oregon, like any destination, may have some cons depending on personal preferences and circumstances. Some potential cons of traveling to Oregon include:

Weather: Oregon is known for its rainy and cloudy weather, especially during the fall and winter months. If you prefer sunny and warm weather, Oregon may not be the ideal destination for you.
Crowds: Popular tourist destinations in Oregon such as Portland, Cannon Beach, and Crater Lake National Park can get crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. This could result in longer wait times, crowded attractions, and difficulty finding accommodations.
Cost of Living: Oregon, especially in cities like Portland, can have a higher cost of living compared to other parts of the United States. This could mean higher prices for accommodations, dining, and activities.
Wildfires: Oregon is prone to wildfires, particularly during the dry summer months. Wildfires can impact air quality, visibility, and access to certain areas, potentially affecting travel plans.
Traffic: Traffic congestion, especially in urban areas like Portland, can be a downside for travelers looking to explore the region by car. Plan accordingly to avoid peak traffic times.
Limited Public Transportation: While major cities in Oregon may have public transportation options, rural areas and smaller towns may have limited or infrequent services. Renting a car may be necessary for exploring certain parts of the state.
Outdoor Hazards: Oregon's diverse landscapes offer plenty of outdoor activities, but travelers should be aware of potential hazards such as rough terrain, slippery trails, and wildlife encounters. Proper preparation and caution are essential for a safe outdoor experience.

These are just a few potential cons of traveling to Oregon. It's important to research and plan your trip according to your preferences and priorities to make the most of your visit to the state.

Oregon, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, has a rich and diverse history marked by indigenous cultures, exploration, settlement, and development. Here's a detailed history of Oregon:

Indigenous Peoples

Before European contact, Oregon was inhabited by many Native American tribes, including the Chinook, Klamath, Nez Perce, Umatilla, Modoc, and many others. These tribes had rich cultures and economies, trading along the Columbia River and practicing both hunting and agriculture.

European Exploration and Fur Trade

1778: Captain James Cook explored the Oregon coast while searching for the Northwest Passage, leading to increased European interest.
1792: American captain Robert Gray entered the Columbia River, naming it after his ship, the Columbia Rediviva.
1805-1806: The Lewis and Clark Expedition, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, traveled through Oregon, mapping the area and establishing American claims.

Early Settlement and the Oregon Trail

1811: John Jacob Astor's Pacific Fur Company established Astoria, the first permanent American settlement in the region.
1840s: The Oregon Trail brought thousands of settlers to the region. This overland route from Missouri to Oregon was critical in American expansion.

Oregon Territory

1846: The Oregon Treaty between the United States and Great Britain established the 49th parallel as the boundary, ceding the land south of this line to the U.S.
1848: The U.S. Congress created the Oregon Territory, which included present-day Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and parts of Montana and Wyoming.

Statehood

1859: Oregon was admitted to the Union as the 33rd state on February 14, with Salem as its capital.

Civil War to Early 20th Century

During the Civil War, Oregon was a Union state, although it was geographically isolated from the main theaters of action.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant development in agriculture, logging, and the establishment of railroads.

Important Historical Figures

John McLoughlin: Known as the "Father of Oregon," McLoughlin was a key figure in the Hudson's Bay Company and helped American settlers in the region.
Jesse Applegate: A pioneer who helped establish the Applegate Trail, an alternative route of the Oregon Trail.

Significant Events

1897: The Klondike Gold Rush increased Portland's importance as a supply center.
1902: The Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition was held in Portland, showcasing the region's growth and potential.
1942: During World War II, the Japanese attacked the Oregon coast in the Bombardment of Fort Stevens and launched balloon bombs, marking the only direct attacks on the continental U.S.

Important Landmarks

Crater Lake National Park: Established in 1902, it is one of the oldest national parks in the U.S. and is known for its stunning beauty.
Columbia River Gorge: A significant natural landmark, known for its dramatic scenery and waterfalls.
Oregon State Capitol: Located in Salem, it is an architectural landmark and the center of Oregon's government.
Pittock Mansion: Overlooking Portland, this historic house is a testament to Portland's development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Modern Era

In recent decades, Oregon has become known for its environmental policies, vibrant cultural scene, and as a hub for technology and innovation, particularly in the Portland metropolitan area.

Oregon's history is a tapestry of Native American heritage, settler expansion, and modern development, making it a unique and vital part of the United States.