Jeremy Burke, Ken Gagne, Chris Garrett, Steve Hammons, Chris Garrett, Doug Kerr, Rick Obst, Out West Photography, Bobby Stricker, Cheryl Wanner
PROUDLY PRINTED BY Western Web Eureka, California throughout the region and the adjoining areas.
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jesse Gallimore
COVER PHOTO
Photo by Danny Kent Alacali, @homemadepizzafridaynight
WHAT EVERY DRIVER IN OREGON SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PASSING
PEOPLE ON BICYCLES
Oregon has a new law to help keep riders safe from passing vehicles. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re passing people on bicycles.
It’s now legal to pass riders in a no-passing zone, as long as they’re riding at less than half the speed limit. Here’s how:
First, be patient and hold back for a good moment to pass.
Once it’s clear, move fully into the next lane.
As you pass, keep your speed at 5 miles below the speed limit.
Wait until you see the riders in your rearview mirror before you move back into your lane.
MORE SAFETY TIPS
Remember, people on bikes are allowed to take the whole lane when they need to.
Driving a large vehicle? Be mindful that displaced air may cause wind gusts, impacting riders. Reduce your speed and maintain extra distance whenever possible.
Before turning right, always check your mirror as you approach. Then take a quick look across your shoulder before turning. If you see an approaching rider, you must yield.
Park your phone. Avoid distractions behind the wheel so you always see riders.
WelCome to Western & W Coastal oregon
Embark on a new adventure through the Willamette Valley and the Oregon Coast. On the coast is an area encompassing Bandon to the south and Astoria to the north. Inland, the lush Willamette Valley is dominated by the State Capital of Oregon, which is located in Salem to the north, and Eugene, Springfield and Roseburg to the south. Farther east are the Willamette and Umpqua National Forests.
Visitors come to these areas of Oregon for a variety of reasons: to enjoy a scenic wilderness area, to relax at a luxurious resort or to view abundant wildlife. Whatever the reason, this area of varied natural beauty is sure to impress. The counties that make up the region are as diverse as the great State of Oregon. Between the mountains of the Coast Range and the much higher Cascade Range, lie verdant valleys with some of the world’s most productive agricultural land, giant old-growth forests and miles of volcanic wasteland. The opportunities for fun and adventure in this area are as varied as the terrain. In fact, this magazine offers 101 Things To Do just in these locales.
Two north-south traffic corridors connect the region. Inland, I-5 bisects the fertile valleys of the Umpqua and Willamette rivers. On the coast, Highway 101 skirts the edge of the continent between the Coast Range and the Pacific Ocean, offering visitors spectacular views of rocky coastline, lighthouses and crashing surf.
The northern most county on the Oregon Coast is Clatsop County. As you cross the beautiful Columbia River from Washington State via the Astoria-Megler Bridge, also known as the Columbia River Bridge, you’ll find yourself in the middle of the marina district. This area has so much to offer, including the Astoria Riverwalk, historic landmarks and buildings, fishing, boating, and water sports of all kinds. Stop for something to eat at one of the many eateries, restaurants and bistros in town. Taste one of the many award winning local ales and brews that Astoria is known for. There are many beautiful points of interest and many photo opportunities from both sea level and from higher elevations, such as the Astoria Column.
South of Astoria are the beautiful sights in Seaside and Cannon Beach. These beachside communities grace the northern Oregon Coast with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Hiking, horseback riding, viewing natural sights, shopping, and dining are among the activities that will keep you engaged. Visit the Seaside Aquarium on the beach and get to know the local native ocean dwellers — a fascinating learning experience for the whole family. In Cannon Beach, make sure to take the short walk to world famous Haystack Rock, one of the largest geological beach formations of its type in the western hemisphere — some say it’s among the largest in the world!
South of Cannon Beach you’ll find the beautiful Tillamook Coast in Tillamook County. At the northern end are the little resort towns of Manzanita, Nehalem and Wheeler. South of Wheeler lies the beachfront city of Rockaway Beach, and the quaint fishing town of Garibaldi. South of Garibaldi is the city of Tillamook — you guessed it — home of world famous Tillamook Cheese! This area is the largest coastal dairy cooperative on the Oregon Coast, but has so much more to offer than just great cheese! Spend a day or two in the area, and don’t forget to take the family to the Tillamook Forest Center. Located just 19 miles east of Tillamook on Hwy 6, the Tillamook Forest Center is an educational experience that teaches the principles of forest conservation in a fun, hands-on museum with dozens of exhibits and helpful guides. Kayaking is another favorite activity in Tillamook, with the local estuaries and rivers as the perfect setting.
West of Tillamook are the tiny townships of Netarts and Oceanside, two quaint stops along the Three Capes Scenic Drive. Further south you’ll find Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City and the southern Tillamook County border town of Neskowin.
In Lincoln County, you can enjoy whale watching or go deep-sea fishing. Visit Newport’s historic Nye Beach, tour the lighthouse, or walk the Bayfront. Along Hwy 101, spanning three counties, is the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (see map on page 7). Beginning just north of Florence and extending 40 miles to the south near North Bend, this area of gigantic sand dunes extends as far as three miles inland in some places. A series of inland freshwater lakes, created when the dunes dammed up small streams, provide excellent places to fish, sail or swim. There are national, state, county and private campgrounds throughout. Heading south, the sand dunes eventually give way to one of the world’s largest forest products ports, the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay. The three towns around the bay — Coos Bay, North Bend and Charleston — make up the largest urban area on the coast known as Oregon’s Bay Area. A combination of beaches, rivers and sloughs provide nature lovers with a variety of recreational possibilities. Inland, on Hwy 42, lies Coquille, a friendly community tucked away along the banks of the Coquille River between Myrtle Point and Coos Bay/North Bend. Spectacular scenery marks the drive to Coquille. There are plenty of opportunites for hunting, fishing, hiking, and biking.
At Bandon, the southwestern-most town in Coos County, magnificent sea stacks stand just offshore along miles of sandy beaches. The Historic Old Town invites strolling and has a good variety of shops, galleries and restaurants. Inland in Lane County lie the cities of Eugene and Springfield, part of the fertile Willamette Valley and Oregon’s third largest population center, after Portland and Salem. East from I-5 in Springfield, State Hwy 126, known as the McKenzie River Highway, leads to McKenzie Pass in the Cascades. Highway 58 east from Eugene is the route that will take you to Lowell where you will find opportunities for fishing or enjoying a variety of water activities. Continuing on Highway 58 takes you to Willamette Pass, which offers hiking, white-water rafting, kayaking, fishing and spectacular natural beauty. Roseburg is 67 miles south of Eugene, in the heart of Douglas County. East on Highway 138 is the fascinating Colliding Rivers Viewpoint, where the waters of the North Umpqua River collide with those of the Little River. Diamond Lake and the summit of the Oregon Cascades are 79 miles away, and Crater Lake National Park is just 20 miles farther. Discover local appellations at wineries throughout western Oregon. Most are open for tours and tastings. Outdoor adventurers will find abundant hiking, biking, camping, skiing, snowmobiling and snowboarding in Western Oregon. There are ample opportunities for hunters, anglers, and explorers as well. Discover beautiful scenery and bustling cities as you explore Western Oregon.
Overhead View of Siltcoos Lake, photo by Nate Kaplan
All Around
1
Go Horseback Riding on the Coast
What a great way to take in the wondrous sights of the Oregon Coast by riding atop a horse. No need to exert yourself, just let your trusted four-legged friend take you along your path. Allow the clip-clopping of the hooves and crashing of the waves to drown out the stresses of daily life. Take a rest on the beach with your picnic supplies and watch the surf for a while before you head back. What a way to spend a morning, afternoon or evening.
Most stables offer guided tours for couples and groups with rides of various lengths over different types of terrain. These tour guides are not only good with horses, but knowledgeable about the surroundings, often identifying indigenous vegetation, discussing geological formations, pointing out local wildlife, and sharing the most picturesque views. For the adventure seeker, ask your stable operator about a multi-terrain adventure that’ll take you through canyons, creeks, and other challenging obstacles.
From Astoria to Bandon there are dozens of stables to choose from, here are a few to consider: C&M Stables in Florence, Oregon Beach Rides in Manzanita, Bandon Beach Riding Stable. It is best to call in advance or go to their website to book a reservation.
2 Discover Covered Bridges
Nothing quite compares to the rustic charm of a covered bridge, and coming upon one of Oregon’s beautiful covered bridges is like walking into a bucolic watercolor painting. Beginning in the mid-1850s, close to 450 covered bridges were built in Oregon; today 51 of those remain, giving Oregon the most covered bridges west of the Mississippi River. Covered bridges can be found in abundance in Western Oregon, and in a variety of architectural structures, from converted railway cars to classic pioneer construction. Maps of covered bridge locations are often available from local chambers of commerce. Covered bridge books, calendars and postcards are typically available in local bookstores. For a visual guide to some bridge locations, see our county maps on pages 8 and 9.
The Oregon Covered Bridge Festival is the only event of its kind on the West Coast. The festival gives residents and visitors alike a chance to enjoy these beautiful bridges and learn about their heritage. For more information on the festival, or to chat with a covered bridge historian, call (503) 399-0436. www.covered-bridges.org
3
Make S’mores on the Beach
Looking to warm your toes in some sand and enjoy a toasted marshmallow sandwiched between chocolate and graham crackers? Head over to Lincoln City, Cannon Beach, Newport, Rockaway Beach , Seaside, or Bandon, they all have beaches that allow bonfires. Some resorts even offer bonfire packages for their guests to enjoy one of summer’s favorite pastimes. Here is a short list we found recently: Seashore Inn (Seaside), Hallmark Resort and Spa (Cannon Beach), The Ocean Lodge (Cannon Beach), Inn at Cape Kiwandas (Pacific City), or Stephanie Inn (Cannon Beach).
Be sure to check the local city government website or with hotel staff for fire bans before building your bonfire. Also, be mindful of the size of your fire, which should be no larger than the size of a lawn chair. Keep in mind that you’ll need to bring some kindling and your own fire starter, since the wind can be quite powerful. Burning of large piles and driftwood is not permitted on Oregon beaches. When it’s time to put out your fire, be sure to cover it with sand and water to ensure it is completely extinguished. ENJOY!
Centennial Covered Bridge in Cottage Grove.
Photo by Rick Obst
Photos courtesy of C&M Stables
Image Adobe Stock
Using your phone while driving distracts you from your most important focus: the road. Remember police in Oregon can pull you over if they see you handling an electronic device, costing you hundreds of dollars. And a crash would cost you much worse. So keep your mind alert, your hands on the wheel and your eyes off the screen…and have a nice day.
OTHER SAFE DRIVING TIPS
• Follow posted speed limits.
• Always drive sober.
• Stay alert – don’t drive drowsy.
• Buckle everyone on every trip.
• Secure kids in a child safety seat or booster until they’re at least 4´9˝
• Share the road – watch for people on motorcycles, on bikes and on foot.
VOID DISTR CTIONS
Whenever you’re driving, keep an eye out for orange. It’s your cue to pay extra attention and avoid distractions like using your cell phone. Anything that takes your eyes off the road means even more danger in work zones because of unexpected traffic changes, uneven pavement and huge machinery. So wherever you’re headed, look for orange and pay attention. The life you save could be your own.
All Around
4
Learn About Douglas County History
The Douglas County Museum of Natural & Cultural History has thousands of artifacts to amaze and educate, with many exhibits showing the culture of native people who lived in the area before the pioneers. Visitors will be treated to a closer look at the lives of early explorers and pioneers who crossed the Applegate Trail on their way to the west coast. There are many historic photographs showing how the first settlers lived and worked in the town of Roseburg. The Lavola Bakken Research Library offers rare books and maps of the county. The Children’s Discovery Room can give children wonderful hands-on experience. There are also many exhibits that display changes to the environment over the years, including volcanic eruptions that have altered the land. There is a complete section of the museum dedicated to the Oregon and California Railroad Depot. To get to the museum, take I-5 to Exit 123. For more information on hours, admission or special events, call (541) 957-7007. www.umpquavalleymuseums.org
5 Drive the Highway of Waterfalls
State Highway 138, the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, is commonly known as the “highway of waterfalls,” and for good reason. There are 15 waterfalls along this route, which winds its way alongside both the Umpqua and Rogue Rivers. The full scenic route covers 172 miles and takes about 5 to 7 hours, traveling from Roseburg to Diamond Lake and the north entrance to Crater Lake, and then south to Gold Hill. Along the way, you’ll find well-marked trails leading to dramatic waterfalls and cliffs. Take a short hike to double-tiered Toketee Falls, which drops a total of 120 feet over columnar basalt and offers visitors an observation platform to take in the spectacular views. Or stop at Watson Falls, one of the highest in southwestern Oregon at a staggering 272 feet. Most hikes are easy to moderate and less than a mile, though there is typically some climbing involved to reach the best vantage point.
For more information, contact the BLM’s Roseburg District Office at (541)440-4930, or the Roseburg Visitor’s Bureau at (541) 672-9731. Byway brochures, with detailed information on waterfalls and other features along the route, are available from the BLM and from area visitor bureaus, and can be downloaded online at: www.blm.gov/or/districts/roseburg/recreation/ScenicByway
Photo courtesy of Douglas County Museum
Proxy Creek Falls.
Photo by Thomas Shahan, wiki
Clearwater Falls.
Photo by Frank Kovalchek
AstoriA & WArrenton
Astoria is a city of 10,000 people on the Columbia River, just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean and is the seat of Clatsop County. The city was named after the American investor John Jacob Astor. His American Fur Company founded Fort Astoria at the site in 1811. Astoria was first established as a fur trading post and is the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. It is served by the deep water Port of Astoria that is located on the south shore of the Columbia River. The city lines the south banks of the Columbia River, and the north banks of Youngs Bay. Surrounded by water and tall evergreen Douglas Fir, Hemlock and Spruce trees, Astoria is rich in scenic beauty, with a vista of the Pacific Ocean and its endless miles of sandy beaches viewed from atop of Astoria’s historic Column. Astoria is a delightful romantic getaway with many cafes and unique shops. Visit nationally acclaimed Columbia River Maritime Museum and explore maritime history from dugout canoes to sail ships. Stop by the AstoriaWarrenton Chamber of Commerce at 111 W. Marine Dr. or call 503-3256311 or Toll Free: (800) 875-6807. www.oldoregon.com
6
Enjoy the View from the Astoria Column
A popular point of interest is the Astoria Column. The tower, built atop Coxcomb Hill, stands 125 feet high, 600 feet above sea level. There is an inner circular staircase allowing visitors to climb the 164 steps to see a panoramic view of the town, the surrounding lands, Youngs Bay and the Columbia River as it flows into the Pacific. The Astor family built the column in 1926 to commemorate the region’s early history. Take a look at the hand-painted spiral frieze encircling the column which commemorates the migration to the west and settlement of the area. If the frieze were to be unwound, it would stretch more than 500 feet. The Astoria Column is one of a series of 12 historical markers which were erected between St.Paul, Minnesota and Astoria. www.astoriacolumn.org
Astoria Column. Photo by Steve Hammons
Photo courtesy of Columbia River Maritime Museum
AstoriA & WArrenton
Visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum
The Columbia River Maritime Museum provides a passage back in time for guests of all ages by combining history with cutting-edge technology. The Columbia River Maritime Museum was founded in 1962 to preserve the rich maritime heritage of the entire Columbia River region. It was the first museum in Oregon to meet national accreditation standards, and is designated the official state maritime museum of Oregon. The Columbia River Maritime Museum has a reputation for the quality of its exhibits and the scope of its collections, making it one of the finest maritime museums in the nation.
The Museum houses interactive exhibits that combine history with cutting-edge technology and numerous Museum acquisitions. Visitors of all ages will find the opportunity to experience what it would be like to pilot a tugboat or to participate in a Coast Guard rescue on the Columbia River Bar. Visitors may also find out what it’s like to live in Astoria during the height of salmon fishing. The Columbia River can be seen from the huge windows on the north wall, serving as a majestic backdrop for the exhibits. Six galleries, the Great Hall, and the Lightship Columbia interpret the Pacific Northwest’s rich maritime history. The Museum is located at 1792 Marine Drive. For more information, call 503-325-2323. www.crmm.orgwww.astoriacolumn.org
8
Investigate the Oregon Film Museum
The Oregon Film Museum highlights and celebrates movies that were made in Oregon. The Museum is housed in the old Clatsop County Jail in Astoria, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Oregon Film Museum opened in 2010, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the 1985 film “The Goonies” where the building was used for the famous opening jail break scene. The museum features hands-on exhibits related to films that were made in Oregon, in addition to “The Goonies”, which include “Kindergarten Cop”, “Twilight”, “Sometimes a Great Notion” and “National Lampoon’s Animal House”. The Museum is located at 732 Duane Street. For hours and information, call 503-325-2203. www.oregonfilmmuseum.org
9
Discover Fort Clatsop Replica
The original Fort Clatsop decayed in the wet climate of the region but was reconstructed in 1955 from sketches in the journals of William Clark and lasted for fifty years. The replica was severely damaged by fire, and a new, more rustic replica was built by about 700 volunteers in 2006. The site is currently operated by the National Park Service. The park also features an interpretive center and a network of trailsl. During the summer months there are park rangers stationed in the fort and at the trailheads who are costumed in period clothing and buckskin. Located at 92343 Fort Clatsop Road. Call 503-861-2471 for more information. www.nps.gov/lewi
Oregon Film Museum.
Photo courtesy of Another Believer Wikipedia
seAside
Seaside was Oregon’s first seashore resort. Just 90 minutes from Portland, it offers a broad oceanfront with many things to do and remains a popular place to play at the beach. Most everything is within walking distance and wheelchair accessible making it a great destination for all ages. There is the possibility for plenty of beach activities, such as beach volleyball, building sand castles, kite flying, tossing a Frisbee and much more. For the young at heart, there are amusements such as the carousel, arcades, miniature golf, bumper cars and boats, tilt-a-whirl, paddle boats and canoes. Enjoy a stroll along Seaside’s 1.5-mile oceanfront Promenade and take a look at its famous automobile Turnaround with the statue of Lewis & Clark. Breathe in the fresh air while gazing at the spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Add to this the great people of this warm, friendly community, and it’s no wonder that Seaside is a destination for so many families, sports enthusiasts, and people who just want to kick back and enjoy life. For more information, call the Seaside Chamber of Commerce at 503-738-6391. www.seasidechamber.com
10 See Seals & Sea Creatures Up Close at Seaside Aquarium
Seaside Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast. Founded in 1937, the aquarium is privately owned and the descendants of some of the founders are still active in the aquarium operation.
You will see plant-like animals, estuary critters, creepy crustaceans and fish, which are all part of the complex and amazing ecosystem that is the Pacific Ocean. The displays are up-close and personal, and change with the seasons. Our underwater area takes you into a fascinating world of unusual sights, vibrant colors and rare life forms.
SEASIDE, OREGON
open Daily 11:00am - 6:00pm. Closed for the season (Nov-Jan)
no reservations required
2735 South
www.captainkidamusementpark.com
The Discovery Center gives an opportunity to use the microscopes to view our tiniest creatures, and our staff members will enjoy answering questions. You will also have a chance to view special exhibits of fascinating sea life. You can actually touch sea anemones, sandpaper textured starfish, and prickly sea urchins in the “Touch Tank.” www.seasideaquarium.com
11 Rides, Races & Mini Golf: Captain Kid Amusement Park
What can make the beach even more fun? How about riding a rollercoaster, racing go-karts, or playing 18 holes of miniature golf? All this and more is available at Captain Kid Amusement Park, with a recently extended go-kart track featuring over 600 feet of curves, corners, and hills you can race against the clock and each other!
Feel the rush of the rollercoaster, spin around on the Wizzer, or mine for gems in the Shangrila Creek Mining Company. There are games and rides for little ones as well. Captain Kid Amusement Park is a must-stop for family fun and memories!
SEASIDE, OREGON
12
Explore the Seaside Historical Society
The Butterfield Cottage is the only beach cottage museum in Oregon. The Seaside Museum & Historical Society interprets the Butterfield Cottage to the era circa 1912. Learn the history of Oregon’s first seaside resort. Discover exhibits detailing over 2,000 years of Seaside heritage, artifacts dating from 700 B.C., and a diorama depicting Seaside in 1899. The museum also has a research library and photo archive. Be sure to leave yourself enough time to stroll through the beautiful gardens, maintained year-round by volunteers of the Sou’Wester Garden Club. Located at 570 Necanicum Drive. For more information, call 503-738-7065. www.seasideoregonmuseum.com
Open Daily 11:00am - 6:00pm. Closed for Winter (Nov-Jan). No Reservations Required. 2735 South Roosevelt Drive Seaside, Phone 503-738-2076
open Daily 11:00am - 6:00pm. Closed for the season (Nov-Jan) no reservations required 2735 South Roosevelt Drive Seaside, 97138 (503)738-2076
Check
Photo courtesy of Seaside Aquarium
Photo courtesy of Captain Kid Amusement Park
Lewis & Clark statue.
Photo by Doug Kerr via Wikimedia
Photos courtesy of Seaside Museum & Historical Society
13
Shop at Seaside Factory Outlets
When you’re visiting the North Coast, there are so many scenic landscapes and so much natural beauty to take in you may not notice all of the fine shopping you can do all at once! To get that special swimsuit, jogging shoes, sundress or practically anything else, head to the Seaside Outlets. Just minutes from the beautiful beaches that Seaside is famous for, Seaside Outlets has something for everyone who loves to shop. Remember, when you shop at Seaside Outlets, you pay no sales tax, another reason why visitors love to shop in Oregon! Seaside Outlets offers the finest selection of internationally known stores, with deals on items you won’t find anywhere else in the area, like Nike, Pendleton, Famous Footwear, Rack Room Shoes, Eddie Bauer, Carter’s, Bath and Body Works, Zumiez, and many more! We also have stores that are unique and give you a taste of Tokyo Teriyaki and The Wine & Beer Haus! Whatever it is that makes you want to shop, Seaside Outlets is fun for the whole family. They’re located at 1111 N. Roosevelt Drive (Hwy 101 & 12th Street) Seaside, Oregon. For hours of operation & more information, call 503-717-1603 www.seasideoutlets.com
Cannon BeaCh & Manzanita
Cannon Beach is an artistic haven recognized as one of America’s 100 best art towns. Creative presence is evident in local architecture, public art, numerous galleries, community theater, and educational programs.
Historic Coaster Theatre, located downtown, is celebrating 40 plus years of live theater on the Oregon Coast. Plays suitable for the whole family, a Summer Kids’ Theater Camp, and special events are all available. While visiting Cannon Beach, take a stroll down Hemlock Street, the main shopping area for unique one-of-a-kind treasures and gifts. You can stop for a bite to eat at several unique restaurants and sweet shops. How about some fresh Cannon Beach saltwater taffy in any flavor you can imagine!
Cannon Beach offers inspiring beauty, gorgeous views, friendly natives and active adventures such as hiking, surfing, riding horseback on the beach, whale watching, exploring tide pools, and paragliding.
For more information, call Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce at (503) 436-2623. www.cannonbeach.org
14
Relax at Sea Ranch Resort
Nestled in the coastal trees, just off the Pacific Ocean in picturesque Cannon Beach, you’ll find Sea Ranch Resort, a relaxing villa by the sea, where you can easily fill a few days full of activity and fun for the whole family. Their cabins are fully equipped with all the conveniences of home, pitch a tent at one of their tent sites, or stay at their full hook-up RV park in your own rig. Treat yourselves to the on-site spa and wellness center with a sauna and all the amenities. How about relaxing at their organic tea and coffee bar while you use their on-site laundry facilities? Also, if you plan ahead, you can use their beautiful event lodge for your family reunion party or friendly get together.
Whether it’s a leisurely stroll on the beach at sunset, a full day of fun in the sun building sand castles, sauna, or specialty shopping within walking distance, the friendly folks at Sea Ranch Resort will make your stay comfortable, relaxing and enjoyable!
Please call for updates on the availability of services and amenities. Sea Ranch Resort is open year round. For more information, or to make reservations call (503) 436-2815, or visit www.searanchrv.com. www.searanchrvcannonbeach.com
15 Find Artistic Inspiration
It is no wonder The City of Cannon Beach, was chosen as one of the top 100 art towns in the United States. With over 15 art galleries and growing,the range of artistry has something for everyone:
Paintings, Sculpture, Prints, Photography, Glass work, Ceramics, Mixed Media, Wood, Jewelry, and more.
Discovering a new passion for art is as easy as walking down the street. Sculptures and art installations can be appreciated in various locations throughout the city, from bronze statues of indigenous wildlife to contemporary and modern structures. Featuring many local and regional artists, the many galleries in downtown and midtown Cannon Beach offer works inspired by the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast.
Celebrating the arts is a part of this town and it shows as the community comes together to host three major art festivals each year:
• Cannon Beach’s Spring Unveiling Arts Festival Showcases the Latest Works by Popular Gallery Artists, happening in late April and early May
• Earth & Ocean Arts Festival, with a focus on our natural world, happens annually in September
• Stormy Weather Arts Festival celebrates diverse artistic talents, happens in early November.
Please check with the Visitors Center or Cannonbeach.org for specific dates for these events.
photo by Bobby Stricker
photo by Raine Lightner,
Cannon BeaCh & Manzanita
16
Learn to SUP on the Calm Waters of Manzanita
What’s SUP? No really what is SUP? SUP is Stand Up Paddle boarding. Stand Up Paddle Boarding, is a recreational sport that utilizes a long surfboardlike platform to glide you across the water with nothing but your balance and a paddle. Keep your mind on this meditative, low impact sport while enjoying beautiful views and scenery.
If this appeals to you, check out places like SUP Manzanita that serves the Manzanita and North Coast region. As they say “We provide everything you require to go stand up paddling. You just show up, no need to lug the boards anywhere or rent anything! Lessons and excursions include all the necessary equipment to be on the water. Qualified instructors like owner, athletic trainer, and health coach, Janice B Gaines provide customized lessons based on your individual considerations and personal needs. Learn more at (www.supmanzanita.com).
As paddle boarding continues to grow in popularity, more and more surf shops are offering this enjoyable, recreational activity. Other SUP lessons and locations include Nestucca Adventures near Lincoln City. Paddle on! www.nestuccaadventures.com
17 Catch a Sunset at Iconic Haystack Rock
Haystack Rock is one of the beautiful jewels in the Cannon Beach crown and one of the most recognizable and popular attractions on the Oregon coast.
Visitors to Haystack Rock can view many species of marine wildlife. The Haystack Rock tide pools are home to many intertidal animals, including starfish, sea anemone, crabs, chitons, limpets, and sea slugs. The rock is also a nesting site for many sea birds, including terns and puffins. Puffins can be observed on Haystack Rock from early spring to mid-summer.
The area surrounding the rock is popular for picnicking, kite-flying, sight-seeing, and photography. The 30 minutes pre- and post- sunset offers a special time to capture the unique beauty of this monolith. Take the time to set up your camera or pull out your phone to capture your own iconic image.
18
See the Tufted Puffins
The Cannon Beach Haystack Rock is the springtime home to the Tufted Puffin. Offering seclusion, security, and resource-rich surroundings, Haystack Rock provides the perfect setting for raising their young. From April through July the tufted puffins can be seen in their full-bright colors, laying their eggs and tending to their young in their individual burrows. Watch as these stout little birds fly feverishly into the air, diving elegantly into the water for food.
“Between May and Labor Day during daytime low tides, the Haystack Rock Awareness Program (HRAP) presents interpretive programs at Haystack Rock. The puffins can be viewed through equipment set up for public use and trained volunteers are on hand to answer questions and help visitors spot the birds. Read more about HRAP and pick up a complete schedule at the Visitor Information Center.” (www.cannonbeach.org, 2021)
In early September most of the puffin chicks have hatched and are developed enough to return to the sea with their parents. Cannon Beach offers an exceptional opportunity to view these gentle, unique birds.
Tufted Puffin. Photo by Steve Dimock
north Coast: roCkaway BeaCh & GariB aldi
Rockaway Visitor Center. Photo wikimedia.
Rockaway Beach has 7 miles of pristine sandy beach. This old-fashioned little beach town offers lodging, dining, shopping and an abundance of recreational activities. It is nestled between the Coast Mountain Range and Pacific Ocean, west of Portland on scenic Highway 101. Located in the center of town is a large parking area known as the Wayside. This area includes pocket parks, benches, picnic tables and playground equipment while serving as a tourist destination spot, gathering place and hub for local events. In the center of the Wayside lies the main focal point–a beautiful beach-themed mosaic encircled by personalized, commemorative bricks. Hop the Oregon Coast Railroad and take a ride along the coast to Garibaldi for a bite to eat. Rockaway Beach provides plenty of activities for the whole family, such as beachcombing, clamming, shopping, kite flying, hiking and much more. www.visitrockawaybeach.org
19 Catch It - Cook It - Eat It!
Looking for the ultimate Oregon Coast experience? Look no further than Kelly’s Brighton Marina. Fresh Dungeness crab and a variety of bay clams and seafood await your arrival. Rent a boat to catch your bounty, crab on the dock for the casual approach, or simply choose from their well-stocked live tanks — the end result is the same — dining on the freshest, MOST DELICIOUS SEAFOOD you have ever tasted!
The riverside deck with communal fire pit is the perfect hang out spot for the day. See river otters, harbor seals, blue herons and bald eagles in their natural environment. With years of experience, this wonderful staff, will ensure that your fun-filled day of family friendly entertainment will be a favorite vacation memory for years to come. Whether you come for the day or stay overnight in one of the waterfront RV and tent sites — Kelly’s Brighton Marina is a must stop destination for any trip to the fabulous Oregon Coast! Call (503) 368-5745 for more information — or visit their website to view the live camera. Come and spend your day on Nehalem Bay. www.kellysbrightonmarina.com
20 Play on a Pirate Ship & Have a Sweet Treat
Inspire your kids to live out a pirate fantasy while visiting Wayside Park in Rockaway Beach, Ye wee mateys can climb aboard the playground structure built as a docked pirate ship. They’ll sure feel like pirates as they look out from behind the helm at the ocean waves below. They can pretend to walk the plank and or enjoy the fun of sliding down the slides off the side and rear of the ship. You won’t have to worry about getting sandy toes, as this playground has wood chips.
After playing at the park, take the kids across the street to Schwieterts Cones and Candy forsome sweet treats. Schwieterts has been an Oregon Coast staple for the last 35 years, serving up some of the best ice cream, fudge, confections, cotton candy, caramel corn and old fashioned sodas around. Schwieterts also has locations in Seaside, Cannon Beach, Manzanita and Astoria.
Located on 103 South 1st Street, Wayside Park is open from 7am to 8pm daily. For a video walk through of the park, scan the QR code below or search Visit Rockaway Beach on Facebook.
21
Take a Look at the Three Graces
Near the shore in the channel leading from Garibaldi to the North Jetty and the Pacific Ocean is a picturesque rock formation known as the Three Graces. The rocks are a favorite of birds and photographers. At the base you will find tide pools and excellent beachcombing. These rock formations are composed of sandstone and were likely formed between 20 and 30 million years ago. According to George R. Priest, a geologist with Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, at that time the entire area, including what is now the Coast Range, was an under-sea marine environment and part of the continental shelf, just as the ocean floor off the coast is today. Over time and under pressure, this sand consolidated into sandstone. Then, as the earth’s tectonic plates crashed into each other, they pushed up the coastal mountains and fractured and tilted up a ridge of sandstone along the coastline. Over time, the tides and surf wore away the softer portions of this sandstone, leaving behind the rocks we see today.
To get to the beach near the formation, drive a little over a mile north from Garibaldi on Highway 101. The highway hugs the cliffs and there are no parking areas or wide shoulders, making it difficult to park near the rocks themselves. It is best to drive past the formation and park near the intersection at Harborview Drive, then walk back, crossing the railroad tracks to get to the beach. www.visitgaribaldi.com
The Three Graces. iStock Photo
Garibaldi Harbor. Photo by Steve Hammons
GariB aldi
Garibaldi, Oregon’s authentic fishing village, is a quaint port town situated on the shores of Tillamook Bay. Many consider Garibaldi to be the jewel of the Oregon coast. Established in 1910, the small town of about 1000 residents is the only commercial port on Tillamook Bay. The working harbor is the closest ocean harbor to Portland. A large mooring basin, launch ramps, transit dockage and boat rentals can be found at this harbor. Several fishing charters make their home in Garibaldi as well. It’s a well known fact that some of the best fishing on the coast for salmon, rockfish, halibut and albacore tuna happens here. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the many activities available in this community such as hiking, birding, whale watching and beachcombing. Tillamook’s five main rivers flow into Tillamook Bay, providing some of the best bay fishing, clam digging, crabbing and kayaking around. Just a few miles away is the Tillamook State Forest where you can have an adventure at the Tillamook Forest Center. www.visitgaribaldi.org
22 Visit the Garibaldi Maritime Museum
The Garibaldi Museum is located between the base of Captain Robert Gray Mountain and the Tillamook Bay. The museum is chartered to preserve the maritime heritage of the Pacific Northwest by collecting information concerning Captain Robert Gray and Captain Robert Gray’s historical vessels, the Lady Washington and the Columbia Rediviva. The museum displays the 18th century sailing world by telling the story of Captain Robert Gray and the trade with native Americans of the Pacific Northwest.
Among the museum displays are models of the Columbia and Lady Washington, an eight foot tall reproduction of the Columbia’s figurehead, a half model of the Columbia showing how the ship was provisioned for the long voyage, as well as reproductions of the clothing of the seafarers and musical instruments. One wing features the history of the City of Garibaldi, displaying pictures and artifacts from the turn of the century. The museum is open May through October, Thursday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and by appointment during the winter. Located at 112 Garibaldi Ave. For more information, call (503) 322-8411. www.garibaldimuseum.org
23
Watch the Birds in Tillamook County
Birding is one of the fastest growing outdoor recreational activities in the country, and Tillamook is rich with sighting opportunities with more than 356 species recorded in the county checklist, making the area a bird watching paradise. The coastline areas are home to or visited by all manner of sea and shore birds and inland forests shelter migrating songbirds. Eagles are often seen, as are hawks.
Among waterfowl, it’s common to see american wigeon, northern pintail, surf scoters and buffleheads. brown pelicans use the Bay from May to December and peak in September. Western sandpiper, least sandpiper, black-bellied plovers, semi-palmated plovers, whimbrels, sanderlings, dunlins and short-billed dowitchers are also seen. There are two rookeries around Tillamook Bay that host great blue herons. One in Garibaldi is quite large (up to 50 nests). The herons are year-round residents. The Bay also provides an important habitat for many birds migrating on the Pacific flyway. Bird watching can be done from the shore or the water. For water viewing, you can get close to more remote areas in a kayak or a canoe. Either way, beginners are advised to bring a good pair of binoculars and a field guide to help identify what you see.
The Oregon Coast Birding Trail lists 173 birding hot spots, and close to 20 of those are in Tillamook county, including the Barview Jetty Park, on the north end of Garibaldi, and the Garibaldi Boat Basin, just a short walk from the center of Garibaldi. www.oregonbirdingtrails.org
Photos courtesy of Garibaldi Maritime Museum.
Blue Heron
north Coast: tilla Mook
Tillamook, abounding with pastoral land on the Oregon coast, is home to some of the best the West has to offer. Tillamook is complete with peacefully winding estuary rivers perfect for kayaking. For quilt lovers, you’ll find quilts of all colors and shapes adorning barns and buildings. Entrepreneurs abound, crafting wondrous products from the abundance of natural resources as well as gathering fresh, delicious seafood from the nearby Pacific Ocean. Perhaps the most noticeable and special part of Tillamook is the abundance of cows. Lots and lots of cows. There are 26,000 cows spread throughout the hundreds of dairy farms, and cared for by over 100 different families in the region. So many, in fact, that there are 5 cows for every person living in the area. These cows contribute greatly to the success of the well known Tillamook Creamery. www.gotillamook.com
HISTORY HOUSING HISTORY
tilla Mook
24 Take a Trip to the Past
The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum allows the public to reflect on the diverse people who have called Tillamook County home in the past. From the Tillamook Indians to Captain Gray’s 1788 voyage into Tillamook Bay, the living memorial of those who came before exists on this stretch of the northern Oregon Coast. All of this rich history is preserved for all to enjoy at the Tillamook Pioneer Museum. There are 35,000 items, plus 10,000 photographs included in this current collection, including prehistoric specimens to modern day. Tillamook County Pioneer Museum is located at 2106 Second St. and open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Closed Mondays and major holidays. For more information, call (503) 842-4553. www.tcpm.org
Western Royal Inn
Remodeled Air Conditioned Rooms
25
See History Housing History at the Tillamook Air Museum
Come enjoy the unique experience of Hangar B, take off on an adventure through aviation history at the Tillamook Air Museum, once part of The Naval Air Station Tillamook. The museum is housed in one of the nation’s last remaining World War II blimp hangars and is one of the largest wooden structures in the world, a visit to the Tillamook Air Museum is an unforgettable experience. Visitors will be astounded by the museum’s displays and artifacts, interactive exhibits, and over 20 aircraft, such as the F-14 Tomcat, A-7 Corsair ll, Mig-17, Aero-Space lines Mini-Guppy and many more. You can experience life as a jet pilot by climbing into the cockpit of aircraft trainers and learn about aviation history in the museum’s free theater. Take a walk through the Exhibit Hall, with rare wartime and aviation themed artifacts from WW l to the present. Visitors can also Walk-thru the dawn of the commercial jet age in the museums newest exhibit, a 1970’s themed TWA Convair 880’s forward cabin. Looking for an indoor activity for the little ones? The museum’s play area is equipped with play structures, games, and toys great for ages 0-7. We have something that everyone in the family can enjoy. The museum is handicap accessible, visitors are welcome to drive or fly in by (private aircraft where you can land and park nearby), and there is ample daytime parking for RVs. For more information, call (503) 842-1130 or visit www.tillamookair.com for upcoming events, exhibit openings, museum hours, and admissions rates.
Tillamook Air Museum. Photo by Thom Zehrfield
Tillamook Pioneer Museum
Tillamook Forest, photo courtesy of Tiger635 wiki
LincoLn city & otis
26 Go Fly a Kite
Let your heart soar in Lincoln City, where kite flying finds its ideal match in steady winds, clean ocean air and beautiful beaches. Lincoln City hosts annual Summer and Fall Kite Festivals each year. The festivals are held on the beach, in the heart of Lincoln City, at the D-River Wayside over the course of a weekend in both June and October. Send your own kite aloft or just stop by one of the festivals to watch professional and novice kite-flyers alike take advantage of the ideal conditions. Marvel at the amazing and colorful kites of all shapes and sizes, including some of the biggest and most colorful “show kites” in the world. The festivals also host an array of family events with competitions, parades, and children’s activities. Call (541) 996-1274 for more information. www.oregoncoast.org
Lincoln City, situated on the northern edge of the central Oregon coast, boasts beautiful beaches, fantastic trails, antiquing opportunities and so much more. Go fresh- or saltwater fishing, golfing, bike riding, or hiking. Stop by the North Lincoln County Historical Museum to learn more about the city. And if you’re traveling with kids, Lincoln City offers abundant opportunities to entertain children. Arcade games can be found at Chinook Winds Resort, and batting cages and mini golf are also located in town. And for the more adventuresome kids, check out the 8,000-square-foot skate park. Lincoln City is an antiquing hot spot, with more than 30 antique shops and used bookstores, and over 80 dealers. To celebrate, each February the city hosts Antique Week, a ten day long event that features citywide deals on antiques, live performances and workshops. You’ll find much to see and do in Lincoln City. For more information, contact the Lincoln City Chamber of Commerce at (541) 994-3070. www.lcchamber.com
27
See the Devil’s Punchbowl
The Devil’s Punchbowl is named after a unique rock formation that really looks like a punchbowl. Especially during stormy weather when the ocean slams into the hollow rock formation—the surf churns, foams and swirls into a violent brew. It was most likely created by the collapse of the rock roof over two sea caves, then shaped by eroding waves. After viewing the punchbowl, take advantage of the great picnic area and its phenomenal views. Look just off the coast for Otter Rock, a large seabird rookery, or to catch a glimpse of a whale. The park is exceptional in its rugged and scenic beauty. Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area can be found approximately 17 miles south of Lincoln City, west of Hwy 101. For more information, call (800) 551-6949. www.oregonstateparks.org/ park_217.php
photo courtesy of Lincoln City VCB
photo by
Katera Woodbridge
Photos courtesy of .jorgenev
LincoLn city
28 Axe Throwing at Scout Northwest Trading Company
How do you take shopping up a notch or two? Add hatchet throwing and beer of course! Available daily at Scout Northwest Trading Company, located inside the Lincoln City Outlets, you may choose a 15, 30, or, 60 minute session that allows up to 2 or 4 people to have unlimited throws of axes or knives. “It takes about 5 minutes to get each person comfortable with sticking and aiming the axe, and going through a short safety briefing. The axe is a 14” hatchet designed specifically for throwing. If you have never thrown an axe, you will get a tutorial by an Axe Master on how to properly throw your axe.” Snacks and beverages are available for purchase during your session.
1500 SE East Devils Lake Road, Lincoln City. www.scoutnorthwest.com
29 Wander Through the Connie Hansen Garden
For a truly delightful treat, visit the Connie Hansen Garden in Lincoln City, where more than an acre of color and fragrance await. Visitors on the many garden paths are surrounded by an extensive collection of unusual plants including more than 300 rhododendrons, azaleas, Japanese and Siberian iris and geraniums. The rich variety of plants makes a visit at any time of year a treat. Flowers add fragrance to the air and birds provide the music. This sensational coastal garden was developed by well-known botanist Connie Hansen, with her own hybrid and exotic plants, creating an oasis of blooms, ponds and trees. A volunteer conservancy has maintained the garden since Hansen’s death. The garden, located at 1931 NW 33rd St., is open daily from dawn to dusk. There is no charge, but donations are appreciated. Hosts are on site Tuesday and Saturday, and tours are available upon request. For more information,
Photos courtesy of Scout Northest Trading Company
Photo courtesy of Connie Hansen Garden Conservancy
GLeneden Beach
Located on the central Oregon Coast between Lincoln City to the North and Newport to the South and bordered by the beautiful Siletz Bay, Gleneden Beach is home to incredible wildlife-viewing sites, rugged oceanside cliffs and the aquatic convergence where the freshwater of the Siletz River merges with the briny Pacific. This convergence creates a remarkably dense rainforested micro-region offering jungle-like plant growth, and varying beachscapes that become visible as the bay fills and empties at high and low tide. Integrated into this unique natural space are activities that will fill your days with adventure, shopping, and culinary delights.
30 Conquer the Course: Salishan Aerial Park
How better to experience the Oregon rain forest than by climbing through its treetops. The Adventure Collective at the Salishan Marketplace offers just such an experience. This three hour adventure offers something for the trained climber as well as the novice thrillseeker.
Starting with a 15-minute guided nature hike through the verdant dense forest, you will encounter flora and fauna unique to this region. Arriving at the aerial park platform, your trained aerial monitors provide safety and orientation training using the CLiC-iT system. With the training complete, the true, self guided adventure begins.
With 18 Platforms & 22 Elements to choose from, the day is yours! Balance on a rope bridge, walk across spaced planks, or climb up to the top platform and survey all that is below. After your time on the course, finish with the new two zipline grand finale.
Visit TheAdventureCollective.co or call 541-961-7140 to book your adventure today!
31
Explore the Salishan Marketplace
Highly walkable and pet friendly, the Salishan Marketplace Shops are designed as a neighborhood for the community. This hub of activity has wonderful outdoor spaces, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding golf course and Siletz Bay. With open and covered seating spaces, fireplaces, and open walking areas, the marketplace is a perfect setting to enjoy a coastal day in any weather.
A regular spot for locals and fun for lodge guests and visitors, this thoughtful collection of vendors offers savory and sweet eateries, brewers of craft beer, barista-worthy coffee, unique boutiques, fine art galleries, a gym, an adventure center, a toyshop, an old fashioned candy store, and a barber offering gentlemen’s haircuts. On Fridays and Saturdays, in season, the south-lot welcomes a growing Artisan Faire and Farmers Market. Vendors aim to expand, and eventually offer a seasonal pumpkin patch and Christmas Tree lot.
GLeneden Beach
Discover Where Nature Meets the Sea
Hidden behind the Salishan Marketplace is a unique nature trail that not only offers access to the beach, but also a glimpse into the Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge and designated Audubon area. About 4 miles south of Lincoln City, this area includes submerged mudflats, sandflats, and lower salt marshes. These conditions make it perfect for birdwatching as large schools of anchovy get trapped in the bay. Expect to see a variety of bird-life including: Brown pelicans, shorebirds, Caspian terns, gulls, standard pelicans, and other species.
Accessible to hikers, bikers, jogger, and four legged friend, this manicured trail winds along the bay and the Salishan golf course from the Marketplace to the beach making it a perfect opportunity to grab some grub from Squatchimi Outpost and a beer from Beachcrest Brewing Company for an oceanside picnic.
BEACHCREST BREWING COMPANY
The convergence of creativity Pacific Northwest beers, the dramatic beauty of the central Oregon coast, and the love of community and creating a place for old friends and new to come together to enjoy good beers, good music and company. Musician, owners, Matt and Amy can be found welcoming you to the Gleneden Beach just 11 minutes south of Lincoln City and 30 minutes north of Newport.
Beachcrest Brewing Co is a unique nanobrewery with a focus on the Oregon coast, and unique beer. “Our motto is coastal, community, craft. We strive to capture the beauty and essence of what makes the central Oregon coast such an incredible place to live and visit,” said Beachcrest Brewing.
Aside from the one of a kind hand crafted beer, Beachcrest Brewing also offers hard cider, Kombucha, Italian cream sodas, wine, hummus with marinated olives and pita chips, bavarian pretzels & stone ground mustard, and chips. If you want a full meal to go with your brews you can order in from Mangia Italian Deli or you’re welcome to bring your own food.
7755 N. Highway 101, Gleneden Beach, OR 97388 in the Salishan Marketplace (541) 234-4013 www.beachcrestbrewing.com
Photos by Bobby Stricker
Photos by Finetooth
depoe Bay
33 Watch Migrating Whales
Visit the Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center, located on Highway 101 along the seawall in scenic Depoe Bay, and spot some whales! Park rangers are available to answer your questions and help you spot gray whales. The Center is a perfect spot for to you watch whales as they blow, dive, spyhop and breach.
Whale watching takes place almost year-round on the Oregon Coast. The whales migrate past on their way to and from the waters off Alaska and Mexico. Watch whales in the winter from mid-December through January. In March, spring watching begins, peaking near the end of the month and finishing in June with mothers and babies traveling north. Summer brings whales that feed along the coast from July to mid-November. The Center is home to the “Whale Watching Spoken Here” volunteer program, which sponsors the winter and spring break Whale Watching Weeks. For more information, call (541) 765-3304 or (541) 765-3307. www.whalespoken.org
34 Check Out the World’s Shortest River
The D River is the world’s shortest river. It begins in sparkling Devil’s Lake and flows a mere 120 feet before dumping into the powerful Pacific Ocean. It is best viewed from a boat in Devil’s Lake. The D River is so small that it is contained entirely within the Lincoln City limits. The ocean tides can dramatically affect the length of this tiny river. The D River State Recreation Park provides a popular beach and excellent fishing opportunities. The D River flows under Hwy 101 and visitors love to brag about following the entire length of the river from the source to the Pacific Ocean. For more information, call (800) 551-6949. www.oregonstateparks.org
Just 9 miles south of Lincoln City is picturesque Depoe Bay. Depoe Bay is known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast”. You’ll want to visit the Depoe Bay Whale Center to learn about and view the resident gray whale pod that makes its home here for 10 months out of the year. Depoe Bay Whale Center is the home of the highly acclaimed “Whale Watching Spoken Here” program. The center is dedicated to sharing information about whales and helping visitors to understand and appreciate these amazing creatures. You’ll also want to enjoy the many shops and places to eat located along the east side of the highway. For more information about Depoe Bay, call (541) 765-2889. www.depoebaychamber.org
OUT WEST PHOTOGRAPHY
Photo by Cheryl Wanner
Photo by Visitor7, wiki commons
depoe Bay
35
Drink Wine in a Cave
A most unique experience to Depoe Bay is the Depoe Bay Winery tasting room also known as the Depoe Bay Wine Cave. A walk inside the door and you will be transported to another realm, decorated like a cave and covered with dollar bills lining the walls, it is home to one of the 10 oldest wineries in Oregon and is a local family owned business.
Since 1999, you can indulge in white, red, and sweet fruit wines crafted by three generations of Oregonians. With over 20 varieties of wine, in the months of March through December you can sip on wine while watching for a pod of gray whales that lives off shore. However, all year round you might be lucky enough to spot mitigating whales just off the coastline. Be sure to make your mark, and hang a dollar with your special message on it.
Definitely worth the stop, and if you buy a bottle of wine, you’ll receive a complimentary tasting. Stop by anytime between 11am and 5pm. For more information visit: www.depoebaywinery.com
36
Catch A Spouting Horn
An interesting thing happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object in Depoe Bay…you get a “spouting horn!” A spouting horn forms when the giant waves of the pacific crash into the sheer rocky face of the Depoe Bay shoreline. These foamy waves leap up into the air, some 10 feet high or more and come splashing across the boardwalk\sidewalk of HWY 101 that runs the length of Depoe Bay. These waves soak passersby and vehicles alike. Don’t be surprised if, while you are looking out for whales, one of these watery friends jumps out and surprises you, it is all a part of the fun!
Photo courtesy of Gary L. Quay
View from acoss the street from the Depoe Bay Wine Cave. Photo from Depoe Bay Winery, depoebaywinery.com
Newport
Tucked between the Coastal Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, nestled on the shores of spectacular Yaquina Bay, Newport lives up to its slogan as “the friendliest town” and is the largest on the Central Oregon Coast with a population of nearly 10,000.
The history of Newport shaped the two distinct parts of the town—the historic Bayfront and Nye Beach. With the discovery in 1862 of huge oyster beds in the bay and river, companies from San Francisco began to arrive for oyster harvesting. In 1866, Samuel Case staked a claim on the north shore of Yaquina Bay and soon announced the construction of the area’s first hotel. Being familiar with the Ocean House Hotel in Newport, Rhode Island, he subsequently named the hotel and the new city after the town on the Atlantic coast.
With the completion of the Corvallis-Yaquina Bay Wagon Road, tourists from the Willamette Valley could ride the stage to Elk City, about 25 miles up the Yaquina River, then travel down river on a mail boat to the Newport Bayfront. Before long, talk of Newport becoming “The San Francisco of the Northwest” was spreading far and wide. The Oregon Development First Class Steamship Company began carrying passengers between Yaquina and San Francisco. By 1867, the town consisted of two stores, two fishpacking plants, two hotels, two saloons, a restaurant and a meat market.
Those with an interest in history will not lack for places to whet their appetite. In 1871, the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse was built as an aid to navigation. Unfortunately, because of where the lighthouse had been located, ships entering the area from the north were unable to see the light. Consequently, in 1873, a new lighthouse was commissioned and the Yaquina Head Lighthouse was built. It is still operational today. Both lighthouses are open to the public.
Historically, Bayfront was Newport’s economic backbone and later became a port for the commercial fishing and lumber products industries. Today, Bayfront is still home to Oregon’s largest commercial fishing fleets, a working waterfront on which visitors can enjoy shops, art galleries, chowder houses, restaurants and family attractions in its turn-ofthe-century storefronts. Charter fishing boats offer trips for salmon and halibut. By the 1890s, as Newport grew, an area north of Bayfront, called Nye Beach, became popular with tourists as well. By the early 1900s, Nye Beach was the number one visitor attraction on the Oregon coast, with hot sea baths, taffy stores, arcades and agate shops. Numerous summer cottages and cabins began to be built in the area. In 1891, the city built a wooden sidewalk to connect the area with the Bayfront. Today, Nye Beach is a very popular destination for unique galleries, bookstores, restaurants, shops and lodging. Call (800) 262-7844 or 541) 265-8801 for more information. www.discovernewport.com
Interact With Marine Life: Marine Science Center
Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport provides a unique opportunity to have fun while learning about marine life, with many interactive exhibits. The center describes itself as “part aquarium and part laboratory.” An enormous Pacific octopus greets visitors at the entrance. The center’s goal is to showcase scientific discovery through exhibits that display four different viewpoints: global, birds-eye, eye-level and microscopic. Check out the Tidepool Touch Tanks. Roll up your sleeves and reach into tidepool tanks and gently stroke fish skates and sea stars. The center offers a variety of different opportunities for all levels of education, from young children to graduate students. Hatfield Marine Science Center is located at 2030 SE Marine Science Drive, Newport. For more information, call (541) 867-0226. hmsc.oregonstate.edu
Yaquina Bay Bridge.
Photo by Chris Garrett - Newport.
Newport
38
Get Lost in Louis Tussaud’s Wax Works
The Wax Works is an immersive exploration of the past and a journey into fantasy-fun all in one walkable, self-paced experience.
You can fly with Iron Man or hang with Captain America and other superheroes as they battle evil forces. Have a lesson on flags from Sheldon or converse with Beyonce while she prepares for her next concert. Be careful because there are stranger things lurking about and you never know “who” or “what” you might find once you enter into the depths. In the meantime, sit at the resolute desk and draft up legislation or join Taylor on stage for a song or two.
In the end there is fun to be had by kids of all ages from 1 to 100. Remember, you don’t have to be fast to outrun Bigfoot…you only need to be faster than those who you are with you…be careful out there and stay curious!
Located in Mariner Square: 250 SW Bay Blvd. #4535, Newport. www.ripleys.com/newport
BAYFRONT BEATS: MO’S CHOWDER DEBUTS LIVE MUSIC ON THE PATIO
Mo’s Original in Newport has opened its sunny new Mo’s Patio, and guests are warmly invited to taste, sip, and sway in a coastal breeze. Nestled at 622 SW Bay Blvd., Newport, OR 97365, this outdoor music venue combines Mo’s world-famous clam chowder with live tunes and seaside charm.
From acoustic vibes with Dylan Crawford to midday jazz with Bob Taylor to upbeat duos and local bands, Mo’s Facebook regularly shares invites to “come check it out and have some music and sun with your meal” Outdoor seating is relaxed and communal—ideal for lunch with friends, a chilled evening with a craft brew or Oregon wine, or even bringing your pup along.
As summer heats up, the Patio hosts regular concerts, occasional cover-charge shows, and patriotic events like all-day music on the Fourth of July. For schedule details, reservations, or event inquiries, guests can visit moschowder.com/patio or call 541‑265‑2979. Mo’s Patio is more than a meal—it’s a festive gathering by the bay.
622 SW Bay Blvd, Newport, OR, 97365
39
Walk the Bayfront, Visit the Fleet
Visit Newport’s Bayfront, a bustling historic district east of Hwy 101, and home to Oregon’s largest commercial fishing fleet. Today, a drive up the scenic Yaquina Bay Road is a journey back in time. Stroll along the popular turn-of-the-century waterfront with its shops, galleries, fish processing plants and visitor attractions. Bayfront restaurants boast the freshest seafood available. With so much to do in the area, Bayfront makes a great base, so spend the day and then stay the night at one of the area’s many hotels, condos or bed and breakfast inns. Bayfront is only a few blocks off Hwy 101, and historic Nye Beach is within walking distance. For more information, call the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce at (541) 265-8801. www.newportchamber.org
Newport Sea Lions. Photo by Ken Gagne
40 Discover The Newport Murals
A scavenger hunt within itself, the Historic Newport murals offer a glimpse into the historic, fantastic, and natural world of an active working waterfront. Mural paintings, created primarily by artist Rick Chambers, range in subject from depictions of Herman Melville’s Moby Dick, to a tribute to the United States Coast Guard, to several underwater scenes of the great whales that call the surrounding waters home.
Sharing space alongside one of Oregon’s largest commercial fishing fleet areas, these beautiful and evocative images provide a cultural perspective on Newport. Comprised of almost two dozen, semi-permanent art pieces, the murals enhance the industrial, retail, historic and commercial buildings that line SW Bay Boulevard from Hatfield Drive to the U.S. Coast Guard Station at Yaquina Bay. As several of the murals have already been removed, new murals are planned to take their place. To begin your cultural mural scavenger hunt, start by checking in at the www.newportoregon. gov website or the Newport Visitor Center. Good hunting!
Photo courtesy of Jeremy Burke
Newport 41
Discover the Wonders of the Oregon Coast Aquarium
If you’re looking to get the most out of your trip to the coast, the Oregon Coast Aquarium offers an unforgettable dive into the Pacific’s hidden treasures. Between Passages of the Deep—the iconic underwater tunnel where guests stride alongside sharks—to its brand-new Connected Coasts and Sea Jelly galleries, every visit is a journey from seafloor to shore.
Set on sprawling grounds in Newport, the Aquarium features both indoor galleries and outdoor exhibits, making it a perfect destination for year-round family fun. It’s home to a dazzling variety of marine life, from native Oregon species to creatures from across the Pacific Ocean. You’ll find everything from aww-inducing sea otters and fanciful fish to massive bat rays and colorful corals.
Fan favorites like the giant Pacific octopus, sturgeon, and sunflower sea stars delight returning visitors, but there are new faces making waves—none more so than Garry, a young Pacific harbor seal with an inspiring story.
Interactive presentations, animal feeds, and special events mean there is always something exciting to explore. Want to get handson? Head to the touch pool for a sea urchin “hug,” or brace for a splash from a puffin in the open-air Seabird Aviary. When it’s time to recharge, the Moon Jelly Café and nearby Nature Play Area are perfect for a mid-visit break.
New adventures are always in store; Washed Ashore, the Aquarium’s latest temporary exhibit, makes its debut this season with fifteen towering sculptures made entirely from marine debris, marking the exhibit’s 15th anniversary. Including Flash the Marlin, Greta the Great White Shark, and Udo the Blue-Ringed Octopus, these powerful, larger-than-life art pieces serve as a reminder of the impact humans have on ocean life, and how we can make a difference.
For those craving a deeper dive, the Aquarium offers special add-on experiences like behind-the-scenes tours and hands-on moon jelly and octopus encoun ters. Visitors can also glide alongside manta rays, dive with sharks, or swim with humpback whales--virtually, that is. The Aquarium’s new Undersea Explorer virtual reality station features immersive 360º films paired with motion-platform seating, offering dynamic first-person views. With three unique expeditions to choose from, thrill seekers of all ages and abilities can get closer to marine life than ever before, without even getting wet.
Whether you are an Oregon local planning your next weekend excursion or a road-tripper crafting the ultimate coastal itinerary, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is a must-visit destination with more to discover around every corner. Plan your adventure at aquarium.org
Photos from Oregon Coast Aquarium
42 Step Into the Unbelievable at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Located on Newport’s Historic Bayfront, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World of Adventure offers an unforgettable mix of the strange, surprising, and just plain fun. Inside, explore the Ripley’s galleries filled with oddities, illusions, and hands-on interactives. Visit Louis Tussaud’s Wax Works for a close-up look at lifelike figures from history, pop culture, and beyond.
Add even more excitement with LaseRace and SmashDash, two fast-paced games that are all about speed, reflexes, and fun.
Outside, the brightly painted building features eye-catching statues and a mural tribute to the former Oregon Undersea Gardens. Before you go, stop by the CargoHold gift shop packed with quirky souvenirs and Ripley’s memorabilia.
Ripley’s Newport is a fun and unexpected stop for all ages. Believe it or not, it’s all here in Newport.Located in Mariner Square: 250 SW Bay Blvd. #4535, Newport www.ripleys.com/newport
Photos courtesy of Ripley’s
Waldport
43 See Seals & Sea Lions at Seal Rock
The Seal Rock State Recreation Site is a small and beautiful strip of coast that offers a variety of fun and relaxing activities. Seal Rock is part of a fascinating habitat for seals, sea lions, birds and other marine life. Seals and sea lions in particular love this large basalt rock formation—the younger mammals play and frolic on and around the rocks, while the adults simply sunbathe. The area is excellent for tide pooling or clamming. Some of the best littleneck clams in the area are harvested from this area. There are plenty of fishing opportunities in the area and many shady picnic areas. The Seal Rock State Recreation Site is located 10 miles south of Newport, directly adjacent to Hwy 101. For more information, call (800) 551-6949. www.oregonstateparks.org/park_207.php
WELCOME TO WALDPORT!
The Waldport Chamber of Commerce is your source for everything you need to know! Located inside the Alsea Bay Bridge Visitor Center & Museum, the Chamber offers souvenirs such as caps, t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, coffee mugs and wine tumblers, playing cards, magnets, stuffed crab toys, towels, totes, aprons and commemorative Beach, Bike & Blues swag. Visit with our volunteers and pick up area maps, brochures, resource guides, hiking, fishing, crabbing & clamming information and tips, and where to go for the services you may need for your business or home office. Enjoy Wednesday Market May through the September, the annual Beach, Bike & Blues Festival presented by Pioneer Connect, Beachcomber Days and The Waldport Great Garage Sale in June, and the first fireworks on the coast over Alsea Bay on July 3rd every year. Waldport offers safe beach access for everyone with mobility needs with the new Mobi-Mats, located north of the Bayshore Beach Club at beach access 66c. www.findyourselfinwaldport.com
44 Visit the Waldport/Alsea Bay Bridge Visitor Center & Museum
The Historic Alsea Bay Bridge Visitor Center & Museum is rich in history, showcasing all the bridges along the Oregon Coast from Astoria to Brookings. The Museum features photos, accounts, displays and artifacts depicting Waldport’s early years, including a special area dedicated to the native Alsi Indians. There is also a life-size bronze sculpture of Oregon Black Pioneer Louis Southworth, an enlsaved person who settled here and donated land for Waldport’s first school house. Southworth is memorialized inside the Visitor Center and recognized in the naming of the new Louis Southworth Park, featuring the largest playground on the Oregon Coast, a dog park, picnic areas, ball fields, track and walking trails, and plenty of parking. The park is fully ADA accessible. www.findyourselfinwaldport.com/business/the-alsea-bay-bridge-visitor-centerwaldport-heritage-museum/
Photo Credit: Waldport Chamber of Commerce
Waldport
45 Enjoy Seascape Views & Hike in a Rainforest
The Perpetua Coast is part of the 630,000-acre Siuslaw National Forest. This forest is actually a temperate rainforest that has more dense vegetation than the Amazon jungle. A good place to start is to take the steep road up to the Cape Perpetua Visitor and Interpretive Center, located two miles south of Yachats off Hwy 101. There are many guided hikes and educational programs available, or set out on your own. Hiking trails lead through the forest and allow for encounters with spotted owls, marbled murrelets, deer and elk. Follow the Giant Spruce Trail, which leads past trees as large as 10 feet in diameter, and at low tide, check out the marine garden. Visitors who take the Overlook Road to the West Shelter, just north of the Visitor Center, will be rewarded with arguably the most stunning view along the Oregon coast. For more information, call 541-547-3289. www.fs.usda.gov/siuslaw/
47 Meet the Wolf Pack at White Wolf Sanctuary
Discover wildlife at the White Wolf Sanctuary, where rare arctic wolves roam in 50 acres of enclosures. Observe these beautiful snow-white animals as they interact, and learn more about the history, ecology and preservation of these intelligent pack hunters. Join in a joyous howling chorus with the wolves, and learn how you can raise your voice in support of wolves in the wild. The sanctuary’s mission is rescuing and caring for arctic wolves which have been abused or abandoned. These animals were born in captivity and cannot be released into the wild. Visitors will hear the wolves’ individual stories, and learn more about the perils and mistreatment that can result from humans keeping wild animals as pets. The sanctuary also seeks to educate the public about the place of wolves in the ecosystem, and to work toward long-term recovery of wolves in the wild.
The sanctuary is located in Tidewater, about 10 miles east of Waldport and inside the beautiful Siuslaw National Forest. Call for an appointment to tour the sanctuary and meet the resident wolves, or inquire about volunteer opportunities, educational presentations and seminars: 541-528-3588. www.whitewolfsanctuary.com
46 Drive the Alsea River Highway
A scenic drive from Waldport along the Alsea River Highway Hwy. 34) takes you through an abundance of nature. The river flows 48.5 miles from Alsea, a small village in the coastal mountains, to the City of Waldport. Just a mile or so from Alsea is the Hayden Covered Bridge. Nearby Alsea Falls is 30 feet tall and easily accessible by vehicle about 8 miles from Alsea. It is open for camping the first weekend of May through the end of September. Day use is open year round with plenty of picnic tables and bbq stands for outdoor gatherings. Alsea Falls and Green Peak Falls is a 2.4 mile back trail that features both waterfalls. It is easy for all skill levels and quite popular from May through October. For more information about the Alsea River, Marys Peak, and the Siuslaw National Forest, visit: www.findyourselfinwaldport.com/resources/
Photo by Finetooth, WikiCommons
Photos courtesy of White Wolf Sanctuary
Sponsored by the Waldport Chamber of Commerce www.findyourselfinwaldport.com
Waldport
Beach, Bikes, and Blues Festival
Beach Bike & Blues Festival is the largest single day blues music festival on the Oregon Coast, featuring six-hours of live blues music, fresh food from area chefs, arts & crafts, and a lively pavilion with coastal crafted beer and plenty of room for dancing!
This annual Festival welcomes all ages and dogs are welcome, too. If you like great music, local food, craft beer, the Central Oregon Coast and lots of friendly people, Waldport is your destination for Beach, Bike & Blues Festival. Beach, Bike & Blues Festival is presented by Pioneer Connect. Rogue Brewing is the official beer and fun bike activities for all ages is on tap from Green Bike Co-op. Festival is Saturday, September 13, 2025 from noon to 7 p m., once again set along the shores of Alsea Bay and the Pacific Ocean in Waldport. More information at www. findyourselfinwaldport.com/beach-bike-and-blues-festival
Fishin’, Crabbin’, Clammin’ and Kayakin’
“No Crabs Allowed” is our motto. Unless of course you are snaggin’ an Oregon delicacy in crabs pots!
You can rent everything you need to fish, crab, clam and float the river and bay at Dock of the Bay/The Port of Alsea & Shrimp Daddy’s Bait & Tackle. They’ll gladly equip you, issue your license and recommend when, where and how to best enjoy your adventures. You can also stop in to the Alsea Bay Bridge Visitor Center & Museum for maps and resource guides. The Port of Alsea features a kayak launch, boat launching and ADA accessible docks for crabbing. You can also launch your watercraft and rent everything you need from McKinley’s RV Park & Marina. McKinley’s features paved RV spaces, dry camping, a general store, and a beach volleyball area, too.
Play A Round at Crestview Golf Club & Red River Disc Golf Courses
The Red River Disc Golf Course was established in 2019. This hilly, heavily wooded course is approximately 3,900 feet. It is just off Crestline Drive in Waldport and includes an adjacent skate park. The course is recognized by the Professional Disc Golf Association of America. The course wanders through a predominately cedar forest with challenging holes and lots of elevation.
Crestview Golf Club is a beautiful, scenic 9-hole course with a friendly, family atmosphere. Easy to walk, playable year-round, with four tee options and a full pro-shop, restaurant, bar, day-use RV parking, club rentals and covered driving range, too! Crestview hosts the annual Waldport Chamber Charity Golf Tournament each summer, benefitting local non-profit organizations each year.
• White Wolf Sanctuary: www.WhiteWolfSanctuary.com
STAY
• Edgewater Cottages: www.edgewatercottages.com
• KOA Waldport/Newport: www.koa.com
• McKinley’s RV Park & Marina: www.mckinleysrvparkandmarina.com
• Stay Cascadia: Bay View Beach House www.staycascadia.net/united-stateswaldport-panoramic-promontory-bay-view-beach-house
• Sweet Homes Vacation Getaways: www.sweethomesrentals.com
• Treasure Bay Resort: www.exploretreasurebay.com
• The Waldport Inn: www.thewaldportinn.com
Visit the members section for all featured listings: www.findyourselfinwaldport.com/chamber-members
City Services: www.waldportoregon.gov County Information: www.co.lincoln.or.us
Yachats
48 Tour Art Galleries Along a Garden Trail
At the North end of Yachats between Ocean Wayside Lane and NE Forest Hill Street, just across from Mitchell River Bridge you will find a great way to spend an afternoon. It starts with a short walk along a purposefully grown and curated footpath that boasts unique botanical wonders, followed by a tour through three art galleries showcasing the works of several local and regional artists.
What is now the Gerdemann public trail and preserve, this area was originally cultivated by botanical pathologist and retired teacher, Jim and Janice Gerdemann in the 1980s and contains unique specimens of flora tucked amongst the wooded hillside facing the Pacific Ocean, bordered by the Siuslaw National Forest. The entrance to the footpath can be found either from the Ya’Xaik Trail or via a wooden gate behind the Art galleries.
Touchstone Gallery represents 120 Oregon artists offering whimsical, sophisticated and graceful designs in jewelry, glass, ceramics, paintings, and sculpture.
Wave Gallery exclusively represents award winning Oregon photographer Bob Keller.
Earthworks Gallery features works by nationally known and Northwest artists in a wide range of media and styles, emphasizing: clay, glass, artistic jewelry, and paintings.
Beach Daisy Wine - Don’t forget to stop in this gem of a wine shop and relax, have a glass of wine and a bite to eat during your art gallery adventures.
49 See the 13-Foot Long, 6-Foot Tall T-Rex
Betty, as she is affectionately known, is a 13-foot long and 6-foot tall fossil recreation of a juvenile T-Rex assembled by Styx, Stones, ‘n Bones store owner Marc Taylor and his son. In 2020, over several dedicated months and piece by piece, this persevering father and son team created this massive Cretaceous creature for everyone to enjoy.
Although most Tyrannosaurus were believed to have lived throughout what is now western North America, Betty presides over one of the most diverse and impressive collections of precious and semi precious stones along the Oregon Coast. Tucked into the town of Yachats, a town known as the “Gem of the Oregon Coast”, Styx Stones ‘n Bones, is certainly a gem within that gem. With fossils, minerals, crystals and more, one can get swept back in time to the days of the dinosaurs.
When you stop in to see Betty, you can also strike gold in their active gold panning feature, dig for fossils, and peruse a collection sourced from around the world.
Open daily. Check their Facebook for more details.
50 Yachats’ 804 Trail: A Seaside Symphony
Embark on a whimsical journey along the enchanting 804 Trail in Yachats! This coastal pathway, lovingly carved by nature’s hand, invites you to dance with the ocean breeze and share secrets with ancient sea cliffs. As you meander, let the symphony of crashing waves and the song of seabirds be your guide.
Feel the wind’s soft embrace as it playfully tousles your hair and fills your lungs with the salty scent of adventure. The 804 Trail is a tapestry of wonder, where tide pools glisten like hidden treasure troves and moss-covered stones whisper tales of time gone by. Keep an eye out for puffins and seals that might pop by to say hello, adding a sprinkle of magic to your seaside stroll. In the winter months, join the Yachats Mushroom Treasure Hunt and discover mushrooms hidden by mischievous trail gnomes!
So, lace up your walking shoes, grab a friend or two, and let the 804 Trail whisk you away on a whimsical adventure in Yachats!
51 Attend the Celtic Music Festival
Held annually in November since 2000, the Yachats Celtic Music Festival (YCMF) is a town-wide celebration of world class traditional and non-traditional Celtic culture and music that includes: performances, workshops, speakers, story-telling, dancing, gourmet food and drink, whisky tasting, and a variety of other vendors.
Held at various venues and spaces throughout Yachats including the Yachats Commons and the Little Log Church, this three day festival draws musicians and performers from around the state and from around the world. The YCMF is produced by Polly Plumb Productions, a Yachats based non-profit.
For details, schedules of events, and more visit: yachatscelticmusicfestival.org
achats (pronounced “YAH-hots”) is a little community of 800 nestled between the lush green mountains of the Coast Range and the dramatic waves of the Pacific surf. It is the ideal place for discovery, renewal, rest, recreation and romance. A climate with temperatures ranging from 40 to 70°, panoramic natural beauty, and a friendly atmosphere make Yachats a favorite allseason destination. As many have discovered, this little village with a big outdoors is a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Fishing on the Yachats River offers trout and freshwater salmon. It’s natural beauty makes it the perfect hosting site for festivals and events, including Spring and Winter Whale Watches, Honey Lovers Festival, Celtic Music Festival, Village Mushroom Fest, and the River Valley Farms Tour, and nothing beats celebrating the 4th of July next to the ocean. There are restaurants for every type of budget, ranging from take-away to specialty gourmet dining. Accommodations in Yachats include secluded suites, cabins and bed and breakfast inns, many of which take advantage of the spectacular views available in
For more information, contact the Yachats Area Chamber of Commerce 541-547-3530.
52
Have a Sandland Adventure
Visit Sandland Adventures for a day of fun at the Oregon Dunes. View an impressive natural wonder of endless shifting sand, unique tree islands, various wildlife and the spectacular Siuslaw River. Choose an exhilarating dune ride on their Sandrails or a more relaxing tour on one of their Giant Dune Buggies. Professional drivers will show you a great time while you travel across miles of dunes. The one-hour dune tour also includes traveling down the Pacific Ocean beach. Large or small groups can be accommodated on either tour. After your dune ride, you can have fun bumping and splashing on the Bumper Boats, race on the Grand Prix style Go-Kart track, play the Miniature Golf Course or take a ride on the Cloverline Railroad. Sandland Aventures is located less than 1 mile south of Florence on the central Oregon Coast. Look for the sign on the west side of Hwy 101. See ad on the inside front cover of this issue. For more information, call 541-997-8087. www.sandland.com
53 Go Sandboarding on Oregon’s Coastal Dunes
No snow? No problem! You don’t need winter weather to break out your board at Oregon’s famous coastal sand dunes. Sand Master Park in Florence — the world’s first sandboard park — boasts beginner to advanced slopes, bowls, a 40-foot ramp, and jumps centered on 40 acres of private sand dunes and surrounded by 200 acres of public dunes and forestland. The annual Sand Master Jam event is held the third full weekend of July. Individuals as well as groups are welcome to take a lesson from a world sandboard champion. The pro shop offers board rentals and all of the necessary gear, including sandboards, sand sleds, boogie boards and skim boards, surfboards, bicycles, sand sculpting, glass blowing and dune buggy rides! Are you ready for this much FUN? Sand Master Park is located at 5351 Hwy 101 on the north end of Florence. For more information, call 541-997-6006. www.sandmasterpark.com
For more information, stop in at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area Visitor Center at 855 Hwy 101 in Reedsport, call 541-271-3611 or visit the website at www.fs.usda.gov/siuslaw/ or scan the QR code
photos courtesy of Spinreel Dune Buggy & ATV Rentals
photo courtesy of Sandland Adventures
Sandboarding photos by Lon Beale
Anyone interested in seeing an amazing one-of-a-kind natural phenomenon should take a trip to Sea Lion Caves, featuring the world’s largest sea cave. The cave was formed almost 25 million years ago and is now home to about 200 Steller sea lions. There is elevator access 208 feet down into the enormous cave. The cave is about 12 stories high and as wide as a football field. During the fall and winter months this amazing cave may be filled with fun-loving sea lions. The rock ledge below the lookout located just outside the cave is the sea lions’ home during the spring and summer, and is where they breed and bear their young. Great care is taken to maintain the cave as a natural habitat for the sea lions. Flash photography is not allowed in the cave. Sea Lion Caves is located 11 miles north of Florence, at 91560 Hwy 101 North. For more information, call 541-547-3111.
photo by Judy Adams
Looking north from inside the cave photo by Judy Adams
Making Happy Memories By The Sea At Driftwood Shores
FlOrence
55
Visit Historic Old Town Florence
Welcome to historic Old Town Florence, where a relaxing stroll gives the feeling of stepping back into a more simple time. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely day, a respite from the busy pace we all know. There is a bit of something for everyone – an eclectic variety of shops of all sorts, art galleries, dining options offering both local as well as international cuisine, and the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum to complete your journey back in time.
Surrounded by Victorian buildings, Historic Old Town Florence is one of the most beautiful and charming of the Oregon Coast communities. It has been a logging community and fishing village and active Port for over 150 years and retains much of its old-time charm today. Stroll down the Boardwalk, enjoy watching the river flow by from Gazebo Park, or enjoy the view of our 1936 art deco Conde McCullough bridge from the newly completed Siuslaw Interpretive Center. You’ll enjoy a relaxing experience while feeling like you’re stepping back into a more simple time - to an all-American, small town.
You’re likely to find something going on whenever you visit. There are celebrations going on year round such as the 4th of July with fireworks reflecting over the river, May’s Rhody Days with Vendor Fair and parades, September’s Rods n’ Rhodies Car Show where we line the streets with high-end hot rods, Wine and Chowder Trail, and of course Florence Holiday Festival at Christmas where we light the Christmas tree and welcome Santa’s arrival. Enjoy an adventure while visiting Oregon’s Coastal Playground. Call 541-997-3128 for more information. www.florencechamber.com
Florence at night during the Rhododentron Festival. Photo by Allen Thornton
FlOrence
56 Rent an ATV or Buggy & Play on the Dunes
Visitors are sure to find exciting things to do at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Over the years, winds have carved out the sand to form dunes of up to 500 feet above sea level. Located just south of Florence off Hwy 101, the dunes cover a 40-mile stretch of coast making it the largest coastal dune area in North America. Off-roading is allowed in three designated areas for ATVs and dune buggies. Visitors can take a self-guided tour by renting an ATV from Torex ATV Rentals 541-997-5363 (see ad on inside front cover), or by bringing their own. There are several companies in the area that offer tours, lead by experienced and knowledgeable guides, such as Sand Dunes Frontier at 541-997-3544 (see ad on inside front cover). Hiking trails and camping areas abound in the area as well. Those looking for a change should check out sand camping in dispersed sand camping sites. Vehicles accessing campsites should be capable of off-highway travel over soft sand in a dune environment. For more information, call Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area 541-271-3611. www.torexatvrentals.com • www. sanddunesfrontier.com
SEPTEMBER 27
FLORENCE FESTIVAL OF BOOKS
OCTOBER 10-12
GOIN’ WITH THE FLO VINTAGE TRAILER RALLY
OCTOBER 18-19
CIRCLES IN THE SAND & KITE FESTIVAL
NOVEMBER 29
HOLIDAY KICKOFF & SHOP SMALL SATURDAY
DECEMBER 6
HOLIDAY FESTIVAL & MAYOR’S TREE LIGHTING
JANUARY 22-24
WINTER MUSIC FESTIVAL FOLK • AMERICANA • BLUEGRASS
FEBRUARY 13-15
WINE & CHOWDER & GLASS FLOAT TRAILS
MARCH 6-7 HOME & GARDEN SHOW MAY 14-17 RHODODENDRON FESTIVAL
Florence public art photo courtesy FlorenceChamber.com
photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
57 See the Brightest Light on the Oregon Coast
The Heceta Head Lighthouse is as quaint and beautiful as it is powerful. The 56-foot tall lighthouse is rated as the brightest light of any of the lighthouses on the Oregon coast—its “first order” Fresnel lens is visible some 21 miles out to sea. The views from the lighthouse are amazing. Since it sits 205 feet above the sea on a jagged and rugged cliff line, its sightline is unobstructed. The Queen Anne-style Keeper’s House has been restored to its original splendor. By day the first floor serves as an Interpretive Center, and the home is a bed and breakfast at night, welcoming guests year-round. Guests are encouraged to visit the lighthouse after dark, a rare experience. A seven-course gourmet breakfast is served each morning, and is included in the price of the room. For further information, contact the Heceta Head Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast, (866) 547-3696.
During the summer months occasional night tours of the lighthouse start at the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint at 9 p.m. and include a walk to the lighthouse to learn about the history of the area and how the lens works. Special Christmas tours are given on two weekends before Christmas. The area surrounding the lighthouse is well known as an outstanding wildlife area. Common murres lay their eggs on the bare rocks, and can be seen by looking down, just over the railing near the lighthouse. Brown pelicans commonly fly by, as do bald eagles. May is an especially good time to look down on migrating gray whales as the mothers and their calves travel close to shore. Other natural attractions are natural caves, tidepools, and a very attractive sandy beach. In addition, there are plenty of hiking and picnicking areas. This is one trip that will definitely be fun for everyone. The park is located off of Hwy 101 just 13 miles north of Florence. For more information, call 541-547-3416. www.oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=parkPage.dsp_parkPage&parkId=86
Hike the Trail to Sweet Creek Falls
Only a few miles inland from Florence, lies the Sweet Creek Trail, which follows the scenic cascading waters of Sweet Creek. You will encounter 11 waterfalls in all as you hike along the trail under a canopy of Douglas fir, alder and big leaf maple. Homestead Trailhead, about 10 miles west of Highway 126 on Sweet Creek Road, is where you will begin your approximately 3 mile hike.
You can make this hike year round, but making the trip in April or May might allow you to see woodland wildflowers, including big white trilliums and a rare breed of pink fawn lilies. You’ll also see columbines and wild woodland iris among the rocks on the sides of the trail. Ferns and mosses of various shades of green cover rocks, trees and downed logs. Metal catwalks have been built into the trail, making it an easy hike. For more information about Sweet Creek Falls, call 541-750-7000.
Along the Umpqua River on Oregon’s scenic Highway 101, Reedsport is a revitalized coastal gem that blends small-town charm with big outdoor adventure. The heart of Reedsport—its historic downtown—is experiencing a fresh wave of energy, with renovated storefronts now housing antique shops, local art galleries, and cozy cafés. Strolling Main Street reveals a mix of handcrafted goods, vintage finds, and rotating art exhibits that showcase the spirit of the South Coast.
Just a short walk from downtown, the Umpqua Discovery Center offers immersive exhibits focused on the natural and cultural history of the region. Interactive displays and life-size murals take visitors through the area’s forest, river, and coastal ecosystems, making it a must-see for families and history buffs alike.
Reedsport also serves as a gateway to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where hiking, paddling, and off-highway vehicle riding offer adventure for all ages. Miles of forested trails and open sandscapes stretch inland from the coast, accessible directly from town.
Whether you’re seeking art and antiques or adrenaline and open air, Reedsport offers a balanced and welcoming base for exploring Oregon’s stunning South Coast. For more visitor info, go to www. reedsportcc.org.. www.reedsportcc.org
59 Visit the Umpqua Discovery Center
The Umpqua Discovery Center is fun for the whole family! Once you step inside the Umpqua Discovery Center you will begin your adventure of Tidewater Country. Travel back in time in Tidewaters and Time with stories around a campfire with the Kuuich Indians. Learn about the early explorers and watch videos of logging as it was done in the past. Walk through a fish cannery and listen as the pioneers tell their tales. Enter a 1900’s tidewater town and visit the mercantile, tailor, and listen as the barber talks about the upcoming barn dance.
Your adventure continues as you hike the indoor trail of Pathways to Discovery and learn about the plants and animals of tidewater country. Slide into the bear cave to learn about hibernating bears and enter the weather station that has interactive OMSI exhibits on rain, wind, and atmosphere. At the end of the trail there are videos on skeletons, seashore, Animal Homes, and weather.
For a panoramic view, peer through the 35 foot periscope. Find something educational and unique in the Center’s gift shop. With life size murals and realistic sounds at every turn, there’s always something new to discover at the Umpqua Discovery Center. Located at 409 Riverfront Way in downtown Reedsport, along the Umpqua River. For more information, call 541-271-4816. www.umpquadiscoverycenter.com
Downtown Reedsport, Oregon offers a compact and strollable community that blends artful discoveries with friendly local flavor. Centrally located between Highway 101 and the Umpqua River, Main Street and Fir Avenue host a lively mix of galleries, boutiques, dining, and craft beer destinations
Art and antiques flourish in town. Mindpower Gallery at 417 Fir Avenue showcases eight curated rooms of paintings, sculptures, woodwork, metal, glass, and fine crafts by Northwest artists. Ellie’s Chainsaw Carving Gallery (542 Fir Avenue) brings chainsaw artistry to life with live carving demonstrations and custom wood sculptures . Creative Mercantile (392 Fir Avenue) features rotating handcrafted gifts and artisan finds from local makers. Antique shoppers will also enjoy Reedsport Antiques on US -101 for vintage finds
Beer lovers will enjoy Two Shy Brewing (473 Fir Avenue), a family-friendly brewery serving 25 craft beers—from crisp Czech pilsners to juicy hazy IPAs—alongside food, indoor and outdoor seating, and pet-friendly patios. Guests can even order delivery from nearby restaurants
Downtown dining includes cozy cafés like Bestie Brew (breakfast sandwiches, boba, espresso), Highwater Café & Market, Big Fish Café, and Harbor Light Restaurant, each offering seafood, comfort fare, and local flavorCompact, friendly, and full of creative energy, Reedsport’s downtown rewards every visitor—whether seeking art, antiques, a tasting flight, or simply a pleasant walk.
61
Mindpower Gallery: Reedsport’s Coastal Hub for Art, Wine & Creativity
Celebrating 35 vibrant years, Mindpower Gallery in downtown Reedsport is more than a gallery— it’s a cultural destination. Located at 417 Fir Avenue (Hwy 38), just blocks from the Umpqua River and Highway 101, this spacious, locally-owned gallery is one of the largest on the Oregon Coast. Inside, eight thoughtfully curated rooms feature an impressive collection of original art, custom furniture, and fine crafts created by Pacific Northwest artists.
Mediums span ceramics, sculpture, metalwork, painting, wood, photography, textiles, and more. Regularly featured artists include Dan “Heffy” Heffron, Pat Mahafey, Susan Commerford, Jordan K. Walker, Dutch Mostert, and others whose work reflects the raw beauty and inspiration of coastal Oregon.
Mindpower also houses a charming Wine Tasting Room, open Thursday–Saturday from 2–5 p.m., with Special Friday evening wine tastings and art receptions running 4–7 p.m. Sample regional varietals from Valley View, Season Cellars, Lexéme Vineyard, and others. Enjoy a glass or take home a bottle! The gallery is also available for special events’ for booking information, please contact the gallery directly.
The gallery is open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., or by appointment. Visitors are encouraged to take a self-guided tour or stop in for custom framing services.
For updates, events, or monthly exhibits, visit
62 Find Adventure At Salmon Harbor Marina
Salmon Harbor Marina is one of the largest recreational facilities on the Oregon Coast. The marina has immediate access to the Umpqua River, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, the Pacific Ocean, and miles of white-sand public beaches.
Harbor services include: two launch ramps, a full-service fuel dock, mooring slips with shore power and domestic water. Camping is available onsite and RVers are welcome at the adjacent Winchester Bay RV Resort.
Local activities: include fishing, crabbing and clamming; Umpqua lighthouse tours, Off-roading and ATVing, and wildlife galore.
Visit: douglascountyor.gov for more info.
Mind Power Gallery.
Photo by Allen Thornton
Main Street Reedsport. Photo by Allen Thornton
Can’t decide between a lake vacation and enjoying the Oregon Dunes?
You don’t have to!
63 Attend the Chainsaw Carving Championship
Now celebrating its 24th year, the Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Carving Championships continue to thrill spectators in downtown Reedsport each Father’s Day weekend. Held outside the Umpqua Discovery Center, this beloved annual event draws world-class wood carvers from across the globe to transform massive ten-foot logs into breathtaking sculptures—all using only chainsaws.
Over several days, artists shape raw timber into intricate figures like eagles, bears, dragons, totem poles, and mythic scenes. The intense and entertaining Quick Carve competition remains a fan favorite, with carvers racing against the clock to finish their pieces in just 90 minutes. Completed sculptures are auctioned off, giving spectators a chance to take home a unique piece of chainsaw art.
For those who can’t attend the championship, Ellie’s Chainsaw Carving Gallery in Reedsport offers a year-round glimpse into this vibrant art form. Located on Highway 101, the gallery often features live carving demonstrations and an outdoor sculpture garden showcasing finished works.
For event details and schedules, visit www.reedsportcc.org or umpquadiscoverycenter.com.
64 Tugman State Park: A Hidden Gem on the South Oregon Coast
Located just off of Highway 101, between Reedsport and North Bend, William M. Tugman State Park remains a serene and often-overlooked coastal retreat. Just a mile from the sweeping dunes of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, this peaceful park offers a perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.
Nestled along the shores of Eel Lake, Tugman is a favorite among anglers, paddlers, and campers. The lake is well-stocked with rainbow trout, crappie, largemouth bass, and seasonal Coho salmon and steelhead, making it ideal for year-round fishing. A public boat ramp, fishing dock, and swimming areas provide easy access to the water, while calm conditions are perfect for kayaking and canoeing.
The park features over 90 private campsites beneath mature shore pines, as well as 16 cozy, heated yurts available by reservation. For hikers, the Eel Lake Trail follows the lake’s southern shoreline for over 3 miles, weaving through forest and along quiet inlets with rewarding wildlife and lake views.
A reservable picnic area, clean restrooms, and hot showers round out the park’s amenities. Tugman State Park is open year-round.
For reservations or information, call 800-551-6949 or visit stateparks.oregon.gov. www.oregonstateparks.org/park_98.php
Tugman State Park Campsite Yurt.
Photo by Rick Obst.
Chainsaw Carving Contest.
Photo courtesy of Reedsport Chamber of Commerce
WinchesteR Bay
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of thrill, relaxation, and breathtaking coastal beauty—Winchester Bay is your next must-visit destination. Perched right where the Umpqua River meets the mighty Pacific Ocean, Winchester Bay is packed with adventure and charm.
Outdoor lovers, take note: this is sand dunes central, with the tallest riding dunes in Oregon. Bring your own ride(ATV, UTV, motorcycle) or let one of the local rental companies set you up with everything you need to tear up the sand in style. Prefer water over wheels? Book a trip with one of Winchester Bay’s seasoned fishing guides. Afterwards, cook up your fresh catch at your campsite, just steps from the surf.
Explore miles of paved walking trails or stroll the beach with the tides at your feet, hunting for agates and seashells. Don’t miss the iconic Umpqua River Lighthouse, standing watch over the coastline with stunning views and rich maritime history.
With over 700 campsites, 300 boat slips, and 16 cabins to choose from, there’s a spot here for every traveler—from rugged explorers to families seeking a laid-back escape. Whether you’re docking for the night, parking the RV, or cozying up in a cabin, Winchester Bay rolls out the welcome mat with smalltown warmth and big-time adventure.
The Pacific is calling. The dunes are waiting. Come see why Winchester Bay is the place where Oregon’s wild side meets the water’s edge.
www.DiscoverWinchesterBay.com
Ride the Dunes
Winchester Bay is home to some of the most epic sand dunes on the West Coast, and there’s no better way to experience them than behind the wheel of a side-by-side or ATV. Whether you’re an experienced rider who lives for throttle therapy or a first-timer ready to try something bold, the Oregon Dunes welcome all levels. The terrain is wide open and ever-changing—rolling hills, steep climbs, sweeping views, and adrenaline-pumping descents that make every ride unforgettable.
Don’t own a rig? No problem. Local rental companies have you covered with well-maintained machines, safety gear, and friendly tips to get you riding with confidence. Rentals are available by the hour or for the whole day, so you can cruise at your own pace.
It’s not just about the rush—it’s about the freedom. The wind in your helmet, the roar of your engine, and the sheer thrill of exploring miles of open sand with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. It’s the kind of ride that turns into a core memory. www.DiscoverWinchesterBay.com/SandGuide Looking for a campsite or cabin with direct dunes access? Check out Umpqua Dunes RV Park for the perfect space. Large sites up to 100ft long, onsite fuel and propane, and direct access to the Siuslaw National Recreation Area. www.UmpquaDunes.com
Courtesy of Douglas County Coastal Events
Riding The Dunes. Photo by Rocky Johnston.
Can Am Dunes Fun. Photo by Rocky Johnston.
WinchesteR Bay
66 Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum & Gift Shop
Just off Highway 101 overlooking where the Umpqua River meets the Pacific, the historic Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum & Gift Shop in Winchester Bay offers a rich blend of maritime history and coastal scenery. Towering at about 65 feet, the lighthouse was rebuilt in 1894 to replace the original 1857 structure that collapsed due to erosion, restoring light to mariners with a handcrafted First-Order Fresnel lens still in service today
Visitors can climb the spiral staircase under the guidance of knowledgeable docents (tours daily 9 a.m.–4 p.m. in winter, extend to 6 p.m. in summer), paying a nominal fee (around $8 per adult) that includes museum access . The museum, housed in a historic U.S. Coast Guard building, exhibits hundreds of artifacts, photographs, and historical records tracing the lighthouse’s evolution from lifesaving station to active navigational aid.
Don’t miss the adjacent Gift Shop & Café, offering nautical-themed souvenirs, books, local crafts, wines, snacks, and warm drinks—perfect for souvenirs or a casual treat.
From panoramic river and dune views to immersive maritime storytelling and local artisan finds, the Umpqua River Lighthouse Museum invites travelers into a vibrant chapter of Oregon Coast heritage.
Located at 1020 Lighthouse Road, Winchester Bay, OR 97467, the museum can be reached at 541-271-4631 (gift shop/café line: 541-271-1894)
68 Fishing in Winchester Bay
The Community of Lakeside completed Wulfy Beach on the shores of South Tenmile Lake. LocateVisit Winchester Bay and hire a local guide to take you on an unforgettable fishing experience—whether you’re casting into the legendary Umpqua River or heading out onto the vast Pacific Ocean. This is where rugged coastal beauty meets reel-screaming action, and it’s all waiting for you.
With experienced guides at the helm, you’ll have everything you need for a successful day on the water—no guesswork, no stress, just pure fishing bliss. Grab a pole and go after halibut, lingcod, salmon, perch, or pull up pots full of fresh Dungeness crab.
From calm riverbanks to ocean swells, Winchester Bay delivers variety, excitement, and some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste—caught by you.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying it for the first time, a guided trip is the best way to learn the waters, catch more fish, and make the most of your coastal getaway.
Winchester Bay RV Resort Fully Furnished Cabin Rentals
The Winchester Bay RV Resort and Salmon Harbor Marina offer an unforgettable coastal retreat. Located in the heart of Winchester Bay, this pristine, full-service RV resort provides stunning waterfront sites with panoramic views of the harbor, bay, and surrounding dunes. Each site includes full hookups, free Wi-Fi, and access to walking paths along the water’s edge—perfect for morning strolls or sunset watching.
Steps away, the Salmon Harbor Marina boasts one of the largest recreational marinas on the Oregon Coast with over 400 slips. Anglers, boaters, and paddlers launch here to explore the Umpqua River and nearby ocean fisheries. Crabbing and clamming are popular year-round, and summer brings salmon fishing to the forefront.
Located at 120 Marina Way, Winchester Bay, OR 97467, reservations can be made at winchesterbayresort.com or by calling 541-271-0287. Whether you’re seeking adventure or serenity, Winchester Bay RV Resort is the perfect base for your coastal journey.
Adobe Stock photo
Umpqua River Museum. Photo by Rick Obst.
Looking over Winchester Bay RV Resort. Photo by Kellie Trenkle, Wikimedia.
Coos Bay & C North BeNd
This unique section of the Oregon oceanfront is known as Oregon’s Adventure Coast for several reasons, and when you arrive in the area, you will easily see why. With indoor and outdoor, water-centric sports and nature providing the backdrop for your visit, there are certainly lots of things to do. The Coos Bay Area is comprised of more than one community. Coos Bay (the water, an estuary of several rivers) is dominated by Coos Bay (the city), and its neighbors, North Bend and Charleston.
For a closer look at the waterfront activity, as well as the opportunity to learn about Coos Bay’s ties to the maritime and timber industries—both past and present—take a stroll along the Coos Bay Boardwalk and visit the Interpretive Center located in downtown Coos Bay, at 50 Central Avenue, (541) 269-0215 or (800) 824-8486.
www.oregonsadventurecoast.com
69
Coos Bay is the largest city on the Oregon Coast and is the area’s commercial and cultural hub. There are many intriguing restaurants, gourmet coffeehouses, bookstores, antique shops, gift shops and comfortable lodging. Just about anything the traveler might require is available in this unique community. North Bend is situated on the north bend of the bay and the town is surrounded on three sides by the waters of Coos Bay. Downtown North Bend today offers a variety of restaurants and shops to explore.
The Conde B. McCullouch Memorial Bridge dominates much of the skyline in North Bend, and the surrounding areas that front Coos Bay. This cantilever bridge is in excess of one mile long, and at 150 feet high, allows large ships to pass below. At the time it was built in 1936, it was one of the most expensive, and certainly the longest bridge in Oregon. It is considered remarkable because its architect, Conde B. McCullouch, focused on architectural beauty in lieu of the typically unpleasant appearance of cantilever bridges. With its soaring spans and elegant arches, it is the official symbol of North Bend.
Immediately north of Coos Bay is the southern boundary of the extensive Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, administered by the Siuslaw National Forest. The dunes are the largest expanse of coastal dunes in North America—windsculpted dunes that tower up to 500 feet above sea level. The area’s recreational opportunities include hiking, photography, fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, camping and off-highway vehicle use. Visitors can enjoy thick “tree islands” that are remnants of buried coastal forests, as well as open dunes, marsh-like deflation plains and beaches. For further information, contact the Siuslaw National Forest at (541) 750-7000.
Ride on the Dunes at North Bend
According to local residents, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is the place to go ATVing or dune buggy riding. The Recreation Area stretches for 40 miles along the coast from Florence to Coos Bay and North Bend. The dunes vary in size, some even as high as 500 feet above sea level, and because of the wind, the dunes change from day to day to create some of the most amazing terrain. However, the Recreation Area is not just dunes. There are also forested trails and over 10 miles of exquisite beach that all can be accessed with an ATV.
Your adventure can begin at Spinreel Dune Buggy & ATV Rentals, located at 670S45 Spinreel Road in North Bend, (541) 759-3313. Please see ad on inside front cover. www.ridetheoregondunes.com
photo by Steve Hammons
Photos courtesy of Spinreel
Coos Bay & C North BeNd
70
Enjoy Golden & Silver Falls State Natural Area
Regardless of size, waterfalls are wonderful attractions. Golden Falls and Silver Falls are no exception. Located northeast of Coos Bay, these two hidden wonders cascade 100 feet into crystal clear pools. The water crashes down onto moss covered rocks and numerous kinds of wildlife roam around in the heart of nature. There is a path that allows hikers to reach the top of Golden Falls for a view of the forest. Fishing is allowed. Have a picnic in the shade of maple, alder and Oregon myrtle trees. Then take a hike through scenic canyons filled with old-growth myrtle and Douglas fir until reaching the falls. The Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area may be difficult to find, but it is well worth the 24-mile journey northeast of Coos Bay. To get to the park, follow Hwy 241 east from Coos Bay, through Allegheny to the park. For more information, call (800) 551-6949. www.oregonstateparks.org/park_96.php
71
Take a Walk at Shore Acres
Take Cape Arago Hwy south and in a few minutes you will find yourself in the paradox that is Shore Acres State Park. Here a rugged and pristine seashore contrasts with the cultivated beauty of carefully tended gardens. The dramatic and wild seascape is complimented by the orderly Victorian gardens. Stroll down the trail to Simpson Cove, a secluded inlet where turbulent waves crash into weathered rocks, or skirt the cliffs on the trail above and stop at the overlook to watch sea lions cavort. In season, the overlook also provides an observation point for migrating whales. Friends of Shore Acres sponsors a half dozen botanical events annually, from mid-April through late September. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve the gardens are ablaze in holiday lights. A fully enclosed observation building with excellent views of the sea offers a comfortable vantage point. Shore Acres State Park is near the end of Cape Arago Hwy, 12 miles southwest of Coos Bay, (541) 888-2472. www.oregonstateparks.org/park_97.php; www.shoreacres.net
72
Bike The Best Trails on the South Coast
The Whiskey Run Mountain Bike Trails is a brand new, one-of-a-kind trail system on the Southern Oregon Coast. Ribbons of clay dirt flow and wind through the Coos County Forest in these cross-country style trails. Moderate climbing and fun descending make this system worth the drive to the gorgeous Southern Oregon Coast. The trail system is located about 10 minutes from Bandon or Coos Bay off Highway 101, in the mists of the coastal forest.
Located in an active logging forest, Whiskey Run gives visitors a view of the Coos County Forest most do not get to see - harvesting in this coastal forest while enjoying sweeping views, tran quil streams, and fern-covered forest floors. The trails are a blend between flow and cross country style, and are great for all levels of riders with open sightlines, easy climbs, and chances to catch some air if you want. You’ll dip and wind through the for est in this unique South Coast environment.
These professionally built trails are made to withstand the coast’s weather, so when the weather is unfavorable in the Cascades and you want to ride some loam and clay, come on down to the coast. However, please don’t ride if the trails are muddy. Check trail reports or call the local shops or guide services. Note: 22 of the 30 miles are complete with Phase III construction set to begin soon. www.oregonsadventurecoast.com/cycling
73
Check Out the Oregon Coast Historical Railway
The Oregon Coast Historical Railway in Coos Bay, Oregon is working to preserve an important part of the region’s history by providing a place to restore and display vintage railroad and logging equipment. Their signature piece is the 1922 Baldwin steam locomotive No. 104, which served in the region’s logging industry until the 1950s.
A 1949 Alco S-2 diesel switcher engine, a former Southern Pacific caboose No. 1134, a 1946-era wooden caboose, a former Burlington Northern caboose No. 11269, and “Old Yellow,” engine No. 099, a 16-ton “car mover” or yard engine built in 1928 by Plymouth Locomotive are also onsite for viewing.
Other equipment and large artifacts have been donated to the group, along with hundreds of photographs, newspaper articles and other material known in “train fan” lingo as railroadiana. Even two conductors’ uniforms!
These interesting and historical pieces can be viewed at the display area and museum at 766 S. First St., (US 101 northbound) in Coos Bay. www.orcorail.org
Silver Falls photo by Edmund Garman
Shore Acres photos by Nate
Photo courtesy of Oregon’s Adventure Coast
Railway photo by Nate
Charleston
Charleston is a small fishing village located at the ocean entrance to Coos Bay. Although small, the harbor is a busy port and is home to a large commercial fishing fleet, as well as several charter boat operators, crabbers, sport fishermen and recreational boaters. You’ll find restaurants, markets, fresh seafood, tackle and specialty gift shops to whet anyone’s appetite. Walk down to Fishermen’s Wharf and choose your crab, then watch while they clean and cook it for you. Enjoy your crab while on the docks or take it home with you. Take a drive south on Hwy 240 (Cape Arago Highway) for a sequence of breathtaking scenery. First, you might visit Sunset Bay State Park and have a picnic. Then drive a little further to the famous Shore Acres State Park where you can walk through the beautifully manicured botanical gardens. The last stop is the magnificent Cape Arago State Park with its breathtaking beauty. For more information, contact the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce at 541-266-0868. www.oregonsbayarea.org
74
Catch a Charter Fishing Trip
When it comes to fishing on the Oregon Coast, Charleston has a number of charter fishing companies, offering seasonal excursions that leave from the harbor.
On a typical charter excursion from Charleston harbor, you can fish for a wide variety of bottom fish, like blue, black, tiger rock fish; cabazone, yellow tail, vermilion and ling cod are abundant as well. Most charters in Charleston also offer seasonal excursions for salmon, tuna and halibut.
Whether your entire family likes to fish, or just take in the magnificent ocean scenery and wildlife, chartering an excursion out of Charleston will give you a perspective of the Oregon coastline that can only be experienced from the sea. Depending on the time of year, you can see ocean mammals that migrate through, or make their home in the local waters, such as seals, sea lions, whales and more!
One of the long-time charter mainstays in Charleston, Betty Kay Charters, is under new ownership. Kurt & Gayleen Smith have been with Betty Kay Charters for 19 years. They are running the U.S. Coast Guard inspected charter vessel, the 47’ Shamrock. They have worked hard to provide a great fishing experience along with annual updates to the boat for their customers and look forward to seeing you. For more information, or to book your charter trip, visit www.bettykaycharters.com, or call Betty Kay Charters at 800-752-6303.
75
Visit an Estuarine Research Reserve
The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve was established in 1974 to better understand what affects the health and productivity of the various habitats of the Coos estuary, and to determine a way to restore and prevent further habitat destruction. The Reserve contains over 4,700 acres of freshwater wetlands and ponds, salt marshes, eelgrass meadows, open water habitats and forested uplands. Visitors will see animals such as black-tailed deer, black bear, coyote, beavers, seals and bald eagles. There are also many varieties of plants, many of which are only found in this area.
Be sure to stop at the Visitors Center before heading out on the trails. Activities at the reserve include K-12 and adult education, ecological research and monitoring and wetland restoration. The reserve is open from dawn to dusk every day, and is located four miles south of Charleston on Seven Devils Road. For more information, call 541-888-5558. www.oregon. gov/dsl/SS/Pages/About.aspx
76 See Cape Arago State Park & Lighthouse
Cape Arago State Park may be at the end of the Cape Arago Hwy, about 15 miles southwest of Coos Bay, but it can be the beginning of your experience exploring this very scenic part of the Oregon Coast. The Cape itself is one of the most scenic headlands to be found on this section of the Oregon coast, and was first sighted by European explorers in the late 1500s, by Sir Francis Drake’s expedition. However, even in the early 1500s the site had long been used by Native Americans. The South Cove Trail will take you down to a sandy beach and superior tidepools where you can see many intertidal plants and animals—but please enjoy them with your eyes only. The North Cove Trail provides access to favorite fishing, beachcombing and viewing sites for offshore colonies of seals and sea lions at Shell Island. The trail is closed March 1 to June 30 to protect seal pups. The park also offers picnic tables, gazebos and restrooms. The park is free and open year-round. The Cape Arago Lighthouse is found on Cape Arago Hwy, at the entrance to Coos Bay. For more information about Cape Arago State Park, call (800) 551-6949. www.oregonstateparks.org/park_94.php
77
Spend the Day at Charleston Marine Life Center
Located on the edge of the harbor in Charleston, OR, the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology’s Charleston Marine Life Center (CMLC) is an exciting place for discovery. All ages can explore the remarkable diversity of marine life of Oregon — from the coast to the deep sea. Walk in under real gray and killer whale skeletons, and find yourself surrounded by aquaria. Watch chitons and sand dollars move along, search for nudibranchs (shell-less snails) among sponges, and find different rockfish in the kelp tank. Roll up your sleeves to carefully explore the tidepool touch tank, and watch baby salmon in a giant 1200-gallon tank. In the off-shore gallery, get face-to-face with strange looking specimens from the deep sea and watch underwater video of deep reefs and undersea vents and volcanoes. From the CMLC’s windows and open-air fisheries exhibit, take in the stunning view and look out over the harbor as fishing boats unload their catch. Learn about ongoing marine science research, check out a working ROV (remotely operated vehicle), and challenge your family and friends at the marine mammal sound station. For more information on hours and programs, call 541-888-2581. cmlc.uoregon.edu
photo by Doug Kerr
Photo courtesy of Charleston Marine Life Center
Photo courtesy of Cape Arago State Park Wikipedia
Bandon
78
Taste Local Cranberries
Bandon-by-the-Sea is one of the most charming seaport villages on the Oregon Coast. Located near the mouth of the Coquille River and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it is surrounded by natural beauty. Visitors to Bandon will find modern oceanfront motels, romantic bed and breakfast inns, convenient and comfortable campgrounds and quality restaurants. They will also find a mild, temperate climate, a burgeoning artists colony and shopping, from bargain to upscale. The waterfront is now beautifully restored as an artist/tourist district known as Old Town. Old Town has charming cafes, art galleries and studios, a bookstore with a great inventory, candy stores and unique shops as well.
Across the street from the shops and eateries, visitors can see the bustling traffic of Bandon’s port. Bandon’s docks provide moorage for commercial and recreational boats, a boat ramp and access to 26 miles of the Coquille River for fishing, crabbing, canoeing, kayaking and boating of all types. Several operators offer river and ocean charters, and anglers will find excellent salmon and steelhead fishing in the Coquille, plus surf perch, kelp greenling, ling cod, flounder and surf smelt from the South Jetty. Right across the river is one of the most picturesque—and thus most photographed, drawn and painted—landmarks of the area, the Coquille River Lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in 1896 and celebrated its centennial with proper pomp and circumstance in 1996. As a designated historic site, it is open to the public and houses an exhibit of its colorful past.
There are nine state and county parks within 15 miles of Bandon. They offer miles of beaches for beachcombing, tidepooling, jogging, storm watching, kite-flying, picnicking and fishing. Local outfitters will take visitors on an invigorating horseback ride along the beach or on forested trails. A drive along Beach Loop Road will take visitors past Bandon Rocks, Bandon Ocean Wayside and Bandon State Park, all offering beach access and spectacular views of offshore sea stacks. Across the river to the north is a great view of the aforementioned Coquille River Lighthouse. www.bandon.com
79 Explore the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge
Get to know the surprising cranberry in Bandon. Cranberries may be linked in the public mind to the flinty shores of New England and the bogs of Wisconsin, but they also love Bandon, Oregon, where they thrive in the sandy soil and mild climate. Bandon loves its favorite fruit, honoring it annually with an Annual Cranberry Festival that’s been going on since 1947. The festivities begin in early September and are just a warm-up to the main event, the October-long harvest. If you’re a fan of these tart little not-really-berries, Bandon is the place to go. Bandon’s Cranberry Festival takes place in September. The festival celebrates local cranberry farming with entertainment for everyone – live music and performing arts, classic cars and farm equipment, carnival rides, sports, shopping, dining, and contests. For more information on Oregon “crans,” visit www.bandon.com
The Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge provides sanctuary for 1.2 million nesting seabirds on 1,853 picturesque rocks, reefs and islands along the Oregon coast. From nearly every viewpoint on the Oregon coast, colossal rocks can be seen jutting out of the Pacific Ocean creating postcard images. Each of these rocks is protected as part of Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. A wide variety of birds and mammals including puffins, oystercatchers, seals and sea lions, which use the areas for breeding, can be observed.
Coquille Point, a mainland unit of the Refuge, overlooks offshore rocks that provide habitat for common murre, tufted puffin, western full and Brandt’s cormorant, as well as harbor seals and intertidal invertebrates. A paved trail makes its way over the headlands and features interpretive panels that provide insight about the area’s wildlife and its rich Native American history. Stairs on opposite sides of the headland allow visitors to make a loop on the beach (tides permitting). Coquille Point can be accessed by taking Hwy 101 and turning west on 11th St. in Bandon, but other parts of the refuge can be seen from all along the highway. For more information and directions, call 541-867-4550. https://www.fws.gov/refuge/oregon-islands
photo by Rick Obst
80
Bird Watch at a National Wildlife Refuge
For bird watchers, the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is a “must do.” The refuge sits at the mouth of the Coquille River, located just north of Bandon on Riverside Drive off Hwy 101. Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge protects the largest remaining tidal salt marsh within the Coquille River estuary. This 712-acre refuge is an oasis for migrating shorebirds, waterfowl and endangered birds. This may be the premium shorebird site on the Oregon Coast. Thousands of shorebirds of numerous species are routinely found here, and peak counts have reached 60,000. An observation deck allows viewing of species such as sandpipers, whimbrel, dunlin, California brown pelican and bald eagle. Stairs lead down to the mudflats. The observation areas are open daily from sunrise to sunset. For more information, call 541- 347-1470. www. fws.gov/refuge/bandon-marsh
81 Walk Through Old Town Bandon
In 1936, a devastating fire spread throughout the small town of Bandon and only a few buildings survived. These 19th century buildings can be found in the recently renovated Old Town District. A brick chimney on the site of the old bakery stands as a memorial just off Hwy 101. The Sprague Theatre is the venue for live-theater productions. A visitor information center is located at the entrance to Old Town near the welcome arches. This district is a haven for local artists, galleries and quaint gift shops. There are numerous places to grab a bite to eat, from restaurants to coffee shops. The city park is a venue for many varied activities throughout the year. Down by the water you will encounter windsurfers, fishermen and crabbers, and there is ample access to picturesque beaches. For more information, call the Visitors Center at 541347-9616, located at 300 Second St, Old Town Bandon. www.bandon.com
82 Visit Bullards Beach & Coquille River Lighthouse
In 1896, the Coquille River Lighthouse was built at the mouth of the Coquille River. The lighthouse with its fourth order Fresnel lens was decommissioned in 1939, then was vandalized and fell into disrepair. However, through community involvement, the Oregon State Parks and Army Corps of Engineers have restored the lighthouse to its former glory and original beauty. Today, there is a highly informative guided tour of the lighthouse from May through October. Access to the lighthouse is through Bullards Beach State Park, just two miles north of Bandon on Hwy 101. The park is endowed with grassy fields, lowland forests, bike paths, over four miles of beach, and is a popular place for horseback riding. There are campgrounds as well. For more information, call 541-347-2209. https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=50
83
Explore Bandon’s Past
The Bandon Historical Society Museum is located at the corner of Highway 101 and Fillmore Avenue, a short walk from the waterfront boardwalk and a half block from the Face Rock Creamery. It exhibits the story of a town blessed by water and cursed by fire. Shipbuilding, shipwrecks, beach combing, Native American basketry, the Coast Guard, disastrous fires, cheese, trees and cranberries are just some of the subjects on display. Housed in a former Bandon City Hall, the museum displays a breadth of artifacts and information that can keep a visitor looking and reading for several hours. Admission is $3 for adults, children are free. Be sure the kids take the History Detective’s Challenge. The Bandon Historical Society Museum is open 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Saturday and is also open Sundays in the summer. The museum closes during the Christmas holidays and stays closed through January. The museum gift shop carries a good selection of books on local history and features the work of Oregon authors. The gift shop sells decorative boxes, stationery, shipwreck maps and other nautical themed collectibles. Shop for old-time kid’s games. Order historic custom photographs drawn from a collection of thousands of unique images. There is no fee to visit the gift shop. The Bandon Historical Society was founded in 1976 and is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with the mission of preserving and sharing the history of Bandon, Langlois, and the lower Coquille River. Call 541-347-2164 for more information. Visit their website at www.bandonhistoricalmuseum.org and on Facebook.
Bandon,
- Small Town, Big Art!
McMinnville M & carlton
McMinnville is located in the western portion of Oregon’s agriculturally rich Willamette Valley on Hwy 99. This quiet, friendly city enjoys a central location to Pacific Ocean beaches (50 miles), to Portland (30 miles to the northeast), and the state capitol (Salem - 25 miles southeast), with an easy scenic drive to Mt. Hood and other local ski areas. The mild climate is ideal for growing wine grapes; McMinnville is surrounded by Yamhill County’s 200 plus vineyards and 90 wineries, more than in any other county in Oregon.
The McMinnville Downtown Historic District comprises 100 commercial buildings of architectural and historical significance. The revitalization efforts of the McMinnville Downtown Association have made the downtown area one of the most charming and vital in the state. Visitors can enjoy shopping, live theater and fine restaurants. A self-guided historic building walking tour is available at the Chamber Visitors Center. The McMinnville Farmers Market blossoms seasonally from May through October and is located on NE Cowls St. between 2nd and 3rd St.
The Yamhill County Fair, Oregon’s oldest county fair, is also held here in early August. The fair features old-fashioned fair food, rides and exhibits, and is host to a 3-day NPRA Rodeo and top name entertainment. McMinnville also produces the second largest UFO celebration in the country each year in mid-May. McMinnville is also home to several wonderful parks for picnics and family outings.
84 Hike at Miller Woods
The natural beauty surrounding McMinnville offers easy access to trails, parks, and preserves. Miller Woods is a perfect example. Located 3 miles west of McMinnville, this 130 acre preserve is available for public hiking. The property contains a wide array of ecosystems ranging from hayfield and oak savannah to timber stands of varying ages, ponds, and streams which are home to a diverse group of native plants, birds, and other wildlife. For more details visit: www.yamhillswcd.org/miller-woods
85 Find Yourself on 3rd Street: Wine, Shop, Dine & Enjoy
With so much to do and see on the 16 walkable blocks of downtown McMinnville, you just may need to stay a week. At the heart of downtown is 3rd street. Framed by unique and historic architecture and lined by twinkling lights, the businesses that reside on this “Small Town American” street provide activities and adventure for just about every interest.
From hotels to toy shops and record stores to arcades; there are antiques and boutiques, horse-drawn carriages and double-scoop ice cream cones. Walking down 3rd will have you turning your head to see what is next.
And then there is the wine...and the food...a true sense of what makes “Mac” so great is the care taken to share the love of craft food and fine wines. With wine tasting rooms around every corner offering Willamette Valley’s famed grape nectar, paired with a multitude of edible offerings from South American Latin to Northern Italian, your palate will thank you for spending your days (and nights) in downtown McMinnville.
86 Explore the History of Aviation & Space Travel
While in the McMinnville area, be sure to visit the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, which proudly displays a large number of military and civilian aircraft and spacecraft, including the famous Hughes H-4 Hercules “Spruce Goose.” The museum first began with a small collection of vintage aircraft on display in a hangar located at the headquarters and was called the Evergreen Museum. There are now two main large exhibit centers open to the public consisting of aviation, where the Spruce Goose acts to anchor the other exhibits, and space flight in another large building. The current center of the space flight exhibit building is occupied by the SR-71 ‘Blackbird,’ which originally rested under one wing of the Spruce Goose. An IMAX theater opened in 2007, and a second exhibit hall focusing on the Titan II ICBM and space technology opened in 2008. Flight simulators for landing the space shuttle, as well as for Gemini capsule docking and the Lunar Excursion Module moon landing, are available for use by visitors now. For more information, reservations and tickets, call 503-434-4180. www.evergreenmuseum.org
87 Have an Oregon Wine Country Adventure
Known as a wine-lover’s heaven and a Pinot Noir paradise, McMinnville is at the epicenter of Oregon’s famous wine valley with over 220 wineries and vineyards ready for touring and tasting. Eager oenophiles come from far and near to get a taste of the McMinnville terroir and the surrounding Willamette Valley wine country. Because of its ideal climate and volcanic soil left behind from ancient Cascade Mountain lava flows, the valley produces flavorsome red, white, roses and sparkling wines.
See the Willamette Valley Wine & Wineries feature on page 33 for recommended wines and wineries in the McMinnville area. www.visitmcminnville.org
88 Sip, Celebrate, & Stay on a Winery Farm
In the heart of Yamhill Valley wine country lies a unique experience in both form and function. Abbey Road Farm — and winery, working farm, event venue, and home of the Silo Suites Bed & Breakfast. Owners Daniel & Sandi Wilkens have assembled a unique experience. Abbey Road Farm’s mission is, “to celebrate the bounty of Yamhill County, be stewards of the land and bring Abbey Road Farm to its fullest potential. Our intent is to use organic practices in all farmable acreage (vineyard & produce), utilize sustainable energy when we can and educate and inspire guests to appreciate the land where their food comes from and create an association between celebration, hospitality, and a connection to the land.” This approach is evident even as you approach Abbey Road Farm, complete with llamas out to greet you. This connected space is a great blend of nature, wine, and fun.
The tasting room is rich and bright, with wine choices carefully curated and served by the tasting room staff. Either walk the grounds or find a place to rest, there are spectacular manicured gardens and panoramic views all around. See the live animals, walk down by the pond, tour the spectacular event spaces, and make sure you check out the B&B Silos. “The Silo Suites B&B are housed in three grain silos; two were working silos on the property and a third one was added to complete the project. The suites also boast a grand entry and sitting area with wet bar. Your stay will be complete with one of the best breakfasts in Oregon prepared by our on-site Chef.” Learn more about our Abbey Road Farm’s wine in the Willamette Valley Wines & Wineries section
Photo by Bobby Stricker
Photo by Bobby Stricker
Photo by Bobby Stricker
Photo courtesy of City of McMinnville
Mt. angel
Mt. Angel has many attractions to take in. Beginning downtown, the town’s Glockenspiel can be viewed at 11am, 1pm, 4 pm and 7pm. An appetizing meal is just steps away at any one of the fine Mt. Angel restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the historic St. Mary Parish Church, the Mt. Angel Abbey, and the Benedictine Sisters’ Monastery. Mt. Angel Abbey is host to a small museum featuring the history of the area. Various novelty shops, some in historic buildings, add to the charm of this quaint Swiss-German community. Mt. Angel is home of the annual Oktoberfest, a celebration of the harvest in German style and a wonderful blend of family fun, music, food and beer. www.mtangelchamber.com
89
Visit a Sausage Company & See Sausage Made
Make a trip to Mt. Angel Sausage Company and watch and learn how authentic handmade artisan sausage is made. There is a large variety from snack sticks to 34 types of European Sausage, so be sure to enjoy one...or two. Mt. Angel Sausage Company is a family-owned business where Jim Hoke and his son James make all the natural products. Their sausage making business has been featured on the Food Network. Outrageous Food’s “Big Chef”, Tom Pizzica took his quest to unearth the most jaw-dropping, eye-popping, occasionally heart-stopping foods in the country to Mt. Angel Sausage Company and found what he was looking for. Tom made up a batch of Fire Haus Brats with sausage maker Jim Hoke. The local volunteer fire fighters taught him how to eat the super spicy delights. Other locals gave their take on these hot links and sausage etiquette. When you visit, you’ll find that numerous tips abound on how to savor the special tastes of the brats. For more information, call 503-845-2322. www.mtangelsausage.com
Photo by Doug Kerr
Photo courtesy of Mt. Angel Sausage Company
90
Take a Walk Around a Wildlife Refuge
The William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge is a spectacular area dedicated to preserving and maintaining natural habitats. The refuge boasts beautiful wetlands, white oak savannahs, lazy creeks, natural prairie land and a lowland ash forest that is home to a herd of elk. As the first National Wildlife Refuge west of the Mississippi River, its primary goal serves as a wintering habitat for dusky subspecies of Canada geese. Portions of the refuge are closed to the public while the geese are wintering, but you can check it out any other time of the year and see bald eagles, Oregon chub, Bradshaw’s desert parsley and the endangered peregrine falcons that call the refuge home. The refuge is 10 miles south of Corvallis on Hwy 99 West and is a “must see” for every wildlife and nature enthusiast. For more information, call 541-7577236. www.fws.gov/Refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=13589
91 Walk the Peavy Arboretum
The Peavy Arboretum, which is part of the McDonald Forest, is a fantastic place to enjoy the outdoors. The arboretum is maintained by Oregon State University’s College of Forestry. Established in 1924, the arboretum was built to be an outdoor laboratory and is a nice place to have a picnic. There are extensive hiking trails that were built by the College of Forestry staff. A short walk from the parking lot leads to peaceful Cronemiller Lake. Also close at hand is the George Brown Sports Arena, which is home to the OSU Logging Sports team. The Arboretum provides a fantastic location for relaxation and hiking. It is located about half a mile off Hwy 99 on Arboretum Road. For more information, call 541737-6702. www.cf.forestry.oregonstate.edu/peavy-arboretum
Mount Angel Abbey. Photo by Daderot, wikimedia
Salem
Salem, the capitol of Oregon, is located in the north-central Willamette Valley. It is the third largest city in the state. The Willamette River runs through the city and forms a boundary between Polk and Marion counties. The 45th parallel, the halfway point between the equator and the North Pole, passes through Salem’s city center.
Salem is nicknamed the “Cherry City” due to the past importance of the local cherry growing industry. Agriculture has played an important role in Salem’s history and has been celebrated in festivals and parades throughout the years. It was only fitting that in 1861, Salem was chosen as the permanent site of the Oregon State Fair, which is held annually during the end of August through Labor Day. The fair offers exhibits, competitions, music and carnival rides.
Downtown Salem is home to the Mission Mill Museum, Hallie Ford Museum of Art, the Elsinore Theatre, Prewitt-Allen Archaeological Museum, Riverfront Park, the Willamette River and some of the oldest buildings in Oregon.
During April through October, you can visit the Salem Saturday Market, located north of the Capitol building. You’ll find local products such as crafts, baked goods, produce, meat, and various other items. During the summer months, there is a Wednesday Farmers Market in downtown Courthouse Square and a Holiday Gift Market during December. There is also an indoor Saturday Public Market that is open year round. Call (503) 588-6354 for more information. www.cityofsalem.net
92
Salem’s Riverfront Carousel: Indoor Entertainment in an Outdoor Setting
More than just a ride, this attraction is located alongside the Willamette River. Known as the ‘Jewel of the Mid-Willamette Valley’ where ambiance, artistry and authenticity come together there’s something fun for everyone!
A favorite ‘go to’ place for visitors, dog walkers, family gatherings, meet-ups, date nights, anniversaries, birthdays, classroom field trips, prom pictures and out of towners alike. People come from miles around to celebrate the times of their lives, to capture a memory or simply share a smile for a little while. With its calliope sounds reverberating and its old-world style, hand-crafted figures and artwork proudly shining, one can’t help but feel young at heart and drawn in for more. The carousel has distinct Pacific Northwest and Oregon-themed symbols and every animal has a story as part of the living history of this community-based 501c3 nonprofit organization.
Driven by essential volunteers, it remains a story of inspiration and is sustained by a community of devotion through donors, sponsors and partners.
Ride! Ever thought to ride an elephant or zebra? Imagine yourself on a bucking bronco, giraffe or unicorn? Feeling a little nostalgic? Well imagination can become a reality here. Tokens are currently $2.00 each; passes, punch cards and all-day ride bracelets are also available.
Shop! You’ll find choices galore in the Gift Gallery from plush animals, children’s toys, everyday gifts, unique collectibles, artwork, home décor and more. A great mix of merchandise from major brands to local crafters. Party! Need a special place for your special occasion? The ‘Prancing Pony’ party room and building facilities are a popular rental venue offering a variety of amenities and affordable pricing. Everyone is guaranteed a good time!
Check out the annual calendar of signature events and holiday activities ranging from Luck O’Irish Spring Fling to Veteran’s Day, Back-to-School, Scarousel Bash, Visits with Santa and more!
Interact! Have some time and talent? Volunteer programs offer opportunities yearround in a variety of ways with people of all ages who contribute and engage with the public on a daily basis. Want to give your support? We count on the kindness of others. Consider becoming a financial donor, sponsor or community partner today!
Our Mission remains to enhance people’s lives in a unique way. We strive to keep the dream alive focusing on key elements to our success: embracing our local and global community, promoting tourism and volunteerism, providing cultural, educational opportunity, events, and programming, as well as investing in local business and agency partnering. We exist to inspire creative living, community cohesiveness, cooperation, diversity, inclusion, imagination and fun for generations to come!
Celebrating 20 years of music, motion and magic in the moment.
Visit anytime online at www.salemcarousel.org and at 101 Front St., NE Salem
Call 503.540.0374 for more information and current hours.
Oregon State Capitol & grounds. Photo by Nate Kaplan
Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Commons
93
Catch a Show at the Historic Elsinore Theatre
Home to the performing arts, Elsinore Theatre sits off High Street in downtown Salem, Oregon. It first opened in 1926 as a silent theater and hosted vaudeville acts. It was built with inspiration from European castles and expresses its personality with its Gothic style entrance to the box office. This is definitely a place to visit if you have an eye for beauty, architecture, and the arts. After purchasing your tickets, be sure to gaze up as you walk down the spacious hallways lined with archways. As you make your way into your show, you’ll find yourself gazing at paintings and stained glass decorating the interior. Before getting to the entertainment, stop by the concession stand. You’ll be met with reasonably priced snacks and beverages. Once inside, every seat offers a welcoming view of the stage.
TRAVEL TIP: Upon your arrival, parking may be sparse, so perhaps be prepared to walk a couple blocks from the free parking garage nearby. For more information on upcoming shows and events, visit www.elsinoretheatre.com. 170 High St SE, Salem, OR 97301
94
Have a Unique & Visual Dining Experience
The Infinity Room, located in the heart of downtown Salem, has a state-the-art stage and sound system coupled with a unique, exclusively vegan kitchen. The convergence of two beloved venues, Capitol City Theater and The Space Concert Club formed the new Infinity Room and is already turning heads as the new home for the arts in Salem.
Aside from attracting local and national acts, the Infinity Room offers comedy improv classes and weekly stand-up comedy open mic night on Wednesdays. They also offer monthly poetry and music open mic night on the first Thursday of the month.
Their vegan menu offers classic pub favorites like burgers, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, totchos, drumsticks, TLTs and chickpea tenders. Their desserts are also to die for, including unbelievable donuts, cheesecake, giant cinnamon rolls and birthday cake. Check out their everexpanding calendar at infinityroomsalem.com. Come for the delicious food and laughs and leave with a happy belly and joyful heart.
INFINITY ROOM: 210 Liberty St SE Suite 150, Salem, OR 97301. Hours Wed-Sat 5p-10p. For a menu, calendar of events, and reservations, visitw www.InfinityRoomSalem.com
Tasty vegan treats from Infinity Room
Photo courtesy of Historic Elsinore Theatre
eugene & Springfield
Nestled in the Willamette Valley between the breathtaking scenery of the Cascade Mountains and the Oregon Coast Range, Eugene is often referred to as “The EmeraldCity” and is located 426 feet above sea level and covers approximately 36 square miles. The city of Eugene is often named one of America’s most livable cities and it’s not hard to see why. Eugene is home to the University of Oregon, has renowned cultural activities, abundant recreational opportunities and enjoys a beautiful setting with a mild climate. Home to more than 175,000 people, and with it’s neighbor Spring fi e ld, they make up the third largest metropolitan area in Oregon, after Portland and Salem. A favorite spot to congregate is along the banks of the peaceful Willamette River, which meanders through the city. Miles of biking and running trails line the river in Alton Baker Park. Canoes and kayaks can be rented for leisurely boating. Summer temperatures can reach the 80s and 90s and the cool grass along the river is perfect for outdoor concerts, fairs and festivals. Cycling is available on more than 300 miles of bike paths in Eugene and Spring fi e ld, most of them flat. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular on the nearby McKenzie, Rogue and Umpqua Rivers.
Flower-lovers will want to visit the renowned Rhododendron Garden at Hendrick’s Park. This 12-acre garden contains more than 6,000 rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, viburnums and other plants. Paths wander through the garden to secluded seating areas. The rhodies bloom from February through July, with peak flowering in April and May. Another flower-lover’s mecca is the Owen Rose Garden in Skinner Butte Park where 4,500 roses scent the air. The park is where city founder Eugene Skinner built his cabin in 1846. In all, Eugene has 133 diverse city parks that encompass more than 3,000 acres.
95
Get Nose to Beak with Amazing Predators
Nestled on a wooded hillside in Southeast Eugene, the Cascade Raptor Center has one of the most extensive displays of native birds of prey in the Northwest. Take a walk on the wild side and visit nearly 50 birds, from pygmy owls to eagles, all housed in spacious outdoor aviaries. The Cascade Raptor Center is a non-profit nature center and wildlife hospital specializing in birds of prey. Visitors can learn about the rich natural heritage of the Pacific Northwest.
Self-guided tours of the nature center allow visitors to see up-close both the common and hard to find raptors of Oregon. Educational displays guide visitors throughout the center, including details on each of the species on display. Open Tuesday - Sunday year round. Call (541) 485-1320 for more information. www.cascadesraptorcenter.org
96 Stroll Through Hendricks Park
In the heart of bustling Eugene sits the beauty of the country at Hendricks Park. This 78acre park has several different sections, including a world-renowned rhododendron garden. Over 5,000 rhododendrons can be found blooming during their peak months of April and May. There is also a mature forest with trails winding through, leading past white oaks and Douglas fir that are more than 200 years old. There is a native plant garden offering a chance to see the beauty of the distant Southern Willamette Valley. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park. A free guided tour of the premises can be reserved in advance. Hendricks Park is on Summit Ave. off Fairmont Blvd. in Eugene. For more information, call (541) 682-4800. www.eugene-or.gov
Oregon Ducks Stadium.
Photo by Bobby Stricker
Photo courtesy of Cascade Raptor Center
eugene & Springfield
97 Bicycle Along the Waterfront
Some people refer to Eugene as the “City of Bicycles.” The city has made a concerted effort to make biking a large part of living and visiting there. It has worked. There are miles of bike paths weaving throughout the area, heading into the forest or into downtown. To get a real feel for Eugene, hop on a bike and ride the legendary path along the Willamette River. It is a scenic ride with plenty of places to park the bike and go shopping, dining or to visit a brewery. Many of the paths are lighted. There are dozens of places around town to rent a bike for a day or two. For more information about bike rentals in Eugene or the bike paths, call the City of Eugene at (541) 682-5010. www.eugene-or.gov
98
Visit a Museum of Natural & Cultural History
Some people refer to Eugene as the “City of Bicycles.” The city has made a concerted effort to make biking a large part of living and visiting there. It has worked. There are miles of bike paths weaving throughout the area, heading into the forest or into downtown. To get a real feel for Eugene, hop on a bike and ride the legendary path along the Willamette River. It is a scenic ride with plenty of places to park the bike and go shopping, dining or to visit a brewery. Many of the paths are lighted. There are dozens of places around town to rent a bike for a day or two. For more information about bike rentals in Eugene or the bike paths, call the City of Eugene at (541) 682-5010. www.eugene-or.gov
99
Drift the McKenzie River
The famous McKenzie River is truly one of the most beautiful and easy-toenjoy rivers in the world. This partially spring-fed river originates high in the volcanic Cascade Mountain Range at Collier Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in North America, and is located on the western slope of the Middle Sister, in the remote Three Sisters Wilderness.
The McKenzie begins its decent, rumbling and tumbling its way westward through the lush green foothills of the Cascade Mountains and picturesque Willamette National Forest. Cutting its way through heavily forested canyons, the river slows briefly as if to enjoy the beauty it helped to create at Clear Lake. The crystal clear, blue McKenzie continues its journey westward, cascading through pure stands of Douglas fir and western red cedar, mixed in with white alder and big leaf maple along the banks.
This is where the “Wild & Scenic” section begins, near Olallie Campground. This section is ideal for fly fishing, and can be accessed at many points along the McKenzie River Highway, but the best way to experience the McKenzie is in one of it’s name sake drift boats. Fly fishing from a McKenzie style drift boat allows the angler to enjoy the beautiful surrounds of the river whilst casting a fly to hungry trout. Wild osprey fly overhead looking for fish as you float past charming cottages nestled in a lush forest setting with colorful wildflowers in full bloom.
Photo courtesy of Museum of Natural and Cultural History
Photo courtesy
Photo by Caddis Fly Angling Shop
Eugene Airport
Gratitude Brewing Tradewinds at Jiffy Market
2 Saturday Market 3 Cornucopia
eugene & Springfield
100
Visit a Living Tree Museum
Adjacent to the Coast Fork of the Willamette River, on the rolling slopes of Mt. Pisgah, is the Mt. Pisgah Arboretum, a 209-acre living tree museum. There are seven miles of trails winding through oak savanna, dense forests, wildflower meadows and along rivers and water gardens. While exploring the natural beauty of Mt. Pisgah visitors view wildlife such as deer, coyote, foxes, bats, turtles and red-legged frogs, just to name a few. This Arboretum is a fabulous place for bird watching too. There are jays, finches, robins, quails, hawks and many more. The Mt. Pisgah Arboretum is located at 34901 Frank Parrish Road in Lane County’s Howard Buford Recreation Area, off of I-5, outside of Eugene. For more information, call (541) 747-3817. mountpisgaharboretum.org
roSeburg & WinSton
101
Wildlife Safari
Consisting of over 600 acres and featuring over 600 animals representing their wild counterparts from all around the globe, including some of the rarest, most endangered and simply coolest species on earth, Wildlife Safari is truly an experience beyond a zoo. And it isn’t just a drive-through animal park. Wildlife Safari boasts one of the top cheetah breeding research centers on Earth and is the number one cheetah breeding facility outside of Africa & number two on Earth.
“Wildlife Safari began as the vision & dream of one man- Frank Hart. It was Hart’s goal to create a facility in the Pacific Northwest that would work to save rare and endangered species from all around the world. Now, 50 years later, Wildlife Safari has grown into an internationally recognized non-profit wildlife park dedicated to conservation, education, and animals in wide open spaces.”
“The park gives you the chance to escape on a wild African Safari and get up close to Ostrich, Watusi cattle, Lions and Zebra. Venture through the homes of hippos and the land of the scimitar horned oryx. Your Safari journey will take you through Southern Africa where the Rhino and Giraffe rule. Carry on to interpretive wetlands, cleaning the local waters in reaffirmation of our commitment to the soil before venturing into the land of bears, bison and elk within the sprawling canyon forests of North America.”
“Take a trip past the incredibly inspiring African elephants and prepare to enter the land of emu, yak and white-naped cranes as your tour of the incredibly diverse wildlife of planet Earth continues on in Asia. Dare yourself to end your journey with a trip through a carnivore loop featuring Wildlife Safari’s top cheetah breeding grounds and ferocious Sumatran Tigers. At Wildlife Safari, adventure rules daily.” Location: 1790 Safari Rd, Winston, OR 97496. Open 363 Days per Year, Hours Vary By Season. For more information, visit: www.wildlifesafari.net
The city of Winston is located in Douglas County, near the beginning of what is designated Southern Oregon, located just East of Interstate Highway I-5. Just 7 miles from the nearest large city, Roseburg and 90 minutes from the Coast of Bandon. Winston has a population of just under 6,000 people and boasts multiple public parks, accessibility to the Umpqua River, and a continuation of Oregon wine country with multiple wineries and vineyards. Most notably, Winston is known as the location of the world-famous, 600 acre Wildlife Safari.
Annual events in the Winston area include:
June: Trader Day
July: 4th of July Celebration and Graffiti Cruise
July-August: Riverbend Live!
August: Celtic Highland Games
September: Annual Melon Festival
October: Oktoberfest
December: Community Christmas Tree Lighting
For more information on the City of Winston, visit: www.winstoncity.org
Photo courtesy of RiverbendLive.org
Photo courtesy of Wildlife Safari
Outside the AreA
Gold Beach and Wedderburn sit at the Rogue River’s mouth, a year-round fishing hub famed for jet boat trips. Since 1895, Rogue River Mail Boat Trips have delivered U.S. mail to remote Agness—one of the nation’s few remaining river mail routes. From May to October, mail travels by powerful boats carrying 40–70 passengers; in winter, by 4-wheel drive. Today, Mail Boats and Jerry’s Rogue Jets operate together on the wild, scenic Lower Rogue River. Find them at the Port of Gold Beach. Call Jerry’s Rogue Jets at (800) 451-3645 for more information. www.roguejets.com
In Crescent City, Ocean World offers a fun, fully guided 45-minute tour through touchable tide pools, rocky and sandy aquariums, and an open-ocean habitat. See sea stars, anemones, rockfish, wolf eels, sharks, rays, seals, and sea lions. Highlights include shark petting, bat rays “flying,” and lively sea lion shows. For more information, call (707) 464-4900 www.oceanworldonline.com
Klamath’s top attraction, Trees of Mystery, offers a mile of groomed trails winding through awe-inspiring redwoods. The SkyTrail gondola glides visitors above the canopy for stunning aerial views. Located in the heart of Redwood National and State Parks, this iconic destination has welcomed travelers since 1946. The Trail of Tall Tales celebrates the legend of Paul Bunyan with whimsical carvings, while a museum, gift shop, restaurant, and motel make it a full-day stop. Trails are open year-round, with a shuttle available for those who prefer not to walk. For more information, call (800) 638-3389 or visit www.treesofmystery.net.
Eco-Luxury Escape at Stanford Inn. Perched on the bluffs above Mendocino Bay, the charming village of Mendocino offers dramatic ocean views, historic architecture, and coastal trails. Stay at the eco-luxurious Stanford Inn, known for its lush gardens, organic dining, and serene ambiance. Just steps away, Catch a Canoe & Bicycles Too provides kayaks, redwood outrigger canoes, and bikes for exploring the Big River estuary. For reservations, visit www.stanfordinn.com and www.catchacanoe.com.
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Oregon's South Coast Oregon's South Coast Scan. Scan. Find. Find.
Oregon's South Coast Oregon's South Coast Scan. Scan. Find. Find. Go. Go.
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Langlois, Port Orford, Gold Beach, Agness, Brookings, Harbor
Langlois, Port Orford, Gold Beach, Agness, Brookings, Harbor
Langlois, Port Orford, Gold Beach, Agness, Brookings, Harbor Langlois, Port Orford, Gold Beach, Agness, Brookings, Harbor
Langlois, Port Orford, Gold Beach, Agness, Brookings, Harbor
Langlois, Port Orford, Gold Beach, Agness, Brookings, Harbor
