Oregon

The Beaver State

Oregon State is a destination defined by breathtaking contrasts, where dramatic coastlines, volcanic peaks, high deserts, and historic towns come together to create an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're wandering through sleepy fishing villages, skiing year-round on Mt. Hood, or sipping Pinot Noir in a scenic vineyard, Oregon offers a rich mix of natural beauty and cultural charm.

The Oregon Coast is one of the most spectacular stretches of shoreline in the U.S., with 363 miles of publicly accessible beaches. Unlike other states where coastal access may be limited, Oregon law ensures every beach is open to the public. Towns like Astoria, steeped in maritime history, and Cannon Beach, with its famous Haystack Rock, offer a mix of history, nature, and small-town hospitality. Compared to California’s well-known beach destinations or Washington’s forest-lined coast, Oregon’s shoreline provides a relaxed, spacious atmosphere with its own style of coastal experience.

Inland, Oregon's landscapes shift dramatically. Towering forests give way to snow-capped mountains, high desert plateaus, and colourful geological wonders like the Painted Hills. Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the U.S., and Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, showcase Oregon's geographic extremes. These features offer a different perspective from Washington’s glaciated mountain ranges or California’s Sierra Nevada, with each state bringing its own geological story to the region.

Outdoor Adventure, Culture, and West Coast Character

Outdoor adventure is central to life in Oregon. Mt. Hood, one of the most climbed mountains in the world, also offers North America's only year-round ski season. In warmer months, Oregon’s rivers, trails, and scenic byways attract hikers, cyclists, anglers, and white-water rafters. With more officially designated scenic routes than any other U.S. state, Oregon is ideal for self-guided road trips and tranquil exploration.

For urban culture, Portland is known for its creativity, sustainability, and thriving food and drink scene, from craft coffee and food trucks to artisan markets and live music. It offers a different city feel to the fast-paced energy of Los Angeles or the tech-centric atmosphere of Seattle, highlighting the West Coast’s diversity of urban identities. Meanwhile, Salem, Oregon, the state capital, offers access to the fertile Willamette Valley, home to hundreds of vineyards and world-class wineries.

History is woven throughout Oregon’s landscape. Following the route of the Oregon Trail, you’ll find museums, historic landmarks, and stories of the pioneers who journeyed west in search of new beginnings.

With no sales tax, Oregon is also a shopper’s paradise, whether you’re browsing local crafts or designer goods. From wild coasts and alpine peaks to charming towns and vibrant cities, Oregon invites you to explore a diverse, enriching side of the Pacific Northwest.

Last Updated: 12/01/2026