Places to see in Oregon vacation sights in Oregon Explore things to do in Oregon

Sometimes you just want to get out and explore. We try to strike a good balance of places that you will really enjoy. Finding ideas for family friendly outings, or interesting places to go in Oregon with your friends, both are at your fingertips here with America Top 10. We aim to give you plenty of ideas without you having to do all the research. That way you can easily decide if you want to explore Oregon sites or check out the sites in another state.

You have also heard how it is becoming a lot more popular to have staycations (where you stay home instead of going to far off places) and discover new and interesting places in the near vicinity. We try to make that easier for you. Check out the sites in Oregon that have become local favorites easily with our site.

We hope that we have provided you plenty of choices in Oregon whether this is a new area for you or your own back yard. Something a little different from the typical amusement park. If you really loved somewhere but don’t see them on our list let us know, we are always looking to improve our lists and we can only do that with your help.

Gilbert House Children’s Museum

Salem, OR

Founded in 1989, Gilbert House Children’s Museum is named after Salem native, A.C. Gilbert. Gilbert House Children’s Museum provides innovative and stimulating educational experiences which spark children’s natural curiosity. The Museum’s mission is to “inspire children to learn through creative play.”

Oregon Garden

Silverton, OR

A stunning, 80-acre botanical garden, featuring more than 20 specialty gardens showcasing the diverse botanical beauty of the Willamette Valley and the Pacific Northwest. They have educational specialty gardens for everyone, from the Sensory Garden and Rose Garden to the Children’s Garden and Pet-Friendly Garden. They host exciting annual events, offer a complimentary narrated tram tour April – October, and are pet-friendly.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

Portland, OR

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, is a science and technology museum in Portland, Oregon. It contains three auditoriums, including a large-screen theater, planetarium, and exhibition halls with a variety of hands-on permanent exhibits focused on natural sciences, industry, and technology. Transient exhibits span a wider range of disciplines.

Willamette Mission State Park

Gervais, OR

Nestled in the heart of the fertile Willamette Valley, Willamette Mission State Park has more than 1,600 acres of woodlands interspersed with wetlands, rolling meadows and working farmland. Whether your taste leans towards bird watching along the Willamette River, picnicking in shady walnut or filbert grove, wetting a line or enjoying the scenery from horseback or bicycle, this park has it all.

The Rock Boxx

Salem, OR

The Rock Boxx is an indoor bouldering gym in Salem Oregon. They have 5,400 square feet of professionally designed and built climbing walls for climbers of all different experience levels. They offer fitness and yoga classes, as well as some programs which mentor kids in their climbing skills. They also have some weight training equipment, and a full array of functional-type fitness equipment as well. They have an on-site tap house which serves many delicious craft beers, wines, and ciders. They also have a slack line set up for in between climbs.

Salem’s Riverfront Carousel

Salem, OR

Salem’s Riverfront Carousel, a nonprofit organization, was handcrafted between 1995-2001 and is distinctly Oregon themed with various State symbols as part of its artistic attraction. All of the items, including the animals were and are ‘adopted’ with sponsorship and support from the local community. They strive to keep the dream alive by embracing the global community, promoting tourism/volunteerism, providing cultural/educational opportunity/events/programming, and continuing business/agency partnering.

Lewis and Clark National and State Historical Parks

Astoria, OR

Explore the timeless rainforests and majestic coastal vistas. Discover the rich heritage of the native people. Unfold the dramatic stories of America’s most famous explorers. The park encompasses sites along the Columbia River and the Pacific Coast. Follow in the footsteps of the explorers and have an adventure in history.

Kah-Nee-Ta Resort and Spa

Warm Springs, OR

Kah-Nee-Ta Resort and Spa is a well-known destination for high desert adventure in Oregon. The place also features scenic landscapes, horseback riding, and an 18-hole championship golf course. Kah-Nee-Ta Resort and Spa also has two restaurants that provide onsite catering of locally sourced cuisine.

Oxbow Regional Park

Gresham, OR

Oxbow Regional Park provides a perfect launch point for swimming, kayaking, rafting or fishing in the majestic Sandy River Gorge. Reserve a camping spot for the night, and gather around the fire for nature activities and music. You might bump into mink, beavers, raccoons, fox, deer, osprey, songbirds, elk, black bears or cougars. Every fall, nature puts on one of its greatest shows: salmon return to their spawning grounds to lay their last eggs, before dying in the waters where they were born.

Vista House

Corbett, OR

Vista House is recognized for being one of the most beautiful scenic points on the Historic Columbia River Highway. The place was built in 1917 and is currently offering educational exhibits and displays relating to the building as well. Vista House can also be a place for travelers to rest and refresh.