Oregon is full of unique attractions, from natural wonders to ancient shipwrecks and marvelous manmade structures that will leave you scratching your head in wonder. Here are 14 unusual spots in Oregon that will catch your eye and make you want to see them for yourself.
14. The Wreck of the Mary D. Hume
This incredible steamboat had a long history of whaling in the arctic, fishing in Alaska, and working as a tug boat before it was left to slowly decay on Gold Beach. The fascinating ship is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
13. Dee Wright Observatory
The Dee Wright Observatory, located at the summit of McKenzie Pass, looks like it could've been built by aliens. The observatory blends into the rocky landscape and offers unbeatable views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains.
12. Natural Bridges
These wondrous rock formations on the Oregon coast are a must-see for any nature lover. This great viewpoint is located in Samuel Boardman State Park.
11. Octopus Tree
The Octopus Tree near Cape Meares Lighthouse is as unusual as it's name, and it's thought to be between 250 and 300 years old.
10. The Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery
The Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery in Gold Hill is a wonder to behold. Here, balls roll upward, brooms balance on their own, and people seem to become larger and smaller depending on where you're standing. Very strange and definitely worth a visit!
9. The Painted Hills
The Painted Hills are located in Wheeler County at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, and they're absolutely otherworldly.
8. ....And the John Day Fossil Beds
Located near the Painted Hills, this incredible natural wonder in Oregon's high desert will blow you away.
7. The Enchanted Forest
The Enchanted Forest is a home-made fairy tale theme park located near Salem, and it's one of a kind.
6. Thor's Well
Thor's Well is located on the beautiful shore of Cape Perpetua. This rock formation is completely mystifying, as it appears to drain seawater into it's depths, and then periodically shoots it back out in gushes of water. If you decide to go see it for yourself, be careful because it can be very dangerous!
5. Old Man of the Lake
If you've ever visited the stunning Crater Lake (if you haven't, you absolutely must!) you may have noticed the Old Man of the Lake, a vertically floating tree trunk that has been boggling people's minds since 1896.
4. Paul Bunyan
This incredible 31-foot Paul Bunyan statue was built in 1959 and can be found in Portland.
3. Greenwood Poplar Tree Farm
These acres upon acres of symmetrical poplar trees are otherworldly--and they're especially beautiful in fall.
2. Peter Iredale
The incredible remnants of this shipwreck have been stranded ashore near Fort Stevens for over 100 years.
1. Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm
If you stumbled across the Wooden Shoe Tulip farm you would probably be confused as to how you'd suddenly landed in the rural Netherlands. This beautiful tulip farm is located in Woodburn; make sure to check out their annual Tulip Fest!
What other unusual places do you love to visit in Oregon? Let us know in the comments.
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