Sometimes, as much as we want to get away, we really only have time enough for one day of adventure. So if you’ve been wondering, “Are there any day trips near me in Oregon?,” don’t worry because Oregon has many opportunities for totally worthwhile day trips. Whether it’s the beach, wine country, the desert, or Columbia River Gorge, we’ve picked out a few unique spots you really need to check out.

1. Take a covered bridge tour in Cottage Grove.
Cottage Grove, OR 97424, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Unofficially known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon," Cottage Grove is a great place to explore the history of covered bridges. There, you'll find Dorena Bridge, Currin Bridge, Chambers Railroad Bridge, Centennial Bridge, Swinging Bridge, and (pictured here) Stewart Bridge.

You can learn more about Cottage Grove in our previous coverage.
2. The Oregon Trail
National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, 22267 OR-86, Baker City, OR 97814, USA
Baker County Tourism/Flickr
We've all learned about the Oregon Trail in history books, but why not see where it ended firsthand? Head over to the Columbia Gorge on Highway 30, where you'll see signs of actual sections of the trail. And visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, one of the most informative must-visit places in Oregon, to explore the trails and outdoor exhibits.

You can learn more about National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center on the BLM website.
3. The Oregon Coast
Arch Rock, Oregon, USA
Cary Bass-Deschenes/Flickr
Just take off along the 101 that hugs against the coast and stop off in any number of beach towns and lookout points. It's one of the best road trips in Oregon you can take. Pictured here is Arch Rock.

You can learn more about Highway 101 in our previous coverage.
4. Astoria
Gary Windust/Flickr
This coastal city sits at the intersection of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean. Visit the Victorian house made famous by the Goonies movie, check out the historic downtown, and grab a piping hot bowl of clam chowder. It's one of the most beautiful places to visit in Oregon.

You can learn more about Astoria on the Travel Astoria website.
5. The Columbia River Gorge
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon, USA
lakewentworth/Flickr
Explore the expansive, picturesque wonders of the Columbia River Gorge, which straddles the lush green of the western side of the state with the calm desert region of the east.

You can learn more about The Columbia River Gorge on the Travel Oregon website.

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6. Bonneville Lock and Dam
Ann Larie Valentine/Flickr
The century's-old ritual of salmon swimming upstream to spawn can be witnessed at this dam at key moments throughout the year. Bonneville Lock and Dam is less than an hour's drive east of Portland and is one of the most fascinating must-visit places in Oregon.

You can learn more about the Bonneville Lock and Dam in our previous coverage.
7. Catherine Creek Universal Access Trail
Catherine Creek Universal Access Trail, Washington 98635, USA
Sheila Sund/Flickr
Technically on the Washington side, Catherine Creek Universal Access Trail is just across the bridge from Hood River. After you've taken in the city's local charm, head over to the trail, where you'll marvel at a colorful landscape of wildflowers.

You can learn more about the Catherine Creek Trail on the USDA Forest Service website.
8. Deschutes River Trail
Jim Allen, Flickr
Get out of the perpetual rain and soak in some sun at the Deschutes River State Recreation Area in Eastern Oregon.

You can learn more about the Deschutes River Trail on the USDA Forest Service website.
9. Portland
Portland, OR, USA
Michael Hansen, Flickr
If you do not already live here, a day trip to Portland is usually a fun excursion. It's one of the best must-visit places in Oregon. There are always new restaurants to try, as well as shopping, such as the Saturday Market, pictured here.

You can learn more about Portland on the Portland Business Alliance website.
10. Tide pool exploring
Mookie Forcella/Flickr
Beachcombers can dive into coastal marine life at the tide pools along the beaches. Haystack Rock, Ecola State Park, and Oswald West State Park are just a few to check out.

You can learn more about the some of the beautiful beaches of Oregon in our previous coverage.
11. Wine Country, Dundee
Dundee, OR 97115, USA
Christopher Porter/Flickr
Get a taste of one of the 350 or so wineries that dot the state. Pictured here is a vineyard in Dundee.

You can learn more about the wineries of Dundee on the Dundee Oregon website.

If you’ve ever searched for “day trips near me in Oregon,” you now have a few ideas in mind. What are your favorite day trips to take in Oregon? Tell us in the comments!

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More to Explore

Day Trips Near Me In Oregon

Melissa M. | September 01, 2021

What are some of the best road trips in Oregon?

We have several exciting curated road trips to make adventuring around the state easier for you! If you love places that look as though they’ve leaped right out of a fairytale, then take our Fairy Tale Road Trip. We also offer a Waterfalls Road Trip, a Lighthouse Road Trip, and a Small Town Road Trip to get you started on your next adventure.

What are some of the best day trips in Oregon?

When you don’t have enough time for a full road trip, a day trip will have to do. Check out our 13 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Oregon for some ideas. 

What are some must-visit places in Oregon?

From covered bridges to wineries, beaches, and parks, check out our list of several must-visit places around Oregon you need to visit. 

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