Established in 1868, Pendleton is a unique little city in Umatilla County that’s full to the brim with fascinating history, small-town charm, and natural beauty. If you love discovering new and beautiful places in Oregon, then you won’t soon forget a visit to this enchanting Oregon town. Check it out:

Nestled alongside the Umatilla River in northeastern Oregon, Pendleton is a lovely small town that's unlike anywhere else on the planet. It may seem like it's in the Middle of Nowhere, Oregon, but there's a lot going on here and you're going to love it.
flickr/ Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Full of historical sites, recreation opportunities, and tons of charming shops and restaurants, this town makes for a great weekend trip or summer getaway.
flickr/ Jasperdo
Exploring Pendleton is like being transported back in time. Many of the buildings date back over 100 years, and what's even more amazing is that many of the businesses have been around that long as well!
flickr/ Jasperdo
Pendleton's biggest claim to fame is their annual rodeo, the Pendleton Round-Up. This massive event takes place every summer and draws thousands of people to the small town to watch the rodeo and take part in the festivities.
flickr/ Oregon Department of Agriculture
This famous round-up has been a local tradition since 1910.
flickr/ Noé Alfaro

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When it comes to handmade souvenirs, Pendleton has got you covered. Shops around town are still making custom hats, boots, and saddles the old fashioned way. The legendary Pendleton Woolen Mill is located here as well, so you can stop by their store to pick up a beautiful blanket and even take a tour the mill.
flickr/ Roadsidepictures
Perhaps the most unique attraction in town is the Pendleton Underground Tour, in which visitors are led through a secret underground city that was built over 100 years ago.
trip advisor/ Lynn F
Find out more about this incredible tour in this interesting post.
There's also the incredible Museum at Tamástslikt Cultural Institute, where you can check out amazing events and interactive exhibits on the history, art, and culture of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Tribes.
flickr/ The Museum at Tamastslikt Cultural Institute
While the town has a distinctly historic vibe, there's also plenty of modern luxuries like the incredible Prodigal Son craft brewery, the Wildhorse Resort and Casino, two golf courses, and more.
flickr/ Prodigal Son Brewery & Pub
And, the Rainbow Cafe is Oregon's oldest tavern. It's been serving drinks since 1883!
flickr/ Jasperdo
Head to Pendleton, Oregon for an unforgettable getaway like no other.

As you can see, there are lots of things to do in Pendleton, Oregon, and it’s one of the most beautiful places in Oregon to visit that many people have missed. Don’t miss it yourself! Plan a trip to Pendleton today and immerse yourself in this incredible rural community.

Have you been to Pendleton? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

If you’re interested in learning about more interesting, rural towns in Oregon that you should visit, check out this post for more: 12 Small Towns In Rural Oregon That Are Downright Delightful

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More to Explore

Things To Do In Pendleton, Oregon

Christy Articola | March 19, 2023

Wow, it sounds like there's a lot to do in Pendleton! Are there any additional attractions that weren't mentioned above?

Actually, yes! Here are a few more things to consider seeing and doing while you're visiting Pendleton:

  • The Children's Museum of Eastern Oregon is fun for the whole family.
  • Pioneer Park has a great playground that you can visit afterwards.
  • The Pendleton Center for the Arts is an excellent shop and gallery for art lovers.
  • The Heritage Station Museum will teach you about local history.
  • The Pendleton Air Museum focuses on aviation history.
  • Deadman Pass Viewpoint is a beautiful place to watch the sunset.

 

When is the best time of year to visit Pendleton? 

Any time is great! Here are some facts about the weather and climate so you can decide for yourself:

  • Summers are short, dry, and hot; sometimes the temperature reaches 99 degrees, but usually it's not quite that hot.
  • Winters are cold, snowy, and windy, but it rarely get colder than about 20 degrees.
  • Pendleton gets 14 inches of rain a year, on average.
  • Pendleton gets about 15 inches of snow each year, on average.
  • There are lots of wildflowers near Pendleton in the springtime!

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Pendleton, OR 97801, USA