From charming seaside villages to vibrant, bustling cities, Oregon is full of amazing places to explore. While big cities like Portland tend to get most of the media’s attention, there are countless other unique, wonderful towns that are 100% worth checking out. To give you an idea of some of Oregon’s many amazing cities that are slightly lesser known, here are 19 lovely yet underrated cities located in the Beaver State:
19. Silverton
Silverton is an incredible town full of charming cafes, shops, and restaurants, located on the gorgeous Silver Creek.
18. Baker City
Baker City is a wonderful, historic town in the beautiful Baker County. Plus, it's located on the Oregon Trail!
17. Hood River
Hood River is a stunningly beautiful place to visit. Located on the Columbia River in the gorge, it has a charming downtown as well as gorgeous views, world-class wine, and some of the best windsurfing in the country.
16. Salem
Oregon's capital, Salem, is a beautiful city that is sometimes overlooked. However, this lovely town is a great place to explore, with lots of history, and endless opportunities for things to see and do.
15. Cottage Grove
Cottage grove is an enchanting town in Lane County, and is considered the "Covered Bridge Capital" of Oregon.
14. Jacksonville
Jacksonville was originally a gold rush town, and to this day retains an old-fashioned, small town charm.
13. Newport
Located in Lincoln County, Newport is a beautiful coastal town and home to the amazing Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Nye Beach, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
12. Medford
Located beside the beautiful and bustling city of Ashland, Medford is a wonderful town that would be a shame to overlook. Not only is it more affordable than it's neighboring city, Medford has great restaurants and a blossoming arts community.
11. Independence
Located in Polk County, Independence is a terrific little city on the Willamette River near Salem.
10. Sisters
Sisters is a charming, historical town in Deschutes County, beside the beautiful Three Sisters Wilderness.
9. Springfeild
Located near the popular (and also wonderful) city of Eugene, Springfield is a wonderful town that's totally worth spending time in. It also has bragging rights as the town that originally inspired the hometown of The Simpsons.
8. Waldport
Waldport is a small, authentic coastal town in Lincoln County. Everyone should check out this awesome place (especially if you love crabbing and/or delicious seafood!).
7. Sherwood
Located in Washington County, southwest of Portland, Sherwood is a lovely place with a tight-knit, friendly community.
6. Philomath
Located in Benton County, Philomath is a wonderful gem of a city next to the bigger and better-known Corvallis.
5. McMinnville
McMinnville is a beautiful city located in the Willamette Valley. There's amazing wine, restaurants, scenery, and more.
4. Bend
Bend is one of the larger cities on this list, and it's truly incredible. This funky city is full of culture, beauty, sunshine, outdoor recreation, and great beer.
3. Joseph
Nestled into the stunning Wallowa Mountains is the lovely town of Joseph. With an awesome small-town vibe and amazing natural scenery, Joseph is a must-visit for everyone.
2. Grants Pass
Located in Josephine county, Grants Pass is a charming town on the Rogue River near the amazing Oregon Caves National Monument. Grants Pass is an awesome place to visit.
1. Astoria
This wonderful coastal city is located at the northwestern tip of Oregon. With amazing scenery, fascinating history, and an awesome downtown area, everyone should check out Astoria.
Of course, Oregon has way too many amazing, underrated cities to put into one list. That’s why we’ll be making a “part two” next week! What do you think are the most underrated cities in Oregon?
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