Old Oregon City
With the roar of the Willamette Falls and a slosh of creative craft beer, Oregon City continues to draw folk away from hipster Portland. They come to experience a slice of more local, lived-in Oregon charm. They also come for the rich history, which coalesces around those Oregon City vacation rentals in the form of aging industrial spots and centuries-old pioneer outposts – this was the first American city ever established on this side of the Rocky Mountains, after all. And then there's Mount Hood, forever beckoning with its glaciers and pistes just to the east.
Waterfalls and pioneers in Oregon City
The Willamette Falls crash through the very middle of Oregon City. If you've bagged yourself Oregon City vacation rentals close to Main Street, then you might even be able to hear them from your window. They are one of the most powerful in the US, and throw up plumes of mist as they run over the rocky river bed. After that, be sure to delve into the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, to see the very beginnings of the pioneer age in the West, complete with wagons and immersive tours that are well suited to the younger ones.
Beer tasting and street strolling in Oregon City
Oregon City is proud of its local vibes. Portland might get the press but this one's got the most creative microbreweries around – at least that's what the beer sommeliers will tell you during those tasting workshops. The town center is packed with quaint blocks and buildings, all cut through the middle by roaring waterfalls and pretty river walks. Strolling and street scene done, perhaps you still have time to get out into the great Oregon outdoors. Whitewater rafting, mountaineering, hiking, skiing, and more all await around the flanks of Mount Hood.
Sightseeing under dry skies in Oregon City
Unless you're suiting up for the winter season on the Mount Hood Skibowl, which typically starts in December and tails off in March, you're probably going to want to book those Oregon City vacation rentals for the warmer months of the year. That means coming between May and September, which is when the days are at their driest, the temperatures are pleasantly hot, and the conditions are just perfect for sightseeing along the Willamette River and Main Street.
Exploring the natural landscape of Oregon City
Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, Oregon City is a great spot to appreciate mother nature. Here are some of the area’s most eye-catching natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Clackamas River (3.9 mi / 6.3 km)
- Molalla River State Park (6.2 mi / 10 km)
- Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden (8.5 mi / 13.7 km)
- Mt Scott Park (8.6 mi / 13.8 km)
- Lakeside Gardens (9.7 mi / 15.6 km)
- Terwilliger Parkway (9.9 mi / 16 km)
Transportation options to and around Oregon City
The nearest airport is in Portland International Airport (PDX), located 16 mi (25.7 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you might consider flying into Salem, OR (SLE-McNary Field), which is 36.8 mi (59.2 km) away.
If you'd prefer to travel by train, the main station serving the city is Oregon City Station.
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