The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
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Overview
The Willamette Valley is world famous for its fabulous and plentiful wineries, which could easily take several days to explore. They're not the region's only highlight, however. Visit humble Salem, Oregon's capital city, for its museums and stately buildings. Nearby is an amazing waterfall-filled state park, along with a lovely abbey that's home to a 2.5lb hairball (no joke). Pause in dynamic and liberal Eugene, full of energetic college students, pretty riverside parks and fine restaurants. And don't forget historic Oregon City, the lovely McKenzie River area and the region's wealth of festivals.
Attractions
Must-see attractions
The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
Oregon's largest state park, Silver Falls, 26 miles east of Salem on Hwy 214, is an easy day trip from Portland, Salem and Eugene. It offers camping,…
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The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
The state's first capitol building burned down in 1855, and a domed classic Roman edifice was built to replace it. Unfortunately, that building also…
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The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
At 4097ft, Marys Peak, in the Siuslaw National Forest, is the highest peak in the Coast Range. Several hikes are strewn around the summit, and on a clear…
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The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
This interesting 5-acre complex houses grassy gardens, two gift shops, a clutch of pioneer buildings and two museums. The Mission Mill Museum, Jason Lee…
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The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
A state heritage area and popular family destination, Champoeg is 25 miles southwest of Portland. There are 615 acres of old-growth woodland, grassy…
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The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
Just south of the capitol, Willamette University was the first university in the western USA and is well respected for its liberal-arts undergraduate…
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The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
Plant-lovers shouldn't miss this garden, located 15 miles east of Salem outside Silverton. Over 20 specialty gardens are showcased on 80 acres, including…
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Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
A mile east of McMinnville, this museum showcases Howard Hughes' Spruce Goose, the world's largest wood-framed airplane. In 1947, with Hughes at the wheel…
Articles
Latest stories from The Willamette Valley & Wine Country
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- Destination PracticalitiesA first-timer's guide to the Willamette Valley, Oregon
Apr 26, 2024 • 7 min read
Festivals & EventsSalem is urging visitors to not come this year to celebrate HalloweenOct 23, 2020 • 2 min read
