Oregon is a beautiful and diverse state in the Pacific Northwest. If you are itching to get some COVID-friendly summer travel plans on the books that won’t break the bank, may I suggest exploring Oregon outside? Oregon offers a little something for everyone!
A longtime family favorite, Cannon Beach is just 80 miles from Portland, yet seems like worlds away. Known for the stunning Haystack Rock, there are no shortage of family-friendly activities, including kite flying, hiking (and potentially elk spotting) through Ecola Park, getting your sweet fix at Bruce’s Candy Kitchen and beach strolls. The Surfsand Resort serves as the perfect home base, boasting the Surfsand Kids program, an indoor pool, cabana service on the beach and cookies baked fresh daily.
Known for some of the finest outdoor adventures with places for paddling, hiking, cycling, golfing and skiing, Central Oregon has something for everyone. Those willing to see all the beauty of central Oregon should visit Brasada Ranch in Powell Butte, just outside of Bend. This charming resort is an ideal getaway for folks looking to escape the urban madness and indulge in a few days of Wild West-ing. Sitting atop the stunning Powell Buttes, the resort is rife with opportunities for outdoor activities-hiking, biking, white-water rafting and, of course, horseback riding. Don’t forget to carry all your favorite outdoor clothes and shoes to enjoy the activities in; if you want to do some shopping before your vacation, head over to a rei bozeman store (or any others in your area) to get your wardrobe outdoor-ready!
Southern Oregon has so much to offer families looking for a great Spring Break destination. A quick, four hour drive from Portland, Ashland is known for its Lithia Park, featuring a 100-acre vista of emerald lawns, a sandy volleyball court, picnic areas and a playground. The town is also a quick jaunt to Crater Lake National Park, a wildlife safari, endless outdoor recreation opportunities and numerous celebrated wineries. The best place for families to stay is Ashland Hills Hotel, which has tennis courts, complimentary bike rentals, spa suite, LUNA Cafe and Instagram-worthy mid-century ball chair.
The Willamette Valley, a 150-mile stretch from Portland to Eugene, is known for great wine, boasting more than 500 wineries, but beer, glamping and recreation reign supreme here, too. Albany’s Historic Carousel and Museum houses 52 hand-crafted animals, including a seven foot giraffe. After a day of exploring, families can rest easy at The Vintages Trailer Resort in one of its 35 beautifully restored retro vintage trailers. The resort offers guests fire pits, complimentary cruiser bikes, lawn games, as well as artisan s’mores with their Little Campfire Kit.
