Oregon Travel Guide
Located in the so-called Pacific Northwest of the US, Oregon is perhaps best known for its incredible natural beauty. Oregon is bordered by Washington State to the north, Idaho to the east, Nevada and California to the south and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The state boasts 10 national parks and historic sites, with plenty of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts.
The capital Portland is the largest city in the state, and is a laidback place to visit. Located on the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, Portland is famous for its numerous microbreweries. The city is known among horticulturalists as the ‘City of Roses’, as Portland boasts a large number of rose gardens, the most famous being the International Rose Test Garden.
Visitors should also not miss the Portland Classical Chinese Garden. On the arts scene, Portland has much to offer. Visitors can enjoy the Oregon Ballet Theater, the Portland Opera and Oregon Symphony, just to mention a few institutions. The Portland Art Museum also has a great collection of modern and contemporary art.
Many people seek out Oregon because of its natural beauty. The state’s topography is varied, and includes rainforest, volcanic landscapes, deserts and beaches. On the Pacific Ocean side visitors can enjoy whale watching and a variety of ocean-related activities. Further inland visitor can explore the numerous national parks, such as Crater Lake National Park or Oregon Caves National Monument. Mount Hood, the highest peak in the state, overlooks Trillium Lake, which is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.
Although Oregon is the ninth largest state in the US geographically speaking, it is relatively sparsely populated, making it a great vacation destination. Portland has only about half a million inhabitants and other major cities in Oregon, such as Eugene and Salem, are much smaller in size. This means that visitors can get away from the hustle and bustle of major metropolitan centers but still enjoy the urban setting.
Oregon has a lot to offer those traveling with children. The Oregon Children’s Theater is a favorite and kids are even able to take acting classes here. The Oregon Zoo remains a favorite as well; over 100 years old, visitors can enjoy the over 1,000 animals that are housed here. For older children, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a great hands-on museum to visit. For younger children, the Portland Children’s Museum is a great day out, while a visit to the Oregon Coast Aquarium should not be missed.