Oregon - Landmarks and Points of Interest
- By Smithsonian.com
- Smithsonian.com, November 06, 2007, Subscribe
Oregon has nearly 400 miles of pristine coastline, made up of diverse terrain that changes from rugged cliffs to evergreen forests and sandy dunes. Courtesy of Larry Geddis/Travel Oregon
(Portland)
Portland, the Rose City, isn't your run-of-the-mill town. A vibrant arts community, dozens of urban parks and green spaces, a lively downtown, and a world-class public transportation system are just few of the reasons that make this one of the country's most livable cities.
Downtown Portland crackles with the friendly energy of its unique residents and a variety of attractions. Immerse the kids in interactive museums including Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Oregon Zoo and the Portland Children's Museum. Stroll through fragrant paths of rose bushes at the International Rose Test Garden, walk along the lotus blossom ponds at the Portland Classical Chinese Garden, or meander through the authentic Portland Japanese Garden.
Portland offers up a vast array of culture that varies from traditional to bohemian. From sidewalk musicians to public art sculptures, the arts are an indelible part of the city's soul. Check out the art scene at the Portland Art Museum, or walk downtown past more than 100 works of art, including Portlandia, the largest hammered copper sculpture since the Statue of Liberty. Stop by the Portland Saturday Market to see local handicrafts and homemade foods. Cap off your visit with a performance at the Oregon Symphony.
(Ashland)
Just 14 miles north of California sits Ashland, a town with an impressive 48 sites on the National Park Service's National Register of Historic Places. The theatrical town features the Tony-Award winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and for the sweet tooth, the annual Oregon Chocolate Festival. Explore the area's culture at the Favel Museum and Southern Oregon History Center.
Willamette Valley
The Willamette Valley is the heart of Oregon's agriculture country. During spring and summer growing seasons, roadside stands dot the country lanes, and farmers' markets appear in the valley's historic towns. More than 30 historic wooden covered bridges beckon drivers to explore the many back roads, and the valley's flat terrain and temperate climate make it a favorite for hikers and cyclists, who also enjoy the paved paths in the college towns of Eugene and Corvallis. At the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area in Corvallis, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and the thrill of riding off-highway vehicles on sand dunes as high as 500 feet above sea level. The Willamette Valley, dubbed Oregon's Wine Country, is one of Oregon's major wine-growing regions with more than 200 wineries producing a number of vintages.
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