Oregon is a state that gets a lot of rain and a lot of love. Have you seen those trees? Oregon scenery cannot be beat. Even more so, an Oregon summer is like heaven on earth. The sunshine finally makes an appearance, and that nature is just waiting to be explored. Between climbing up mountains and eating Tillamook ice cream, an Oregonian's summer bucket list is a fun adventure, waiting for you to get started!
1. Drift Creek Falls
Drift Creek Falls is a good beginner's hike; it's not too long, and the view is stellar. The suspension bridge makes for awesome pictures, and the water fall is pretty swell too! Once Drift Creek is checked off your list, other great hikes are waiting for you!
2. Salt & Straw
A trip to Portland is not complete without a stop by Salt & Straw. The popular ice cream shop is home to unique flavors (try the honey lavender!) and good vibes. It's a summertime must!
3. Seaside Beach Volleyball Tournament
Coastal towns in Oregon are unique, and each possesses something different. Seaside, one of the warmer beaches in Oregon, hosts a gigantic annual beach volleyball tournament every August. Whether you want to grab lemonade and observe, or if you want to show the crowds what you've got, the Seaside tournament is sure to be a good time!
4. Smith Rock
The eastern side of the state is also home to many fun endeavors for adventure seekers. Smith Rock is perfect for a daytime hike - take your time and enjoy the views!
5. Sandal Tan
If you own Birkenstocks or Chacos and don't get a super rad tan...shame on you!
6. Tillamook Cheese Factory
You may have already hit up Salt & Straw, but you can't do summer correctly without a stop by the Tillamook Cheese Factory! Take the free tour, sample your favorite dairy products, and wave to the friendly workers!
7. Oregon Renaissance Faire
Canby, Oregon hosts the annual Oregon Renaissance Faire in June, and it asks you to bring out your best royal attire. Tag along with your favorite English nerd, or bring the entire family! Travel to a new world, full of artists and petticoats.
8. Be "berry" happy!
Oregon's great agriculture makes for an amazing abundance of berries! Stop by a fruit stand or farmer's market, and sample the goodies! Anything with marionberry is a favorite Oregon treat!
9. Backpack Shell
If you are truly successful this summer, your backpack should have molded perfectly to your back. Check at the end of summer to see just how close you and your backpack have become!
10. Willamette Country Music Festival
Oregon has its fair share of country music lovers, and a music festival to prove it! Check out the always awesome line up at the Willamette Country Music Festival - don't forget your boots!
11. PDX Carpet Picture
Oregonians are proud of the unique carpet that the Portland International Airport sports. It's become a hipster icon! If you are flying through PDX, make sure you stop, shine your shoes, and snap a picture!
12. Columbia River Gorge
Hood River is located right next to the infamous Columbia River Gorge. Perfect for windsurfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking, the Gorge is a great trip for some cool fun. Why stay on land when the water is calling your name?
13. Find your perfect cup.
Oregon boasts of many wonders, and hopefully you'll spend time high in the mountains, low in the valleys, swimming in the rivers, and experiencing everything else the Beaver State has to offer. While you're at it, explore the coffee shops! You won't run out of options anytime soon. Find the cup that best suits you!
Oregon is a state that has something for everyone. Exploring Portland, enjoying solitude, experiencing culture, and finding your niche are all possibilities on a beautiful Oregon day. Summertime is a magical part of the Oregon experience, and whether you're just visiting, or are a long time resident, make this summer one to remember!
