Western Oregon

Western Oregon is a region of the state known for its lush forests, fertile farmland, and stunning coastline. The region is home to the bustling city of Portland, which is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and world-renowned craft beer scene. The Willamette Valley, located in the heart of Western Oregon, is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world and is famous for its Pinot Noir wine. The region’s stunning coastline, stretching for 363 miles, features breathtaking beaches, dramatic cliffs, and quaint seaside towns. Visitors to Western Oregon can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and surfing.

The 42 Best Oregon Mom & Pop Restaurants to Eat At in 2026

We're going a bit out on a limb here at That Oregon Life. This story began as a sort of "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives" compilation, but after a giant list of my own and a slew of recommendations from friends all over the state, we realized that wasn't going to work. "Mom & Pop" encompasses so...

This Beloved Tigard Restaurant Has Been Serving Comfort (And Legendary Pie) Since 1979

There are restaurants you try once… and then there are the ones you grow up with. The ones where the coffee is always hot, the booths feel like they’ve heard a thousand stories, and the pie case quietly calls your name before you even sit down. In Tigard, Oregon, that place is Banning's Restaurant...

The Best Tide Pools on the Oregon Coast and the Exact Dates You Should Go in 2026

There are few experiences on the Oregon Coast that rival the quiet thrill of tide pooling. Give me a stretch of rocky shoreline and I’ll spend more time crouched down than actually walking, scanning every crevice for movement, color, and life. Beachcombing has its charm, but tide pooling is...

The Best Drive In in America Is Right Here in Oregon and Summer Is the Perfect Time to Go

There’s something about nostalgia that hits a little deeper in the summertime. Maybe it’s the longer evenings, the golden light stretching just a bit farther, or the way simple moments seem to carry more meaning. Nostalgia isn’t just about looking back. It’s about holding onto the pieces of life...

This Pumpkin Patch In Oregon Has Apple Cider Floats That’ll Put Your Pumpkin Spice Latte To Shame

If your family is looking for a delightful day trip in Oregon, French Prairie Gardens in St. Paul is one of those heartwarming places that feels like a hug from the countryside. It's part garden center, part working farm, and all family fun wrapped into one. Located in Oregon’s Willamette Valley,...
Top 4th of July Fireworks Shows in Oregon for 2024

Top 4th of July Fireworks Shows in Oregon for 2024

Have you made plans yet for Independence Day 2024? I'm not the best at making plans ahead of time for the holidays, so seeing a list of local events I can attend with my family and friends is always helpful for me. If you're like me and are looking for something fun...

Folks Line Up Around The Block For This 1920s Vintage Oregon Gas Station Turned Drive-In

Folks Line Up Around The Block For This 1920s Vintage Oregon Gas Station Turned Drive-In

The food is so good it should be criminal. With soft serve sundae's piled high with toppings, mouthwatering sandwiches, and salads almost too pretty to eat (but far too tasty not to enjoy), it's easy to see why the wait at this hidden drive-in can sometimes be up to...

8 Offbeat Oregon Towns That Make For A Perfect Spring Road Trip

8 Offbeat Oregon Towns That Make For A Perfect Spring Road Trip

Spring in Oregon is like flipping through a vividly illustrated storybook, where every turn reveals a new, colorful adventure waiting to unfold. From artsy enclaves to adrenaline-pumping adventure hubs, the Beaver State is brimming with offbeat towns that promise an...

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