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.
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....
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...
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...
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...
Dig into giant plates of all-day breakfast, fried chicken, and comfort food classics at this small town Oregon diner where every bite feels like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen. At the Screamin’ Chicken Diner in Gaston, Oregon, breakfast isn’t just a morning affair,...
Hip, down to earth vibes, amazing fresh food, and sustainable products aren't exactly the type of thing you'd expect in an old shoe grease factory, but that’s exactly what makes Mac Market in McMinnville so special. McMinnville’s Granary District has a hidden gem: Mac...
Great views, cozy comfort, and a property surrounded by stunning nature all make The Owl's Nest Inn Bed And Breakfast a must stay. Tucked away on the slopes of Chehalem Mountain, The Owl’s Nest Inn Bed & Breakfast is a charming sanctuary in the heart of Oregon’s...
Grocery stores will be empty, gas stations will be out of gas, and roads in and out of western Oregon will be so damaged that travel by road will likely be impossible for months, or potentially even years afterwards. Are you prepared for the "big one?" We hear about...
I’ll be the first to admit it—I’m obsessed with street tacos. There’s something magical about that perfect bite of tender meat, fresh toppings, and a warm tortilla that can literally turn a sad day into a happy one. There’s just no substitute for the flavor explosion...
Found in wine country in the charming small town of Newberg, Oregon, Rosmarino Osteria Italiana is a hidden gem for anyone craving authentic Italian cuisine. Led by the passionate chef and owner, Dario, this beloved local spot has become a must-visit destination for...
There’s something about the sight of a giant smile (and I mean giant) that can make anyone’s day, and in Oregon, there's a hillside that does just that every fall. Tucked away between the small towns of Willamina and Grande Ronde, there's a quirky landmark known as...
If you're cruising through Albany, Oregon, and hunger strikes, ditch the fast food and make a beeline for Patty's Thai Kitchen. Tucked in next to a Love's truck stop, this food truck is a hidden treasure serving up some of the most mouthwatering Thai dishes along the...