Insider’s Guide to Oregon Wine Country: Where to Stay, Eat, Sip & Play
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A bottle of wine contains more philosophy than all the books in the world.
Louis Pasteur
To many travelers, the Pacific Northwest conjures images of persistent fog and never-ending rain. While there’s no shortage of precipitation in the Northwest corner of the United States, summers and even the fall in the PNW are dominated by cloudless skies. With abundant sunshine and some of the finest wineries in the country, the possibilities for summer days here are endless. There’s no better way to spend a sunny weekend in Oregon than sampling local wine and hitting the trail for a hike.
Oregon has steadily gained a reputation as a premier wine destination known for its exquisite Pinot Noir. The state’s diverse climate, with cool, wet winters and warm dry summers, provides an ideal environment for viticulture. The Willamette Valley, Oregon’s largest AVA (American Viticultural Area), boasts a unique terror that provides wines with complex flavors and aromas. The rich volcanic soil, a long growing season, and dedicated vintners make Oregon’s wine country one of the best in the world.
Pour a glass, won’t you? And join me for an insider’s guide on where to stay, eat, sip and play in Oregon Wine Country. (And if you’re inclined to linger, ask me about extending your trip with a retreat to the breathtakingly beautiful Oregon Coast.)
Where to Stay in Oregon Wine Country
Guest Room | The Tributary Hotel
Add a bit of luxury and comfort to your Oregon adventure with a stay at one of my favorite hotels. From the bustling streets of Portland to the heart of Oregon wine country, these hotels are the perfect home base for adventure in the PNW.
Located in Newberg, the heart of the Willamette Valley, the Allison Inn & Spa offers a blend of opulence and tranquility. This hotel is located just 40 minutes southwest of Portland and is surrounded by lush vineyards and rolling hills. The spa services, fine dining and proximity to world-class vineyards make the Allison an unparalleled destination.
In the delightful little town of McMinnville, the Tributary Hotel blends modern accommodations that pay homage to this wine country. One thing I particularly love is that the hotel incorporates local PNW purveyors into nearly every guest touchpoint: from the restaurant glassware, to the custom-made soap in the rooms, to the original photographs of local rivers, among others. The hotel’s restaurant, okta, offering a farm-to-table cuisine, is a destination in itself. Each season has a prix-fixe tasting menu highlighting the flavors of seasonal ingredients. Try it with the wine pairings for a sumptuous experience. (And if you have the time, a tour of the restaurant’s 70-acre farm is sensory overload.)
Where to Eat in Oregon Wine Country
Mushroom Tasting Menu | Joel Palmer House
No trip to Oregon’s wine county would be complete without a bit of culinary indulgence.
Located in Dayton, the Joel Palmer House is a building listed on both the Oregon and National Registers of Historic Places. For a modern twist on local food, this restaurant is renowned for its seasonal menu, incorporation of wild mushrooms and exceptional wine pairings featuring the best of Oregon wine country, of course!
For a more casual experience, head to Red Hills Market in Dundee. This local favorite offers wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches and salads made with fresh local ingredients. It’s the perfect spot to start the day with a hearty and healthy breakfast before imbibing in the local “viti” culture!
Portland’s Pearl District, a destination in itself, is home to Deschutes Brewery. If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, this is the mother-lode. Known for innovative brews and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great place to sample local beers and enjoy pub-style food. Their spacious seating area is perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Where to Sip in Oregon Wine Country
Domaine Serene Winery
If there’s one thing Oregon does better than just about anywhere else, it’s wine and beer. Here’s a sampling of some of the region’s best wineries and breweries.
A pioneer in the Oregon wine country, Sokol Blosser, is well-known for its Pinot Noir and sparkling wines. The winery’s tasting room offers panoramic views of the vineyards and a selection of sustainably produced wines. The sparkling wine is a particular standout, providing a refreshing and elegant option for sipping.
In the Dundee Hills, Domaine Serene is a world-class winery known for its award-winning Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The estate offers a luxurious tasting experience with beautiful views and expertly guided wine flights.
And for you craft beer enthusiasts, fear not! Visit Wolves & People in Newberg. This is a rustic Oregon beer garden with a fine selection of unusual and locally brewed beers and ales. Food is served, and on Thursdays, there’s a groovy bluegrass band to enjoy.
What to Do in Oregon Wine Country
Mt. Hood
Oregon’s diverse landscape offers endless outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to climbing and surfing. Check out some of my favorite hiking locations below.
One of Oregon’s hidden gems is the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn, just a 40-mile ride from the heart of Oregon’s wine country. While it’s best known for its annual Tulip Festival in the spring, the farm offers beautiful gardens year-round. It’s a peaceful, colorful stop that adds a unique touch to your trip.
Known as the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, Silver Falls State Park is one of the state’s best adventure destinations. The park features the Trail of Ten Falls, a 7.2-mile loop that takes you past ten breathtaking waterfalls. It’s a perfect choice for hiking and immersing in the natural beauty of the PNW.
Just a short drive from Portland, the Columbia River Gorge is famous of its beautiful vistas and numerous hiking trails. Popular hikes include the Multnomah Falls trail, which leads to Oregon’s tallest waterfall, and the Eagle Creek Trail offering more spectacular waterfalls and lush scenery.
No trip to Oregon is complete without a visit to Mt. Hood. The Mt. Hood National Forest offers a wide range of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs. The Timberline Trail, a mighty 40-mile loop around Hood, offers amazing views of the mountains and surrounding wilderness. Pick a section or take on the entire trail over several days. For a shorter hike, the Mirror Lake Trail is a picturesque 2.-mile round trip with stunning reflections of Mt. Hood.
Located in the Cascade Range, the Three Sisters Wilderness is a hiker’s paradise. The South Sister Climber Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike that takes you to the summit of South Sister, offering views of many lakes and other mountain peaks.
Road-tripping through Oregon’s vibrant wine scene and best adventure destinations embodies the spirit of “living a life explored.” From luxurious accommodations and world-class wineries to stunning natural landscapes and vibrant dining scenes, every aspect of this journey invites you to savor the moment. So, pack your bags, hit the road and discover the endless possibilities that await in this beautiful corner of the Pacific Northwest.
