10 Of The Most Incredible Small Towns In Oregon

Oregon is easily one of the most underrated States in the USA. It is where lots of TV series and movies are based, it has one of the most unique ecosystems in the USA, and it is beautiful too!

10 Of The Most Incredible Small Towns In Oregon

While you may find yourself visiting Oregon to go to the historic town of Salem, or to visit Portland, there are also lots of beautiful smaller towns dotted around the State.

It is these towns that will allow you to experience the true beauty that Oregon has to offer.

In this guide, we’re talking about 10 of the most beautiful tiny towns in Oregon. So if you are looking for locations to add to your road trip, keep on reading!

1. Astoria

Astoria is one of the larger towns on this list with around 10,000 people currently living in this seaside town. This town is the perfect place to live if you are somebody who loves water.

It borders the Pacific Ocean and Oregon’s Columbia River, so the views that you can get in this town truly are something else.

This is a historic town with lots to do during your visit. From visiting the Columbia Maritime Museum to the Astoria column and Flavel House museum too, there is so much for you to do while you are in town.

So be sure to visit Astoria next time you’re in Oregon (You might also like Things To Do In Eugene, Oregon)!

2. Baker City

Baker City is actually a town, and it has a similar population size to Astoria. This town is the principal seat for Baker County, and it is very popular for those who find themselves in Eastern Oregon.

It is really easy to access, and a great place to set up camp while you explore the surrounding areas.

If you have decided to visit Oregon (Also check out Waterfalls In Oregon) to explore the natural beauty and unique ecosystems that this State has to offer, Baker City is a great place to go. It is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails, opportunities for white water rafting, and lots more.

If you want to be at one with nature, but still have that small-town feel during your trip, then you really need to visit Baker City!

3. Florence

Florence may be the name of a city in Italy, but it is also the name of a small town in Oregon. Florence, Oregon, is a small town that is found on the Siuslaw river.

It is located on the coastal side of Oregon, and as a result, it is a great place to visit if you have a strong interest in nature.

One of the biggest draws to Florence is its vast sea lion population due to the sea lion caves that are dotted along the coast of the town.

It is also home to a restored 19th-century lighthouse that boasts excellent views over the coast of Oregon, and the opportunity to see lots of different birds, as well as migrating whales in the distance.

This small town is totally unlike the big cities that Oregon has on offer, which is why you need to give it a visit!

4. Newport

As you will notice in this guide, a number of the town names in Oregon are taken from other towns and cities across the world. We’ve had Florence, and now we have Newport – a name that can be found in many countries across the globe.

Newport, Oregon, has a population of roughly 10,000 people and it is located on the coast. It boasts beautiful blue views of the sea and access to wildlife that is totally unique to this State.

If you loved Florence, we’re sure you’ll love Newport too!

As well as offering beautiful views of nature, Newport also has a rich history that you will only be able to experience when you visit this town.

It is easy to forget just how beautiful America is, but visiting Newport will remind you of just how breathtaking this country can be!

5. Hood River

Hood River has a slightly smaller population than the towns we have looked at so far, with less than 9,000 people calling this town home. The name “Hood River” has been shortened over the years from the City of Hood River.

So, as the full name suggests, this town is located on the seat of the River Hood.

With access to the Port of Columbia, this charming little town boasts excellent views and a rich history dating back centuries. This town attracts lots of lovers of nature, including bikers, hikers, and more.

But it also attracts many eager people to see the beautiful West coast of the USA.

Hood River truly is a stunning town, so you should definitely consider popping in if you are passing by!

6. Lincoln City

Another coastal town that you need to visit while you are in Oregon is Lincoln City. This town might have the word “city” in its name, but it isn’t a city. In fact, it is only home to around 9,800 people.

Lincoln City is a great small town for any families who are visiting Oregon and want to explore. It is on Oregon’s coast, just like the last few towns we have looked at, but it has much better access to amenities and activities to do.

There really is so much for you to do while you are in Lincoln City. Not only can you explore the true beauty of this town, but you can also enjoy its delicious food, historic museums, and its hidden cove.

There is so much to do in Lincoln City, you’ll never want to leave!

7. Tillamook

If you are searching for a truly tiny town, then you need to pay a visit to Tillamook. This town has a population of just over 5,000 people and it attracts people from across the globe because of its beautiful, long, golden beach.

This town has so much to explore in terms of nature, but it is also an excellent place for any foodies among us. There are tons of different delicious eateries located in this little town, and plenty of things to try during your trip.

If one thing is certain, you’ll never run out of things to do during your trip to Tillamook. So you should definitely visit this town next time you’re in Oregon!

8. Dundee

There is a Dundee in Scotland, UK, and there is also a Dundee in Oregon too. Dundee, Oregon, is a very small town with just over 3,000 people currently residing there.

It is about 30 miles away from Portland, so close enough to commute, but far enough away to get that true, small-town feel.

Of all the places on this list, Dundee is the one that we would recommend if you want a nice and relaxing place to visit.

Life is lived at a slower pace in Dundee, and this is partly because it is the location of a large number of Oregon’s vineyards and wineries.

Dundee is perfectly located between Portland and Salem, allowing you to easily pop in during your Oregon road trip!

9. Gold Beach

Quite a lot of the towns we have looked at thus far have been centrally located or towards the North of Oregon, but Gold Beach is actually a town near the south of Oregon.

Gold Beach is an incredibly friendly town, and the people there will make you feel at home right away. This is mainly because the town has a tiny population of just over 2,000 people.

The sea wraps around Gold Beach like a warm hug, and the welcome that you get there will feel like a warm hug too. It really is the best town in Oregon to visit if you are looking for a home away from home.

10. Cannon Beach

Finally, let’s wrap this up with Cannon Beach. As the name suggests, this is another coastal town. Except this one has an even smaller population than Gold Beach.

If you love nature and animals, then you should definitely visit Cannon Beach. It has a large puffin population, and they can be easily observed on Haystack rock from most places in the town.

For calm and relaxing vibes, Cannon Beach is a great place to pop into while you are in Oregon.

Summary

In short, there are tons of beautiful tiny towns to visit in Oregon and plenty that you could easily squeeze into your time in this State. Check out the guide above for all the inspiration you need.

Thanks for reading!

Alex Kallen
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