4 Reasons You Should Plan a Trip to Willamette Valley, OR
In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, the Willamette Valley welcomes visitors with its rolling hills, exceptional wines, and upbeat spirit. Stretching 150 miles from Portland's southern metro area to the city of Eugene, this renowned region has earned its reputation as Oregon's wine country. It's more than just world-class vineyards that make this valley special, however.
Whether you're sipping wine at a family-owned vineyard, exploring hidden hiking trails, or discovering local restaurants, each moment in the Willamette Valley reminds you why Oregon's wine country deserves a spot on your travel list!
WINERIES
Taking up most of Oregon's wine country, Willamette Valley is home to over 700 wineries. These wineries will leave you dreaming of their gorgeous scenery, friendly staff, and delicious wines - specifically their pinot noirs. Try a glass of pinot or simply gaze at the natural beauty of the wineries when you visit Oregon.
Brick House Vineyards welcomes visitors to their 40 acres of organic vineyards, where you can sample the acclaimed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in their restored 1931 barn while overlooking the Chehalem Mountains.
At Bergstrom Wines, their hillside tasting room introduces you to their farming techniques alongside their outstanding Pinot Noir.
Domaine Serene's hilltop estate features both a stunning main tasting room and wine caves where you can try their celebrated Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir. Meanwhile, Stoller Family Estate, the world's first LEED Gold certified winery, invites guests to relax in Adirondack chairs overlooking the vines while enjoying their estate wines.
For a different take on wine tasting, join Equestrian Wine Tours for a horseback ride through the vineyards. Trot between select wineries while learning about the region's wine history - it's an afternoon the whole group will love.
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
Believe it or not, there is more to do in Willamette Valley outside of taste-testing wines! There are some unique things to do in Willamette Valley, OR and we have found the perfect activities for you to pick from.
Vista Balloon Adventures gives you a stunning sunrise experience floating above the valley's patchwork of vineyards, farms, and forests. These early morning flights give you a gorgeous view of the region's landscape and conclude with a celebratory champagne breakfast.
The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville is home to an impressive collection of aircraft, including the famous Spruce Goose. This educational attraction offers interactive exhibits and a water park, making it a perfect activity for families!
For a more interactive Oregon experience, visit Red Ridge Farms, home to Oregon Olive Mill – the state's first commercial olive mill. Tour their olive grove, learn about olive oil production, and participate in seasonal tastings and cooking classes. Their lavender fields and herb gardens add a new experience to your visit, while their gift shop offers locally-made products perfect for taking home a taste of Oregon.
DELICIOUS OREGON DINING
La Rambla Restaurant & Bar in McMinnville captures the spirit of Spanish dining with wood-fired paellas and tapas. The brick walls and high ceilings set the scene for sharing plates of chorizo-stuffed dates and seared scallops, all paired with local wines.
At Thistle, the daily-changing menu tells the story of the valley through its ingredients. The intimate dining room serves dishes crafted from what local farmers and foragers bring to their door that morning. Think just-picked mushrooms, fresh-caught steelhead, and vegetables harvested hours before they reach your plate.
Joel Palmer House Restaurant turns Oregon's wild mushrooms into something magical. Here, chef Christopher Czarnecki crafts dishes that showcase native truffles and mushrooms in ways no one else has tried. Their wine cellar, stocked with over 600 Oregon wines, perfectly complements each dish.
For a casual but delicious meal, The Blue Goat Food & Drink in Amity serves wood-fired dishes, perfect for a grab-and-go on your way to a winery. Their hand-tossed pizzas and roasted meats, cooked over local oak and cherry wood, offer a taste of Oregon's comfort food at its finest. Take a sandwich to go and enjoy it for lunch while winery hopping.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES & GARDENS
Beyond the rows of vineyards and tasting rooms, Willamette Valley's diverse landscape is the perfect setting to explore the great outdoors. From garden strolls to challenging bike routes, the valley's natural spaces offer more than just wine-focused adventures.
The Oregon Garden Resort offers 80 acres of botanical beauty, featuring 20 specialized gardens that showcase the Willamette Valley's diverse plant life. Each garden path has something new – from waterfalls to rare Oregon plants and seasonal blooms.
The Muddy Valley biking tour at McMinnville is a 26-mile loop that takes you through some of the region's most beautiful countryside. Wind past vineyards, farmland, and historic sites while enjoying the valley's rolling hills and fresh air. For a good hike, Silver Falls State Park offers the famous Trail of Ten Falls, a moderate 7.2-mile loop with spectacular waterfall views.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN WILLAMETTE VALLEY, OR
For your Willamette Valley vineyard vacation rental, book with the most welcoming and comfortable rental properties - Lifestyle Properties. With properties located in the best areas of Willamette Valley, you will feel like you're living in luxury in Oregon's wine country. Have your pick from countryside estates to farmhouses in the vineyards, showing off stunning views of Oregon's rolling hills.
Lifestyle Properties rentals also offer high-end amenities, ranging from outdoor pools to beautiful fireplaces, private wine cellars, and expansive outdoor living spaces. They also have a few rentals that allow pets, so bring your furry friend along for the adventure!
Whether you're strolling through vineyards tasting impeccable wine or trying out locally sourced meals, Willamette Valley is the perfect place when you need to reconnect with natural beauty and organic goodness. From world-class Willamette Valley wineries to outdoor adventures and luxurious vacation rentals, this region offers an enchanting escape for wine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the Pacific Northwest.
