Explore Washington County With Our Comprehensive Travel Guide

Explore Washington County With Our Comprehensive Travel Guide

Washington County is one of the most scenic and diverse counties in the state of Oregon. Located just a short drive from Portland, this county offers a wide range of attractions and activities that cater to all interests and budgets. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, there is something for everyone in Washington County.

Top Attractions

Washington County is home to some of the most popular attractions in the state, including:

• The Oregon Zoo
• The International Rose Test Garden
• The Pittock Mansion
• The Portland Art Museum
• The Japanese Garden

Hidden Gems

Washington County is also home to many hidden gems that are worth exploring, such as:

• The Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals
• The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
• The Cooper Mountain Nature Park
• The Old Scotch Church
• The Tillamook State Forest

Food Scene

Washington County has a thriving food scene that offers a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences. From fine dining to food carts, you can find it all in this county. Some of the best places to try out include:

• Apizza Scholls
• Le Pigeon
• Bollywood Theater
• Screen Door
• Pok Pok

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you are on a budget, there are still plenty of options for dining in Washington County. Some of the best budget-friendly options include:

• Food carts in downtown Portland
• The Portland Farmers Market
• Multnomah Falls Lodge
• Powell’s City of Books Cafe
• The Roxy Diner

Outdoor Adventures

Washington County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to kayaking and skiing, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore. Some of the best outdoor activities include:

• The Timberline Trail
• The Pacific Crest Trail
• The Deschutes River
• The Columbia River Gorge
• The Mount Hood National Forest

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you are looking for a unique outdoor experience, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path options to choose from. Some of the best include:

• The Alvord Desert
• The Painted Hills
• The Oregon Coast Trail
• The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
• The Wallowa Mountains

Historical Landmarks

Washington County has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical landmarks. Some of the best places to explore include:

• The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
• The Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
• The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
• The Oregon Vortex
• The Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum

Family-Friendly Activities

If you are traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to choose from in Washington County. Some of the best include:

• The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
• The Oregon Zoo
• The Portland Children’s Museum
• The World Forestry Center Discovery Museum
• The Enchanted Forest Theme Park

Natural Wonders

Washington County is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. From mountains and forests to beaches and lakes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the best natural wonders include:

• The Crater Lake National Park
• The Smith Rock State Park
• The Multnomah Falls
• The Mount Hood
• The Columbia River Gorge

Vibrant Nightlife

If you are looking to let loose and have some fun, Washington County has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers plenty of options. Some of the best places to check out include:

• The Crystal Ballroom
• The Doug Fir Lounge
• The 45 East Club
• The Holocene
• The Mississippi Studios

Local Markets

Washington County is home to many local markets that offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, and a unique shopping experience. Some of the best markets to check out include:

• The Portland Farmers Market
• The Beaverton Farmers Market
• The Hillsdale Farmers Market
• The St. Johns Farmers Market
• The Hollywood Farmers Market

Beaches and Mountains

Washington County has some of the most beautiful beaches and mountains in the world. Some of the best places to explore include:

• The Cannon Beach
• The Seaside Beach
• The Mount Hood National Forest
• The Three Sisters Wilderness
• The Crater Lake National Park

Cultural Immersion

Washington County is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the best cultural experiences include:

• The Portland Art Museum
• The Oregon Shakespeare Festival
• The Oregon Symphony
• The Portland Japanese Garden
• The Lan Su Chinese Garden

Art and Music Scene

Washington County has a thriving art and music scene that offers plenty of options for art lovers and music enthusiasts. Some of the best places to check out include:

• The Portland Art Museum
• The Oregon Symphony
• The Portland Opera
• The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
• The Roseland Theater

Walking Tours

Washington County is a great place to explore on foot. There are many walking tours available that offer a unique perspective on the local history and culture. Some of the best walking tours include:

• The Portland Walking Tours
• The Best of Portland Walking Tour
• The Historic Downtown Portland Walking Tour
• The Pittock Mansion Walking Tour
• The Portland Underground Walking Tour

Architectural Marvels

Washington County is home to some of the most beautiful and unique buildings in the world. Some of the best architectural marvels to check out include:

• The Pittock Mansion
• The St. Johns Bridge
• The Pioneer Courthouse
• The Vista House
• The Timberline Lodge

Historical Sites

Washington County has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical sites. Some of the best places to explore include:

• The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
• The Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
• The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
• The Oregon Vortex
• The Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum

Biking Routes

Washington County is a great place for biking enthusiasts. There are many biking routes available that offer scenic views and challenging terrain. Some of the best biking routes include:

• The Banks-Vernonia State Trail
• The Springwater Corridor Trail
• The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail
• The McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway
• The Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway

Wellness Retreats

Washington County is a great place to relax and rejuvenate. There are many wellness retreats available that offer a range of services and activities. Some of the best wellness retreats include:

• The Breitenbush Hot Springs