Are you looking for something quirky to do in the Pacific Northwest? Check out these 7 unique places to visit in Oregon that are fascinating!
This post about unique places to visit in Oregon was written by PNW family travel expert Marcie Cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
If you’re looking for unique places to visit in Oregon, look no further!
This beautiful state is home to some of the country’s most unique and off-the-beaten-path locations. Whether you’re a fan of outdoor activities or just want to explore charming small towns, we’ve got something for everyone.
There’s a lot to love about Oregon. It boasts a stunning rugged coast and breathtaking natural landscapes, and attractions like Crater Lake National Park, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Painted Hills, ranging from gorgeous mountain views to verdant storybook-like forests and high desert plains.
One of the best things about traveling to The Beaver State is its array of off-the-beaten-path locations. If you’re the type of traveler who prefers staying away from the crowds and visiting hidden gems instead, you’re in for a real treat.
Keep scrolling for the ultimate list of unique places in Oregon you’ve got to add to your itinerary.
Unique Places to Visit in Oregon FAQs
This is actually a really difficult question to answer because this state has SO many different landscapes. It’s hard to beat the views around Crater Lake or seeing Mount Hood from Lost Lake. And the Oregon Coast, with spots like Cannon Beach and the Southern Oregon Coast, is simply breathtaking. But there are also a lot of unique places in Eastern Oregon, including the John Day Fossil Beds and the Painted Cove Trail.
As with typical PNW weather, there’s often a chance of rain, so dress accordingly. The coast is definitely chilly, and it’s very common to wear a sweatshirt to the beach. A few perks include the fact that there’s no sales tax and a plethora of good beer, boutiques, and amazing food! Don’t miss exploring family-friendly spots like the Enchanted Forest or attending seasonal events like the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in the Willamette Valley.
Not surprisingly, most of the top attractions in Oregon are national parks or other outdoor wonders. Most of the best things to do in Oregon are outside. Crater Lake tops most lists, along with Multnomah Falls, the Portland Japanese Garden, and family-friendly destinations like the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Unique Places to Visit in Oregon You May Not Know Exist
1. Thor’s Well in Oregon
Where is Thor’s Well in Oregon? It’s located in Yachats, which is a town along the Oregon Coast. The name Yachats comes from the Siletz language and means “dark water at the foot of the mountain”. I wanted to point that out because it adds to the quirkiness of this Oregon attraction.
Thor’s Wells’s hidden gem status remains a mystery because the sight is simply out of this world. Also called the “Drainpipe of the Pacific,” Thor’s Well is a humongous Oregon sinkhole on the edge of the Oregon Coast that seems to swallow the ocean water around it.
Seeing it in action is one of the most unique things on the Oregon Coast.
The pit is said to be around 20 feet deep, but regardless of its size, Thor’s Well looks straight out of an apocalyptic movie, especially during high tides and stormy days!
We think it’s one of the best vacation spots in Oregon for people who love sitting and gazing at the ocean.
Where to Stay Near Thor’s Well
While a lot of people make Thor’s Well a stop on their Oregon Coast road trip, you can definitely spend the night in Yachats. A few popular options include the Tillicum Beach Motel, the Dublin House Motel, and the Fireside Motel.
2. The Big Foot Trap
Oregon’s forests are said to be some places where Big Foot has been spotted, especially during the 19th century. There have been tons of bigfoot sightings in Oregon since then.
When a miner reported seeing a humongous footprint in 1974 at the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, the North American Wildlife Research Team set out to create a huge trap and finally catch the legendary creature.
Today, the wooden box filled with bait can still be seen. While it never actually managed to trap Big Foot, it caught a few bears and hunters. Eeek! Going Big Foot watching is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Oregon.
You can visit the Big Foot Trap in Oregon by hiking the Collings Mountain Trail near Ruch. It’s definitely one of the top cool places to visit in Oregon for Big Foot enthusiasts!
Where to Stay at Rogue River-Siskiyou National Park
If you want to try to spot this Oregon Big Foot, you’ll probably want to spend the night nearby. There are several campgrounds and cabins available in the park.
3. Lost Lake
Sitting just over an hour away from Portland, Lost Lake is one of the most beautiful places in Oregon, and it is guaranteed to make you feel as though you’re inside a fairytale.
Lost Lake is surrounded by the alluring Mount Hood National Forest and towered by Oregon’s tallest peak. Plus, it provides some of the most awe-inspiring views of one of Oregon’s most iconic natural landmarks: Mount Hood.
You can spot Mount Hood from many other locations, but the dream-like sight of its reflection in Lost Lake’s shimmering waters is a must-see Oregon sight. It’s one of the reasons we think it’s one of the best places to vacation in Oregon.
This gorgeous location also offers plenty of recreational water activities, including canoeing and kayaking. There are fabulous hiking trails in the forest, including routes suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. Or you can just take in all that nature has to offer while camping out under starry skies!
Lost Lake is also considered one of the best spots in the USA for stargazing thanks to the lack of light pollution nearby, making it a great place to spend the night in Oregon’s nature.
Where to Stay Near Lost Lake in Oregon
You’ll find lots of Lost Lake campgrounds here. But if you’d rather sleep in comfort, you’ll also find cozy cabins and yurts available!
4. Pillars of Rome
The Pillars of Rome are a set of the most intricate rock formations and pillars made from fossil-laden clay, some of which reach heights up to 100 feet! These Oregon rock formations are actually about 5 miles long and two miles wide.
Located just outside town in southeastern Oregon’s high desert landscape, it’s close enough that you can feel what it would feel like to walk on Mars without ever leaving your backyard. And it’s just one of the many weird places in Oregon.
Of course, this natural wonder has been around for ages. In fact, it was a landmark for pioneers traveling the Oregon Trail near the Owyhee crossing.
It’s definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Oregon, and it’s totally Insta-worthy.
Where to Stay Near Pillars of Rome
Because this area is so remote, your best bet is to camp at Slocum Creek Campground.
5. Terwilliger Hot Springs
Terwilliger Hot Springs (also called Cougar Hot Springs) is a hidden treasure in the middle of Oregon’s Willamette National Forest, where you can enjoy natural hot springs and an idyllic setting.
It’s a perfect place to relax after exploring nearby attractions or taking scenic drives around this state!
P.S. Clothing is absolutely optional here! Just pointing it out in case you’re bringing kids and that affects whether or not you want to stop.
Where to Stay Near Terwilliger Hot Springs
Eagle Rock Lodge is a great option for families who want to stay just a few miles from Cougar Hot Springs in Oregon.
6. Harts Cove
Hiking on the Oregon coast is a breathtaking experience. The Harts Cove trail offers amazing views, especially at sunset, when you can take in all those gorgeous colors from the sea and sky!
This 5.4-mile out-and-back hike will have you breezing through a verdant forest filled with centuries-old trees, open meadows dotted by wildflowers, and gawk-worthy ocean views!
Once you reach the end of this trail in Harts Cove, Oregon, you will be treated to some serious eye candy when it comes to seeing all that nature has provided for us here in such an incredible place. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts looking for both beauty and tranquility.
It’s no wonder vacationers come from near and far to enjoy these breathtaking sights.
Where to Stay Near Harts Cove
The nearest town to Harts Cove is Lincoln City. I recommend booking a night at the Inn at Spanish Head Resort Hotel.
7. Crack-In-The-Ground
The geological crack in the ground that stretches over two miles long in Oregon is called “Crack-In The Ground.”
This fissure was formed thousands of years ago because it’s located near an extremely dry region, but visitors can still enjoy hiking through this magical spot.
t measures up to 70 feet deep, and you might be surprised at how similar your surroundings look when viewed from its bottom!
The magical thing about visiting is that you can get to hike through the bottom of the fissure.
This 2-mile-long trail isn’t too difficult to complete if you’ve got some previous hiking experience and don’t mind low temperatures, but it surely provides one of the most unique hiking experiences in the entire world!
Where to Stay Near Crack-in-the-Ground
The Best Western Skyline Motor Lodge in Lakeview is a great option for families.
Why Visit Unique Places in Oregon Instead of Popular Spots?
While iconic attractions like Crater Lake and Multnomah Falls deserve their fame, Oregon’s true charm shines in its unique, lesser-known spots. Adding places like Thor’s Well, Lost Lake, and Harts Cove to your itinerary offers a chance to experience the state’s beauty without the bustling crowds.
Imagine standing at Thor’s Well, watching the Pacific Ocean disappear into what looks like an endless sinkhole—it’s nothing short of mesmerizing! Or hiking to Harts Cove for jaw-dropping coastal views paired with lush meadows and towering trees. For families, exploring the mysterious Big Foot Trap or marveling at the unique geology of Crack-In-The-Ground can make for unforgettable adventures.
These destinations aren’t just quieter alternatives—they’re windows into Oregon’s diverse landscapes, from the high desert near the Pillars of Rome to the tranquil waters of Lost Lake in Mount Hood National Forest. Plus, a visit to the relaxing Terwilliger Hot Springs is perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.
Whether you’re pairing these hidden gems with classic Oregon attractions or making them the highlight of your trip, these places offer stories, sights, and serenity you won’t find anywhere else. Why not make your Oregon adventure truly one of a kind?
Other Iconic Places to Visit in Oregon
If you have more time in Oregon, consider adding these iconic destinations to your itinerary. These spots highlight the state’s stunning diversity and offer even more opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
- Oregon Zoo: A family favorite featuring wildlife and kid-friendly activities.
- Willamette Valley Vineyards: Perfect for wine lovers seeking picturesque views and award-winning wine.
- Sea Lion Caves: A must-visit for animal enthusiasts, showcasing sea lions in their natural habitat.
- Smith Rock State Park: A haven for climbers and hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape.
- Silver Falls State Park: Famous for the spectacular Ten Falls trail, a natural wonder.
Unique Places to Visit in Oregon Wrap-Up
So there you have it, some of Oregon’s most unique places to visit. If you’re looking for a road trip idea or simply want to explore more of Oregon, these spots should be at the top of your list.
As always, our website has plenty more Oregon content waiting for you. Be sure to check it out, and happy exploring!