Oregon is a Pacific Northwest state of extraordinary natural beauty, spanning rugged coastlines, ancient forests, volcanic peaks, and high desert plateaus. Portland, its largest city, is celebrated for its vibrant food scene, craft beer culture, and independent spirit. From the deep blue waters of Crater Lake to the thundering cascade of Multnomah Falls, Oregon rewards travelers who venture beyond the expected.
Historical timeline
Key moments that shaped Oregon.
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1
First human inhabitants arrive in Oregon
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2
Spanish sailors first sight the Oregon coast
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3
Captain James Cook charts the Oregon coast
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4
Lewis and Clark Expedition reaches Pacific Ocean; winter at Fort Clatsop
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5
Fort Astoria established as first permanent American settlement on the Pacific coast
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6
First large wagon train on the Oregon Trail departs from Independence, Missouri
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7
Oregon admitted to the Union as the 33rd state (February 14)
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8
First transcontinental railroad reaches Portland
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9
Timberline Lodge completed as a WPA New Deal project on Mt. Hood
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10
Oregon Beach Bill passes, making all ocean beaches public in perpetuity
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11
Oregon Bottle Bill enacted — first US container deposit law (5 cents/bottle)
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12
Portland's Urban Growth Boundary established, limiting sprawl
Historical sites
Places where Oregon's past comes alive.
Fort Clatsop (Lewis & Clark National Historical Park)
Where: Astoria, Clatsop County
Admission: Adult: $10 (USD) | Child: Free under 15
Timberline Lodge
Where: Mt. Hood, Clackamas County
Admission: Adult: Free to tour the lodge (ski lift tickets extra) | Child: Free
Oregon State Capitol
Where: Salem, Marion County
Admission: Adult: Free | Child: Free
Columbia River Maritime Museum
Where: Astoria, Clatsop County
Admission: Adult: $16 (USD) | Child: $5 ages 6–17
Oregon Historical Society Museum
Where: South Park Blocks, Portland
Admission: Adult: $11 (USD) | Child: $5 ages 6–18
Pittock Mansion
Where: West Hills, Portland
Admission: Adult: $14 (USD) | Child: $9 ages 6–17; free 5 and under
Museums
Curated collections that tell Oregon's story.
Oregon Historical Society Museum
Hours: Monday–Saturday 10 AM–5 PM; Sunday 12 PM–5 PM
Admission: Adult: $11 (USD) | Child: $5 ages 6–18
Columbia River Maritime Museum
Hours: Daily 9:30 AM–5 PM
Admission: Adult: $16 (USD) | Child: $5 ages 6–17
Hatfield Marine Science Center
Hours: Daily 10 AM–5 PM (summer); Wednesday–Monday 10 AM–4 PM (winter)
Admission: Adult: Suggested donation $5 (USD) | Child: Free