Travel Oregon

Travel Oregon – What’s New –Winter 2015

Have you checked anything off your 2015 bucket list yet? It’s a brand new year, and it’s time to start making plans for how to live it. There are wonders to behold, from Oregon’s natural beauty to extraordinary events to humankind’s push to break limits. So load up your wheels – whether two or four or more – and hit the highways and byways to start soaking in the scenery and wonderful experiences.

7 Wonders of Oregon: Go There

The timeless beauty of Oregon’s 7 Wonders – Mt. HoodCrater Lakethe WallowasSmith Rockthe Columbia River GorgePainted Hills and the Oregon Coast – beckons travelers on a mission to become one with nature. Wade, hike, climb, ski, boat or simply wander among the Wonders to absorb their grandeur. Take to #traveloregon to share a favorite way to experience one of the 7 Wonders and inspire others to discover it for themselves. Each Wonder is an adventure of a lifetime, so don’t wait much longer…live it and love it.

Charge Up the Oregon Coast 

Although difficult to imagine, Oregon has grown even greener in recent years. Electric vehicle charging stations located along the state’s main highways and thoroughfares make clean, green road trips a reality, even along scenic Highway 101 clutching the cliffs of the Oregon Coast. Start in Reedsport, the heart of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, before meandering up to Florence and the landmark Heceta Head Lighthouse. Charge up to charming Yachats and on to Newport, with its historic lighthouses and expansive aquarium. Power on to Lincoln City to test Lady Luck at Chinook Winds Casino, and break for fresh ice cream in Tillamook. Visit quaint shops in Cannon Beach, and then explore forts, museums and Victorian-era architecture in Astoria, the northernmost point before turning inland. 

Spring for Cider in Hood River

Famous for its bountiful orchard and farms, Hood River Valley is naturally the epicenter of Oregon's latest craft movement: hard cider. Nine cideries (and counting) turn to local growers for heirloom apples and pears to create crisp, flavorful thrist-quenchers, often infused with other local fruits and berries– including cherries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries– to add depth and intrigue. Plan a springtime visit for April 11, when local cideries will be joined by regional producers to celebrate the second annual Hood River Hard-Pressed Cider Fest. Set against a backdrop of blossoming groves, the family-friendly affair will feature more than 20 cideries as well as food, art and local music.

Start Your Engines

Motorsport enthusiasts are revving up for the chance to get up close and personal with legendary vehicles from some of the world’s most prestigious speed events. World of Speed in Wilsonville is preparing to open its doors on April 24, inviting the public to appreciate America’s love affair with a fast set of wheels. Highlights include a replica Daytona 500 banking turn complete with four racecars from NASCAR headliners, such as Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s 2000 Chevy Impala. NASCAR is just one aspect of the museum, which also showcases drag, road, land speed, motorcycle and open wheel racing. More than 100 vehicles on display, stories of local tracks, interactive exhibits and hands-on activities promise to recreate the rush and excitement of the racing world.

Save the Date: Total Eclipse in 2017

When a total eclipse is on the horizon, it’s never too early to plan. On August 21, 2017, Oregon will be prime viewing territory for a total solar eclipse. In the late morning, darkness will descend on a swath of the state, starting on the coast, between Lincoln City and Newport, before moving over Salem, and eventually over the best potential viewing areas – and longest, at nearly two minutes – of Warm Springs, Madras, Mitchell, Prairie City and Huntington in Eastern Oregon. Combine the viewing with a road trip to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, and camp under the stars in the Umatilla National Forest, or enjoy more comfortable digs at the Historic Hotel Prairie or in a private guest cottage through Painted Hills Vacation Rentals.
Photo credits: Chantal Anderson, 7 Wonders: Go There; Gregor Halenda, Start Your Engines; Ashley Horvat, Charge Up on the Oregon Coast; Chantal Anderson, Save the Date: Total Eclipse in 2017; Greg Robeson, Spring for Cider in Hood RIver   

Media Contacts:


Sonal Haladay
LANE for Travel Oregon
traveloregon@lanepr.com
503-546-7860
Allison Keeney
Travel Oregon
allison@traveloregon.com
971-717-6195
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