Top 15 Historic Landmarks in Oregon

Oregon is an interesting state that you will want to put on your “must see” list. With all of its history, culture, and rugged terrain, Oregon holds some of the unknown treasures in the United States.

Oregon’s expansive history is one of the main reasons people enjoy visiting the Beaver state.

Oregon was included in the famous Lewis and Clark expedition in their search for the Northwest Passage.

The famous Oregon Trail became a part of the settled territory that early pioneers located and established in the 1830s. Oregon was officially admitted to the union in 1859.

If you are planning to visit Oregon soon and want to check on the best auto insurance rates, start comparison shopping today! Enter your ZIP code above to get started!

Top 15 Historic Landmarks in Oregon

If you decide to go to Oregon on a vacation or road trip, there are many historic landmarks and destinations you may want to check out.

Below are fifteen of the best locations to visit when in Oregon, all which have historical significance.

#1 – Washington Park

Washington Park is one of the most interesting areas of Oregon and is one of the oldest parks in Portland.

The City purchased the territory in 1871 for $32,634.

The park has several attractions including:

• The Portland Zoo
• Hoyt Arboretum
• Portland Japanese Garden
• International Rose Test Garden
• The World Forestry Center
• The Portland Children’s Museum

There are plenty of other attractions as well. Visit their page to learn more. The price of admission for the park is the standard parking fee of $1.60 per hour.

#2 – The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center offers many different things such as:

• Exhibits
• Multimedia presentations
• Special events
• Demonstrations

You can learn a lot about the history of this interesting state by attending some of these events.

Fall hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and adult admission cost is $8 April-October and $5 November-March, while youth 15 and younger get in free.

#3 – The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center offers a unique and cultural view of Oregon life.

You’ll get to know the people and the culture that make up this interesting area and take a journey through the Oregon Trail with seasoned trail guides.

It is nearby the Mt. Hood territory, one of the largest mountains in the U.S. and you’ll see vistas never before seen in any other area of the country.

#4 – The Lewis and Clark National Historical Park at Fort Clatsop

The Lewis and Clark National Historical Park at Fort Clatsop offers a glimpse into history you won’t want to miss.

With an interpretive center that features an exhibit hall, gift shop, and films to view, you will be able to explore the trailheads to Sea Trail and Netul River Trail and take a glimpse into how it must have looked to the early explorers.

The park is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day with daily activities that are sure to delight everyone. Check the park’s calendar for more details.

Admission is granted with a pass that is renewed yearly through any national parks center.

#5 – Fort Astoria (AKA Fort George)

Fort Astoria is located in Astoria, Oregon and is of historical significance due to the fur trading business.

It was considered one of the most prolific fur-trading posts of the 19th century. Astoria was considered a hub of the regional fur trade on the Columbia River. Many Native peoples lived and gathered near this fort and traded goods.

It was also eventually a key location during the War of 1812, and this adds to its historical significance.

Since this location is an actual fort that played a significant role in early American history, it is a great place to visit to learn about the old West and relive historical moments.

Admission is granted with a national parks pass that can be renewed annually.

#6 – Tillamook Air Museum

Tillamook Air Museum is the perfect place to go if you like aviation technology or want to find out about the history of aviation.

You can step into the hangar and take a look at some of the most powerful planes and engines you’ve ever seen.

Check out the Kids’ Corner while you’re there. Daily passes and annual passes are available.

There is a gift shop and many other nearby attractions to peak your interest, and the Museum is open to the public daily from 10:00am-5:00 pm.

Admission is $9.50 for adults with special prices for military and seniors. Kids age 7-16 get in for $5.50.

#7 – Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum

The Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum was built to increase awareness of both military and non-military aviation and space history and to foster a genuine appreciation and knowledge of both industries.

Kids and adults alike will enjoy walking among the exhibits that promote the early beginnings and progress of space and aviation history.

Some of the activities you can take part in include:

• Educational programs
• Movies and media
• Waterpark
• Museum

All of these activities offer something unique and special to people of all ages and admission is $27 for adults, $19 for kids, and $24 for seniors.

There are plenty of other special events available year-round as well. Check their calendar for details.

#8 – Yaquina Head Light

Yaquina Head Light is a look into the natural part of Oregon. With tide pools to observe and some of Oregon’s tallest lighthouse, you’ll enjoy all that Yaquina Head has to offer.

It is located near the Oregon coast and one mile from the Pacific Ocean.

You’ll see the historic lighthouse that has been a beacon of hope for ships and sailors for 150 years.

You can take a tour inside the lighthouse and see it from the inside.

Experience the natural landscape and rough ocean terrain while viewing wildlife or Oregon’s coastline. Learn about ticket and lighthouse tours here.

#9 – Columbia River Maritime Museum

Columbia River Maritime Museum features information about the Columbia River Bar, which is considered one of the most dangerous passages in the world.

The Columbia River Maritime Museum is filled with adventures and events that are very culturally based to get a taste of Oregon. You can take in one of the films that feature information about the legendary area and learn about the wildlife and other features of the location.

The Museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the waterfront in Astoria, Oregon. Admission is $14 for adults and $5 for children 6 and over. Seniors get in for $12.

For more information for a full season of events, see their website.

#10 – High Desert Museum

High Desert Museum takes you through an amazing tour of wildlife and history characters from the 1904 Miller Family Ranch. See ancient and modern birds of prey, as well as many other spectacular exhibits that represent the past and the present of desert culture and ecology.

You can watch river otters build their nests in the Autzen Otter Exhibit.

The Museum is ranked as the #1 thing to do in Bend, Oregon by TripAdvisor.

There are plenty of fun and educational experiences awaiting kids of all ages. Admission is available by contacting the museum and hours of operation are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the summer months and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during the winter.

#11 – The Astoria Column

The Astoria Column is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2016 and there are many ways you can help them celebrate.

It is a work of architecture that is second to none and stands above the city of Astoria some 600 feet to observe the world below.

It has recently been restored to its original condition and serves as one of Oregon’s most noted landmarks.

You can visit  the Astoria Column and take tours free any time of year. There is a $5 pass for car parking. This historic Oregon landmark is an excellent way to view the city below and learn about the history of the area from above!

#12 – Timberline Lodge

Timberline Lodge was built by local artisans during the Great Depression and was even dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Today, Timberline Lodge offers an exciting and adventurous ski vacation package, comfortable lodging options, and a great place to hold any special event high up in the Oregon mountains.

The area is known to be a hotspot for weddings, as well as a place to get away from it all and enjoy the winter months in style.

You can book your entire trip online and get a price estimate at the time of your booking. Prices for lodging start around $295 per night.

The hotel part is most known for its appearance in the movie, The Shining, starring Jack Nicholson.

#13 – Kam-Wah Chung & Company Museum

Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site shows you a fascinating glimpse into the past that serves as a National Historic Landmark. It includes a museum and interpretive center that served as a social, medical, and religious center for the Oregon Chinese community.

The museum is open daily, and they offer museum tours from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. There are guided tours that start at the top of each hour and last about 45 minutes.

Admission is free, but you need a parks pass to gain access.

#14 – Jacksonville Historic District

Jacksonville Historic District offers a glimpse into the history of Oregon that includes the historic Jacksonville downtown area.

Famous for gold prospecting, trail rides, and mining, to name a few, this area of Oregon is something to be enjoyed for those hungry for a taste of the Old West.

Tours are given at various times through the year and ticket information is available at http://jacksonvilleoregon.com/about-us/

#15 – Pioneer Courthouse

The Pioneer Courthouse offers a unique view into the history of Oregon as well a the U.S. legal system.

The Pioneer Courthouse has been the home to the U.S. Court of Appeals in the State of Oregon for the Ninth Circuit since 1875 and offers a unique view of the legal system.

At the very least, you can admire the architecture of the oldest federal building in the Pacific Northwest, not to mention the second oldest federal building west of the Mississippi River.

Tours are free, but donations are accepted.

Traveling Safely in Oregon

When traveling in Oregon, safety comes first. Here are some tips that you can take note of to ensure a safe trip.

• Tune-up your car before your trip
• Travel with an emergency kit
• Make sure you have enough car insurance

You need to make sure that you have the required amount of coverage in the state of Oregon as well as other states you may travel through.

You should consider travel insurance in case you have to cancel your trip.

Also, consider roadside assistance options in your car insurance that will help you if you get stranded by the side of the road during your journey.

Compare Car Insurance

The most important thing you can do is consider the risk and increase your insurance if necessary to make sure you’re covered in the event of an accident.

Shop around online and compare car insurance plans to make sure you are ready before you hit the road. By doing this, you can get the best auto insurance rates at the best prices no matter your situation.

Start comparison shopping today by using our FREE online quote tool! Enter your ZIP code below to get the best rates!