In many ways, rain is an essential part of what makes the Oregon Coast such a special place. It feeds our lush forests and greenery, fills waterways for spawning salmon — and you’ll be amazed by the dazzling rainbows.
Although residents and many visitors enjoy donning waterproof gear and spending time outdoors no matter the weather, there’s plenty to do indoors on a rainy day for the whole family. Here are ways to learn more about the region’s history, culture and local cuisine as you travel Oregon’s 363 miles of stunning public coastline.
History, Art and Cheesy Fun on Oregon’s North Coast
Kids of all ages will find plenty to love in captivating museums, a boisterous arcade, a delightfully cheesy creamery and other fun stops on the North Coast. In winter the crowds are minimal at these popular attractions, so you can get the most out of quality family time.
At the Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria, exhibits spotlight works of art from regional Native American tribes, break down the history of shipwrecks and dive into the local fishing industry. After touring the museum, find pizza, pub grub and award-winning craft beer at Fort George Brewery, just a few blocks up the hill.
In Seaside play a variety of vintage and modern games at Funland Arcade. Afterward, warm up with a bowl of soup or a variety of creative hot dogs at Seaside Slushies & Dogs. In Cannon Beach, see the piece of artillery for which the community is named and let your kids play inside a replica Native American longhouse at the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum.
In Tillamook winter is a great time to check out the ever-popular Tillamook Creamery, where kids love seeing factory operations on a self-guided tour. Arrive hungry, since the creamery’s dining hall dishes pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches, curds and nearly 30 flavors of its famous ice cream.
Glassblowing and Marine Creatures on Oregon’s Central Coast
Get to know Oregon’s Central Coast and the variety of attractions that make it such a beloved family getaway all year long, from artistic endeavors to world-class museums.
Develop an appreciation for glassblowing, an art form that’s long been popular in the area, at studios and galleries in Lincoln City. Get an up-close look at how vases, bowls and other items are made at the family-run Alder House, open May through October, or book an appointment to craft your own piece at the Lincoln City Glass Center. If you’re looking for your next favorite read, browse the stacks at Robert’s Bookshop, which claims to sell more than 200,000 titles across more than 1.5 miles of shelves. Afterward, savor Pacific Ocean views, along with fresh seafood and wood-fired pizza, at Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill.
Learn all about Oregon’s marine life while you’re in the region. Even if you don’t have a chance to spot whales on a whale-watching cruise in Depoe Bay, keep an eye out from the community’s indoor Whale Watching Center. In Newport experience some of the 15,000 birds, mammals, fish and more at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Nearby, the Yaquina Bay comes alive in tide-pool touch tanks and other interactive exhibits at Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center. Between winter and summer, watch a colony of hundreds of Steller sea lions lounging in the Sea Lion Caves, the largest sea cave anywhere in the United States.
Coastal Life and Good Eats on the Southern Oregon Coast
Stops on Oregon’s South Coast celebrate local history, showcase regional landscapes and bring together the community in several engaging ways.
Start your visit with a trip to the Coos History Museum in Coos Bay. Exhibits cover the area’s industrial past, maritime trade and Native American tribes. For another educational opportunity, learn about local marine life through hands-on experiences and underwater videos at the University of Oregon’s Charleston Marine Life Center.
If you’re visiting with children 9 and younger, stop by Coos Playtopia in North Bend, home to several mini businesses across its engaging indoor play space — as well as a dedicated space for toddlers. In Bandon’s Old Town neighborhood, find puzzles, stuffed animals and other kid-friendly trinkets at The Toy Room. Nearby, marvel at the Washed Ashore gallery’s intricate, marine-themed sculptures, which were crafted with debris collected on beaches to promote environmental awareness.
For food the whole family will love, grab a pie piled high with toppings at Wild River Pizza in Brookings, which also hosts an arcade to complete the old-school pizza-parlor experience. In Coos Bay, nosh on fresh seafood at The Boat Fish & Chips, housed in a converted fishing vessel, which hosts a covered patio that’s largely protected from the elements.
