Oregon invites travelers to experience landscapes and stories that shift dramatically from one region to the next. In the south, Crater Lake National Park holds the title of deepest lake in the U.S., formed inside the remains of an ancient volcano. With its intense blue color and dramatic cliffs, the lake draws visitors year-round for hiking, snowshoeing, or simply standing in awe. Unlike many national parks, Crater Lake has no rivers flowing in or out, instead its water comes only from snow and rain, making it one of the cleanest lakes on Earth.

In Portland, Oregon’s largest city, creativity takes center stage. The city is known for its independent bookstores, food carts, and bike-friendly streets, but it also holds rich cultural offerings like the Portland Art Museum and Lan Su Chinese Garden. On Saturdays, the Portland Saturday Market brings together local artists, bakers, and musicians along the Willamette River. And in spring, city blocks glow pink and white during the Portland Japanese Garden’s cherry blossom season is a favorite for photographers and picnickers alike.

Oregon's coastline stretches over 360 miles, and all of it is open to the public thanks to the state’s landmark 1967 Beach Bill. This means travelers can explore everything from the sea stacks at Cannon Beach to the windswept dunes of Florence without a fee or a fence. One of the most unusual coastal spots is Thor’s Well near Yachats, a natural sinkhole in the rocks where ocean water erupts and drains like a fountain. For a slower pace, the small town of Bandon offers coastal trails, fresh seafood, and dramatic sunset views over tidepools and rock formations.