These 10 spots are ranked as the ‘Prettiest Towns to Visit in Oregon’

Every day, it seems, some website or media outlet is coming up with lists of the most charming community, most beautiful beach, and noting other categories where Oregon stands out. While we don’t always know just how these sites came up with these assorted honor rolls, it’s still interesting to see what Oregon spots rise to the top.

In another example of this trend, an outfit called WorldAtlas has put together what it’s calling a list of the “10 Prettiest Towns to Visit in Oregon.” While we all may have our favorites, this particular rundown includes both locales that turn up frequently in these lists (Cannon Beach, come on down!), along with some places that don’t often get a national spotlight.

In case you’re wondering (we sure were) just what WorldAtlas is, the website explains that this “original online geography resource” was launched in 1994 “as the passion project of cartographer John Moen and his wife Chris Woolwine-Moen. Today, WorldAtlas is one of the largest publishing resources in geography and other topics it covers, including sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics, and travel. In 2019 alone, WorldAtlas has served over 165 million readers from around the world.”

OK, then. So, what are the 10 Oregon towns that WorldAtlas deems the prettiest? As the introduction says, the prettiest towns on the list have “streets lined with historic architecture,” boast “unique cuisine at local restaurants,” and possess other attributes that “culminate in a unique cultural immersion, away from the congested cities but surrounded by the state’s unparalleled natural beauty.”

Here’s the list:

CANNON BEACH: The north coast community is a familiar presence on best-of lists, so it makes sense that it turns up in this one, too. The WorldAtlas site says, in part, “Haystack Rock presents one of the most photogenic sites from the Cannon Beach shores. This 235-foot tall rock formation is a popular subject for nature photographers in town. Away from the coastline, Cannon Beach treats vacationers to intimate live performances at the 1920s Coaster Theatre Playhouse. The venue was once a roller rink, but now it exudes warmth with its vintage decor and tranquil vibe. For a more social experience, visitors can shop for artisan foods, fresh produce, seafood, and crafts at the Cannon Beach Farmers’ Market. Along with organic items, the market offers a chance to mingle with townsfolk and get a taste of the culture.”

JOSEPH: The Wallowa County community is undeniably scenic, so points to WorldAtlas for including it. As the website says, “Joseph’s sublime natural beauty earned it the nickname ‘Little Switzerland of America.’” In addition to its picturesque setting, WorldAtlas praises Joseph’s cultural scene. “Several art centers, including the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, allow visitors to interact with the local art community through a fine selection of their works.”

YACHATS: Another gem on the Oregon coast. Here’s some of what WorldAtlas has to say: “The Pacific Coast is lined with exquisite destinations waiting to be discovered, and Yachats is right up with the best. This tiny village of about 1,000 wakes up to the picturesque open spaces with striking water and mountain vistas. Thor’s Well is a must-visit in Yachats. This bottomless sinkhole seems to drain the Pacific Ocean waters in a continuous cycle, intriguing tourists and locals alike.”

“Bottomless sinkhole?” That may not be the most alluring description, but WorldAtlas also cites shopping at the Yachats Farmers Market and Earthworks Gallery, which “exhibits an assorted collection of jewelry, sculptures, furniture, and glassworks, offering a glimpse of the best local artistic creations.”

MOSIER: This one’s a bit of a surprise, considering the Wasco County community along the Columbia River doesn’t often turn up in these national lists. According to the WorldAtlas description, Mosier “presents some of the best vistas in the region. With less than 500 people calling Mosier home, vacationers have free reign to explore the vast open spaces and indulge in fun outdoor adventures. One of the best ways to do this is to hike, bike, or drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, which provides unprecedented views of the Columbia. Those seeking to spend quality alone time will love the seclusion and serenity of Memaloose State Park, with an opportunity to pitch a tent at the 66-site campground.”

JACKSONVILLE: The southern Oregon town is no stranger to best-of lists, and WorldAtlas joins in the chorus of compliments, inviting readers to explore “this beautiful town in Jackson County,” and to “discover a rich arts and culture scene and indulge in tasty craft wines while exploring. Steeped in Gold Rush heritage, Jacksonville has a charming downtown region with stunning old-world structures. The Jacksonville Inn is an excellent example of red brick construction styles in the town. Artistically inclined tourists might want to stop by the Art Presence Art Center to browse the beautiful works of local artists.”

GOLD BEACH: The southern Oregon coast is magnificent, though it’s mildly surprising to see Gold Beach singled out as one of the state’s prettiest towns. WorldAtlas makes the case by noting that Gold Beach is located where the Pacific Ocean and the Rogue River interact. “Gold Beach offers endless outdoor opportunities on land and water, including walking and hiking along the endless shoreline trails of Otter Point State Recreation Site. Additionally, local outfitters like Jerry’s Rogue Jets excite first-timers with adrenaline-inducing boast tours on the Rogue River for a unique perspective of the town from the water.”

The restaurant scene also gets mentioned, with Gold Beach BBQ and Arch Rock Brewing Company cited as good stops for visitors.

PROSPECT: Here’s another community that doesn’t often turn up on these lists. But WorldAtlas says, “Prepare for picturesque hikes, stunning views, and adrenaline-filled adventures in one of the prettiest towns to visit in Oregon. Prospect is a nature lover’s ultimate vacation destination, lying along the Rogue River and enveloped by the Siskiyou National Forest.” Also coming in for praise: “The scenery when you reach the Rogue River Gorge Viewpoint. Finally, Prospect is less than 30 minutes from Crater Lake National Park, making it the perfect jumping-off base for another natural wonder.”

ASHLAND: No surprise to see the charming community of Ashland make this list. WorldAtlas says, “Many first-timers in Ashland automatically fall in love with the city, a credit to its immersive arts and culture scene. One of the community’s claims to fame is home to the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival. This premiere performance venue is famous for staging classic Shakespeare plays in its open-air theater, with more indoor theaters showcasing entertaining musicals.”

The WorldAtlas entry also mentions Lithia Park, and Ashland’s local craft winery scene.

SILVERTON: Plenty of people heading to Silver Falls State Park have become familiar with Silverton. WorldAtlas says, “Silverton is a delightful community with a welcoming atmosphere and quintessential small-town charm.” In addition to praising Silver Falls State Park, WorldAtlas also mentions Lunaria Gallery, the Oregon Crafter Market, and the nearby Oregon Garden.

BAKER CITY: Anyone who’s visited Baker City knows it’s well worth spending time exploring. WorldAtlas says, “Baker City is a lovely town along the Historic Oregon Trail with an interesting story to tell. It harbors a pedestrian-friendly historic district where tourists can stroll to discover the town’s rich heritage and well-preserved landmarks. The Baker Heritage Museum has a fascinating collection of interactive exhibits chronicling Baker City’s captivating past. Meanwhile, the Leo Adler House Museum provides a glimpse of life in town in the 19th century. This pleasant 1889 Italianate mansion has curious artifacts and furnishings depicting upper-middle-class living at the time.”

— Kristi Turnquist covers features and entertainment. Reach her at 503-221-8227, kturnquist@oregonian.com or @Kristiturnquist

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