Friends-
We are spending five nights in Oregon this April; the first three will be in Cannon Beach (a Sunday late night through Wednesday morning, two full days). We are looking for a second location for our final two nights before a flight out on Friday morning. We've never been to the Oregon coast but also want to stay somewhat close to the Portland airport. i.e., within 2 hours. I have some ideas (Pacific City, Hood river) but not set on anything. We are outdoorsy, like to hike, eat, etc.

This might be our only time to visit the area since we live on the east coast. With that in mind, do you have any recommendations? Like your must-see town or even thing-to-do (which could also provide guidance on location) if you could only go one time?

Thanks in advance!
Rosebud

I really liked Astoria which is under two hours from the airport. It has many colorful houses and older longtime residents speak with a Finnish accent. It features the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park with the recreated Fort Clatsop and Columbia River Maritime Museum. You can stroll on the Astoria Riverwalk and ride the electric vintage trolley. The Cathedral Tree Trail takes you to a Sitka spruce which you can walk into.

Look at McMenamins Edgefield, a remarkable hotel/resort complex in Troutdale, along the Columbia around 15 minutes east of PDX airport.

https://www.mcmenamins.com/edgefield

The Edgefield complex is built around the former Multnomah County Poor Farm, a Depression era sanctuary for displaced poor people. The McMenamin brothers and their team converted it into a funky, beautiful and artsy combination of hotel, spa, brewery, winery, distillery, cinema, golf and garden venue with numerous cozy bars, restaurants and cafes, first run movies... It's a serious hoot and unique place to stay.


Now, why there? Because the Edgefield sits on the western edge of the "waterfall zone" along the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Starting just east of Troutdale, the Gorge is lined with numerous waterfalls, including famous Multnomah Falls, all of which in April will be full of water from melting mountain snows. Along with spring flowers, orchards in bloom... It's one of the West's great destinations. And it's all readily accessible from the Edgefield. Then when it's time to fly, you're minutes from the airport.


I'd give it serious consideration as you plan.

I vote for the Edgefield too- some of the rooms don't have bathrooms though so be forewarned. It doesnt bother me- kind of fun to see everyone running around in the provided robes

Great ideas! I will check them out. Much appreciated.

Willamette Valley along the Willamette river is very pretty region with lots of wineries you could visit. A town like McMinnville is only about one hour from the airport.