Things to Do in Forest Grove, Oregon

Recognized as one of America’s best colleges, Pacific University was founded in 1849 as a pioneer-era school for orphans. Old College Hall, an 1859 structure on the campus, houses the museum dedicated to the history and cultural influence of this institution. The picturesque historic university is situated in the center of the Washington County wine country, forty-five minutes from downtown Portland and one hour from the Oregon coast. Programs are offered in liberal arts, education, optometry and the health professions. Approximately 3,200 undergraduate and graduate students call Pacific University their home.

*An electric vehicle (EV) charging station is available

Tillamook State Forest offers myriad opportunities for fun and adventure, whatever your outdoor recreation pursuit. Nestled in the spectacular Oregon Coast Range—on the scenic Wilson River Highway, and just an hour’s drive from Portland—the Tillamook State Forest Center is the largest state forest in Oregon.

The forest offers a wide spectrum of trails for both motorized and non-motorized activities, campgrounds, day use areas and staging areas. Climb the Summit South Saddle Mountain, the tallest mountain in the Tualatin Valley and the 8th highest peak of the Oregon Coast Range. Visit the Tillamook State Forest blog for detailed information and updated trail and site status.

Download the Tillamook State Forest Recreation Guide >>>

Hours: Trails are open year-round; the Tillamook Forest Center is closed during the winter. See listing for more information >>>

ADA Accessible: Yes

Restrooms: Yes (at the Forest Center)

Drinking Water: Yes

Camping: Yes

Pet Policy: Pets allowed

Flora: Oregon Berries

Wildlife: Roosevelt Elk, Bald Eagles, Chinook Salmon, American Beaver, Pileated Woodpecker

Did you Know…

• The Tillamook Forest Center is one of the only facilities in Oregon where visitors can connect with the Coast Range forest and its unique flora and fauna?
• The Tillamook State Forest is a temperate rainforest that receives more than 120 inches of rain per year?

Ruby’s Spa & Salon at McMenamins Grand Lodge is a full-service spa offering manicures, pedicures, massage, body wraps and scrubs, facials and much more. Bring a swimsuit to enjoy the outdoor heated mineral soaking pool surrounded by natural rock formations and soothing beautiful green flora.

Ruby’s Spa & Salon is open Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Established in 1973, Tualatin Estate is home to one of the most respected vineyard sites in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Wine grapes from the 145-acre vineyard have produced world-renowned wines for over 40 years. Private tours and tastings, where guests can explore one of the oldest and most historic vineyards in the region, are available by reservation only. The winery, part of Willamette Valley Vineyards, features a tasting room and offers wine-related products and gifts.

Reservations are recommended. Masks are required inside the tasting room, unless seated for service.

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Ironwork Grill, the Grand Lodge’s first-floor restaurant, serves casual meals in a unique and comfortable setting. With many options ranging from hearty steaks and fresh salads to pasta dishes and breakfast favorites, the menu is inspired by a harvest of greens and other edibles from the onsite gardens, all paired with handcrafted ales, wines and spirits. The chef even has four types of mint growing; taste the abundance of flavor that only comes from picking a vegetable or herb and preparing it moments later in the kitchen.

Have a look at the intricate iron scrollwork that gave the spot its name. Antique glass windows provide a view into the past. And on warm days, guests can enjoy dining outdoors in the courtyard for another pleasant view.

Open daily for limited indoor dining, outdoor dining and takeout.

Founded by three Iraq war combat veterans, Dauntless Wine Cø. has a mission to make great wine and serve the Veteran community through charitable contributions. Dauntless’ downtown Forest Grove tasting room features their own wines, and when possible, wine, cider and beer from veteran-made producers around the country. They opened a second tasting room at Old 47 Estate in Gaston in the Spring of 2023.

Outside food and well behaved dogs are welcome at both locations.

1 baseball field, 1 softball field.

Greenville Farms is a small family-owned farm growing a variety of vegetables and fruits as well as selling eggs, jams, and other goodies seasonally. These items can be found at the farm store as well as local Tualatin Valley Farmer’s Markets.

Call for hours and produce availability.

Located in downtown Forest Grove, A Framer’s Touch is filled with jewelry, local wines, chocolate, tea, cards, soaps and lotions, and wall art in a variety of mediums and styles. The shop has one of the widest selection of mouldings in the Portland region and custom picture framing services are available. Visit A Framer’s Touch the first Wednesday of each month to see that month’s featured artist.