As far as states go, Oregon is about as diverse as it gets. If you go west, you’ll run into the ocean and see some of the prettiest beaches in the Pacific Northwest. But, if you travel east, you’ll experience deserts and prairies. It’s no wonder that many settlers wound up at Oregon City.
Situated just south of Portland and slightly northeast of the comfy, family-friendly city of Wilsonville with scenic nature parks, Oregon City is also known as “Oregon’s Hometown.” It was the landing point for settlers on the Oregon Trail, marking both the end of a long journey and the beginning of a new life. While you don’t have to come to Oregon City on a covered wagon (or risk dying of dysentery), there’s still plenty to explore, especially if you’re trying to avoid Portland crowds. Here, you can enjoy the river, learn more about the city’s history, and knock back a pint or two.
Why Oregon City is considered Oregon’s hometown
Oregon City became the first incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains way back in 1844, before Oregon was a state and well before Portland was even an idea. The spot was chosen thanks to its position next to the river and at the base of Willamette Falls. It reigned as the capital of the Oregon Territory until 1852, when Salem took its place. As the first official city in the state, Oregon City holds a special place among residents and historians. You can learn more about its history and founding at places like the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center or the Museum of the Oregon Territory.
However, history is just one of the many reasons to put Oregon City on your travel itinerary. If you’re looking for fabulous sights, one of the best options is to ride up the Municipal Elevator, which was first built in 1915. The elevator makes it easier to move between the city’s two charming levels. The lower level is next to the river, densely packed with brick buildings that make up the city’s downtown area. The upper level allows you to reach the rest of the city and is more spread out and modern. Here, you can see historical sites like the McLoughlin House, the Stevens-Crawford House, and the Francis Ermatinger House.
What to do when visiting Oregon City
