Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Albany, Oregon and Riddle, Oregon

Albany, Oregon is located in the Willamette Valley, just off of Interstate 5. From there, Riddle, Oregon is just over two hours away, located in Douglas County. This road trip offers stunning views of mountains, valleys and fields of wildflowers. Throughout the drive, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, including the halfway point, Cottage Grove, OR. Here are the top five things to do along this scenic road trip.

1. Visit the Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery

The Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery is a must-see attraction, located just outside of Gold Hill, OR. This unusual spot is home to an area where the laws of physics don't seem to apply. Visitors can witness the strange behaviors of balls rolling uphill, brooms standing on their own, and bodies appearing to change in size. Even the height of visitors appears to change as they move about the area. This is a unique experience that can't be explained by science.

Interesting fact: The Oregon Vortex was discovered in 1930 by a miner and his pet dog.

2. Hike Multnomah Falls Trail

Multnomah Falls Trail is a picturesque hiking trail located near the city of Cascade Locks, OR. This trail is suitable for all skill levels, making it a perfect destination for families. The trail offers scenic views of the Columbia River and surrounding forests, and leads to a beautiful waterfall that drops over 600 feet. The waterfall is a popular destination for tourists, and is visited by over two million visitors each year.

Interesting fact: Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and the second tallest year-round waterfall in the United States.

3. Explore the Deepwood Estate

The Deepwood Estate is a stunningly beautiful home and garden located in Salem, OR. This home has an impressive history, dating back to the late 1800s, and has been carefully restored to its former glory. Visitors can take a guided tour of the estate, learning about the area's rich history and the famous people who once called it home. The property is open year-round, and features beautiful gardens that are perfect for picnics and strolls.

Interesting fact: The Deepwood Estate was once the home of Oregon Governor T.T. Geer.

4. Take the Rogue River Jet Boat Trip

The Rogue River in southern Oregon is known for its beautiful scenery, wildlife, and whitewater rapids. One of the best ways to experience this river is by taking the Rogue River Jet Boat trip. This trip is just over 80 miles long and lasts about five hours. Along the way, visitors will be able to see wildlife such as bald eagles, black bears, and river otters, as well as the beautiful scenery of the Rogue River Valley.

Interesting fact: The Rogue River has been designated as a National Wild and Scenic River, and is home to over 200 species of birds.

5. Visit the Wildlife Safari

The Wildlife Safari is a unique experience that offers visitors the opportunity to see animals up close and in their natural habitat. The sightseeing drive takes visitors through over 600 acres of terrain that is home to over 500 animals. Guests can expect to see everything from rhinos, giraffes, lions, and tigers to camels, zebras, and cheetahs. This is an unforgettable experience that is perfect for animal lovers of all ages.

Interesting fact: The Safari Village at the Wildlife Safari offers visitors the chance to hand-feed giraffes!

This road trip takes approximately four hours each way, with plenty of places to stop along the way. The halfway point, Cottage Grove, OR is a charming town that offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities. This road trip is the perfect way to see the beauty of Oregon and all it has to offer. So, pack up the car and hit the road for an adventure that you won't forget.