Best Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Astoria, Oregon to Forest Grove, Oregon

Are you planning a weekend getaway with your friends and family? Do you want to explore the natural beauty of Oregon? If yes, then pack your bags, rent a car, and hit the road from Astoria to Forest Grove. This scenic road trip is approximately a two-hour drive and will take you from the rugged Oregon coast to the lush countryside. The drive is full of breathtaking views, quaint towns, and hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. In this blog post, we've compiled a list of the top places to see when driving from Astoria, Oregon to Forest Grove, Oregon.

Fort Stevens State Park

The first stop on our list is Fort Stevens State Park. A 25-minute drive from Astoria will take you to this stunning park that stretches over 4,200 acres. The park has a rich history and was established in 1908 to protect the mouth of the Columbia River. Visitors can explore the remnants of historic military fortifications dating back to the Civil War era. The park also has a beautiful beach, hiking trails, bike paths, and an inland freshwater lake perfect for kayaking and fishing.

Cannon Beach

Drive another 30 minutes south, and you'll arrive at Cannon Beach, one of the most iconic beaches in the Pacific Northwest. This small town is known for its long sandy beach, stunning rock formations, and the famous Haystack Rock. Visitors can explore the tide pools, fly a kite, or take a long walk along the beach. The town has many shops, galleries, and restaurants to satisfy your cravings.

Tillamook Cheese Factory

If you are a cheese lover, then make sure to stop at Tillamook Cheese Factory, a 40-minute drive from Cannon Beach. This factory produces award-winning cheese, ice cream, and other dairy products. Visitors can take a guided tour of the facility, learn about the cheese-making process, and sample the various flavors of cheese and ice cream.

Cape Lookout State Park

Another 30 minutes' drive from the Tillamook Cheese Factory will take you to Cape Lookout State Park. This park is located on a sand spit between Netarts Bay and the ocean, and its hiking trails provide some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline. Visitors can camp, hike, fish, or just relax on the beach. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, whales, and eagles.

McMinnville

The final stop on our list is McMinnville, a charming town located in the heart of Willamette Valley, known for its excellent wineries, quaint downtown, and world-class restaurants. A 40-minute drive from Cape Lookout State Park will take you to this hidden gem. Visitors can explore the tasting rooms of some of the best wineries in the region, such as Domaine Serene and Argyle Winery. The town is also home to the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, which houses Howard Hughes' famous Spruce Goose plane.

Conclusion

The road trip from Astoria to Forest Grove is a journey worth taking. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, cheese connoisseur, or wine enthusiast, this drive has something to offer for everyone. From the rugged coastline to the lush countryside, you'll experience the best of Oregon's natural beauty. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, rent a car, and hit the road!