Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Beaverton, Oregon and Tigard, Oregon

The Pacific Northwest offers magnificent views that vary from rugged coastlines to dense forests to peaceful meadows. A unique way to experience this breathtaking scenery is through a day trip that starts in Beaverton, Oregon, and ends in Tigard, Oregon. The journey is just over 18 miles, taking approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic.

The drive goes through a mixture of urban and rural landscapes, providing a chance to explore both without having to go far from Portland. The route takes one through some of the most prominent suburbs in the Portland Metro area, Hillsboro's agricultural areas, and natural landscapes on the west side of Portland. The following are five unexpected places where one should stop during the trip to enjoy the scenery, culture, and perhaps grab a bite to eat.

1. Beaverton Farmers Market (12375 SW 5th St, Beaverton, OR)

A tribute to the area's agriculture industry, the Beaverton Farmers Market offers more than fresh, locally grown products. There are 100 vendors, including farmers, florists, bakeries, and artisans. The market runs on Saturdays from 9 am to 1:30 pm. The market sells everything, from meats, cheeses, and fruits to handmade crafts. Visitors could explore the market's diverse offerings, sample some of the unique offerings, and know why the Pacific Northwest is known for its farm-to-table cuisine.

The market's food scene offers plenty of options to cater to a broad range of palates and cuisines from different cultures. One of the favorite foods in the market includes breakfast sandwiches made of honey biscuits, fried eggs, cheese, bacon bits, and avocados from Biscuits Cafe.

2. Jenkins Estate (8005 SW Grabhorn Rd, Beaverton, OR)

A 68-acre estate that could transport visitors back in time to the 1910s. Visitors could tour the Edwardian-style mansion that sits amidst acres of hiking space, gardens, and greenery. It's a perfect place to stop and stretch your legs with dog-friendly trails. With free admission and self-guided tours, visitors could visit the Jenkins Estate and explore the history and era of the property.

A favorite food to eat at the estate is a bag of ready-to-eat kale salad from Panera. Hikers could enjoy the light delight after a long walk around the estate.

3. Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve (2600 SW Hillsboro Hwy, Hillsboro, OR)

The 635-acre nature park offers peaceful and natural wetland habitats for various avian and plant species, which visitors could observe and explore. The nature trails are accessible all year round, and an interpreters' station is open whenever the facility is open. Visitors could also attend guided bird walks, free of charge at 8 am on Saturdays.

Feeling a bit famished after exploring the vast wetland preserve? No need to worry as visitors could grab a quick bite of food of some of the best Thai food in the area at Cha Ba Thai.

4. Scouter's Mountain Nature Park (SE Scouters Mtn Rd, Beaverton, OR)

The park offers a perfect blend of pastoral landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. Visitors could step back into nature and enjoy 850 acres of land developed for outdoor activities. There are over five miles of hiking trails that loop through the mountains, offering a stunning view of the Portland Metro area. The park offers a unique birding opportunity, with sightings of more than 100 bird species.

A perfect food to snack on while at Scouters Mountain Nature Park is a Mocha John chocolatier bar from Elka's Chocolates.

5. Garden Home Recreation Center and Swim Club (7475 SW Oleson Rd, Portland, OR)

The recreation and swim club offers a perfect opportunity for families to unwind and relax while still enjoying outdoor recreational activities. The facilities include picnic tables, kids' playgrounds, and a swim club with a kiddie pool, and lap swimming areas. The club is open all year round, and guests could access the facilities through reservations.

The perfect food to eat while enjoying the club's facilities is a Subway sandwich made from meatball marinara.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a day trip away from the big city, then touring from Beaverton to Tigard, Oregon, offers some of the best natural landscapes, combined with a bottomless food scene. The journey is just over 18 miles, taking approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic. With the five unexpected places listed above, visitors could explore some of the area's most prominent natural and agricultural attractions. Visitors could also sample some of the area's highly-rated and affordable foods and drinks while enjoying the natural scenery. So, plan a day trip from Beaverton to Tigard, Oregon, and embark on an adventure of a lifetime!