Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brooks, Oregon to Portland, Oregon

Are you looking for a new adventure or a unique road trip? Look no further than the drive from Brooks, Oregon, to Portland, Oregon. This scenic drive offers several unexpected places to stop for an unforgettable experience. The entire trip takes approximately 50 minutes, but visitors are encouraged to take their time and explore the various towns and attractions along the way.

Halfway Point: Aurora, OR

Located almost halfway between Brooks and Portland is the charming town of Aurora, Oregon. This historic town is home to many antique shops, making it the perfect place for visitors who enjoy buying and collecting antiques. Aurora also offers unique dining experiences for visitors to enjoy.

1. Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm: This family-owned tulip farm boasts acres of vibrant tulips that bloom during the spring. Visitors can take a scenic walk or ride through the fields, or simply admire the colorful blooms. The farm also hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Wooden Shoe Tulip Fest, which includes food vendors, wine tastings, and live music. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the natural beauty of the tulips. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food, but the farm offers a variety of food and beverage vendors, including Dutch sausages and Oregon beer.

2. Enchanted Forest Theme Park: Located in Turner, a short drive off the I-5, the Enchanted Forest Theme Park is a family-friendly park that offers fun and excitement for both children and adults. The park features several themed sections, such as the Western Town, Pirates' Harbor, and Storybook Lane. Enchanted Forest also has a variety of carnival-style rides, including a roller coaster, carousel, and teacups. Visitors can enjoy traditional American fare, such as hot dogs and hamburgers.

3. Silver Falls State Park: This park is located just thirty minutes away from Aurora and offers incredible hikes and stunning waterfalls to explore. The Trail of Ten Falls is a must-do hike, where visitors can see ten breathtaking waterfalls. The park also has a variety of picnic areas and campsites, making it a great place to spend the weekend. Visitors can bring their own food and picnic gear, or purchase food from the South Falls Cafe, which offers soups, sandwiches, and salads.

4. Oregon Garden: Located in Silverton, Oregon, the Oregon Garden is a botanical garden that features over 80 acres of plants and trees. Visitors can stroll through the various themed gardens, such as the Children's Garden, Conifer Garden, and Rose Garden. The garden also offers events and workshops throughout the year, such as the Brewfest, which features local beers and food vendors. The garden has a cafe that offers a variety of food options, such as soups, sandwiches, and salads.

5. Tillikum Crossing: Before reaching Portland, visitors can take a quick detour off the I-5 to cross the Tilikum Crossing. This pedestrian and bicycle bridge offers incredible views of the city skyline and the Willamette River. The bridge was designed to be environmentally friendly and offers visitors a unique perspective of the city while promoting healthy and sustainable modes of transportation. Visitors can bring their own food and enjoy a picnic on the bridge, or explore nearby restaurants like Eat Adventures.

The drive from Brooks to Portland offers an array of unexpected places to stop and explore. Visitors can take their time along the way and enjoy the unique dining and entertainment options available. Whether you are looking to admire vibrant tulips, explore waterfalls, or simply enjoy a stroll through a botanical garden, this scenic drive has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Grab the car keys and hit the road for a memorable adventure.