Top Must-See Places in Oregon for Healthcare Travelers
If your next travel healthcare assignment has you heading to Oregon, you’re in for an assignment filled with incredible opportunities for adventure. The Pacific Northwest is an ever-popular destination for healthcare travelers – and the Beaver State offers some of the best the PNW offers.
Oregon has something for every type of traveler, from bustling cities to charming small towns, all nestled in stunning natural landscapes. You only need to step outside to immerse yourself in the gorgeous sights.
Healthcare travelers will enjoy breathtaking outdoor activities, exploring the state’s rich cultural scene, and discovering Oregon’s diverse beauty. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up the top Oregon places you don’t want to miss on your assignment.
Must-See Oregon Destinations
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Its clear blue waters are some of the most pristine on Earth, and paired with its craggy surrounding peaks, it’s one of the most stunning places to go sightseeing in Oregon. Wildflowers are abundant in summer, and the park has plenty of lodging and camping. Enjoy the park on your own with a scenic drive or day hike on one of the park’s many trails, or book a boat or trolley tour for a more guided adventure.
In the winter, it offers plenty of skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding opportunities.
Columbia River Gorge
For travelers who love waterfalls, the Columbia River Gorge is a paradise. This gorgeous river canyon divides Oregon and Washington and offers some of the best scenery and activities in the area. Hike the trails to see Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, or one of the many other waterfalls in the area, and enjoy stunning vistas along the Historic Columbia River Highway. If you head west of Astoria, you can witness where the river meets the ocean, an awe-inspiring experience. A trip to Fort Stevenson offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with the real-life shipwreck of the Peter Iredale, one of the many victims of “the graveyard of the Pacific.” The area is also famous for windsurfing and kiteboarding and boasts abundant farm-to-table dining, craft breweries, and wine-tasting opportunities.
Portland
No trip to Oregon is complete without exploring Portland, known for its quirky culture (Keep Portland Weird!), food scene, and lush parks. Visit the famous Powell’s City of Books, explore the vibrant Pearl District, and indulge in a food cart tour. Don’t miss visiting the Portland Saturday Market for unique local artisan goods. Fans of the famous sketch show Portlandia should not miss taking a Portlandia-centric tour to explore some of the many places where the famous sketch show was filmed.
Bend
If you crave outdoor adventures on your travels, Bend is an absolute must-visit. Enjoy mountain biking, kayaking, and skiing at Mt. Bachelor, or take a guided lava tube cave tour. You can even indulge your inner cowboy on a guided horseback tour along the Deschutes River. After a day of adventure, relax at one of Bend’s many craft breweries, as the city is renowned for its beer culture. The town has abundant shopping, museums, art galleries, and parks for a more urban experience.
Willamette Valley
While wine-loving healthcare travelers will appreciate the 700+ wineries in Willamette Valley, the area offers much more than just its world-class Pinot Noir. The valley’s picturesque landscapes make it a perfect escape. Tour the scenic vineyards, partake in wine tastings, and enjoy gourmet farm-to-table dining experiences. There are also plenty of waterfall hikes and other outdoor recreation, culture, and attractions. The annual Willamette Valley Lavender Festival & Plein Air Art Show happens every July, with many U-Pick farms, events, and other ways to enjoy the perennial flower in peak bloom season.
Oregon Coast
The entire Oregon Coast is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Drive along the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, sandboard in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, and explore quaint coastal towns like Newport and Florence. Don’t miss a visit to the Sea Lion Caves, the largest sea cave in America. There are also plenty of places along the way to experience truly unique PNW fun, like crabbing in one of the many bays, visiting the Tillamook Cheese factory, and visiting the Oregon Coast Aquarium, one of the top aquariums in the U.S.
Cannon Beach
If you visit only one place along the coast, Cannon Beach should be it. Known for its towering Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is a charming coastal town with picturesque views and a laid-back vibe – and it’s one of the top attractions in Oregon. Healthcare travelers will enjoy the beachfront shopping center with delicious food options, and the soft, sandy beach is perfect for exploring tide pools and enjoying a day on the beach. It’s an ideal weekend getaway spot.
Ashland
Home to the famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland is a cultural gem. Enjoy world-class theater productions, explore the charming downtown area, and stroll through Lithia Park. The surrounding Rogue Valley also offers excellent wine tasting and outdoor activities.
Mount Hood
Mount Hood offers year-round recreation, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Avid hikers will appreciate exploring this unique piece along the Pacific Crest Trail. Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark, provides stunning views and cozy accommodations. Plus, its exterior was used to represent the Overlook Hotel’s exterior in The Shining, making it a fun spot for horror film buffs. The area also has plenty of camping and hiking, including sites near some stunning waterfalls.
Silver Falls State Park
Known as the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, Silver Falls State Park is another must-visit for waterfall lovers. The Trail of Ten Falls is a stunning hike that takes you behind (yes, behind!) several waterfalls, offering a unique perspective and plenty of photo opportunities. The park also has an abundance of wildlife, lush foliage, and rocky canyons.
Travel With TNAA
Whether you take an assignment in one of these destinations or add them to a weekend getaway, these Oregon gems will provide unique and memorable experiences on your healthcare travel or travel nurse journey.
When you travel with TNAA, you’re traveling with an agency that supports you every step of the way. Housing, credentialing, benefits, sick leave – we’ve got you covered. All you need to do is pack your bags and decide where you’re headed.
Ready to make Oregon your next travel healthcare destination? Check out our travel nursing jobs in Oregon and apply today!
