Romantic Getaways Near Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon has been called North America's Best Big City by Money magazine for it's natural beauty, world class dining and arts, bustling city scene and welcoming accommodations. Portland has lots of offer and there is certainly something here for everyone. One of the best things about Portland is it's proximity to a wide variety of fun and romantic weekend getaways. Valentine's Day is the perfect time to explore some of Oregon's most romantic locations.

Within just 90 minutes from downtown Portland, you could be hiking to the top of North America's second tallest year round waterfall, or strolling along a scenic beach. Take someone you love on a romantic weekend getaway to one of these beautiful and tranquil Oregon locales.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach has one of the most beautiful beaches in Oregon. Multiple sea stack rocks dot the beach, including Haystack Rock, the 3^rd largest coastal monolith in the world. Explore tide pools to try and spot crab, sea stars, anemones and other sea life. Pick up a kite at one of the shops in town and fly it on the beach, or simply sit and watch the waves roll in.

Cannon Beach has some of the best crafts, shopping and galleries on the Oregon Coast. The city was planned with walkers in mind and strict building regulations require all the buildings to have similar, rustic look and feel. Stop to browse a quaint book shop or sit for snack at a coffee shop. When you are ready to eat something more substantial, you will find a great selection of restaurants.

There is plenty of lodging available at Cannon Beach, including bed and breakfasts and vacation home rentals. Winter is a perfect time to get the best rates on your accommodations.

Astoria

Astoria, Oregon sits at the mouth of the Columbia River and is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. With hundreds of Victorian homes perched on the steep hills, a revitalized downtown area and a vivid backdrop of natural beauty, Astoria has been called "Little San Francisco of the Pacific Northwest."

Astoria has a large Scandinavian heritage, a little of which can be sampled at the local bakeries. You can also visit one of the many museums and learn about Astoria's rich history and it's official status as the end of the Lewis and Clark Trail. Just minutes from Astoria are a multitude of attractions including Fort Stevens, Fort Clatsop, Fort Astoria, Flavel House Museum and the Astoria Maritime Museum, home to one of the nation's finest displays of model ships and nautical artifacts.

There is no lack of great accommodations in Astoria from comfortable bed and breakfasts, to the Cannery Pier Hotel, an upscale hotel situated on a dock that stretches 700 feet into the Columbia River.

Multnomah Falls

For a quick trip from the hustle and bustle of downtown Portland, head East out the Columbia River Gorge to Multnomah Falls. Multnomah Falls is the second tallest year round waterfall in North America and has a wide, paved walking trail up to the top of the falls. The walk is mildly strenuous and will definitely leave most feeling out of breath by the time they reach the top of the falls. Part way up the trail, there is a turn off for bridge which extends across the falls. This spot offers not only a great observation point, but also the perfect scenery to snap a few photos.

When you are done with your hike, head to the Multnomah Falls Lodge. Built in 1925, this amazing stone building has a restaurant, but no overnight lodging. Serving North West cuisine, diners can enjoy a view of the Falls right from their table. Sundays from 8am to 2pm, the lodge restaurant offers a champagne brunch at $19.95 for adults.

McMenamins Edgefield

McMenamins Edgefield, located in Troutdale, Oregon, just 20 minutes from downtown Portland. This destination resort combines the natural beauty of it surrounding area with the fun and whimsy associated with the McMenamins signature style. Built in an original 1911 building, the Edgefield has over 100 European-styled bed and breakfast rooms, each with out a single telephone or television.

To round out your tranquil and relaxing stay at the Edgefield, book a massage at the spa, catch a movie at the movie theater or tour their winery. Of course they also have several restaurants to choose from, gardens and pools for a quiet stroll, gift shops and their own micro brewery.

This is the perfect location for a romantic weekend getaway.