Don’t Let the Sun Set on Summer!
Our Oregon Summer is Sneaking Away and the quieter days of fall are fast approaching. Exploring Oregon at the end of summer feels like you have the whole state to yourself. September and October are great times to visit our great state if you prefer a slower pace. Take a quiet hike, chase a waterfall, discover Oregon.
You’ve been waiting for this quieter Oregon for some time. Here are some of the best outdoor activities in Oregon where you can linger and explore… and you’re unlikely to find crowds! If you want to revel in the great outdoors and have a great time, here are the top five picks from locals in-the-know.
1. Go Chase Waterfalls
One of the best outdoor activities, particularly on a hot day, is to hike to a waterfall and feel the cool mist on your face. You’ll get a workout, soak in some Vitamin-D, and marvel at the beauty of nature. Not sure which waterfall or where to begin? View a digital map to some of Oregon’s most stunning waterfalls here.
2. Cycle Along an Oregon Bike Trail
Did you know Oregon has the ONLY Scenic Bikeway program in the United States? There are 17 scenic bikeways in Oregon! Get ready to ride across desert highways, pedal past geological wonders, and marvel at the sea.
Oregon loves bicyclists. That’s why it’s the first state in the nation to create a Bike Friendly Business program geared toward travelers. And many properties of Oregon Association of Independent Inns participate. It serves as a recognition and training program aimed to:
- Help tourism-related businesses understand the importance of Oregon’s growing bicycle tourism industry
- Provide tips and tools for how businesses can be Bike Friendly
- Highlight businesses who commit to enhancing the Oregon biking experience for visitors and Oregonians
For a detailed list with information and useful links on all the Oregon bikeways, click here.
3. Nibble Your Way Across Oregon State
Visit farms, wineries, fruit stands, and more along the many Oregon food trails. Savor our various Indigenous foods. If you’d rather head to one destination with several food options, consider these Portland food cart pods or these food carts and food trucks dotting the state. While you’re at it, check out our many wineries and vineyards!
4. Reenact Scenes from Oregon Movies
Did you know that many movies have been filmed in Oregon over the years? It’s true! We also have the Oregon Film Trail, a film museum, and lots of movie locations you can scout first-hand. Some have plaques to commemorate movie scenes and others are more on the down-low. Learn more about Oregon movie locations you may visit here!
5. Put Your Feet in Ruts Left by Pioneer Wagons
Visit various outdoor historical sites and brush up on your Pioneer history in a really fun and engaging way.
Looking for more ideas on unique things to do in Oregon? Click here to print an Oregon Bucket List and check the items off as you go!
Oregon Association of Independent Inns are ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved member of the Oregon Association of Independent Inns.
Gift certificates are no longer available for purchase through our organization. We encourage you to contact our member inns directly to purchase gift certificates.
If You Currently Hold an OAII or OBBG Gift Certificate:
- Your gift certificate does not expire
- Certificates may be redeemed at participating Oregon Association of Independent Inns properties.
Thank you for supporting Oregon’s Independent Inns and lodging properties over the years. We’re grateful to everyone who has shared the gift of lodging through the OAII Lodging Gift Voucher Program.
As of June 1, 2026, the Oregon Association of Independent (formerly the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild – OBBG) discontinued the program, and gift certificates are no longer available for sale. However, existing gift certificates remain valid and may still be redeemed.
The Oregon Association offers a wide variety of inns, from a small guest cottage or two-room bed and breakfast to a larger country inn or dude ranch. If you need assistance locating a participating property or have difficulty redeeming your certificate, please contact us—we’re happy to help.
Important Notes:
- All OAII properties accept association gift certificates. Click here to view participating properties.
- Gift certificates are treated as cash and cannot be replaced if lost, stolen, or destroyed.
- Certificates may only be redeemed at active OAII properties
- Individual property policies apply, including restrictions on availability, packages, or special offers.
Questions or Assistance:
If you have questions about redeeming a gift certificate or need help planning your stay, please contact E-mail info@obbg.org or call OAII at 503-893-4210. Please leave a message as this line is monitored by our busy innkeepers.
Since 1989, the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild has served as a statewide information network for its member properties, providing a unified voice for the industry with state regulatory and tourism agencies.
Now known as The Oregon Association of Independent Inns, we’re the same trusted organization, with a new name, a fresh look, and an expanded focus on independent lodging properties beyond traditional bed and breakfasts. Member properties represent a wide range of accommodations, from small guest cottages, cabins, and intimate two-room B&Bs to larger country inns, boutique hotels and dude ranches.
