Approximately 60 miles outside of Portland, Oregon sits an outdoor adventure and foodie paradise. It's a beautiful place that's overflowing with farm fresh produce, wineries, breweries, river sports, and more. Here are some of the favoritethings to do in Hood River, Oregon.
This post was originally published on March 14, 2017. It has since been updated with new information, more travel tips, and new photos, and was last republished on July 15, 2025.
Adventure. Wine. Lavender. And, of course, food trucks.
Growing up in Portland, Oregon, the town of Hood River has long been one of the favorite day trips. Sitting on the Columbia Gorge approximately 60 miles east of Portland, it offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're into heart-pumping adventures or simply want to chill with wine and cheese on a lavender farm, Hood River is for you.
We'm excited to share some of the favorite spots in this beautiful Oregon town. We hope you'll fall in love with Hood River, too!
[feast_advanced_jump_to]About Hood River, Oregon
This scenic Pacific Northwest town is one of those magical places where mountains, rivers, and vineyards all come together.
Because Hood River is in-between the city of Portland and the state's iconic mountain, Mount Hood, many travelers come here to take advantage of its outdoor activities.
Windsurfers zip across the river. Hikers head for the hills. And mountain bikers? They're living their best lives.
But don't worry—if your idea of "adventure" is sipping a cold IPA while watching the action, Hood River has you covered, too.
This is, at its heart, still quite much an agriculture-driven area. It's a place where fourth and fifth generation families still farm. And the farmers here continue to produce some of the state's tastiest apples, pears, cherries, and multitudes of other fresh fruits and vegetables.
Meanwhile, the city center has grown so much. With more and more craft breweries, restaurants, and wineries deciding to call Hood River home.
✨ Pro tips for your visit
- Best time to go? June through October is prime. Think wildflowers, cherries, and sunny skies.
- Wear layers. The weather changes fast—especially near the water, where it can get quite windy.
- Weekends can be busy. Book wine tastings and dinner reservations ahead of time.
- Love taking pics? Sunset at Panorama Point is a must.
- Bring a picnic blanket. Comes in handy whether you decide to spend some time at the waterfront, on the river's sandy shores, or at one of the town's many stops along the Fruit Loop.
- Bring comfy shoes.
Soak up the sun on the waterfront
Kick things off at Hood River Waterfront Park. Located simply off of Interstate 84 Columbia River Highway, at exit 62, this area is popular among locals and tourists alike.
You can walk along the river, chill, people-watch, or simply stare at the river (it's truly pretty).
Here, on almost any given day, you can sit and watch masses of windsurfers and kiteboarders.
Hood River Waterfront Park has tons of fun play structures for kids of all ages. There are tunnels the kids can run through, bridges they can cross, webs they can climb, and a large xylophone We've seen adults play more than kids.
There's also a large climbing rock on top of a softened turf. It truly is the perfect place to let the kids play off some energy while parents soak up the beauty of the Hood River waterfront.
There is also a small beach with shallow wading area. It's a fun spot to cool off on hot summer days.
Food trucks are parked nearby serving everything from Mexican food to Korean BBQ. The vibes? Relaxed and breezy.
Craving a good beer? Head to Pfriem Family Brewers right by the water. Their Belgian-style beers are top-notch, and the food is great too—think burgers, seasonal salads, and soft pretzels.
Grab a table outside and soak up those Columbia River views. It's one of the favorite places to eat and drink in Hood River, Oregon.
Follow the Fruit Loop
Leave some time to explore the Hood River Fruit Loop! No, not the cereal—this is a 35-mile scenic drive around farms, orchards, wineries, and flower fields. It's one of the personal favorite things to do in Hood River!
- Stop by The Gorge White House for cider, sandwiches, and stunning gardens.
- Visit Hood River Lavender Farm (or Hope Ranch) in July when the fields are bursting with purple blooms.
- Pick cherries at Draper Girls Country Farm—bonus: they have goats, cider, and one of the best swings with a view of Mt. Hood.
- Swing by Kiyokawa Orchards in the fall for apples and picnics with a view.
Bring your camera. Bring your appetite. And maybe a cooler for all the fruit you're about to buy!
Simply follow the Hood River Fruit Loop map online (fellow Gen Xers, you go ahead and print out that map like We do. It's okay), and select a few places you'd like to visit. Then hop in the car for a fun day trip!
Stroll downtown Hood River
Downtown Hood River is cute in all the best ways.
Stroll along Oak Street and check out the local boutiques, bookstores, and local shops.
Pop into Edeske Patisserie for flaky croissants and drool-worthy desserts and your morning mocha.
Indulge in local cuisine
When you're ready for something more filling, grab dinner at Celilo Restaurant. Their menu changes with the seasons, but it's always fresh, local, and tasty.
Other foodie favorites: Broder Øst for Scandinavian brunch (pictured above, left).
And check out Solstice for wood-fired pizza and river views (pictured above, right).
Most cafes and restaurants are casual, but there are a few where you can dress up if you're feeling a little fancy.
Most breweries and restaurants in Hood River are also family-friendly!
🍷 Sip, swirl, and soak up vineyard views
Hood River is home to more than 40 wineries and quite a few breweries. This area tends to produce wonderful red wines, but there are also some stand out white wines and rosés as well.
Stop in for a tasting at Phelps Creek Vineyards or hit up Marchesi, Stave & Stone, or Mt. Hood Winery. Each one has something special—views, vibes, and varietals.
Enjoy a pint
Want something more casual? Hood River is also a haven for craft beer, with more breweries opening up locations in this destination town. Currently, there are five main breweries in central Hood River, with a few more in surrounding towns.
Grab a flight at Double Mountain Brewery, Full Sale Brewing, or Ferment Brewing. Both have great food, riverfront seating, and quite chill energ
Chill out with some cider
In the land of incredibly fresh apples, it's no surprise that there are some great cideries in Hood River. The Gorge White House is the favorite spot to try local house made ciders. You can read about it and view more photos in the recent post.
How to get to Hood River
Hood River, Oregon is about 60 miles from the Portland International Airport. To drive here from Portland, simply head east on Interstate 84 toward Mount Hood. Depending on your final destination in town, you'll want to take Exit 62, 63, or 64.
For more information about Hood River, Oregon, visit the Hood River Chamber of Commerce or Travel Oregon.
Hood River FAQs
Mid-June to early October is ideal. That's when fruit is ripe, flowers are blooming, and the weather is sunny.
Is Hood River family-friendly?Absolutely! We've been bringing our own kids to Hood River since they were toddlers. Between the waterfront park, u-pick farms, and casual restaurants, it's perfect for kids.
Do We need a car to get around Hood River?Yes. Most farms, wineries, and hikes are spread out along the Fruit Loop. A car makes it way easier.
Is Hood River a dog friendly place?Many places are dog-friendly—especially outdoor breweries and farms. Simply check individual rules before you go.
What is Hood River known for?Wind sports, stunning Gorge views, fruit orchards, local wine and beer, and seriously good food.
More Oregon travel
- A Weekend in the Columbia River Gorge: Where to Eat, Drink, and Stay Between Hood River and The Dalles
- Why Kann is still one of the best restaurants in Portland, Oregon
- Evening Land Vineyards
- Oregon Sparkling Wine Celebration: Method Oregon
This post was originally published on March 14, 2017. It has since been updated with new information, more travel tips, and new photos, and was last republished on July 15, 2025.
