Washington County, Oregon Travel Guide

Discover Washington County, Oregon: A blend of scenic vineyards, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Willamette Valley.

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Washington County

Nestled in the lush Willamette Valley, Washington County is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. Known for its scenic landscapes, it offers a unique blend of verdant vineyards, rolling hills, and charming small towns. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely drive through the countryside, stopping at local wineries that produce some of the finest Pinot Noir in the region. The area's agricultural heritage is evident in its numerous farmers' markets, where you can savor fresh, locally grown produce and artisanal goods. Washington County is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge provides a serene setting for bird-watching, hiking, and photography. Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States, offers miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. For those who enjoy a more leisurely pace, the Banks-Vernonia State Trail is perfect for a scenic bike ride or stroll through the countryside. The county's cultural attractions are equally compelling. The Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals is a must-visit for geology enthusiasts, showcasing a stunning collection of crystals, fossils, and meteorites. History buffs will appreciate the Five Oaks Museum, which delves into the region's diverse heritage through engaging exhibits and programs. Washington County's vibrant arts scene is showcased in its many galleries, theaters, and public art installations, providing ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or foodie, Washington County has something to offer everyone. Its warm and welcoming communities make it a delightful destination for a weekend getaway or an extended stay.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Washington County.

Visit during the fall for stunning foliage and harvest festivals.
Check local farmers' markets for seasonal produce and handmade crafts.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring trails and parks.
Book winery tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Keep an eye on local event calendars for cultural festivals and art shows.

Explore Washington County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Washington County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Vista House at Crown Point

Experience unparalleled views and rich history at Vista House, a premier landmark in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.

4.8

Oxbow Regional Park

Discover the serene beauty of Oxbow Regional Park in Gresham, Oregon, an ideal destination for outdoor adventure and relaxation by the Sandy River.

4.6

Washougal Waterfront Park

Explore the beautiful Washougal Waterfront Park, a serene escape along the Columbia River with trails, picnic spots, and breathtaking views.

4.7

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

Experience a nostalgic journey on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, a scenic gem in Washington showcasing the rich history of railroads and breathtaking landscapes.

4.6

Best landmarks in Washington County

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Crater Lake National Park

Explore Crater Lake National Park, a stunning natural gem in Oregon, known for its deep blue waters and breathtaking volcanic landscapes.

4.9

Vista House at Crown Point

Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Vista House at Crown Point, a stunning landmark in the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon.

4.8

National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

Explore the rich history of the Oregon Trail at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, a must-visit for history enthusiasts in Baker City.

4.7

Fort Rock State Natural Area

Explore the unique geological formations and rich history of Fort Rock State Natural Area, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Oregon.

4.6

Best restaurants in Washington County

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Cowboy Dinner Tree

Experience rustic American cuisine in Silver Lake at Cowboy Dinner Tree – where hearty meals meet stunning natural beauty.

4.9

Tumalo Feed Co. Steakhouse

Experience the best steak and seafood at Tumalo Feed Co. Steakhouse in picturesque Tumalo, Oregon.

4.5

Tollgate Inn Restaurant & Saloon

Discover family-friendly dining at Tollgate Inn Restaurant & Saloon in Sandy, Oregon - where comfort food meets local charm!

4.3

Riverview Restaurant

Experience exquisite Pacific Northwestern and Asian fusion cuisine at Riverview Restaurant with breathtaking river views in Troutdale, Oregon.

4.4

Best bars in Washington County

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Washington Dining & Cocktails

Experience the best of American cuisine and cocktails at Washington Dining & Cocktails in Bend, Oregon, where every bite is a delight.

4.4

Manley's Tavern

Discover the flavors of Crescent Lake at Manley's Tavern, where delicious chicken dishes and a cozy atmosphere await you.

4.5

Bigfoot Tavern

Discover the laid-back charm of Bigfoot Tavern, a welcoming bar in Crescent, Oregon, offering local brews and a vibrant atmosphere for tourists.

4.5

Chester's Pub

Discover Chester's Pub in Boring, Oregon, where great drinks meet a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after exploring the stunning surroundings.

4.6

Best shops in Washington County

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The Bend Store

Explore unique Bend souvenirs at The Bend Store - a charming gift shop showcasing local crafts and treasures in the heart of Oregon.

4.7

Spruce Gifts & Provisions---Owned & Operated by Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Discover local crafts and unique gifts at Spruce Gifts & Provisions, celebrating Oregon's natural beauty and wildlife conservation efforts.

4.6

Faveur Eclectic Unique Boutique

Explore Faveur Eclectic Unique Boutique in Sisters, Oregon for chic clothing and unique accessories that capture local style and artistry.

5.0

etc. a unique boutique

Explore Etc. A Unique Boutique in John Day, Oregon, for a curated selection of gifts, local crafts, and unique treasures that reflect the spirit of the region.

5.0

Explore Washington County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Washington County, mapped for you.

Washington County Essentials

Washington County, Oregon, is easily accessible from Portland, which is the nearest major city with an international airport, Portland International Airport (PDX). From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service to travel to Washington County, which is about a 30-minute drive away. Public transportation options include the TriMet MAX Light Rail, which connects Portland to various parts of Washington County.
Washington County offers a variety of transportation options. The TriMet MAX Light Rail and bus services are convenient for getting around the county and into Portland. For more flexibility, renting a car is a great option, especially if you plan to explore the scenic countryside or visit multiple attractions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available. Biking is another popular mode of transport, with many dedicated bike lanes and trails.
The official currency in Washington County, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are readily available throughout the county. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also commonly accepted.
Washington County is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep your belongings secure. Areas like Hillsboro and Beaverton are very safe, but it is always good to stay vigilant, particularly at night. Crime rates targeting tourists are low, but it's advisable to avoid poorly lit or unfamiliar areas after dark.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Washington County has several hospitals and urgent care centers, including the Tuality Community Hospital in Hillsboro and the Kaiser Permanente Westside Medical Center in Hillsboro. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the county for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but opt for smarter attire if dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect all places of worship. While there are no specific dress codes, modest attire is advisable when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful to fellow passengers and follow the rules posted on public transport. Don't play loud music or take up more than one seat. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. It's common to use first names even in professional settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine and craft beers. Don't tip less than 15% at restaurants, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Washington County like a local, visit the farmers' markets in Beaverton and Hillsboro for fresh produce and local crafts. Explore the beautiful parks and nature reserves, such as the Tualatin Hills Nature Park. Don't miss out on the local wineries in the Tualatin Valley, which offer tours and tastings. Engage with locals at community events and festivals to get a true sense of the area's culture and hospitality.

When is the best time to visit Washington County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Washington County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Washington County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHi
  [hai]
- GoodbyeSee you later
  [si yu layter]
- YesYeah
  [yeh]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [shur thing]
- Thank youThanks
  [thangks]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry about that
  [sorree abowt that]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [how's it goin?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [gud. yu?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [do yu speek ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [i dont get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [can i see the men-yu?]
- I don't eat meatI'm a vegetarian
  [im a vege-tarian]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [can i get the chek?]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Leave me alone!
  [leev me alon]
- Call the Police!Call 911!
  [call nine-one-one]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [get a doktor]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [im lost]
- I'm illI'm not feeling well
  [im not feelin wel]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [i want to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brow-zing]
- How much is it?What's the price?
  [whats the price?]
- That's too expensiveThat's way too much
  [thats way too much]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do any better?
  [can yu do any better?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [whats time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's 1 o'clock
  [its one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fiv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nyn]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [can yu point it out?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [whens the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [a tiket to...]

History of Washington County

Long before European settlers arrived, the Tualatin band of the Kalapuya Native Americans inhabited the area that is now Washington County. They lived in a series of villages and were known for their sophisticated use of controlled burns to manage the land and encourage the growth of camas root, an important food source. Their cultural practices and deep connection to the land laid the foundation for the region's history.
In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive in the Tualatin Valley, attracted by the fertile land and the promise of new opportunities. The first significant wave of settlers came via the Oregon Trail in the 1840s. These pioneers established farms and small communities, transforming the landscape and setting the stage for future development.
Washington County was officially established on July 5, 1843, as part of the original Oregon Country. It was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States. Initially, the county covered a much larger area, but its boundaries were gradually reduced as new counties were created. The county quickly became a hub for agriculture, particularly wheat and fruit orchards.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century had a transformative impact on Washington County. The Oregon and California Railroad, completed in 1871, connected the county to Portland and other major markets. This facilitated the transportation of agricultural products and encouraged further settlement and economic growth. Towns like Hillsboro and Forest Grove grew rapidly as a result.
In the mid-20th century, Hillsboro, the county seat, began to transition from an agricultural center to an industrial hub. The establishment of high-tech companies in the area, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s, earned it the nickname 'Silicon Forest.' Companies like Intel set up large campuses, attracting skilled workers and transforming the local economy.
Today, Washington County is known for its cultural diversity, with a growing population that includes significant communities of Hispanic, Asian, and Pacific Islander residents. The county is home to a variety of cultural festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor activities. Its blend of historic landmarks, such as the Old Scotch Church, and modern amenities makes it a vibrant and dynamic place to visit.