The word “vacation” conjures images of white sand beaches, palm trees, and colorful drinks with tiny umbrellas in them. However, limiting vacations to tropical destinations means missing out on the wealth of fun there is to be had in places like Northern Oregon. Oregon sparks the spirit of adventure in its visitors, offering lush forests, diverse high deserts, and scenic mountain landscapes. Add to that the rich cultural history of Northern Oregon and you have the perfect vacation destination.
What to Do
Northern Oregon, and specifically the area around Pendleton, offers a range of local attractions that appeals to a variety of interests. Craft and fiber lovers will enjoy the Pendleton Woolen Mills, while history buffs will be enthralled by the Tamástslikt Cultural Museum that documents the history of the area’s indigenous tribe. There are even more activities for vacationers to explore, including:
Underground Tours
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Pendleton, OR was home to a scandalous red-light district. For over 100 years, the red-light district has had an interesting and questionable history, and tours of this area have been intertwined in its story for decades. The Pendleton Underground Tours are now world-famous, attracting tourists of all ages year-round to learn about parts of America’s western history that are rarely taught in schools.
Pendleton Roundup
Every year during the second full week of September, thousands of people flock to Pendleton for an exciting week-long event called the Pendleton Roundup. The town of Pendleton closes down Main Street becomes a host to carnival activities, vendors, and live music. The event is punctuated by the highly anticipated rodeo and a parade that honors Oregon’s history of western travelers on covered wagons.
Casino
Pendleton, OR offers vacationers who love casino games a unique Vegas-style experience. The Wildhorse Resort & Casino has over 1,200 Vegas-style slot machines, 14 tabletop games, high stakes bingo, and poker. It has the only Class III gaming floor in Eastern Oregon, and they feature year-round promotions that offer gamblers the chance to win outstanding prizes.
Where to Stay
Vacationers in Northern Oregon have several options that meet the needs of even the pickiest travelers. Whether they are looking for a rustic getaway or the full resort hotel treatment, there is lodging available that will give them the vacation of their dreams. For travelers who have several party members that do not agree on their ideal getaway spot, the Wildhorse Resort & Casino has multiple accommodations that meet a variety of needs.
Wildhorse Resort & Casino
The Wildhorse Resort and Casino is a 24-hour casino, hotel, RV park, and travel plaza. It features 7 restaurants, a 5-screen cineplex, an 18-hole golf course, and more. Wildhorse’s variety of entertainment options makes it a versatile travel destination that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Hotel
The Wildhorse Resort and Casino feature 10 stories of luxurious rooms and suites, complete with a stunning view of Northern Oregon’s high desert, spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower option and room service. A complete fitness center and pool provide health-conscious travelers with a way to stay on top of their exercise routine while the Lobby Bar offers them a place to relax and enjoy the company of their friends and family over drinks.
RV Park and Camping
For travelers who prefer rustic lodging, the Wildhorse Resort and Casino provides nature-lovers with tipi and tent sites for a unique camping experience. It also has an RV park with sewer, water, and electric hookups and a free resort shuttle service.
Where to Eat and Drink
Exploring local cuisine is an important part of any vacation, and Northern Oregon has some delicious places to eat and drink, including:
Hamley Steakhouse
Quality steak restaurants are hard to come by, which is why Hamley Steakhouse is such a gem. Located in downtown Pendleton near the resort, the Hamley Steakhouse specializes in the hearty ranch-style cuisine that defined cooking in the early days of the wild west.
Plateau
Plateau is a fine dining experience with a view. Vacationers staying at the resort can enjoy sweeping views of the Blue Mountains while dining on fresh steaks and decadent desserts, complete with a perfect wine pairing from Walla Walla Wineries.
Northern Oregon is the premier destination for travelers who want a unique and memorable vacation experience. Those looking for a hotel and resort in Pendleton, OR will enjoy staying at the Wildhorse Resort and Casino, where vacationers are offered fine dining, rustic camping, exciting Vegas-style gaming, and a luxurious resort stay. Call us now to plan your next exciting adventure in scenic Northern Oregon.
