Willamette Valley

The Basics

The Willamette Valley has long been celebrated by those in the know, though it didn't actually get American Viticultural Area (AVA) status until 1984. With multiple smaller AVAs and more than 400 wineries, the valley stretches hundreds of miles. Numerous wine tours depart from Portland for those who want to sample wines without having to worry about driving.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Oregon has strict drinking-and-driving laws. There are plenty of tours and driving services for those wanting to go wine-tasting safely.

• Most wineries charge a small tasting fee, which is often redeemable against purchases.

• Always bring rain gear: The weather can turn at any time (and does).

How to Get There

The Willamette Valley is the fertile stretch of land that flanks the Willamette River, from its confluence with the Columbia River south to Eugene, Oregon’s second-largest city. To reach the “wine country” part of the valley from downtown Portland, drive along Highway 99W. If you’re headed to wineries around Salem or Eugene, hop on Interstate 5 South.

When to Get There

The Willamette Valley is best visited in late spring through autumn, when the weather is comfortably warm and relatively dry. Summers here are particularly pleasant: There’s lots of sunshine, but it rarely gets oppressively hot. Note that while the area can be charming just before Christmas, especially in and around small towns such as McMinnville and Newberg, many Willamette Valley wineries and tasting rooms close for winter.

Beyond Wine

While wine is the big draw for most visitors to this region, there are plenty of teetotaler-friendly attractions in the area. The town of McMinnville is worth a visit for its good restaurants and old-timey feel, and there's a great indoor water park just outside town called Wings & Waves. The region also produces fabulous olive oil; stop by Red Ridge Farms near Dundee for a mill tour and lots of free samples.

Ways to explore

Wine, specifically pinot noir, is the big draw for most Willamette Valley visitors. A guided tour takes the guesswork out of choosing which wineries to visit and lets everyone in your group safely participate in tastings. Outside of wineries, the region is also known for its access to the outdoors. Hike past 10 waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park, check out world-class mountain biking in Oakridge, or hunt for truffles with an in-the-know guide during the January and February season.

Accessibility

Many, but not all, wineries are wheelchair accessible. Call ahead if you need accommodations.

Age limits

You must be 21 or older to consume alcohol. Many wineries allow minors in restricted areas and offer non-alcoholic beverages for purchase.

What to pack

Cash tips, rain gear for unexpected showers, sunglasses on clear summer days

What to wear

Layers for weather fluctuations, photo-ready outfits for pictures with Mount Hood, close-toed shoes if you plan to hike at Silver Falls

Not allowed

Drinking and driving, outside food and beverages, smoking or vaping

Amenities

Restrooms, Wi-Fi at most wineries

Address 

The Willamette Valley stretches for 150 miles (240 kilometers) along the Willamette River, hemmed in by the Oregon Coast Range and the Cascades. A vehicle is the easiest way to travel between the region’s rolling vineyards, small towns, and forested trails.

Driving

From Portland, take OR 99 west for about an hour to reach the “wine country” part of the valley. If you’re headed to the outdoor recreation areas around Salem or Eugene, head south on I-5.

Public transportation

Public transportation in and around this rural area is limited. If taking your own car isn’t an option, a guided tour is the best way to go.

Best times to visit

Many tasting rooms have limited hours and close by 5pm. Plan to arrive in the valley by early afternoon to make the most of your trip.

Best days to visit

Many wineries are open daily, but they fill up fast on the weekends. To maximize your tastings, plan your visit midweek.

Best months to visit

Late spring through fall is particularly pleasant, with comfortably warm and mostly dry weather—and clear skies for views of Mount Hood.

Special events

True wine connoisseurs won’t want to miss the International Pinot Noir Celebration, typically held in July, which hosts tastings, food pairings, and educational events all about pinot.