26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Lincoln City (OR)

Looking for the best & fun things to do in Lincoln City, OR?

Located less than two hours from Portland, Lincoln City, Oregon, is a great relaxing town on Oregon Coast. It is a very accessible and fun town that offers a friendly atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and plenty of fun things to do.

You’ll learn about the city’s local history at the North Lincoln County Museum and find delicious food, entertainment, and special souvenirs as you stop by the Lincoln City Farmers and Crafters Market.

Cool cliffs, migrating wildlife, antique shops, wild beaches, astonishing hikes and even saltwater taffy, and migrating wildlife are some of the fun things to look forward to during your visit.

The beaches and Highway 101, and plenty more reasons make Lincoln City one of the favorite towns for tourists on the Oregon Coast.

Let’s see some of the most fun things to do in Lincoln City, Oregon.

Things to Do in Lincoln City

1. Lincoln City Beaches

Lincoln City boasts seven miles of sandy beaches, and it is the most populated coastal town.

You can spend entire days at the beach, building sandcastles, surfing, or just watching the waves crash the shore. Long walks along the beach are popular because of how interconnected Lincoln City’s coastline is.

Lucky beachcombers may also find handmade glass orbs thanks to the city’s Finders Keepers program.

There are many great spots to tide-pool along the coast. The Lincoln City Beach Access, NW 15th Street, is the most popular area.

When the tide is low, you will find a rich underwater ecosystem with large sea boulders.

From Roads End to Siletz Bay to South, access points are located along the beach. The popular D River State Recreation Site is located near Devil’s Lake in the city’s heart.

The D River State Recreation Site has been promoted as the home of the world’s smallest river. It also hosts the amazing Summer and Fall Kite Festivals.

2. Devil’s Lake

Lincoln City has the ocean right outside its door. The community also has access to Devil’s Lake, a freshwater lake.

This 685-acre lake is connected to the sea via the D River, which measures 440 feet and is often called the World’s Shortest River.

This lake is close to the coast and offers day trips that include a variety of activities.

Many parks offer water access. Two units are located on each side of Devil’s Lake State Park’s southern shoreline, which is the most well-known park.

East Devil’s Lake, which has a boat launch and is popular for day use, is located on the western shore.

Devil’s Lake Campground can be found on the west side. It is located within walking distance of the city’s heart. Regatta Grounds, Holmes Road Park, and Holmes Road Park are two other access points that offer boat ramps.

Sand Point Park, which has a sandy beach with a designated swimming area, is another popular access point. Access points are open to all public and allow for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and other watersports.

Address: US-101, Depoe Bay, OR 97341

3. Finders Keepers Program

Lincoln City’s unique opportunity to discover hidden treasure on the beaches is a reality.

Over 3,000 glass orbs are distributed annually along Lincoln City’s shoreline as part of the city-sponsored Finders Keepers program.

The name suggests that anyone who finds one of these handmade glass floats can take it home.

These artisanal treasures are hidden by a small army of “Float fairies” along the seven miles of Lincoln City beaches.

The orbs are placed above the high tide mark in easy-to-find locations. During Special Drop Dates, which occur throughout the year, your chances of finding one increase.

Visitors are asked not to collect more than one glass orb per person per calendar year.

Lincoln City also offers many glass-blowing activities. The Lincoln City Glass Center, Mor Art, and the Taft Historic District offer hands-on opportunities for creating personalized glass creations.

You will also find curated collections of handblown glass art in these studios.

4. Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area

Located a few minutes south of Lincoln City, Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area adds to our list of top things to do in Lincoln City.

It has a beach and a creek running through it. One can access both sides of the beach by going through either path from the parking lot.

Fogarty Creek is a beautiful chalcedony beach (during low tide) situated on the Oregon coast, between Lincoln City and Newport.

Go check out chalcedony at this hidden beach which stretches gorgeously at the Oregon Coast. The agates are something to keep an eye on!

The park is open from Monday to Sunday between 6am and 9:30pm.

5. The Culinary Center

The Culinary Center is a blossoming gourmand’s paradise, featuring cooking classes, food tastings, cook-offs, wine pairings and everything culinary.

The centre aimed at seasonally motivated dishes using only the freshest ingredients from the Pacific Northwest, offering prairie-raised chickens, free-range eggs, organic vegetables, grass-fed natural meats, fished seafood and shellfish.

The Culinary Center encourages and supports synergy between local producers and consumers, inviting farmers to teach a class or offering visits to local farms.

Their cooking classes are handled by top chefs and vary from demonstration classes that teach the tricks of the trade, cook-it-yourself classes to hands-on, learn how to prepare pizza, dim sum and sushi.

Every year, the Culinary Center host four cook-offs where professional chefs prepare delicious Pacific Northwestern dishes and provide a great way to see, savour and taste some of the best restaurant meals in the city.

This answers what to do in Lincoln City for some sightseeing, do add to your list of Lincoln City attractions to visit.

Address: 801 SW Hwy 101 4th Floor, Lincoln City, Oregon 97367.

6. Drift Creek Falls

One of the things to do near Lincoln city is the Drift Creek Falls, and it is worth adding to your list of things to do while in the city.

Lincoln City’s coast is not the only attraction the city boast. The adjacent Siuslaw National Forest inland offers its own charm.

Drift Creek Falls, a family-friendly waterfall, is a great example of forested beauty. The stunning waterfall hike can be reached from Lincoln City via a 15-mile forest service road.

It takes approximately three miles to hike up the falls and back. It is easy to hike, with minimal elevation gain, and it is easy to follow.

The suspension bridge found just before the falls is what makes this hike unforgettable.

The bridge, which measures 240 feet in length and is 100 feet above Drift Creek, offers a stunning view of the rushing waters.

Address: BLM Rd 1770, Otis, OR 97368, United States

7. Siletz Bay

Siletz Bay is an amazing attraction in Lincoln city that should be added to your list of things to do while in the area.

Located at the southern border of Lincoln City, Siletz Bay is a large estuary that supports marshes and sloughs.

Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge is home to a large portion of the wetland ecosystem. There are many visitor activities around Siletz Bay.

One of the most beautiful pedestrian routes to observe and listen to the birdlife is the Alder Island Nature Trail, which runs for half a mile.

A non-motorized boat dock allows kayaks and canoes to access the water from this wildlife refuge.

8. Search for a float in a Beach-Wide Treasure Hunt

All through the year, locals hide handmade glass floats along the coastline in Lincoln City. They thrust these beautiful floats behind driftwood (about seven miles), in the sand above the high tide mark and under seaweed.

Formerly, the city chooses a weekend in the year where they hide these floats during a festival. But now, glass blown floats are hidden on the beach throughout the year through the Finders Keepers initiative!

You might find one when you least expected to. Local artists donate 3,000 floats annually—that’s about ten a day—so watching out for a beautiful glass orb might pay off!

And when you’ve found one, do register it on the Finders Keepers float website. You’ll learn about the artist who created the float.

For a fun time in New Mexico, take to exploring Santa Fe, don’t miss our list of things to do in Santa Fe, for a fun vacation time.

9. Roads End

The town’s picturesque coastal beauty is showcased by the Roads End neighborhood’s hillside homes and flat beaches.

This is Lincoln City’s northernmost district. Roads End is a separate area from more commercial areas and offers better connections to the ocean as well as a scenic environment.

The Roads End State Recreation Site is the most popular location for outings. Visitors can explore the public shoreline at their leisure.

Cascade Head, the prominent landmark that forms the northern backdrop of the beach, is a beautiful attraction for hikers.

Nearby is a large parking lot that offers picnic tables and flushing toilets. Only at low tide, a secret beach is accessible along the northern Roads End shoreline.

To avoid getting stranded in this secret cove, it is important to watch the tides when planning to visit.

Road’s End Recreation site is an alternative starting point for the popular hike up to “The Thumb” (a headland feature).

10. Lincoln City Outlets

For a memorable shopping experience, add a visit to Lincoln City Outlets to your list of things to do in Lincoln City.

Lincoln City is known for its many cultural, artistic, and culinary offerings. It’s also a great spot to shop. Thanks to the Lincoln City Outlets, each district has its unique shops, but the Delake District is the best.

This shopping destination is popular along the coast, with over 50 stores of name brands spread out on a tranquil campus.

This outlet mall offers top-quality items at low prices, including apparel, footwear, and specialty items.

Lincoln City is a specialist in antiques, as well as the latest name brands. Oceanlake District is a place where you can find a concentrated experience in antiquing, with places such as Granny’s Attic and the Little Antique Mall.

Nelscott House Antiques’ and Beach Bum Vintage’s collections make the Taft District a popular spot for antiques.

Address: 1500 SE East Devils Lake Rd, Lincoln City, OR 97367, United States

11. Go Fat Tire Biking

Hiring some fat-tire bikes and cycling in it along the sand is certainly one of the unique and most fun things to do in Lincoln City, OR.

These bikes offer you an entirely different dimension of exploring the coastline – with more than 7-miles of beaches to explore.

Like the name, these bikes have thick wheels, about 4 inches, which glide easily over the sand, especially in compact sand and other rough topography.

Can you imagine the feeling of riding along the sand and having the waves of the Pacific Ocean kissing your sides? Quite magical!

This answers what to do in Lincoln City for some fun, one of Lincoln City activities for your bucket list of unique things to do in Lincoln City, OR. You can rent fat-tire bikes for some hours or the entire day at Safari Town Surf Shop.

12. Lincoln City Cultural Center

Lincoln City is home to many local businesses. The town has many tourist attractions but also offers places for locals to meet.

This community mindfulness is best demonstrated by the Lincoln City Cultural Center.

The Lincoln City Cultural Center is located in a historic Delake school building. It exudes a hip and scholarly vibe from the moment you walk through the doors.

Twelve shows a year are held in the PJ Chessman Gallery, which features local and regional artists.

The Sunday Farmers & Crafters Market is also held at the Cultural Center.

Many events are held at the Cultural Center, including concerts and seminars for adults, as well as children’s events.

Lincoln City Cultural Center is also the best spot for continuing education in the city, offering classes from beginner ballet to yoga.

Address: 540 NE Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367, United States

13. Explore The Cave In Devils Punchbowl

Located on the Oregon Coast is a dramatic and far beyond cool site: the Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area. It adds to our list of top things to do in Lincoln City.

Over several years, the persistent waves cut a cave into the cliffside here. Afterwards, the roof of the cave collapsed, causing a hollow rock formation shaped like a bowl.

During high tide, incoming waves whip and bubble in the punchbowl. But at low tide, one can take a hike into the cave and enjoy the tide pools on the north end of the park.

It is quite easy and kid-friendly, starting from a steep path and then continuing along the beach. Just be observant of the tide tables so that incoming tide won’t catch you.

Devils Punchbowl is also known as a whale-watching spot. And you can get a picnic table for an open-air.

14. Yaquina Head

Oregon is home to many great beaches. Particularly the shoreline south Lincoln City is breathtakingly beautiful and well worth a day trip.

The Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, located less than 40 minutes away from Portland, is one of the most popular attractions along the Oregon Coast.

The Yaquina Head Lighthouse is a stunning scene that makes for a great postcard. The stunning views can be enjoyed by hiking in this natural area.

Additionally, the Interpretive Center on-site sheds light on the lighthouse’s still operation.

Half the fun is in the drive from Lincoln City, Oregon, to Yaquina Head. The 101 route takes you through Depoe Bay, the Whale Watching Capital on the Oregon Coast.

This is a beautiful spot with great views of migrating and resident wildlife.

If you are interested in wildlife, do add a visit to this attraction to your list of things to do near Lincoln City.

Address: 750 NW Lighthouse Dr, Newport, OR 97365, United States

15. Find fossils at Prehistoric Oregon

Another interesting thing to do in Lincoln City is checking prehistoric Oregon.

Located along Highway 101 in Lincoln City, Prehistoric Oregon is one of the numerous shops in the area. Do halt to browse the gifts in this shop, and please don’t skip taking a look at the various fossils here!

You are sure to feed your eyes and knowledge by the articles in Prehistoric Oregon. Depending on the stock of the day, you might see a cave bear skull, trilobites, a megalodon tooth or a spinosaurus claw.

You can also purchase jewellery, gems, minerals and rocks from the shop as well.

It is open 10am – 5pm PST every day of the week

Address: 1425 NW Hwy 101, Lincoln City, Oregon 97367.

Planning a Georgia road trip? do not miss our guide on Gainesville, and Valdosta for a fun trip in Georgia.

16. Connie Hansen Garden Conservancy

Connie Hansen, a retired woman, moved to Oregon in 1973 to pursue her interest in botany and to also continue her studies.

Over the next 20 years, Connie maintained a magnificent garden in Lincoln City filled with azaleas and irises.

Connie’s favorite, the rhododendrons, were soon to be found in the garden. They still bloom today in all sizes and colors.

The community adopted Connie’s garden in 1993 after her death. The Connie Hansen Garden Conservancy, which preserves the garden’s one-acre size, invites the public and other interested parties to take a look at the space.

The gardens are open throughout the year, but the most beautiful blooms occur in April and May.

The facility also has a Garden House and Gift Shop that offer a variety of gardening products, including plants for purchase.

The garden is open to all, but admission is free. However, the conservancy relies on donations and sales at the gift shop.

Guided sightseeing tours can be arranged upon request.

Address: 1931 NW 33rd St, Lincoln City, OR 97367, United States

17. The Bijou Theatre

Lincoln City’s downtown is synonymous with the Oceanlake District. This creative and cultural area is home to many local shops, restaurants, community establishments, and other businesses.

One such institution is the Bijou Theatre, which shows a variety of classic and current films.

The Bijou was established in 1937 and had been showing movies almost every day since.

The theater schedules independent showcases as well as classics. Some screenings feature audience members dressed up in costumes for the show.

The Oceanlake District’s Bijou sets the mood. There are many mood-enhancing spots to be found along Highway 101, which runs parallel to the Bijou.

Candyland, with its bright red façade and wide selection of candied confections, is close by.

My Petite Sweet is located next to the theater and offers some of their baked goods in the lobby.

Address: 1624 NE Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367, United States

18. Check up books at Robert’s bookshop

If you are a lover of independent bookstores or enthusiastic about reading, you should head to Robert’s Bookshop in Lincoln City, Oregon.

Or are you looking for what to do in Lincoln City with kids?, here is a great place. This quirky book shop is loved by fellows who are voracious readers.

Surprisingly, it is full of inexpensive books. The narrow aisles separating packed bookshelves are too good to get lost in.

But, there is something very unique about this Oregon Coast book store. It is a plane that sticks out of the wall!

Yes, the owner of Robert’s Bookshop purchased an old plane and had it installed in the wall. This paints the picture of a plane crashing through the side of the building.

But in reality, it is an office used by the owner of the bookshop.

Address: 3412 SW Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367

19. Jennifer Sears Glass Art Studio

On your weekend trip, learn how to blow glass at Jennifer Sears Glass Art Studio. The city-owned facility, which artists manage, works in collaboration with Lincoln City Glass Center.

The studio is located in the Taft District at the city’s south end. You can visit the studio at any time to see the glass-blowing process or make an appointment for lessons.

Local artisans are friendly and will help you learn how to blow glass the way that has been done for centuries.

The studio is located across the Street from Volta Gallery, which displays the works of local artisans.

Address: 4821 SW Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367, United States

20. Chinook Winds Casino Resort

Chinook Winds Casino Resort is located in Lincoln City. It offers many entertainment options, including a fully-serviced resort with a heated pool, sauna, and spa, as well as a licensed casino and entertainment showroom and a world-class course.

The gaming floor is 157,000 square feet (14,600 sq. meter), and it features a variety of slot machines, tables, and video poker games.

There’s also a state-of-the-art convention center, games arcade, two restaurants, and a 24-hour food court in the resort.

The Chinook Winds Showroom is located on the main floor. It hosts live entertainment throughout the year.

The resort’s championship golf course is available for guests to play all around.

Address: 1777 NW 44th St, Lincoln City, OR 97367, United States

21. Lincoln City Farmers and Crafters Market

Lincoln City Farmers and Crafters Market, a weekly market where local producers, artisans, and craftspeople sell their goods, is held every weekend at the Lincoln City Cultural Center.

There are many local, sourced, or handmade goods that can be purchased here. These include delicious baked goods, honey, sweet treats, and other goodies.

Art and craft products include jewelry, pottery, artworks, clothing, and jewelry. The market is open all year, moving indoors or outdoors according to the seasons.

It also offers live entertainment with local musicians and artists throughout the year.

Address: 540 NE Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367, United State

22. North Lincoln County Historical Museum

The North Lincoln County Museum in Lincoln City is a small museum that focuses on the pioneering life of North Lincoln County.

The museum was founded in 1987 and began collecting documents and artifacts about the area in the 20th Century.

After moving a few times because of its rapid growth, it now resides in the City Hall Building with large exhibition spaces and a recently renovated research library.

On the lower level, visitors can experience life as a pioneer between the late 1800s and the mid-20s.

The galleries upstairs show life in the county between 1920 and 1965 when the townships were incorporated into the municipality.

The museum is open to all, and a visit here is worth adding to your list of things to do in Lincoln City.

Address: 4907 Oregon Coast Hwy, Lincoln City, OR 97367, United States

23. Check out the Murals in Lincoln City

Lincoln City is known for its special Oregon mural. Here, visitors stop by to take a picture as it is painted the current year, so one keeps a record of how many visits were made to the city.

The Oregon mural is situated on the wall of the Lincoln City Collective, a local shop that sells hats, t-shirts and more.

There is a public parking lot next to the shop, and from the Northern Lincoln County Historical Museum, you would see this mural across the street.

Another is the To the Beach mural, located on the corner of Highway 101 and SW 51st St. It is from this point that you turn towards Mo’s Clam Chowder.

Lastly is the awesome crab mural just close to the D River Wayside Park. You’ll find this on the wall of Pier 101, which is a seafood restaurant off Highway 101.

This is one of the fun ways to spend your day in Lincoln City, consider this for your checklist of things to do in Lincoln City, OR.

24. Mossy Creek Pottery

For lovers of art, the top thing to do is to visit Mossy Creek Pottery, which is a must-visit.

Mossy Creek Pottery showcases mesmerizing artworks of more than forty talented potters of the Pacific Northwest.

Found at the border of Siletz Bay Wildlife refuge as a gorgeous ancient wooden cottage in a dense hemlock forest.

There is a collection of bowls, plates, and vases with gardening materials, mugs, and cups.

Mossy Creek Pottery has continuously shown significant and ornamental pottery through several methods and media since 1973.

25. Tide Pool Experiences

The city is famous for its tide pools located at different points in the region, offering you a place for intimate excitement.

They provide tour experts in the industry to take visitors on an extraordinary adventure. You get to embark on a tide pool tour where you can engage with marine life.

Hatfield Marine Science Center offers the best professionals to guide you to view some of the different water creatures.

You will come across a plethora of water life, such as starfish and urchins, with many other amazing species.

The tours are free to visitors; you just need to sign in and stop by for fun. Make sure you come with some rubber boots and gloves.

26. Nelscott District

A place that doesn’t get the attention it deserves, Nelscott District is an excellent addition to your list of things to do in Lincoln City.

There are beaches encompassed by beach homes offering an environment of undisputed calmness and ease.

You can visit the beach for the most amazing surfing in the area with ZuhG Surf shop, which offers you almost everything.

The area has nice restaurants serving sumptuous meals with black squid beers offering craft beers. Don’t forget to visit Christmas city during the Christmas season.

Take to exploring other cities of Oregon, check out our list of things to do in Klamath Falls, things to do in Medford, and things to do in Ashland.

Plan your trip to Lincoln City

Lincoln City is highly recognized for water and beaches, but you’ve just realized that there is more to the waves.

This exciting city has interesting murals, lovely parks, an excellent recreational area, exceptional museums, and historic sites.

Start now to prepare for making Lincoln City your next stop for a vacation experience. You won’t regret it as there as diverse activities to keep you engaged.