30 Best & Fun Things to Do in Coos Bay (Oregon)

In search of the best and most fun things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon?

Coos Bay is a city in Coos County, Oregon, USA. This city is known to be the most populous on the Oregon Coast, totaling 15,985 residents according to the 2020 census.

This city presents lots of natural attractions and fun places to visit such as the Cape Arago State Park and the spectacular Elliott State Forest.

Also take to explore its museums, have some fun theater time, as well as taste some of the best dishes in the area during your visit.

Are you planning an exploration of Coos Bay? Here are the top things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.

Things to Do in Coos Bay

1. Oregon Dunes National Recreational Area

One of the best attractions to see in Coos bay is the Oregon dunes national recreation area. This attraction brings myriads of people from around the world as it is one of the most popular dunes in the world.

It also accommodates the most extensive temperature dunes with a height of 500 feet. The recreational area features activities like hiking and off-roading.

The recreational center also offers rental services, and visitors can book a self-guided tour if they want to have fun all by themselves.

The Oregon national recreational center is one of the finest places in Coos Bay and should top your checklist of things to do when you visit Coos Bay.

Address: 855 US-101, Reedsport, OR 97467, United States

2. Shore Acres State Park

Add a visit to Shore Acres State Park to your checklist of places to visit in Coos Bay for some fun time.

Shore Acres State Park is located on a bluff overlooking the ocean, 13 miles south of Coos Bay.

This park, formerly a private estate, boasts rock formations and rugged sandstone cliffs, which are its famous attractions.

Shore Acres State Park has amazing features like several walking trails and a peaceful picnic area.

Additionally, the park boasts a 5 acre landscaped formal garden with a greenhouse, a Japanese garden with a large lily pond, and a rose garden.

Shore Acres State Park is a perfect place to visit if you are traveling with the family, and it is worth adding to your list of things to do in Coos Bay.

3. Conde McCollough Memorial Bridge

A spectacular architectural wonder to behold while in the city is the Conde McCollough Memorial Bridge, and it is worth adding to your list of things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.

The Conde McCollough Memorial Bridge is an interesting architectural piece built in the mid-1930s and extends from one side of Coos Bay to another.

The design has a touch of Art Moderne, Art Deco, and Gothic styles, and it is accessible by car and foot as it features sidewalks on either side of the bridge.

The bridge boasts a perfect spot for relaxing with pedestrian plazas with built-in benches featured at both ends of the bridge.

Some stairs lead to a beautiful waterfront park which is a perfect spot for taking pictures.

Address: 93488 Kelso Rd, North Bend, OR 97459, United States

4. Walt’s Pour House

The Walt’s Pour House was established in 2008 by Natalie in tribute to her father and their genuine love for sports. During her adulthood, she envisioned setting up a sports bar where sports lovers could gather to support their favorite teams while treating themselves to excellent food and beer.

The menu to find here comes in different varieties. So there’s something for everyone to eat and drink with a lovely and neat environment, spacious parking lot, and beautiful outdoor seating.

The Walt Pourhouse features a complete specialty cocktails bar and bottled and canned beer. It also has classic games like shuffleboard and pool.

Address: 1880 N 7th St, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

5. 7 Devils Brewing Co

If you wish to enjoy some fresh brews, add a visit to 7 Devils Brewing Co to your checklist of things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.

The 7 Devils Brewing Co is a local brewery specializing in high-quality, hand-crafted microbrews and operates a coastal-inspired pub in the downtown area of Coos Bay.

This brewing company utilizes American ingredients to produce various seasonal beers.

Additionally, the pubs’ menu features a delicious selection of wine, whiskey, tapas-style food made using carefully selected locally sourced ingredients.

The pub hosts about 100 free live music concerts every year, and it is open to visitors every day of the week except Tuesdays.

Address: 247 S 2nd St, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

6. Oregon Coast Historical Railway

History buffs should add a visit to Oregon Coast Historical Railway to their list of fun things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.

Oregon Coast Historical Railway is a nonprofit organization that preserves and shares the region’s logging industry and railroad history.

A team of volunteers manages the museum, and one of its key exhibits includes a restored 1922 Baldwin steam engine used for logging until the 1950s.

Other exhibits that can be found in the museum include a 1946 wooden caboose and a 1949 diesel switcher engine.

While in the museum, visitors are allowed to climb on trains and ring the bells on some of the trains.

Admission into the Oregon Coast Historical Railway is free, and it is open for visitors on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Address: 800 S 1st St, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

7. Sunset Bay Golf Course

The Sunset Bay Golf Course is situated in Coos Bay, Oregon. The Golf course was established in 1969 and is open to the general public.

The Golf course was designed by John Zoller and has a dimension of 3056 yards. Its course has two sets of tees for different skill levels of Golf players.

The golf course here is appropriately maintained. The environment is calm with beautiful scenic views, and the golf layouts are challenging and fun at the same time.

Golfing experience here is fun and every time spent here playing golf is memorable, whether as a professional or amateur player. If you’re a golf lover, the Sunset Bay Golf Course should be a must-visit when you’re at Coos Bay.

Address: 89516 Cape Arago Hwy, Coos Bay, OR 97420

8. Coach House

For a memorable dining experience, add a visit to Coach House to your list of things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.

The Coach House started in the 1950s as a loggers bar and later upgraded to a steakhouse and a Chinese food restaurant.

 However, it has presently been transformed into a full-time steak and seafood restaurant frequented by both tourists and locals alike.

The main dish this restaurant is known for is the barbecued meats which are prepared over coals on an outdoor grill and can be ordered for lunch and dinner.

The steak and seafood offered in this restaurant have plenty of sides, and a combo patter is a perfect option for diners who have a big appetite.

Address: 604 6th Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

Planning an Oregon road trip? also, check out our list of things to do in Tillamook and things to do in Brookings for a fun Oregon trip

9. Egyptian Theater

Add a visit to Egyptian Theater to your bucket list of things to do in Coos Bay for some theatre time.

Egyptian Theater was first built as a garage and service station, and in 1925, it was transformed into a cinema.

The theatre is a perfect example of Egyptian Revival architecture, which became renowned in America after King Tut’s tomb was discovered.

The theaters’ original backdrops created by the Van Wie Scenery Company of Portland still remain intact to date and can be spotted when you visit.

The auditorium and foyer are designed with bronze pharaoh statues, hieroglyphics, and other Egyptian-themed decors.

Visit the Egyptian Theater to regularly watch classic movies and Concerts hosted in the area. You can also join the free tour that is offered on Wednesdays.

Address: 229 S Broadway, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

10. Elliott State Forest

Nature-lovers should add a visit to Elliott State Forest to their list of things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.

Known as the first state forest in Oregon, Elliott State Forest encompasses about 93,000 acres of space between Coos Bay and Reedsport.

Over 70% of the land space is dominated by trees primarily used for logging and offer perfect recreational opportunities.

A Ridgetop Drive offered in the area takes visitors to the heart of the forest, where they can have a spectacular view of clearcut and heavily forested areas.

The forest also has roads that lead to the West Fork Millicoma River. There are no physically marked trails, but hiking is permitted in the woods.

Address: Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

11. Coos History Museum

If you are interested in history, visit Coos History Museum.

Coos History Museum is managed by the local nonprofit historical society, and it is a perfect place to learn the history of the area and individuals who lived here in time past.

The museum houses over 250,000 photos and more than 50,000 artifacts, which are arranged in different exhibitions cutting across topics like maritime history, the lumber industry, and the local indigenous tribes.

There are also exhibits that feature interactive stations that entertains kids of different age grade.

Additionally, the museum has a gift shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs of books written by local authors, pine tree seeds, and more.

Address: 1210 N Front St, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

12. Restaurant O

Restaurant O is another spectacular restaurant worth adding to your list of things to do in Coos Bay for a fantastic dining experience.

Restaurant O is a notable contemporary restaurant in Coos Bay that opened in 2017 that offers a variety of delicious Italian fusion cuisine.

The restaurant’s menu includes dishes like meat and seafood, tapas, and fresh pasta.

The restaurant also has six- or nine-course tasting menus that feature a variety of local, seasonal produce, and more.

Additionally, Restaurant O accommodates the most dietary restrictions, and there is also a special vegan menu with main dishes, desserts, and appetizers. Private cooking classes are also available.

Address: 260 S Broadway, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

13. Coos Art Museum

The only existing art museum in Oregon Coast, Coos Art Museum, is located in a 1930 Art Deco-style post office building.

The museum features about six galleries which boast about 25 permanent and temporary exhibits with over 550 pieces of Pacific Northwest and contemporary artwork.

The museum also has a gallery that features art pieces to be restored.

Additionally, the museum also gives visitors an opportunity to create their masterpiece through classes as well as drawing and painting workshops for

 If you want to create your own masterpiece, the museum also offers painting and drawing workshops and classes for artists of all levels.

Are you an art lover? If yes, add a visit to Coos Art Museum to your checklist of things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.

Address: 235 Anderson Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

14. Leafs Treehouse Antiques and Collectables

The Leafs Treehouse Antiques and Collectables Mall houses various stores owned by different individuals to make the shopping experience exciting and affordable for visitors.

If you’re a fan of antiques, you’ll be sure to find something that’ll pique your interest from their vast collection of beautiful antique pieces, repurposed and vintage items.

The antique collectors for these various stores are creative minds that know what will interest the general public in buying, as the art pieces here are lovely and outstanding

This is one of the best attractions to visit when you’re in Coos Bay. If the kids want to tag along, you should bring them over as they’ll find something that’ll interest them, such as vintage toys and more.

Address: 311 S Broadway Coos Bay, Oregon 97420

Considering an Oregon road trip, check out our guide on things to do in Medford , things to do in Lincoln City and things to do in Klamath Falls for a memorable trip.

15. Coos Bay Boardwalk

Located in the heart of Downtown Coos Bay just off Hwy 101, the Coos Bay Boardwalk is an exciting boardwalk worth adding to your list of places to visit.

Coos Bay Boardwalk features interpretive displays that tell a lot about Coos Bay, starting from its early period as a maritime and lumber port.

The boardwalk also boasts a restaurant/fresh fish market and picnic tables where passersby can relax and have lunch.

Another attraction you can spot while in the area is a retired tug boat called Koos 2 that was initially used on the bay.

Address: Coos Bay Boardwalk, Hwy 101, Coos Bay, OR 97410, United States

16. Cape Arago State Park

Located south of Coos Bay, Cape Arago State Park is a spectacular state park worth adding to your list of things to do while in the city.

Cape Arago State Park boasts many exciting activities, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The park features two major trails visitors can explore, which include the north cove trail that provides easy access to a fishing spot and a viewpoint where they spot seals and sea lions in the water.

The second trail is the south cove trail which leads to a sandy beach lined with tidepools.

If you wish to hike a longer distance, you can try the four-mile trail that leads along the coast to Sunset Bay State Park.

17. Spotlight Country Club and Nightclub

The Spotlight Country Club and Night Club is a 7000 square feet building with a bandstand for live weekend music on Fridays, two dance floors, a karaoke stage, a PAC 12, 3tvs one of which is 103 inches big, and many more.

Their staffs are friendly; you will be greeted with a warm hug when you visit, and the foods to find here are delicious. Their wine menu is also quite delightful.

The property was built in such a way to interest and fascinate its visitors as it welcomes lots of tourists who visit this region. The environment is serene and an ideal place to relax and have fun.

Weekends are always fun and full of energy with Spotlight Country Club as they host different live bands to treat their visitors to good music. There are also pool tables.

Address: 1088 Newmark Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420-3164

18. Mingus Park

For some fun time, add a visit to Mingus Park to your checklist of things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.

Mingus Park is a beautiful and serene park located at the heart of Coos Bay, very close to the downtown business district.

The park has many interesting features, one of which is a beautiful lake encompassed by a walking trail.

The lake’s fountain glows at night, and there are also docks and other waterfowl on the lake which can be fed.

The trail at the west of the lake leads to the Japanese garden in the park; another notable attraction it features, and to the east of the lake is a heated pool.

Other exciting features of the park include a tennis court, a disc golf course, and two children’s playgrounds.

19. Coos Golf Club

If you are interested in golfing, add Coos Golf Club to your checklist of things to do in Coos Bay, Oregon.

Coos Golf Club formerly called the Watson Ranch Golf, and Coos Country Club, has been in existence for about 100 years now.

The golf course is spectacular and has secured many positive reviews from both tourists and locals because of the friendliness of the staff, the layout, and the beautifully manicured greens and fairways.

The course boasts a challenging but enjoyable golfing experience, and it has nine holes at the front, which is quite difficult with elevated greens, elevation changes, and rolling fairways which, however, makes the round interesting.

The back nine holes, on the other hand, is less difficult but will still require skill and concentration.

Address: Coos Golf Club, 93884 Coos Sumner Lane, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

20. Cranberry Sweets

Are you looking for things to do in Coos Bay with kids? If yes, add a visit to Cranberry Sweets to your checklist.

Opened in the 1970s, Cranberry Sweets has been supplying cranberry candy with local berries for the people of Coos Bay over the years.

Presently, Cranberry candy has evolved into a comprehensive sweets shop that offers caramel popcorn and jelly candies.

Cranberry candy utilizes natural ingredients and traditional candy-making methods to produce lovely handmade candies.

You can order the company’s products online on their website, and you can also find Complimentary samples in the store if you visit.

Address: 1005 Newmark Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

21. Three Rivers Casino

If you like nightlife, add a visit to Three Rivers Casino to your list of things to do in coos bay.

Three Rivers Casino is owned and managed by the Lower Umpqua & Siuslaw Indians, known as the Confederated Tribes of Coos.

The Casino is a perfect place to visit if you want to play games, relax or enjoy a delicious meal.

Three Rivers Casino boast over 250 games which include a selection of slot machines, and they are all accessible by visitors.

Every Saturday evening, the casino also hosts a fun-filled Mardi Gras party which any visitor can enjoy.

Address: 1297 Ocean Blvd NW, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

22. Bahama Buds

The Bahama Buds have a long line of history that’s very interesting. If you’re a lover of history, here is a great place to be and should be on your checklist of fun things to do when in Coos Bay, Oregon.

The history of this place can be traced back to the Oregon medical marijuana program, where top-notch cannabis therapies were organized for people in this region. Part of its goal is to produce top-quality cannabis products at affordable prices.

The medical program was halted due to various Oregon regulations. The Bahama Buds’ embarked on establishing a new complete dispensary in Coos Bay.

Since then, the Bahama Buds have been thriving and have been a center of attraction for tourists visiting this region. They have a friendly staffs that are welcoming, you will definitly enjoy your visit here.

Address: 1415 N Bayshore Dr, Coos Bay, OR 97420, USA

23. Marshfield Sun Printing Museum

Another attraction that entails history, the Marshfield Sun Printing Museum, is definitely worth adding to your checklist of things to do in coos bay, Oregon, if you are a history buff.

Between 1891 and 1944, a newspaper called the Marshfield Sun was printed every week, and the legacy of this newspaper lives on at the Marshfield Sun Printing Museum, although it has not been published for many years.

While in the museum, visitors can spot various original equipment that was used for printing paper during that time, as well as several other exhibits about local history.

Address: 1049 N Front St, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

24. Steve Prefontaine Murals

Three larger-than-life murals were erected in coos bay in honor of the Olympic athlete Steve Prefontaine for his life and achievements.

Beautifully designed and erected by expert Coos Bay artists (Old City Artists, LLC), the murals show the Olympic athlete at different career stages.

The murals show Steve Prefontaine at three stages of life. The left panel depicts high-school days, the middle panel his college days, and the right panel depicts the athlete at the peak of his career at the 1972 Munich Olympics before his death.

Steve Prefontaine died a tragic death at the age of 24 in a car crash. The murals of this remarkable athlete can be spotted on a wall in Hwy 101, located in the heart of downtown Coos Bay.

Address: Steve Prefontaine Murals, Hwy 101, Coos Bay, OR 97410, United States

25. Elliott State Forest

Nature lovers should add a visit to Elliott State Forest to their list of things to do in Coos Bay Oregon.

Known as the first state forest in Oregon, Elliott State Forest encompasses about 93,000 acres space between Coos Bay and Reedsport.

Over 70% of the landspace is dominated by trees which are primarily used for logging and also offer perfect recreational opportunities.

A Ridgetop Drive offered in the area takes visitors to the heart of the forest where they can have a spectacular view of clearcut and heavily forested areas.

The forest also has roads that leads to the West Fork Millicoma River. There are no physically marked trails but hiking is permitted in the forest.

26. Mahaffy Ranch

For a fun-filled outdoor experience, add a visit to Mahaffy Ranch to your list of things to do while in Coos Bay, Oregon.

Just a 30 minutes drive from Coos Bay, Mahaffy Ranch is the perfect place to visit with the entire family, including kids.

The ranch You-Pick Pumpkin Patch Harvest season spans from the last week of September to the end of October, which is also a perfect time to visit.

Mahaffy Ranch boasts many exciting activities for kids, including Hay Ride, Molehill Slide, Hay Maze, Corn Cannons, and more.

The kids can also find the perfect Halloween pumpkin while in the area and also meet farm animals.

The ranch has a Snack Shack, which offers lots of tasty food for hungry visitors.

If you are looking for things to do in coos bay with kids, Mahaffy Ranch is a perfect addition to your checklist.

Address: Mahaffy Ranch, 10362 Hwy 241 Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

27. Sharky’s Charters

Credits: Sharky’s Charters/ Facebook
Sharky’s ChartersThe Sharky’s Charters is an awesome place to be if you want to have an adventurous time fishing. The Sharky’s Charters is owned by John Blanchard, who is a commercial fisherman.

Due to his zeal to own his own business, John Blanchard opened Shark’s Charters in September 2015. Services they offer include whale watching, boat cruises, customer fishing, sightseeing, and many more.

The equipment to find here is of high quality, and tourists can ride on the new 2016 North River with a length of 26 feet with current technology standards, including sonar technology that maps the ocean floor in 3D, a powerful engine, and top-notch fishing and crabbing gear.

John is well experienced at sea, as he has the US Coast Guard License, which is obtainable if a person has stayed 730 days at sea. This makes boat driving with him safe as he has experience as a Charter Captain and a fisherman.

If you choose to have a scintillating experience fishing, Sharky’s Charters is a must-visit when you’re in Coos Bay.

Address: 63422 Kingfisher Rd B, Charleston, OR 97420,

28. Bastendorff Beach Park

Among the best places to visit in Coos Bay, Oregon, is Bastendorff Beach Park. Bastendorff Beach Park is a fantastic park and campground that is perfect for many activities.

The campground is open throughout the year. All the cabins, tent sites, and RVs are available for reservations. 

There are 74 expansive laid-out water and electric hook-up sites, many of which can accommodate single vehicles or RVs. 

You can reserve two camping sites with picnic tables, a grate, and a fireplace. The five loops of the campsite offer private and individual sites surrounded by enormous trees and coastal foliage. 

The buildings at the park provide warm shower facilities and clean flush restrooms. The shelters have kitchen sinks, cold running water, and electric outlets. 

The day-use area offers great places for watching the beauty of the ocean, picnics, and group events. There are two picnic sites with shelters resembling gazebos you can reserve. 

The day-use area also includes expansive lawns perfect for volleyball and softball. There are also a horseshoe court, fire pit, basketball court, and fish cleaning stand in the day-use area. 

The playground area for kids is extraordinary and attracts many people to the park. The fishing boats, rustic forts, slides, merry-go-round, bouncing animals, and teeter-totters keep younger and older children entertained for hours. 

There is an ample parking space with an ocean view facing Bastendorff Beach and jetties. 

Address: 63377 Bastendorf Beach Rd, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

29. The North Spit

The North Spit of Coos Bay is at the southern end of a row of dunes stretching along the state’s coastline from Florence to Coos Bay. It consists of wetlands, forested islands, and open dunes.

You can explore its ten miles of horse and hiking trails, an underdeveloped staging area, and miles of beach and sand driving roads. 

The North Spit boat launch also has massive trailer parking, a full-size boat ramp, running water, and restrooms. 

This habitat is home to many birds and mammals, including endangered and threatened species like the western snowy plover. 

Walking along the beach, you may see whales spouting offshore or an osprey diving for fish. 

There’s also a full-sized boat ramp that you can use for free. 

Address: North Spit Boat Ramp, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

30. Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area

Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area is one of the best places to visit in Coos Bay. 

The habitat is said to have the most remarkable waterfalls in the state’s coast range. 

Two short trails will take you to viewpoints at the bottom of both falls, and the longer trail will lead you to a bird-eye view at the top. 

Begin your walk by following the marked trails that will take you to Silver Falls. You will pass via a forest of maple, alder, fir, and Oregon myrtle trees. 

At the bottom of Silver Falls, view the thunderous column of water falling over a sheer rock cliff to moss-covered boulders that are more than 100 feet under. 

There’s also a trail that will lead you upwards to the peak of the Golden Falls. The trail features calm switchbacks, cutting through coastal woodlands thick with sword fern, Douglas fir, and sourgrass. 

Lumber companies and residents used this trail until the 1950s. You will pass through an artificial meadow made in 1901 when a road was blasted close to the falls by some homesteaders 

Continue to the peak, where you will get an exquisite view from the top of Golden Falls to the drop. 

From here, walk back down to the leading Trailhead and follow the lower trail to the bottom of Golden Falls. 

Admire the reverse view and enjoy the sound of cascading waters into the bottomless basin below. 

Look out for slimy, moss-covered boulders at the bottom. If you visit during winter, prepare to see an extraordinary display.

This hike is free, and there is parking at the Trailhead. 

Address:Glenn Creek Rd, Coos Bay, OR 97420, United States

Check out more cities in Oregon, here is  a guide on things to do in Pacific City, things to do in Roseburg and fun things to do Sunriver in for a fun time

Plan Your Trip to Coos Bay

Coos Bay is adorned with so many lovely attractions that pique the interest of tourists visiting the area. Everything you need to make your stay worthwhile.

Take to whale watching, sunset admiring, and tide pooling, amongst other activities to have a fun time. Start planning your trip to Coos Bay.

Have a fun one!