25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Tillamook (OR)

Looking for the best and fun things to do in Tillamook, OR? This city sure has some fun attractions to give you a great vacation time.

Located along Tillamook bay is a lovely county in Oregon called Tillamook. Tillamook is a native tribe of the area which is recognized for its cheese, hence the city’s name.

This place falls on the coast of Tillamook bay and has plenty of attractive views and places to visit.

The natural setting of Tillamook is its natural setting. Its exceptional geography, including the confluence of three rivers (the Tillamook, Wilson, and Trask), forested areas inland, and the coast, provides spectacular scenery worth exploring.

You will enjoy the adventure offered by this town in almost all the seasons. Lets explore the best things to do in Tillamook, Oregon.

Things to Do in Tillamook

1. Explore Cape Lookout State Park

Cape Lookout State Park, located at Cape Lookout on a sand island between the Pacific Ocean & Netarts Bay, is a charming state park.

The park is situated just south of Tillamook and boasts beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific Northwest, including waterfalls and Pacific Ocean views.

A 50-foot-high stone revetment protects the Cape Lookout beachfront. It is open to the public year-round for paragliding, hang gliding and beachcombing.

There are eight miles of walking and hiking trails that meander through the park’s old-growth forests.

The Cape Lookout Trail runs for two miles along the park headland. The park offers over 200 RV and tent hookup spots, as well as rental cabins and Mongolian-style rental Yurts.

Address: 13000 Whiskey Creek Rd, Tillamook (OR 97141), United States

2. Tillamook must-see: Octopus Tree of Oregon

Situated at the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, the Octopus Tree of Oregon is a weirdly-shaped, and even more weirdly named tree.

However, such trees are familiar to the mountain and coastal forests of the Pacific Northwest than most people know.

The Octopus Tree (also known as the Monstrosity Tree, the Candelabra Tree, and the Monstrosity Tree) is said to be between 250 and 300 years old.

This tree has a central base (about 50 feet), and instead of shooting up straight a central trunk, its body splits into a number of smaller trunks. Its strange pavilion has long been an attraction.

A school of thought has it that the giant Sitka spruce came from natural conditions like extreme weather. However, the tree’s thick cage-like vertical trunks were trained by Native Americans in the area in practice known as “tree burial.”

There are no octopi on-site, but this tree is weird enough to interest you.

Address: Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, Tillamook, Oregon, 97141

3. Cape Meares Light

Cape Meares Light, a historic lighthouse still in use near Tillamook Bay and open to the public as an interactive living history museum, can be found on Cape Meares.

The lighthouse was built in 1890 as Tillamook Bay’s primary light station, and it had two keeper’s homes, two oil houses and two cisterns.

It was connected by a 1,000-foot boardwalk. The United States Coast Guard almost deactivated the light in 1963.

However, citizen efforts led to its transfer to Oregon State Parks Department. The lighthouse has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1993.

Visitors can visit the lighthouse on self-guided tours that run throughout the week.

Address: 3500 Cape Meares Loop, Tillamook, OR 97141, United States

4. Whiskey Creek Hatchery

If you are in Tillamook, Oregon, in May – as the sun makes itself more at home- you would love to head outdoors for on-the-water adventures.

Located in southern Tillamook County is an all-volunteer fish hatchery called “Whiskey Creek.” The Whiskey Creek Salmon Hatchery hugs the shoreline at Netarts Bay and raises over a quarter million Fall and Spring Chinook salmon every year.

Since the late 1980s, this hatchery has been owned and managed by the Tillamook Anglers Association. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife does the fish supply while donations and membership keep the operation alive.

The fish here is extraordinary, with many called them Oregon’s ‘premier’ salmon. They are cherished for their rich, buttery taste and high oil content.

Whiskey Creek Hatchery is just two miles from one of the finest parklands in Oregon: Cape Lookout State Park.

So, you may take a beachside stroll, a hike to the end of Cape Lookout, or enjoy an overnight yurt campout in a yurt. It’s all fun!

5. Tillamook Forest Center

The Tillamook Forest Centre is an educational interpretive centre that can be found within Tillamook State Forest.

It is located 22 miles east of Tillamook, along Oregon Highway 6 and is home to the largest regional forest-based learning centre, as well as an outdoor classroom.

The centre focuses on the Pacific Northwest’s forest regions and the legacy of Tillamook Burn.

The centre also offers hands-on exhibits and periodic screenings of Legacy of Fire, an award-winning documentary.

Visitors can climb a 40-foot-tall replica of a forest fire watchtower or walk along the 250-foot pedestrian suspension bridge that connects the centre to Jones Creek Campground and Wilson River Trail while in the centre.

For students, community, and school groups, there are free programmes each year.

Tillamook Forest Center is one of the best places to visit in Tillamook for some educational time.

Address: 45500 OR-6, Tillamook, OR 97141, United States

6. Taste beer at De Garde Brewing

Next on our list of top things to do in Tillamook is De Garde Brewing.

Located on the Oregon Coast, this brewery is dedicated to unique offerings with their craft drawing on local experimentation and historical traditions.

The process here in de Garde Brewing is quite interesting. To ferment the beer, they cool the wort naturally in a coolship. This means that there is no addition of laboratory cultured yeast.

After the wort is cooled, everything is transferred to oak barrels of varying sizes (big, medium, and small). Each beer in the barrels would ferment at its own time.

Most beers take between six months to over five years in barrels before they are packaged for consumption.

Tasting room hours are open from Thursday to Saturday (12 pm to 7 pm) and Sunday (11 am to 5 pm).

Address: 114 Ivy Ave, Tillamook, OR 97141-2214

7. Tillamook Air Museum

The Tillamook Air Museum, a charming aviation museum which is located south of Tillamook.

The museum is housed in the former Hangar A United States Navy Blimp Hangar, which was the largest clear-span wooden structure in the world.

USA Today named the museum one of the top private World War II aircraft collections in the country in 2004, highlighting collections curated by Classic Aircraft Aviation Museum.

The museum displays a Douglas A-4B Skyhawk and a Mikoyan-Gurevich Mig-17F.

A Bell TH-57 Sea Ranger and a Cessna 180F Skywagon, which was the first light aircraft to land at the North Pole.

A hall displays rare aviation and wartime artifacts, such as preserved pieces from the German Hindenburg airship. This is one of the best fun things to do in Tillamook if you are interested in aircraft.

Address: 6030 Hangar Rd, Tillamook, OR 97141, United States

8. Munson Creek Falls State Natural Park

One of the best things to do in Tillamook is visiting Munson Creek Falls State Natural Park for some fun time.

Munson Creek Falls State Natural Site in Oregon is a beautiful state park managed by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

The park is best known for its waterfall. The waterfalls tumble over a distance of 319 feet and are the highest of their kind in the Coast Range.

The park’s beautiful landscape is dotted with Sitka spruce and western red cedar trees.

This hatchery also provides important salmon spawning facilities for the Pacific Northwest.

Munson Creek is a beautiful trail that leads to breathtaking views of the waterfall. One of the most prominent natural landmarks is the Sitka tree, which rises to more than 260 feet above the park’s terrain.

Address: Oregon, 97141, United States

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9. Tillamook County Pioneer Museum

The charming Tillamook County Pioneer Museum traces the history of Tillamook County, from its pioneer days to the present.

The Tillamook County Pioneer Association founded the museum in 1935. It houses a collection of more than 55,000 items and 20,000 photographs as well as ephemera.

The museum’s 19 galleries showcase artefacts from prehistoric times to the present, including military memorabilia and indigenous artefacts.

The museum is open to the public throughout the week. Permanent and rotating exhibits are on display in galleries like the Northwest Gallery.

Address: 2106 2nd St. Tillamook OR 97141, USA

10. 2nd Street Coffee House

And next on our list of top things to do in Tillamook is 2nd Street Coffee House. This restaurant offers the utmost treatment to visitors through its satisfying services.

With its windows facing the street and fully plastered in flyers, this shop is well frequented by the locals.

Entrance into this restaurant would leave you either getting soaked observing the various items spread about or engulfed by the wall to ceiling bric-a-brac.

The shops also serve drip coffee and a pick of other caffeinated drinks and pastries. It’s essential you view it here as a walk through the Tillamook time track and not just a coffee shop.

2nd Street Coffee House is truly a place that offers the same feeling as the dining room at your aunt’s house.

Facilities here include outdoor seating, free wi-fi, street parking, and bike parking space. It is also wheelchair accessible.

They are open from Tuesdays to Fridays, between 8 am and 4 pm, while Saturdays are between 9 am and 2 pm.

Address: 1912 2nd St, Tillamook, Oregon, 97141

11. La Tea Da Tea Room

La Tea Da Tea Room is a famous tearoom that has been serving Tillamook residents for over 15 years.

A mother and her daughter own the property, and they make the teas served in the Tearoom.

Each morning, the teas are prepared fresh from organic ingredients using different flavours and cooking techniques.

Along with their signature teas, the place offers sandwiches, scones and desserts. You can also order lunch at the Tearoom, which offers sandwiches and soups with your choice of salad or daily soup.

The Tearoom serves international teas in addition to their creations. This is the ideal place for anyone looking to refresh in Tillamook.

Address: 904 Main Ave, Tillamook, OR 97141, United States

12. Don’t miss the Pirate Festival

One of the adventurous and yet eventful festivals in Tillamook is the Pirate Festival. Yes, the Rockaway Beach Pirate Festival is an event that attracts visitors to the city, hence making our list of top things to do in Tillamook.

Over the years, pirate festivals have grown popular, and the Rockaway Beach Pirate Festival and Treasure Hunt prove that the Oregon region has been of interest.

People come from long distances putting on their best pirate apparel.

Pirate Festival takes place in the month of June, and this Tillamook County tradition is absolutely fun for the entire family.

13. The Tillamook Creamery

Tillamook creamery offers the best creamery products in Tillamook. Visitors are welcome to taste and learn about the creamery’s operation.

A self-guided tour can be taken of the creamery, where you can see windows and videos and interact with workers.

You can also see how the products are made. It also produces a lot of cheese. The farm also houses livestock.

You can visit the creamery to see the farm exhibit, where you can learn about the cheese-making process.

This creamery uses only fresh, organic and healthy ingredients. The creamery’s dining hall has an espresso machine, an ice cream counter and a yoghurt bar.

All these items can be enjoyed in the creamery, making it worth adding to your list of things to do in Tillamook.

Address: 4165 N Hwy 101, Tillamook, OR 97141, United States

14. Walk the Tillamook Quilt Trail

Since the arrival of the early pioneers from the mountain to the Oregon Coast, quilts have always been a significant part of Tillamook County.

So, there isn’t a way we would talk about Tillamook County without mentioning Quilts. While in the city, you will find colorful quilt blocks stationed on businesses and barns all through the county.

There are over 104, and you could try to see if you can find them all. On your arrival, look up the quilt blocks stationed by interested citizens and businesses within the city.

Currently, the Tillamook Quilt Trail has brought interest to the city, with many visiting the area to see the quilt blocks specifically.

It is the first of its kind on the entire West Coast, and people come from as far away as North Carolina to see it.

The 104 8′ x 8′ wooden blocks are showcased along a self-guided auto tour route.

Address: Tillamook, OR 97141

15. Cloud and Leaf Bookstore

If you are a bookworm, add a visit to the Cloud and leaf bookstore to your list of things to do in Tillamook.

Cloud and Leaf bookstore is a well-known bookstore on the Tillamook Coast that offers a wide range of books for all ages.

The bookstore stocks books of all genres, including scientific and fiction. Depending on your tastes, the owner may also recommend books that you like.

Address: 148 Laneda Ave, Manzanita, OR 97130, United States

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16. Tillamook Store

The Tillamook shop is located near Tillamook’s creamery. This store offers both clothing and products from Tillamook Creamery.

Cool merchandise can be purchased that is made by local workers.

You can also find great gifts in the shop, including specially-made kitchen staples. It is very affordable and sells fresh food.

17. Coast Scenic Railroad Oregon

Are you interested in railroads? If yes, add a visit to the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad to your list of things to do in while in Tillamook.

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad offers a unique experience. This is a great way to see the city from the comfort of your own train.

This adventure will allow you to enjoy the fresh air while you explore the city. This rail route has a scenic route that offers stunning views.

Joining a train that goes on the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad is one of the best fun things to do in Tillamook.

Address: 402 American Ave, Garibaldi, OR 97118, United States

18. Latimer Quilt and Textile Center

Latimer Quilt and Textile Center in Tillamook is a unique museum and centre for textile arts. It’s located right off the meandering Wilson River Loop Road.

The centre is situated in an old schoolhouse, which has been meticulously preserved and restored to its historical condition.

The centre features stunning antique and modern quilts, some dating back to the 19th century. You will also find handwoven textiles, 1930s-era crochet work and antique clothing pieces.

Six rotating gallery exhibits each year highlight different aspects or eras in the textile industry.

A wide range of programming is also offered at the centre throughout the year. These include weaving demonstrations and courses.

Address: 2105 Wilson River Loop in Tillamook (OR 97141), United States

19. Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge

The Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge is a large area of forest. The land covers almost 140 acres and is surrounded by lush green forest.

The wildlife refuge offers stunning views and many attractions, including coastal cliffs, rolling headlands, rocky outcroppings, and majestic hemlock trees.

Many wildlife species can be seen from different spots throughout the area. The headland, for example, is a great spot to spot migrating grey whales, seals, and sea lions.

You can find land animals such as black bears, elk and black-tailed deer in the refuge. Moles, bugs and frogs are smaller animals than salamanders. This spot is also a great place to enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Some rare trees at the refuge can be as old as 750-800 years. The Champion Spruce and the Octopus tree are two of the most important trees to see.

Hikers will also love the place. There is a trail only a mile in length and moderately difficult. The second trail is half the distance and is easier.

It is a beautiful area that is accessible all year. You can find more information on the refuge’s website.

Address: Tillamook, OR 97141, United States

20. Enjoy lovely adventures with Oregon Coast Railriders

What about exploring the northwest corner of the state through a pleasant pedaling adventure? The Oregon Coast Railriders is one of the exciting things to do in Tillamook.

It is not just the conventional cycling adventure; instead, it is a new form of railroading that will increase your pulse and leave you with broad smiles.

Oregon Coast Railriders is a 12-mile, two-hour round-trip tour that starts from Bay City to Tillamook. It also includes a 9-mile, 1.5- to 2-hour excursion trip that leaves Wheeler and follows the Nehalem River.

Kim Metlen, an Oregon entrepreneur, started Oregon Coast Railriders. His Railriders trip between Joseph and Enterprise is very popular amongst locals and visitors in Eastern Oregon.

Interestingly, the cars (or are they bikes?) were first designed three years ago by Metlen, a former cycling store owner.

This answers what to do in Tillamook for a fun time, do add to your bucket list of Tillamook activities to join.

21. Manzanita

One of the best places to visit in Tillamook if you want to purchase a gift for your loved ones is Manzanita.

Manzanita, a famous Tillamook gift shop, offers the best gifts in town. It sells local products.

The shop sells a variety of famous gifts, including art crafts, jewellery, rugs, jewellery, wine glasses and home decor.

22. Unfurl Clothing

 

One of the best places to buy clothing items while you are in Tillamook is Unfurl Clothing.

Famous clothing retailer Unfurl offers great options for men, women and children. Shoes and accessories are also available at the store.

The store is well-known for its cute gift items and clothing. This store sells high-quality items made with non-toxic dyes, recyclable items, and other high-quality items.

Address: 447 Laneda Ave, Manzanita, OR 97130, United States

23. Nevør Shellfish Farm

Nevør Shellfish Farm is a fully operational oyster and shellfish production facility in Tillamook. You would observe this in the enormous bags of oysters collected around the road barrier and seating area, which forms a sort of working decor.

Nevør Shellfish Farm is a great attraction for tourists not only for its farm but also for its restaurant. People (locals and visitors alike) come down here to be served Dungeness, barnacles, and much, much more.

The platings are adventurous and include a trio of BBQ oysters with XO miso chile sauce and special jack mackerel crudo with good olive oil and capers.

More include peel & eat barnacles and skewers of buttery giant octopus slathered in a kind of under-the-sea BBQ sauce.

Nevør Shellfish Farm is open every day of the week from 12 pm to 5 pm.

Address: 6060 Whiskey Creek Rd, Tillamook, OR 97141-8319

24. Tillamook Coliseum Theater 

If you like movies, a top thing to do in Tillamook is to watch one at Tillamook Coliseum Theater. 

Tillamook Coliseum Theater is a fantastic venue that offers first-run flicks and classics. 

With reasonable entry prices and excellent movies playing, the theater is a fabulous addition to the local community. 

The theater also has cozy seating and a well-stocked concession stand. 

Tillamook Coliseum theater is frequently at total capacity, showing different movies to suit the taste of everyone. 

Annually, the theater host numerous Oscar-winning films and aims to preserve its excellence by having a modern and top-tier sound system. 

Address: 310 Main Ave, Tillamook, OR 97141, United States

25. Tillamook Bowling Lanes 

One of the best places to visit in Tillamook is Tillamook Bowling Lanes. 

Tillamook Bowling Lane is an excellent choice for a family and friend entertainment center in Tillamook. 

Tillamook Bowling Lanes offers an affordable rate for people who desire to enjoy and have fun without the fear of overspending. 

Additionally, this recreational center has league bowling for various skills and ages and excellent youth programs. 

Although Tillamook Bowling Lanes is a small bowling alley, they have recent lanes, affordable prices, and amiable staff. 

Address: 3705 3rd St, Tillamook, OR 97141, United States

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Plan your trip to Tillamook

Tillamook, Oregon, offers an exciting to visitors with various activities, places, events, museums, parks, and the likes combining to great effect.

Just like it is on paper, spending your vacation in Tillamook would definitely be a memorable experience which you wouldn’t want to miss.

Hence, start making plans to visit, and if you need assistance, this piece can be of help anytime! Don’t forget to include your loved ones.