Experience Tualatin Valley
Tualatin Valley is separated from Portland by the Tualatin Hills, and when settlers first arrived in the area it was a challenge to get into Portland. When the first road was built connecting the two it helped boost Portland’s economy significantly, and beat out it’s rival Oregon City for local primacy. These days the cities of Tualatin Valley are themselves distinct political and social powerhouses, home to large industries such as Nike, Intel, and other tech companies.
We love living so close to Portland and it’s always fun to go hang out there with our friends, however, we have discovered there are a lot of amazing things to see and do in Tualatin Valley.
Our Story- What it’s like living In Hillsboro, Oregon
We are so happy that we live in such a beautiful corner of Oregon. It took us about a year and half after we got married to finally move out to Hillsboro, Oregon to be closer to work. Alex grew up across the river in Washington and had gotten used to the commute to work, until one day we realized there was absolutely no reason not to move. We didn’t realize where we were really moving to until spring came along and we started getting out more to explore.
Every evening after work, we would find new trails to take walks on and ride our bikes. Every weekend, we would explore the surrounding area for hikes, new places to eat at, buy fresh produce at the local farmer’s market and pick berries at the local farms near us! We only had 7.5 months to explore the Tualatin Valley before we packed up and left on our world trip.
It was a sweet and sour feeling to be leaving the area that we really enjoyed living in. We didn’t know if we would return, but if we ever did return to Oregon we knew we would want to live in the Tualatin Valley area. Here we are, a year and half later, and we couldn’t be happier!
During our travels, we saw some incredible places, tasted amazing food and discovered many different cultures! You know what though!? Living in Hillsboro, OR has been a great transition for us from our travels because we have all of this available to us here.
Read more about our world trip travels here.
The Best Place on Earth
We have beautiful trails to explore, different cuisines to try and enjoy, and because of Nike, Intel and other big companies, we have many people coming from around the world to make Tualatin Valley their home. One of my favorite things to do is to go to local park and just people watch. It makes me realize and appreciate that I live in an amazing community with people who are all different, but can connect over delicious food, wine, the beautiful outdoors and community events!
As I did more research I found more and more things to do and explore.
That’s why we partnered with Tualatin Valley to do a weekend adventure right in our own backyard. If you are planning to visit, Tualatin Valley check out tualatinvalley.org for your trip inspiration!
Where Is Tualatin Valley Located?
Tualatin Valley is located southwest of Portland and just minutes from downtown. It is a half-way point between Portland and the northern Oregon Coast and is part of the northwest corner of the Willamette Valley. Any wine lovers out there?!
The Valley if formed by the Tualatin River and separated from Portland by the Tualatin Mountains. It’s within the Washington County and includes the community of Banks, Forest Grove, Cornelius, Hillsboro (that’s where we live), Aloha, Beaverton, Sherwood, Tigard and Tualatin.
It’s super easy to get here by car, bus or light rail. Major interstate and state highways include, I-5, US-26 “Sunset Highway”, OR-217 and other sate roadways.
Best Things To Do In Tualatin Valley
Tualatin Valley is basically Portland’s backyard! It has tons of outdoor recreation available for people of all skill and level. You can spend every weekend exploring something new. There’s something out there for everyone, so if anything strikes your fancy, go out and try it!
Here are some of our favorite outdoor things to do in Tualatin Valley.
Things To Do Outdoors In Tualatin Valley
Watch Birds and Wild Life at a Wildlife Refuge and Preserve
There are actually quite a few places that serve as a preserve and refuge for birds and wildlife. During our weekend explorations we visited Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve. It’s a 725-acre wildlife preserve with 4.5 miles of trails. There’s great wildlife viewing areas and views. Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is another great place to visit. It’s home to nearly 200 species of birds and it has a 3.1-mile nature trail that is open year-round. It’s wheelchair friendly and has interpretive signs along the way.
Some other favorite nature parks that we enjoy are Tualatin Hills Nature Park, Kilin Wetlands Nature Park and Fernhill Wetlands.
Bike the Banks to Vernonia State Trail
The Banks-Vernonia State Trail stretches between the towns of Banks and Vernonia, hence the name. It used to be a railroad that hauled timber from mills during the 1920’s and until 1957. After that it was used for passenger excursions.
Since then it has been converted into a trail that people can enjoy by jogging, cycling, walking, and horseback riding. The trail is 21 miles (one way) and is multi-use, car-free. It has amazing views and during the ride you will cross thirteen bridges, and 2 railroad trestles!
Our Expereince- We cycled the trail during spring time and abosultely loved it. Somehow we missed the memo that it’s 21 miles one way! Once we got to Vernonia we took a little break and had lunch at Blue House Cafe. Everything worked out just fine and we were able to complete the 42 miles by sundown. Our recommendation is to bring enough water with you, snacks, and make sure to have sunscreen.
For more trails and biking information check out Cycling In Tualatin Valley
Have a Picnic, Go Swimming or Paddling at Hagg Lake
We first discovered this man-made lake when we picked up a wine tour map at Hoffman Farms after picking strawberries. As we were examining the map we noticed that there is a large body of water right in the middle of basically nowhere. A week later we drove out to Hagg Lake and brought a picnic to enjoy. We were amazed at how close it was to home and excited for all the future hikes, bike rides and kayaking we can do.
Hagg Lake is a popular place for water activities and fishing. Scoggins Valley Park has two boat ramps, fishing, over 13 miles of hiking and biking trails and an observation deck for wildlife and bird watching. The park also has an 18-hole disc golf course for people to enjoy.
Paddle The Tualatin River
The Tualatin River Water Trail starts at the Willamette River at Willamette Park in West Linn, and goes through peaceful farmlands and natural spaces to Rood Bridge Park in Hillsboro, which is the end of the water trail. There are 12 access points to the river from which you can start or end. It’s perfect activity during the summer months and boat rentals are available from Tualatin Riverkeepers at Cook Park in Tigard.
We haven’t done this yet, but it’s on our bucket list of things to do this summer!
Here’s a the Tualatin River Water Trail Map
Go Hiking In Tillamook State Forest
Tillamook State Forest is out near the coast and a perfect spot for hiking and camping. One of our favorite hikes that we have done is an intense hike up to Elk Mountain. Another great trail to hike is up to is Kings Mountain. It is rated as a difficult hike, but totally worth it for the beautiful views and the wild flowers in the spring time. We have yet to do this one!
Go On A Nature Walk or Trail Run At Cooper Mountain
We discovered this place just by exploring Google Maps. Cooper Mountain Nature Park is one of our favorite places to go for a walk or a trail run after work. It offers grand view of the Chehalem Mountains, 3.5 miles of trails, a park with picnic tables and a play area for children. They also offer environmental education programs!
Bike or Jog along the Rock Creek Trail
Rock Creek Trail consists of 3.5 miles of trail perfect for cyclists, runners, and families with children. The trail connects with other trails and can be enjoyed by everyone. We often ride our bikes along the trail or go out for an evening walk/run.
Watch The Sunset From Bald Peak Scenic Viewpoint
We discovered Bald Peak during a helicopter tour of the Tualatin Valley. After the helicopter ride we got into our car and drove out to this amazing place with incredible views. There’s a nice picnic area and a few trails. We didn’t stay long enough to watch the sunset, but I can only imagine what it would be like! Definitely coming back for a sunset. Afterwards, make sure to stop in at Cruise in Country Diner for delicious burgers that are all locally sourced!
Go Zip-linning at Pumpkin Ridge Zip Tours
Zip-linning is an amazing way to experience the natural beauty of Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Pumpkin Ridge Zip Tours feature 7 zip lines through the forest. During our zip-linning experience we zipped past tall Douglas firs and Red Cedars. It was exhilarating and breathtaking with the height and the beautiful views! It’s perfect to experience this as a family activity, with a group of friends or with coworkers!
Helicopter Tour Over The Tualatin Valley, Vineyards & Farms
One of my favorite things we have done so far in the Tualatin Valley was go on a helicopter tour with Oregon Helicopters over the vineyards and farms! It was both our first times in a helicopter. We were so excited and just amazed at how beautiful everything was from above. We went over the Chehalem Mountains, hills, vineyards, farms and we even spotted the airplane that was converted into a home. Check out Oregon Helicopters and the tours they do around the valley and Portland! It’s totally worth it!
More About Outdoor Recreation in Tualatin Valley
Art In Tualatin Valley
Spool & Pen
12604 SW Farmington Rd, Beaverton, OR 97005
Spool & Pen is a boutique that sells handmade items, plants and offers workshops for all skill levels. We took the Beginners Weaving Workshop and came away with a new skill and our very own wall hanging. It was super fun and relaxing.
Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals
26385 NW Groveland Dr, Hillsboro, OR 97124
The Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals is the largest museum of its kind in the Pacific Northwest. It holds a collection of rocks, gems, gem stones, petrified woods, geodes and more! We have yet to visit but we heard a lot of good stuff about it!
Follow the Quilt Barn Trail
This was one of the coolest things I’ve seen that brings together historical heritage and art so well! Before I was even aware of the Quilt Barn Trail, I would notice large wooden colorful blocks that were attached to a barn. I would drive by them and not give too much thought to them because I thought it was just there to make things look nice. Apparently, there’s so much more to the barn quilts!
The Quilt Barn Trail highlights Tualatin Valley’s agricultural and historical heritage to create public art and display the art of quilting.
The large wooden blocks have been hand-painted in traditional quilt patterns that hold meaning to the area or farm wherever it’s placed. There are 60 quilt blocks that are scattered around the valley and each one tells a unique story.
Can you imagine if they were to be all combined into one big quilt?!
Check out the Quilt Barn Trail or download the Quilt Barn Map.
Go On A Self-Guided Art Walk
There are many talented artists that live in the Tualatin Valley and create art. Many of their works can be enjoyed on a self-guided art walk.
A great place to start is in downtown Beaverton. Beaverton’s Public Art Project creates meaningful places for the public to enjoy. It is created through works of art that display Beaverton’s traditions and history. You can walk through downtown and view the public murals, sculptures and galleries. Check out this map for your self-guided tour.
You can also do a six-mile Tualatin Art Walk and attend an Old Town Sherwood Art Walk that is held every quarter.
There are also monthly art walks in Forest Grove, first Wednesday of every month, 5-8pm and on Main Street Hillsboro, first Tuesday of every month, 5-8pm.
Check out Hands on Experiences and Arts and Culture in the Tualatin Valley
Farms To Visit In Tualatin Valley
Hoffman Farms Store
22242 SW Scholls Ferry Rd, Beaverton, OR 97007
This was the first farm we went to when we went strawberry picking a couple years back and fell in love with the place and the kind people working there.
Hoffman Farms is a family-owned store and farm that have some of the best berries! It’s a great place for family because they have areas for picnicking and a grain combine converted play structure. The store has farm fresh pies, ready picked berries, milkshakes and smoothies and farmhouse kettle corn.
Smith Berry Barn
24500 SW Scholls Ferry Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97123
Smith Berry Barn is a perfect place to visit after a delicious breakfast at the South Store Cafe. Just across the street, Smith Berry Farms features a farm and a garden market. You can pick berries, farm fresh fruits and veggies, herbs, and more. Inside the barn store you can find gift, gourmet foods, and an espresso bar and milkshakes that are made from with fruit from the farm.
Wine Tasting In Tualatin Valley
Apolloni Vineyards
14135 NW Timmerman Rd, Forest Grove, OR 97116
Apolloni Vineyards specializes in the production of traditional Pinot Noir and Italian-style wines. In the tasting room we talked with the owner, Alfredo about the wine, the vineyard and how it all got started. The Apolloni family’s Italian roots originate in the Arezzo region of Tuscany, Italy. Alfredo told us about his passion for winemaking and how it was inspired by working summers at the family vineyard and villa in Italy. Alfredo and his wife purchased Apolloni Vineyards in 1999 and strive for excellence in their winemaking and representing the roots of the Italian tradition in the soil of Oregon. The place is absolutely beautiful for a nice glass wine and a relaxing time outside.
Check out more amazing wineries here.
Vineyard & Valley Scenic Tour Route
The Vineyard and Valley Scenic Tour Route is an incredibly beautiful 60-mile drive through the peaceful Oregon countryside. You can stop to enjoy wineries, farms, nurseries, and great local food.
Beer In Tualatin Valley
Ridgewalker Brewing
1921 21st Ave, Forest Grove, OR 97116
Ridgewalker Brewing is located in Forest Grove, a charming little college town on the east side of Tualatin Valley. It’s fitting, therefore, that it all started with a spelling bee, where co-founders Justin and Storm met and became fast friends. Years later and with the help of additional friends and family, they opened up their own brewery named in the spirit of Justin and Storm’s many adventures in the Oregon mountains along the Pacific Crest Trail.
The vibe of the place of completely on point with solid slab wooden tables, a huge selection of brews on tap, and and on point menu. One of the really awesome things we liked was how community orientated the owners were, going so far as to organize community events and partnering with other businesses in the area.
Click here for more craft breweries and taprooms.
Best Places To Eat At
Favorites For Breakfast In Tualatin Valley
South Store Cafe
24485 SW Scholls Ferry Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97123
The South Store Cafe is a cozy cafe located on the corner of Scholls Ferry Rd. where it stood since 1903. A few things changed but one thing remained the same, the South Store Cafe is a community gathering place. It once used to be store where people would come to stock up on canned coffee and four, but now people come for lattes, home baked pastries, soups and sandwiches. It’s a favorite of the locals and I can’t agree more!
As you step inside it feels like home. There’s a cozy feeling to it and the pastries just all look so good! We tried their mouth watering cinnamon roll and both got sandwiches. It was all so delicious!
Favorites For Lunch and Dinner In Tualatin Valley
SaWa Sushi & Sake
2036 Main St Suite B, Forest Grove, OR 97116
If you’re craving sushi, this is the place to go! At Sawa, an izakaya-style, Japanese restaurant they serve specialty sushi. They also have a traditional Japanese set menu with an entree, seasonal vegetables, miso soup, salad and steamed white rice. All the dishes are made from scratch and quality ingredients that are sourced locally.
We both love sushi and this place has become a go-to if ever get the craving!
Out Aza Blue Market & Cafe
57625 NW Wilson River Hwy, Gales Creek, OR 97117
It’s the type of place where you’d be driving down the road and not give it too much notice but if you ever stopped by out of curiosity and went inside to see, it would become a place that you’d start recommending to all your friends. It’s truly a hidden gem and a perfect stop on the way to the coast.
Out Aza Blue features a menu which changes weekly. Gabriel Barber, the Executive chef, plans his menu with fresh local ingredients. The restaurant is located near Gales Creek and you can sit next to a window that has a peaceful view onto the soothing creek.
During our visit we ordered the seasonal dishes. We got Wild Salmon and Cod with vegetables. It was so good!
Ex Novo Brewing Company
4505 SW Watson Ave, Beaverton, OR 97005
Ex Novo recently opened their new location in Beaverton. The place is known for its hop-forward, malt-forward and sour craft beers and their Detroit-style pizza!
We both shared a large Greek salad and tried our first Detroit-style pizza!
Cruise In Country Diner
9785 SW River Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97123
This is a must stop for anyone who enjoys burgers and fries! Cruise in Country Diner is a family-run burger joint that’s decorated with classic car memorabilia from the 1950s and ’60s. The menu features organic, fresh and local produce. We were able to meet Nancy the Co-owner and burger master and chat with her about the business. What started out as a small diner that was struggling at first is now a successful family business. We appreciated her husband going around and meeting people and making sure everyone was happy with their food.
BG’s Food Cartel
4250 SW Rose Biggi Ave, Beaverton, OR 97005
Who doesn’t love food carts?! It’s the first food cart pod in Washington County and we can’t be more excited!
BG’s Food Cartel opened at the start of February and is already full of amazing foods to try from around the world! It’s expected to have 31 food carts by this summer! We are so excited, especially since we love food carts and trying new food! Food carts always remind us of our travels around the world because some of the best food we’ve tried was from food carts!
The Meeting Place Butcher Shop & Cafe
6495 NW Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97124
This place is amazing! We first discovered it when we were driving down the street and out of curiosity pulled over to check it out! Ever since then we’ve been buying our meet fresh from there and going down the menu list and trying their delicious sandwiches! So far my favorite has been the Reuben. Mmmm… Just writing about it makes my mouth water. They also have a breakfast menu with loaded breakfast burritos!
It’s one of the best places to get fresh local meat and make sure to stop in next door for their mouth watering sandwiches or burger! They will be expanding this summer so we’re looking forward to the exciting changes coming up soon.
McMennamins
If you want to expereince something unique and whacky, check out McMennamins. There are a few locations in the area and all of them are fun to visit.
Grand Lodge out in Forest Grove even has a soaking pool that you can enjoy!
Some other places that we are hoping to try are,
Chennai Masala, Longbottom Coffee and Tea, Symposium Coffee, Helvetia Tavern, Glorias Secret Cafe, Nak Won, Du Kuh Bee, Din Tai Fung Washington Square, Bites Restaurant, Fat Milo’s Kitchen, and many others!
Let us know if you’ve been to any of them in the comments below! If you have a favorite place that wasn’t mentioned we’d also love to hear about it!
Best Places For Coffee & Tea In Tualatin Valley
Kafé
1832 Pacific Ave A, Forest Grove, OR 97116
Kafé is an artisan tea and toast bar. The boba and tea latte options are all so tasty and visually appealing. During our visit we tried the Cardamon Chai Boba and really liked it! Next time, I want to try the “purple rain” which is made from organic ube root.
Milk + T
4545 SW Angel Ave #160, Beaverton, OR 97005
Milk and T features a self- serve boba bar from which you can choose as many toppings as you want. They are also all about decreasing waste so you can either choose a glass jar that you can take with you and reuse or a plastic cup. We tried a tropical boba tea and added all the yummy toppings!
Insomnia Coffee Co
2388 Northwest Amberbrook Drive, 9355 NE Windsor St, Beaverton, OR 97006
There are three locations in the area and each one is a perfect place to get a cup of coffee, relax, read or do homework! They roast their own beans and even offer some classes to the public.
Oyatsupan Bakers
16025 SW Regatta Ln, Beaverton, OR 97006
Oyatsupan is a traditional Japanese bakery that combines Japanese and Western baking to create pastries and pans both sweet and savory. You can come here for a quick snack or for a lunch meal. You can find cream puffs, brioche, curry-filled donuts, croissants, or the Oyatsupan Dog which has a hot dog with stone ground mustard baked into a savory pastry.
Telvet Coffee
1928 Cedar St, Forest Grove, OR 97116
Telvet Coffee is located in Forest Grove near the University’s campus. There’s plenty of room for sitting, doing homework or reading a book. We once spent half the day there catching up on work and it was the perfect place to do that at!
Shopping In Tualatin Valley
One of my favorite reasons why I enjoy shopping in Oregon is that it’s tax-free! It’s especially nice when you want to buy something expensive or even the little things that tend to add up when there’s tax. Our favorite places to go shopping at are The Streets of Tanasborne, Washington Square Mall, or Bridgeport Village. Another great place to shop at are specialty shops, boutiques and antique stores. During our explorations in Forest Grove we went into The Department Store.
The Department Store
1918 21st Ave, Forest Grove, OR 97116
The Department Store offers an unique selection of items featuring everything from apparel to household items. The store features many brands that are well known as well as local goods. We bought an Oregon postcard and a wood and leather fly swapper that was made in Germany!
Day Trips To Take
A Day Trip To The Oregon Coast
Take a day trip out to the coast and visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory. You can take the self-guided tour and see how the cheese is packaged, taste delicious cheese samples, stock up on some cheese and have lunch at their cafe. Oh and did I mention they have ice-cream too?!
Tillamook Creamery 4165 N Hwy 101, Tillamook, OR 97141
Other great stops to make on the Oregon Coast are Tillamook Coast, Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, Seaside, and more!
A Day Trip To Explore Willamette Valley
If you want to visit more vineyards and drive through the Willamette Valley region, read our post about Ultimate Oregon Road Trip Through Willamette Valley.
Best Places To Stay At In Tualatin Valley
Get $40 towards your next stay with airbnb.com
Get $25 off your next stay with booking.com
McMenamins Grand Lodge
This is one of our favorite places to go hang out at because they have everything you need, restaurants and bars, a soaking pool, a full-service spa, and even a theatre. The historic hotel has recently been renovated with 90 guest rooms. The entire place is very unique and quirky with its historic photographs, art, and the building itself which was a former Masonic Lodge.
The Orenco
If you’d rather stay in a boutique hotel with all the luxuries then this is the place for you. The Orenco is close to great shopping, a park, and restaurants!
Here are some other great options that are very unique!
Harold’s Stuga- Tiny Country House
Stay the night at this charming tiny country house that’s located on Mountainside Lavender Farm. This tiny cottage has amazing views and is a perfect getaway from the city.
Get $55 towards your next stay with airbnb.com
Pinot Noir Cottage-Stay on a vineyard!
If you’ve every wanted to spend the night at a vineyard, this is the place. The cottage is cozy and located right on the at Ruby Vineyard and Winery, an organic vineyard in the Chehalem Mountains.
Get $55 towards your next stay with airbnb.com
Oakwood Gardens Cottage
Oakwood Gardens is a seven acre farm where you can stay at one of their cottages. The place has beautiful gardens, orchards and a birch-lined driveway. They even have alpacas!
Get $55 towards your next stay with airbnb.com
For more options check out booking.com,
Booking.comA Weekend Itinerary For Visiting Tualatin Valley
3 Day Itinerary To Explore Tualatin Valley
Day One in Tualatin Valley- Adventure & Nature
Start the day with a thrill and head up to Pumpkin Ridge Zip Tour to zipline through the forest. After zip-linning drive over to Forest Grove for lunch, drinks and some shopping. For lunch, try the amazing sushi at SaWa. After eating, walk around the block checking out the different stores and make sure to stop into The Department Store and into Kafé for a cool drink.
Take the afternoon to explore and take a nature walk at Fernhill Wetlands. After taking a walk, drive over McMennamins Grand Lodge for a drink, snack, movie or go soaking at the pool.
Day Two in Tualatin Valley- Wine Tasting and Farms
Start the morning off by eating a delicious and filling breakfast at South Store Cafe. Just across the street check out Smith Berry Farm to enjoy a refreshing smoothie or some berries if it’s the season. After a great start to the morning drive over to Beaverton’s Historical Downtown area and go on a self-guided art walk. While walking around stop into Milk + T for a refreshing boba tea or into Ex Novo for a late lunch and beer.
To end the day off pick a one or a few different wineries to visit in the area and do a wine tasting. Make sure to check out Apolloni Vineyards. Check out more amazing wineries here
Day Three in Tualatin Valley- Exploration by bike, helicopter or canoe
Take the day to experience the beautiful outdoors. Decide between a bike ride from Banks to Vernonia or Hagg Lake, paddling down Tualatin River or going on a helicopter tour of Tualatin Valley.
A great place to have lunch or dinner is Cruise in Country Diner or Out Aza Blue for a relaxing and peaceful dinner after a day of fun!
1 Day Itinerary To Explore Tualatin Valley
One day is definitely not enough to explore this area, but you could sure see a lot if you really plan it out. Pick your favorite things that interest you and go out and explore!
Exploring Oregon
We hope this has been helpful in your trip planning! We really enjoyed our adventures in the Willamette Valley and are already planning to come back and explore more. Oregon is full of amazing places and that’s why we are taking the time to explore our beautiful state! If you need more inspiration or ideas, follow us on our Instagram @thatoneadventurecouple!
Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our Adventure Newsletter where we feature all our favorite travel spots and tips!
Have you been to Tualatin Valley and want to share, let us know in the comments below!
If you visit, let us know by tagging us in your pictures on Instagram #thatoneadventurecouple #idratherplayoutside!
A big thank you goes out to Visit Tualatin Valley for setting up this amazing road trip through the Tualatin Valley! All thoughts and opinions are our own. Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you click on a product link, we may receive compensation. This compensation comes at no additional cost to you and allows us to keep serving you with great content.
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