Things To Do Around Willamette Valley for Non-Wine Drinkers

Newberg, Oregon, is one the best places to visit outside of Portland. Even if you’re not a fan of wine, there are so many amazing opportunities that await you on a visit to this town. That’s because the Willamette Valley offers many things to do for non-wine drinkers.

Best Bites

Newberg offers a diverse culinary menu. The area has attracted many award-winning chefs, which has helped the town rank fourth on USA Today’s 2022 list of 10 best small-town food scenes in the United States!

Newberg also has a premier food cart pod near downtown that offers a wide variety of diverse food trucks. If you prefer to take in a delicious cup of ethically-sourced coffee from all over the world, you could also start your day at Caravan Coffee.

Take a Hike

With this region being home to some of the most beautiful nature in the country, we don’t understand why anyone would want to stay inside. Plus, hiking is such a great way to unwind. Newberg has no shortage of options, including an opportunity to paddle along the picturesque Willamette River. You can find the perfect starting point at Roger’s Landing, one of more than 90 parks sprinkled along the river.

The trails cover 187 miles of the mainstem Willamette River and several miles of three other rivers. Each trail offers guides that help identify campsites and provide a look into the history and background of each place you come across on your journey.

Visit a Distillery

Another thing to do around Willamette Valley for non-wine drinkers is to visit a distillery. They’re popping up everywhere and have become a great place to learn about the craft. Oregon distilleries tend to be smaller operations with more intimate tours than those typically found at vineyards.

Catch Your Lunch

The town of Newberg is situated near great places to fish. You can go on your own or take a guided tour—you’ll have a good time either way. There are many places within the valley where you can fish, some of which even offer rentals so that you don’t have to bring your own equipment. When it comes time for lunch, you will have plenty of options, from halibut to trout. 

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Newberg is home to many unique activities, including remarkable hot air balloon rides. You’ll soar above farmland and vineyards as you soak in Oregon’s natural beauty. If you are visiting between late April and October, you can also wrap up your evening with a drive-in movie at the historic 99W Drive-In Theatre. Originally opened in 1953, this classic spot is a blast from the past that features today’s most popular shows.

While wine tasting may be a great way to spend the day, you don’t have to be a wine-lover to appreciate Willamette Valley’s many offerings. There are plenty of meals to try and fun activities to enjoy, which is why this is one the best places to visit year-round.