Things to Do in Hood River, Oregon

Approximately 60 miles outside of Portland, Oregon sits an outdoor adventure and foodie paradise. It's a beautiful place that's overflowing with farm fresh produce, wineries, breweries, river sports, and more. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Hood River, Oregon.

This post was originally published on March 14, 2017. It has since been updated with new information, more travel tips, and new photos, and was last republished on July 15, 2025.

Adventure. Wine. Lavender. And, of course, food trucks.

Growing up in Portland, Oregon, the town of Hood River has long been one of my favorite day trips. Sitting on the Columbia Gorge approximately 60 miles east of Portland, it offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're into heart-pumping adventures or just want to chill with wine and cheese on a lavender farm, Hood River is for you.

I'm excited to share some of my favorite spots in this beautiful Oregon town. I hope you'll fall in love with Hood River, too!

About Hood River, Oregon

This scenic Pacific Northwest town is one of those magical places where mountains, rivers, and vineyards all come together.

Because Hood River is in-between the city of Portland and the state's iconic mountain, Mount Hood, many travelers come here to take advantage of its outdoor activities.

Windsurfers zip across the river. Hikers head for the hills. And mountain bikers? They're living their best lives.

But don't worry—if your idea of “adventure” is sipping a cold IPA while watching the action, Hood River has you covered, too.

This is, at its heart, still very much an agriculture-driven area. It's a place where fourth and fifth generation families still farm. And the farmers here continue to produce some of the state's tastiest apples, pears, cherries, and multitudes of other fresh fruits and vegetables.

Meanwhile, the city center has grown so much. With more and more craft breweries, restaurants, and wineries deciding to call Hood River home.

Soak up the sun on the waterfront

Kick things off at Hood River Waterfront Park. Located just off of Interstate 84 Columbia River Highway, at exit 62, this area is popular among locals and tourists alike.

You can walk along the river, chill, people-watch, or just stare at the river (it’s really pretty).

Here, on almost any given day, you can sit and watch masses of windsurfers and kiteboarders.

Hood River Waterfront Park has tons of fun play structures for kids of all ages. There are tunnels the kids can run through, bridges they can cross, webs they can climb, and a large xylophone I've seen adults play more than kids.

There's also a large climbing rock on top of a softened turf. It really is the perfect place to let the kids play off some energy while parents soak up the beauty of the Hood River waterfront.

There is also a small beach with shallow wading area. It's a fun spot to cool off on hot summer days.

Food trucks are parked nearby serving everything from Mexican food to Korean BBQ. The vibes? Relaxed and breezy.

Craving a good beer? Head to Pfriem Family Brewers right by the water. Their Belgian-style beers are top-notch, and the food is great too—think burgers, seasonal salads, and soft pretzels.

Grab a table outside and soak up those Columbia River views. It's one of my favorite places to eat and drink in Hood River, Oregon.

Follow the Fruit Loop

Leave some time to explore the Hood River Fruit Loop! No, not the cereal—this is a 35-mile scenic drive around farms, orchards, wineries, and flower fields. It's one of my personal favorite things to do in Hood River!

• Stop by The Gorge White House for cider, sandwiches, and stunning gardens.
• Visit Hood River Lavender Farm (or Hope Ranch) in July when the fields are bursting with purple blooms.
• Pick cherries at Draper Girls Country Farm—bonus: they have goats, cider, and one of the best swings with a view of Mt. Hood.
• Swing by Kiyokawa Orchards in the fall for apples and picnics with a view.

Bring your camera. Bring your appetite. And maybe a cooler for all the fruit you’re about to buy!

Simply follow the Hood River Fruit Loop map online (fellow Gen Xers, you go ahead and print out that map like I do. It's okay), and select a few places you'd like to visit. Then hop in the car for a fun day trip!

Indulge in local cuisine

When you’re ready for something more filling, grab dinner at Celilo Restaurant. Their menu changes with the seasons, but it’s always fresh, local, and delicious.

Other foodie favorites: Broder Øst for Scandinavian brunch (pictured above, left).

And check out Solstice for wood-fired pizza and river views (pictured above, right).

Most cafes and restaurants are casual, but there are a few where you can dress up if you're feeling a little fancy.

Most breweries and restaurants in Hood River are also family-friendly!

Enjoy a pint

Want something more casual? Hood River is also a haven for craft beer, with more breweries opening up locations in this destination town. Currently, there are five main breweries in central Hood River, with a few more in surrounding towns.

Grab a flight at Double Mountain Brewery, Full Sale Brewing, or Ferment Brewing. Both have great food, riverfront seating, and very chill energ

Chill out with some cider

In the land of incredibly fresh apples, it's no surprise that there are some great cideries in Hood River. The Gorge White House is my favorite spot to try local house made ciders. You can read about it and view more photos in my recent post.

How to get to Hood River

Hood River, Oregon is about 60 miles from the Portland International Airport. To drive here from Portland, simply head east on Interstate 84 toward Mount Hood. Depending on your final destination in town, you'll want to take Exit 62, 63, or 64.

For more information about Hood River, Oregon, visit the Hood River Chamber of Commerce or Travel Oregon.