Forest Grove Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Oregon's stunning Willamette Valley, Forest Grove is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. Just a short drive away from Portland, this vibrant community is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic downtown, and thriving wine industry.

Nature enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise in Forest Grove. The city is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and vineyards, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the nearby Fernhill Wetlands, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, or take a leisurely hike through the breathtaking Tillamook State Forest. For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, the nearby Tualatin River offers thrilling kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities.

History buffs will delight in the rich heritage of Forest Grove. The city's downtown area is lined with beautifully preserved historic buildings that date back to the late 19th century. Take a stroll along Main Street and discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes housed in these architectural gems. Don't miss the historic Forest Grove Train Depot, a testament to the city's past as a bustling railway hub.

One of the highlights of visiting Forest Grove is exploring its flourishing wine industry. The region's mild climate and fertile soils have made it a prime location for vineyards and wineries. Wine enthusiasts can embark on a tasting tour, sampling award-winning Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, and other varietals produced by local winemakers. Many wineries offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, creating an idyllic setting to savor a glass of wine.

In addition to its natural beauty and rich history, Forest Grove also hosts a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The city is home to Pacific University, a prestigious liberal arts college that brings a youthful energy to the community. Visitors can catch a performance at the university's renowned theater or browse through the impressive displays at the university's art gallery.

Alternative names: Population: ~30 pplArea: 6 mi²Elevation: 203 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 45°31'13"N, 123°6'36"W

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OregonUnited States

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Forest Grove Top Attractions

Forest Grove Attractions - What to See and Explore

Forest Grove offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Forest Grove City Library, First Church of Christ, Valley Art Association, Blank House. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Library
Forest Grove City Library
The Forest Grove City Library serves Forest Grove, Oregon, and is part of the Washington County Cooperative Library Services.
Church
First Church of Christ
The former First Church of Christ, Scientist in Forest Grove, Oregon, United States, is a historic Christian Science church built in 1916. It was designed by Spencer S. Beman, son of the noted designer of Christian Science churches, Solon Spencer Beman who had died in 1914.
45°31'13"N • 123°6'43"W
Valley Art Association
Art gallery • Shopping • Museum

Greek Revival architecture
Blank House
The Stephen and Parthena M. Blank House, also known as the Old Stagecoach Stop, is a historic residence located in Forest Grove, Oregon, United States.
Gothic Revival architecture
Silas Jacob N. Beeks House
The Silas Jacob N. Beeks House, located near Forest Grove, Oregon, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Museum
Kathrin Cawein Gallery of Art
The Kathrin Cawein Gallery of Art, named in honor of the artist, Kathrin Cawein, is an Oregon artistic institution affiliated with Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon.
45°31'4"N • 123°4'34"W
John and Elsie Parsons House
The John and Elsie Parsons House, located in Forest Grove, Oregon, is a house listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
45°31'17"N • 123°6'50"W
Harry A. Crosley House
The Harry A. Crosley House, located in Forest Grove, Oregon, is a house that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
45°30'39"N • 123°6'29"W
Isaac Macrum House
The Isaac Macrum House, located in Forest Grove, Oregon, is a house that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Greek Revival architecture
Alvin T. Smith House
The Alvin T. Smith House is a two-story home on Elm Street in Forest Grove, Oregon, United States. Completed in 1856, it is the second oldest building in the city and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
Neighbourhood
Walker Naylor Historic District
The Walker Naylor Historic District, also referred to as Walker's and Naylor's Additions Historic District, located in Forest Grove, Oregon, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Library • Universities and schools
Pacific University
Pacific University is a private university in Forest Grove, Oregon. Founded in 1849 as the Tualatin Academy, the original Forest Grove campus is 23 miles west of Portland. The university maintains three other campuses in Eugene, Hillsboro, and Woodburn, and has an enrollment of more than 4,000 students.
Museum • Universities and schools
Tualatin Academy
Tualatin Academy was a secondary school in the U.S. state of Oregon that eventually became Pacific University. Tualatin Academy also refers to the National Register of Historic Places-listed college building constructed in 1850 to house the academy, also known as Old College Hall.

Day trips

Forest Grove – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Forest Grove, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Portland Art Museum (Portland), Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (Portland), Washington Park (Portland).

21 milesE
Asian, American and Native American art
Portland Art Museum, Portland
Nestled in the heart of Portland, Oregon, the Portland Art Museum is a cultural beacon that attracts art enthusiasts from around the world. Established in 1892, it is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest and boasts an impressive collection that spans across...
21 milesE
Museum, Science museum
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland
Nestled in the heart of Portland, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, commonly known as OMSI, stands as a beacon of learning and discovery. This premier science center in the Pacific Northwest offers a rich tapestry of interactive exhibits, hands-on activities...
19 milesE
Park
Washington Park, Portland
Nestled in the verdant heart of Portland, Oregon, Washington Park stands as a tranquil refuge and a hub of outdoor activity for locals and tourists alike. Encompassing over 410 acres, this urban oasis offers a blend of nature, history, and recreation.
48 milesE
Scenic natural area with steep falls
Multnomah Falls, Washougal
Nestled in the lush landscape of the Pacific Northwest, Multnomah Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that draws visitors from around the globe. This majestic waterfall is located in the Columbia River Gorge, just a short drive east of Portland, Oregon, and within...
21 milesE
Museum, Art museum, History museum
Oregon Historical Society, Portland
Nestled in the heart of Portland, the Oregon Historical Society is a cultural gem that offers visitors a profound journey through the rich tapestry of Oregon's past. This esteemed museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the diverse history of the state, stands...