When you finally visit, there are over 27 Best & Fun Things to Do in Pendleton.
There’s a lot to love about Oregon. From breathtaking natural scenery to quirky avant-garde culture, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Do you like to test your limits on grueling slopes and mountain climbs?
Do you enjoy relaxing in hot springs or fishing in the harbors of quiet wooden cabins? Would you like a walk through famous art museums?
There are many beautiful things to do in Oregon.
A small town in Umatilla County, Oregon, Pendleton is often underrated, but it has many unique features and attractions that stand out in all of Oregon.
The city is rich in history. Different eras and tribes left evidence of their existence in their culture and features.
The historic district of Old Town is full of historical abundance.
The Cayuse and Umatilla tribes lived here. The tribes live harmoniously on the Indian Reservation, located in the eastern part of Pendleton.
Pendleton also has an underground tunnel system built and used by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century.
Some parts of this tunnel system are now attractive locations in the city center.
These historical features, highlighting the city’s culture, have led to its being referred to as the cultural center of Eastern Oregon.
In addition, Pendleton’s proximity to the mountain range creates a scenic natural landscape, making it an excellent location for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Pendleton has something for everyone.
Planning an exploration? Here are some of the best things to do in Pendleton, OR.
Fun Things to Do in Pendleton Oregon
1. Pendleton Family Aquatic Center
The temperature in the summer in Pendleton can be unbearable at times; luckily, you can cool off at the Pendleton Family Aquatic Center.
This destination offers a lot of fun for all age groups.
Splashing in the waters of this massive aquatic center is one of the fun things to do in Pendleton, Oregon.
The Pendleton Family Aquatic Center has various recreational facilities, including three pools, one zero-depth pool for children, and a 50-meter lap and lap pool.
For a challenging experience, you can have a good look at the dive.
Ride down two tall slides into the clear waters below for an invigorating activity.
Next to the pools is a picnic area with a grill where the whole family can relax and enjoy a meal.
The center also has concession stands where you will really have fun.
2. Hamley’s Steakhouse & Saloon
Hamley Steakhouse and Saloon is located in downtown Pendleton in the former Umatilla County Courthouse built in 1869.
The Old West design of this attraction features stunning handcrafted woodwork and historical artifacts.
In the middle of the attraction’s stunning interior is a historic bar made of real mahogany, about 100 years old. A large longhorn stele is also mounted on the wall.
This location is known among locals for hosting parties and other gatherings. Hamley has a relaxed atmosphere, and many big-screen TVs mainly show football matches.
This incredible attraction offers whiskey on tap, 12 beers on tap, and the best juicy steaks.
Their carnivore menu features a variety of traditional saloon favorites.
It is a unique experience not to be missed!
3. Pendleton Underground Tours
The Pendleton Underground is a fascinating historic non-profit attraction open to the public.
The 19th-century gold rush attracted many people to Oregon’s riches, and the Chinese were one of them.
The Chinese built tunnels and did nasty things there.
The structures still exist today and are open to the public to explore their deepest secrets.
Pendleton Underground Tours was founded in 1989 and is a major year-round tourist attraction in Eastern Oregon.
This tourist destination demonstrates and describes the history of the local companies, both legal and illicit, as well as the background of the Chinese in Eastern Oregon and their role in the development of the American West.
The tour is interesting, informative, and engaging for all age groups. However, the tour is strictly for children aged 6 and over. Learn the untold history of Eastern Oregon here.
The site features Chinese opium dens, prisons, bordello “cozy rooms,” card rooms, a kitchen, sleeping quarters, and other questionable areas.
The guided tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.
This fascinating tour is one of the best things to do in Pendleton, Oregon.
Things to Do in Pendleton at Night
1. Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts
Crow’s Shadow Institute is a world-class art studio specializing in modern graphic arts. It is located in the historic Saint Andrews Mission on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.
The institute was founded in 1992 by James Lavadour, Phillip Cash Cash, and several of their friends.
In 2001, the institute focused on fine printing, with Frank Janzen as their chief printer.
The institute was highly regarded for its artistic lithographic production during that period.
2017 Judith Baumann took over from Frank Janzen as a head printer. In addition, several major institutions, including the Library of Congress, the Wellin Museum of Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Smithsonian, have some of the institute’s artworks in their collections.
The institute provides a gallery, an artist-in-residence program, and a fine print studio. The general public is welcome to any of these amenities.
The institute also aims to give Native Americans opportunities through the advancement of the arts.
2. Plateau Fine Dining
Pendleton has many excellent restaurants that offer visitors exceptional dining and long-lasting satisfaction.
Plateau Fine Dining is one such restaurant in Pendleton, Oregon.
Stopping for a delicious meal at this eatery is one of the best things to do in Pendleton, Oregon.
Located atop the Wildhorse Resort in Pendleton, Oregon, this restaurant is a stylish, upscale restaurant with stunning views of the Blue Mountains.
This restaurant serves traditional Northwest cuisine with exceptionally prepared dishes made from fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Their perfectly cut meat is carefully seasoned, well-cooked, and artistically arranged.
The restaurant also provides a well-curated wine list sourced primarily from Oregon and the Walla Walla Valley, so guests can choose according to their preferences.
The dining room offers a four-course Chef’s Tasting menu during special events. Meals are served in a lit private room.
So if you’re wondering what to do in Pendleton, Oregon, you shouldn’t miss out on a taste of this unique cuisine.
3. Virgil’s At Cimmiyotti’s
Virgil’s At Cimmiyotti’s, originally known as Cimmiyotti’s, is a landmark restaurant in Pendleton where locals have hosted special occasions.
It features the best meals you can think of to get your taste buds alive again.
You’ve probably not lived until you taste one of the meals from Virgil’s.
Include this taste-provoking place to your list of things to do in Pendleton, Oregon.
Things to Do in Pendleton For Couples
1. The Umatilla River
The Umatilla River is about 89 miles long and tributary of the Columbia River.
The Blue Mountains, in northern Umatilla County, Oregon, United States, and near the meeting point of the Umatilla River’s North and South Forks, are home to the headwaters of the Umatilla River.
Pendleton locals value the Umatilla River as a valuable natural resource because it supplies fish to the city.
You can mark an excellent spot for freshwater fish with the fisherman.
The river supports fall Chinook, spring Chinook, coho salmon, smallmouth, and walleye.
In addition to shore fishing, you can try several other activities, especially in the more turbulent parts of the river, such as kayaking or canoeing.
Defend yourself in the rapids of this amazing body of water, but make sure you are equipped and skilled enough to navigate the rapids.
A trip to the Umatilla River is adventurous and exciting, and it is one of the fun things to do in Pendleton.
2. Umatilla National Forest
The Umatilla National Forest, which spans 1.4 million acres and features breathtaking vistas and floral ecosystems, is located in the Blue Mountains of southeast Washington and northeastern Oregon.
It is one of the major attractions in Oregon, attracting thousands of tourists every year.
The Umatilla National Forest is home to various Oregon-native animals, including elk, black bears, and large mammals.
This habitat has one of the largest herds of Rocky Mountain elk found in any national forest in the country.
In addition, nearly 40,000 hunters visit the forest annually for game hunting opportunities to control the forest’s game population.
Visitors can also go fishing as its rivers and lakes are rich in freshwater species such as trout, Chinook salmon, and steelhead.
Visitors can also enjoy driving over 2,000 miles of forest roads, hiking 715 miles of trails, and picking wild mushrooms or blueberries.
The attraction also includes nearly 40 campsites and 13 rented cabins throughout the forest for visitors.
You’ll also find the Grande Ronde or North Fork John Day rivers, where guests can enjoy a boating experience.
Proving your location is both adventurous and fun.
3. Great Pacific Wine and Coffee Co.
The Great Pacific is a cozy, trendy tavern-style restaurant and cafe owned and operated by Ken Schulberg and Carol Hanks.
It is located in a previous Masonic lodge built in 1887. The building was renovated in 1980 and converted to the Grand Pacific.
This informal, family-friendly restaurant is large and spacious, with booths and tables.
Enjoy the delicious food, a wide range of coffee drinks, a wide selection of wines, craft beer, food for sale, or free Wi-Fi. Great Pacific occasionally hosts live bands on its large stage.
The menu offers a variety of dishes, such as gourmet sandwiches, salads, Neapolitan-style pizzas, soups, and combo plates. Plus, they offer one of the best wines in Pendleton.
Wines are obtained from domestic and foreign sources.
You can enjoy their dozen imported and domestic draft beers and over 80 bottled beers for sale.
They also offer a range of local microbrew Ales, Stouts, Porters, and Lagers from all the major brewing countries worldwide.
Feel free to stop in town.
Things to Do in Pendleton For Kids
1. Pendleton Round-Up & the Canyon Hall of Fame Museum
The Pendleton Round-Up opened the first Hall of Fame for a specific show in 1969.
This attraction pays tribute to the prominent people who helped shape the town and make it what it is today.
The Hall of Fame exhibits include Wild West and Native American artifacts such as saddles, clothing, Indian regalia, full-size teepees, weapons, trophies, wagons, and photographs.
In addition, a majestic weightlifting horse can be seen at the entrance, giving an idea of the amazing things inside the building.
The mission of this attraction is to preserve and enhance the history and heritage of Pendleton.
The attraction’s board has added more men, women, and occasionally farm animals as honorees.
All honorees must be associated with Round-Up and Happy Canyon for a long time.
This destination is perfect for history lovers who want to learn more about Pendleton’s heritage.
Touring this prestigious facility is one of the best things to do in Pendleton, Oregon.
2. Children’s Museum of Eastern Oregon
Children might find most attractions too boring; don’t worry; the Children’s Museum of Eastern Oregon is right in Pendleton.
The museum is a non-profit facility offering extensive educational activities and interactive exhibits for children of all ages.
The experience unlocks children’s imaginations and illuminates the Earth, their immediate environment, and other realms of knowledge.
The museum organizes classes, camps, and science and art events monthly to promote the educational experience.
The museum’s fun attractions include Northwest Adventure, Pizza Cafe, Toddler Zone, and Fire Station.
Children can also play role-playing and become their future ambition for the day.
For those interested in the sciences, STEM is full of machines, magnets, and other fun things for kids to explore.
3. Heritage Station Museum
Pendleton has many attractions that tell its history. Yet, the Heritage Station Museum is the most comprehensive.
The Heritage Station Museum opened in 1974 and is managed by the Umatilla Historical Society.
The museum presents artifacts from over 150 years of contemporary history.
On the property, you will also find offices, archival storage, outdoor exhibits, and an open-air theatre.
You can see some outdoor exhibits, such as the old schoolhouse, Union Pacific cabin, homestead, log cabin, barn, and windmill.
Indoor exhibits are presented, and the history of the state is told. Indoor exhibits consist of railroad information, newspapers, a permanent exhibit of the Oregon Trail, and several temporary exhibits.
Visitors can have a picnic in the miniature park located outside the museum.
The Heritage Station Museum is an excellent place for history buffs.
Touring the Heritage Station Museum is one of the best things to do in Pendleton.
Indoor Activities to Do in Pendleton
1. Roy Raley Park
Roy Raley Park is one of the oldest parks in Pendleton.
The park offers activities for all age groups every year, so there is no need to worry about anyone being left out.
It is a seasonal public park that brings the whole community together.
It is mainly known for its ice rink, which attracts many visitors and residents in winter.
So come with your skating knife, depending on the time of your visit.
During the summer, many activities are still available for the public to enjoy, including swimming in the indoor pool, playing basketball on the courts, and jogging.
The park also includes a grass arena for holding events, a stage, a drinking fountain, two reservable shelters with 13 picnic tables, and restrooms.
The whole family can enjoy many recreational activities at this attraction.
2. Oregon Grain Growers Brand Distillery
Oregon has been the leading distillery in Pendleton, Oregon, since Prohibition.
The establishment started in 2016 after five long years of careful planning.
Oregon Grain Growers Distillery is a family-owned business that aims to produce great craft spirits using locally sourced ingredients and further emphasizes agriculture.
The distillery mills grain in the same building and offers a cozy tasting room where guests can try their products.
You can also tour the distillery and buy a bottle of gin, vodka, and whiskey. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
Oregon Grain Growers Brand Distillery has an on-site kitchen where you can eat delicious meals and spirits.
Their dishes are made with seasonal ingredients sourced from Oregon, so their menu constantly changes.
3. Deadman Pass Lookout Area
Deadman Pass Lookout Area is another breathtaking attraction in Pendleton, Oregon, especially for nature lovers.
Deadman Pass came about because of the killings during the Bannock War by Indian rebels.
This is an interstate highway overlooking several low mountains. A rest area at the top of the attraction offers an amazing view.
There are grasses on the hills but no trees, giving a clear view of the green valleys below.
Enjoy the amazing view, especially at sunset; the sky is covered in orange, purple, and red.
Come and capture the wonderful views with your camera.
Of course, you can also stand in the view or outside your car and marvel at the beauty.
Romantic Things to Do in Pendleton
1. Pendleton Woolen Mills
The Pendleton Woolen Mills is another fascinating attraction in Pendleton, Oregon.
Founded in 1909, it produces locally sourced raw wool fabrics and garments.
The sixth generation of the Bishop family is currently in charge of owning and running it.
The business creates furniture, pillows, blankets, and men’s and women’s clothes.
Its products are sold through specialty stores, department stores, catalogs, and even online in the US, Canada, Japan, and Europe.
The factory’s retail shop is a must-see for guests because you may get gifts for loved ones there.
Additionally, the business provides free mill tours to the public so they may see how its fabrics and quilts are manufactured.
Free tours are available Monday through Friday.
2. Tamastslikt Cultural Institute
The Tamastslikt Cultural Institute is a museum and research center on the Umatilla Indian Reservation.
The Institute honors, preserves, and educates the public about the distinct culture, history, and modern life of the ancient tribes of Native America.
The tribes are the Umatilla, Cayuse, and Walla Walla.
Artifacts on permanent display in the museum depict how the cultures of the various tribes arose and the history of the reservation in which they live.
In addition, there is also a gallery for temporary exhibits, including Native American art, crafts, history, and folklore, such as weapons, clothing, cloth, farm implements, and many other collections.
This institute also organizes public events from time to time that are in line with its mission, such as craft classes, live performances and powwow, and a children’s day camp.
Therefore, visiting this exceptional institute is one of the best things to do in Pendleton, Oregon.
3. Pendleton Air Museum
The Pendleton Air Museum is another exciting attraction for aviation and history buffs.
To gather, preserve, showcase, and describe artifacts that symbolize Pendleton’s military and aviation history, a non-profit museum was established in 2000.
This attraction pays tribute to the local airmen, sailors, marines, and soldiers who have fallen in battle through events, exhibitions, and other activities.
The museum also serves as a hub for scientific research, public education, and charity endeavors.
Some of the exhibits display uniforms, images, artifacts from the war, and other items.
Visitors can view and learn about the various aircraft and what they were used for during the war.
The museum participates in local events, such as the Veterans Open House, parades, Air shows, and the First Citizens Banquet.
Free Things to Do in Pendleton
1. Blue Mountain Wildlife
The Blue Mountain Wildlife Attraction spans a vast expanse of land comparable to the size of New York City and is situated in Pendleton’s southern region.
In Pendleton and Eastern Oregon, it is the top institution for wildlife rehabilitation.
Founded in 1990, Blue Mountain Wildlife focuses on animal rehabilitation, education, and research in keeping with its mission.
However, their specialty is caring for predators. This facility offers an up-close animal experience.
Since Blue Mountain Wildlife was founded, more than 10,000 animals, mainly raptors, have been cared for.
In addition, over 10,000 local students and community members are educated about these animals annually, promoting human-wildlife coexistence.
It’s quite an exciting experience and will not be missed.
So don’t forget to add this attraction to your itinerary.
2. Pendleton Riverwalk
The Pendleton Riverwalk is a well-paved path stretching 2.2 miles parallel to the Umatilla River.
Through this journey, you can enjoy the picturesque view of the river, relax, or engage in some exercise or another.
Due to the low temperature, the early hours of the day are ideal for horse riding, cycling, jogging, and other cardiovascular exercises.
In addition, the Riverwalk takes you to some beautiful areas and attractions in Pendleton, such as the Pendleton skateparks, Roy Raley Park, and the baseball fields.
Visitors can relax and unwind while listening to the sound of the water.
The duration of the visit is not restricted.
Make a stop during your stay.
3. Pendleton Center for the Arts
The Pendleton Center for the Arts is located in the historic building of the Umatilla County Library, built in 1915.
The old library building was built in the Italian Renaissance style. In 1996, the Arts Council of Pendleton renovated it and converted it into a multi-venue arts center.
Many fascinating works of art created by skilled local artists are displayed in the various galleries.
View the 1,800-square-foot East Oregonian Gallery, which features the art of professional and up-and-coming Oregon artists.
The Lorenzen Board Room Gallery is an exhibition space for local community members.
In addition, the Pendleton Center for the Arts contains the Pearson Auditorium, which seats 110 people and is used for live music concerts, literary events, and dance recitals, among other events.
If you don’t know how to make art, don’t worry.
The center offers classes for all ages, as well as pottery, painting, and digital art, to community members at various studios.
Enjoying the fascinating art at this destination is one of the fun things to do in Pendleton, Oregon; add it to your bucket list.
Cheap Things to Do in Pendleton
1. Aura Goodwin Raley
Several markers in Pendleton, Oregon, detail vital people and events that played a vital role in the area’s history and development.
The Goodwin Raley Aura sign in downtown Pendleton is among these signs and is part of the Oregon Trail series of signs.
In 1864, Aura Morse Goodwin Raley, the “Mother of Pendleton,” and her husband Moses Goodwin built the first house in Pendleton, which is currently located on the 100 block of South Main Street.
The couple opened a hotel and state station (often called Goodwin’s Cat Station; they had many cats) in their residence.
They also built a toll bridge over the Umatilla River.
When Pendleton was built, the family donated land to the town to build Pendleton’s first courthouse, cemetery (now Pioneer Park), and college.
In its early days, Aura Raley owned much of Pendleton. Aura Raley sold many lots for residential and commercial development, contributing to its development.
She was a major player in Pendleton’s growth and integration.
Because of her heritage, Aura Raley has a street named after her, and she lived in Pendleton until her death.
2. Wildhorse Resort & Casino
Wildhorse Resort and Casino, an attraction in Pendleton, offers many features for entertainment lovers.
So if you are out for an exciting experience, visiting this casino will help you enjoy the fun in Pendleton, Oregon.
Located on the outskirts of town, this relaxing casino resort gives players room to be loud and rowdy.
The owners of this amazing facility are the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.
The resort has comfortable rooms with cable TV, microwaves, coffee makers, and hot tubs.
The apartments have a place to sit.
In addition, the resort features a museum, a full-service casino, an indoor pool, an 18-hole golf course, seven restaurants and bars, an RV park with a tipi village, and a children’s entertainment center.
The casino has poker tables, slot machines, roulette, and arcade games.
This place is also primarily used for business meetings and large gatherings.
There is also an event center where live music performances are held for the public.
Be sure to add this place to your itinerary if you want to share this huge, fun experience.
3. Terwilliger Thermal Springs
About a quarter mile into the wilderness, Terwilliger Hot Springs can offer relaxation after a long, sweaty hike.
They are one of the best places to visit in Oregon, especially if you like to let things air out.
Clothing is optional here!
Rock formations along the river separate the six pools.
The pools’ temperatures range from 85°F 112°F, and their heat penetrates bones and relaxes muscles.
The fresh mountain air is also a plus; it’s the deep, cleansing kind of oxygen you can only enjoy when you’re miles from civilization.
If you’re ready to trade in your bath bombs for the real thing, consider soaking in the Terwilliger Thermal Springs.
They are one of the most beautiful places in Oregon and can provide some much-needed R&R during a busy vacation.
Cool Places to Visit in Pendleton
1. Thor’s Well
You’ve never seen a slump like this.
Thor’s Well is so large and mighty, with such ferocious force, that it regularly sweeps visitors into the sea.
They get too close, and the God of Thunder comes down on them with a stomach-churning force that crushes rocks.
What is Thor’s Well?
Although it has many nicknames, including the “drainpipe of the Pacific,” it doesn’t drain the ocean.
Simply put, it’s a deep hole in the middle of a rocky outcrop.
The waves crash against the rocks, water flies in all directions, and the hole seems to act as a drain, emptying the area until the next wave.
People come from all over to photograph Thor’s Well.
It’s a testament to nature’s fury in action and is easily one of the most stunning places in Oregon. Just don’t get too close!
2. Oregon Coast Aquarium
Oregon has its fair share of docks, marinas, bays, aquatic centers, and marine life exhibits as a coastal state.
But none of them can hold the handle of the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Filled with tons of water, the Oregon Coast Aquarium features everything from sharks to seabirds.
There are underwater passages where you can walk on the ocean floor, and there are tide pools where you can touch a starfish or get a kiss from a sea otter.
On the educational side, fun educational experiences can also be experienced at the aquarium.
You can sign up for various courses, lectures, workshops, and other special events.
They are divided between children and adults, so everyone will have something new to try or explore.
If you’re thinking about vacation ideas along the coast, consider the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
It’s one of the best places in the state for families who aren’t afraid to get a little splashy.
3. Rimsky-Korsakoffee House
With dimmed lights, crowded tables, and decorations named after dead people, the Rimsky-Korsakoffee House is one of Oregon’s weirdest places to visit.
You might even say it’s to death.
There are many bizarre things in Rimsky’s, including ghastly trinkets on shelves and tables that randomly spin or vibrate.
According to legend, the house itself is haunted, and the owners certainly play on superstitions with spooky decorations and mournful music.
The menu is also a diversion.
While they serve the usual coffee and cakes, they also experiment with freshly made desserts in limited quantities, including condiments, sauces, and toppings.
They only accept cash. They don’t post their specials online. When they come up with something, there is no more.
If you want to experience the Rimsky-Korsakoffee House, you must go there in person and be prepared for anything.
Don’t expect it to be like any other coffee shop.
This creative business pushes the boundaries and lives up to its reputation.
Conclusion
Do you still think Pendleton, Oregon, is small and uninteresting?
Well, with the 27 best and most fun things to do in Pendleton, Oregon, listed in this article, we hope you have a good idea of what fun smells like.
Wishing you the best time ever!
