Car rental Oregon

With coastal views, snow-capped mountains and an abundance of natural wonders, Oregon will offer you the adventure of a lifetime. With a road network sprawling more than 13,000 kilometers across the state, it’s easy to travel between sights, hikes and hotels.

Oregon Route 201 runs from north to south on the eastern side of the state, connecting Idaho to Huntington. If you’re in Portland and want to venture further south, Interstate 5 makes easy access for cities in the Willamette Valley, including Salam and Medford.

From Portland, head on to Willamette Valley to explore the award-winning wine region before continuing to the Columbia River Gorge, a long body of water in a valley, surrounded by luscious green forest life. For a different colour scheme, drive over to the Painted Hills, one of the prettiest state parks you’ll ever see. Wherever you drive in Oregon, there’s a wonder to behold on every road.

As with the rest of the US, the road rules will be familar. Seatbelts must always be worn by both drivers and passengers and children weighing 40 pounds or under need to sit in an appropriate child seat.

Speed limits throughout the country are measured in miles per hour and are interchangeable depending on the road type. Generally, on interstates and highways, the limit is generally 70mph (112km/h) for cars. In rural areas the limit can drop to 55mph (88km/h) and to 20mph (32km/h) in residential areas. Keep an eye out for signposts.

Oregon has plenty to offer to visitors. From afternoons in the city to days hiking the many forest trails, you’ll find an activity perfect for you in this state.

Forest trails

The swathes of ancient trees, home to the full catalogue of incredible wildlife, are one of the state’s biggest draws. Just a 15-minute drive outside central Portland, where you’ll find the majestic trails of Forest Park. The area is made up of more than 5,000 acres of woodland and has numerous routes to follow. Some of the trails also connect to Washington Park in the south, which is just over an hour to reach on foot. Whatever path you follow, you’ll come across luscious greenery to make you feel at one with nature.

To combine the glorious outdoors with historical intrigue, head to Fort Stevens in the coastal city of Warrenton. This forested area is a must-see, as it was once an American military installation guarding the Columbia River. Hike the trails that twist and turn through 3,700 acres of land or take a Lewis and Clark river paddle tour to learn the history of the forest, while breathing in the exquisite scenery.

Coffee beans galore

Oregon is well known for its love of coffee and there’s a house for the caffeinated drink on almost every corner in Portland.  

One of the most famous coffee chains in the city is Coava Coffee. The interior of each of their three coffee houses captures Portland’s industrial development. With its own vintage drill press and quirky curved bar, your eyes and taste buds will be treated when you order from the friendly staff.

Stepping away from traditional coffee, brothers Phil and Brad Yien do things differently at Blend Coffee Lounge. Their signature drinks include the Espresso Fizz, which comes with tonic and pieces of orange, and the Honey Badger, made with locally sourced honey.

Willamette Valley

Willamette Valley and Oregon City offer natural wonders like no other that add to the popularity of the state.

Willamette Falls are the pride of Oregon City. Spanning 460 metres across the river, it’s the second largest waterfall by volume in the US, just falling short of Niagara Falls.

The Municipal Elevator is famous for connecting two different neighborhoods and is the only outdoor municipal elevator in the country. Travel 40 meters up to visit the observation deck for fantastic panoramic views of the local area. From a distance, this Oregon City staple is known for looking like a flying saucer.

There’s an abundance of exciting places to visit and explore in Oregon – from the breathtaking natural landscape to the city sights in places like Portland. With so much to see, make the most of Oregon with car rental.