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Mother’s Day Weekend in Oregon’s Washington County

Posted on: May 3rd, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

If you’re in the area visiting your mother, or are planning to take her away for a Mother’s Day getaway, several events throughout Oregon’s Washington County will leave your mom feeling like a queen (and you will be anointed as the “favorite child” …  at least for the weekend).

Weekend-Long Events

NEW ADDITION: Alloro Vineyard winery is hosting a special chocolate and wine tasting this Mother’s Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sample exotic chocolates, paired with Alloro Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Local jewelry designer Jessica Moquin will be showing off her artisan wares at a special trunk show. Cost for the event is $15 per person.

The Barefoot Quilt Festival is a Mother’s Day weekend tradition.  The historic Jenkins Estate hosts this celebration of the art of quilting with displays, demonstrations and sales of quilt-related items, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m, May 11-12.

Also an annual tradition, Smith Berry Barn celebrates “Mom”  during its Mother’s Day Open House, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., May 11-12, with samples of gourmet foods and fine teas.

Enjoy Mother’s Day weekend with wine tastings, food and music, hosted by Garden Vineyards (to be held at a special location: 23800 NW Meier Rd. Hillsboro), Friday, May 10, from 5-10 p.m. and Saturday, May 11, from 12-10 p.m. Admission is $10 per person, per evening.

Saturday, May 11

Oregon’s largest all-agricultural market, the Beaverton Farmer’s Market, opens for the season at 8 a.m. More than 200 vendors, including Oregon Craft Distillers “local liquids,” where visitors can taste artisan beer, wine and spirits, and an impressive selection of flower baskets and bouquets, delicious baked goods and more. (Open Saturdays through November 23, 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.)

Apolloni Vineyards is unveiling its new Tuscan-inspired wine cave, from 4-7 p.m. Enjoy special tastings, featuring an exclusive selection of library wines, with vintages dating back to 2012. Italian-style appetizers, gourmet cheese and charcuteries will be served. Cost to attend the event is $20 per person.

Enjoy a mother-daughter run at this year’s Hippie Chick Half & Quarter Marathon, starting at 8 a.m. This ladies-only event takes runners through Oregon’s Washington County’s flat, tree-lined streets, ending at the Gordon Faber Recreational Complex in Hillsboro.

Sunday, May 12

NEW ADDITION: Plum Hill Vineyards is hosting a Mother’s Day Wine Brunch, with delicious offerings, such as empanadas, quiche, stuffed endive leaves, Meyer lemon tarts and hibiscus caramel candies, paired with Plum Hill Wines. Bruch is $27 and may be purchased at the tasting room or by calling 503-359-4706.

NEW ADDITION: Celebrate Mom at the Mother’s Day Brunch at McMenamins Grand Lodge, in the Compass Room Theater. The menu will include sugar snap pea salad with mint and pine nuts, tortellini salad, breakfast breads and pastries, cottage-fried red potatoes, homemade biscuits and sausage gravy and a lot more. Brunch is $26 for adults; $15 for kids (5-12): free for kids 4 and under. Reservations are required, 503-992-9533; toll free, 877-992-9533.

The Holiday Inn in Wilsonville is hosting a Mother’s Day Brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This traditional buffet features carved prime rib, whole round of pork, oven-roasted salmon, pan-seared chicken scallopini, omelet station, taco bar, a variety of salads, signature desserts, chocolate fondue bar and more. Guests will enjoy unlimited coffee, orange juice and punch, and champagne for the adults. Prices are $25 per adult, $22 for seniors, $13 for children under 12, and free for kids under 5. Reservations are required, 503-682-2211.

Apolloni Vineyards is partnering with Sundial Specialty Baking for a Mother’s Day Brunch at 10 a.m. This four-course brunch will feature artfully crafted dishes, such as truffled deviled eggs, smoked salmon crepes, and sangria basil mousse served in a poppy seed cookie bowl. Each course will be paired with delightful white and rosé Apolloni wines. All-inclusive cost is $29. Reservations are required, 503-359-3606.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with Garden Vineyards (23800 NW Meier Rd., Hillsboro). Enjoy brunch and live music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and take a stroll through the lush private gardens until 5 p.m. Cost is $35 per person. Reservations are required, 503-547-9046.

For more events and festivals happening in Oregon’s Washington County, please visit our Event & Festivals Calendar.

 

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Luck O’ the Irish

Posted on: February 25th, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

“If you’re lucky enough to be Irish, then you’re lucky enough.”

Saint Patrick’s Day is nearly upon us. Don’t miss out on this fun slate of events to celebrate this festive holiday weekend.  Wear your green, and raise your glass of green beer and toast to St. Patty’s Day in Oregon’s Washington County. Sláinte!

Friday, March 15 – Sunday, March 17

Clancy’s Family Restaurant in Sherwood will host its 25th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Party all weekend long, featuring local Irish music, bagpipe and drum performances and door prizes. Don’t forget the traditional Irish fare; corned beef and cabbage and Irish stew will be served. Kids are welcome with parents until 9 p.m. Must be 21+ after 9 p.m.

The party doesn’t stop at the Thirsty Lion, which celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with a three-day festival of live music, bagpipers and Irish food specials. The annual “St. Baldrick’s” head-shaving event to benefit Children’s Cancer Research will take place on Saturday and Sunday. Live music starts at 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, all day on Sunday.

Saturday, March 16

It’s not St. Patrick’s Day without a parade, and this year Murphy’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Party will feature local businesses, car clubs, schools, motorcycle drill team and more. The parade will start and end at Hare Field at Hillsboro High School (151 Northeast Grant Street Hillsboro) and the festivities continue with a traditional corned beef and cabbage meal. Parade starts at 11 a.m. Admission is free.

Luckython 2013Kick off St. Patrick’s Day weekend at the Beaverton Farmers Winter Market (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Shop for seasonal produce and artisan food products while enjoying live performances from the Sir James McDonald Pipe Band and the An Daire Academy of Irish Dance and more. Admission is free.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a Luckython run (first race starts at 3 p.m.). Choose from the 5K, 10K, 15K team relay and a 5K “HeadLamp” nighttime run/walk at The Reserve Vineyards and Golf Club. The little kiddies can take part in the “Lil’ Leprechaun Dash,” which starts the evening of events. There’s a pot o’ gold at the finish line, with a full Irish potato bar with all of the fixings.  Registration starts at $30 For more information or to register, visit the Luckython website.

Sunday, March 17

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Irish style at McMenamins Grand Lodge in Forest Grove and Cornelius Pass Roadhouse & Imbrie Hall in Hillsboro. All ages are invited to enjoy live music, bagpipers and leprechauns at this day-long event.  McMenamins’ Irish Stout beer, Irish coffee cocktails, Irish food specials and more will also be available. Admission is free.

The Dublin Pub hosts a day of live music starting at 12 noon. This Irish-themed pub is a St. Patrick’s Day institution, and features 59 beers on tap–including Irish beers. Must be 21+. Cover charge may apply.

Keep St. Patrick’s Day weekend safe, please drink responsibly. 

Find places to stay. | Create a personalized itinerary. | Find places to eat. | View the digital visitor guide.

A Closer Look at Our Cities: North Plains

Posted on: February 15th, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

Situated in northwestern Washington County, just off Highway 26, the main route between Portland and the Oregon Coast, the small city of North Plains packs quite a punch.  North Plains (population 1,700) is surrounded by lush farm land, and attracts throngs of sports enthusiasts and thrill seekers who flock to the area for its collection of activities, such as biking, golf, disc golf, and glider plane rides.

The North Plains Glider Port (Photo by Paul Loofburrow)

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Nestled in a picturesque wooded canyon is Horning’s Fishing and Picnic Hideout, a multi-activity attraction that offers fly fishing and cast and lure fishing, and also allows overnight tent and RV camping. Don’t let the name fool you, this pastoral “hideout” wears many hats, as it boasts three highly rated disc golf courses, is home to endurance sporting events, such as Warrior Dash, and holds several music festivals throughout the year – all of this, plus fishing, picnicking, hiking and more.

If golf is your game, tee up at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club, the famed, championship golf facility that has hosted many well-known golfers. Framed by spectacular vistas, Pumpkin Ridge has ranked among the country’s best courses to play for more than 20 years.

Take to the skies in a glider plane with a guided flight piloted by the Willamette Valley Soaring Club, which offers rides at the North Plains Glider Port (11870 NW Dersham Rd., North Plains) May through October (weather permitting).  Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Tualatin and Willamette Valleys while soaring 3,000 feet in the air. Rides are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and a standard ride is $120.

Shop

During summer months,  visit the North Plains Farmers Market for a taste of local produce and artisan good (Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., June 15-September 28). Year-round, browse the one-of-a-kind treasures at The Treasure Chest Antique Mall (open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

Sip

Tantalize your tastebuds at one of Oregon’s Washington County’s newest wineries/tasting rooms: Abbey Creek Winery. This family run winery, which operates a vineyard estate not far from Washington County, produces Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, and is open Saturdays from 12-5 p.m. (or by appointment).

Dine

Grab a burger and a brew at the Rogue Brew Pub & Eatery.  This unassuming restaurant, located in the city’s center, earns raves for its burgers and selection of microbrew beers. The joint is jumping on Friday nights with live music.  Or pop into the Old Hich-en Post for breakfast and lunch, or partake in their happy hour, which is daily from 3-7 p.m.

Mark Your Calendars

North Plains is home to several annual events, including the four-day bluegrass and Americana music fest, the Northwest String Summit (July 18-21, 2013) and the Warrior Dash endurance race (September 7, 2013).

Plan your North Plains and Oregon’s Washington County getaway today: Find places to stay. | Create a personalized itinerary. | Find places to eat. | View the digital visitor guide.

Connecting the Past to the Present

Posted on: February 1st, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

A Guide to Beaverton’s Historic Downtown District

Downtown Beaverton is experiencing a renaissance lately. Acclaimed restaurants, new antique shops and the return of the venerable Beaverton Farmers’ Market combine to make the historic downtown district in Beaverton a must-visit destination.

Dining & Culinary

Global cuisine takes center stage in Beaverton, as several of the Greater Portland region’s most celebrated and authentic ethnic restaurants are located right here.  In addition to being a hot-spot for Korean BBQ, with restaurants such as Nakwon and Du Kuh Bee, downtown Beaverton is home to decarli Italian restaurant and the popular lunch spot, Gloria’s Secret Cafe.  (View the complete list of restaurants in Oregon’s Washington County, or search by location, cuisine type, price and more.)

The historic Beaverton Bakery is one of Beaverton’s most beloved local brands. It has been producing the highest-quality cakes and desserts since 1925.

For a relaxing cup o’ joe,  stop by Ava Roasteria, one of very few 24-hour coffee houses in the area. Ava Roasteria specializes in fresh-roasted coffee, pastries and sandwiches, and local musicians perform on Friday and Saturday nights.

Finally, from February through November, the state’s largest all-agricultural market, the Saturday Beaverton Farmers’ Market, becomes the cornerstone of the historic downtown district. Located near the Beaverton City Park, which features ping-pong tables, picnic areas and an interactive water fountain and playground, the market’s fresh produce, artisan food products and live entertainment delight and entertain visitors.

Shopping

In addition to random, locally owned stores selling wares ranging from ski and snowboard supplies to barbers and repair shops, Beaverton’s historic district offers many opportunities for tax-free shopping and places to find one-of-a-kind gifts.

The name says it all at Tea Thyme and Lavender Vintage Antiques and Tea House. Browse the antique furniture and enjoy a casual high tea. The new Peonies & Possibilities antiques and vintage shop is a cute shop that features antique furniture, “Shabby Chic,” linen, silver and more.

Quilters will enjoy the Quilter’s Corner Store, a family owned and operated, independent quilt shop featuring fabric, kits, patterns, notions and tools and more.

Art and Culture

Art on Broadway is a fine-art gallery that showcases the works of local, award-winning artists in a wide range of materials and styles. Don’t miss their free monthly reception, which celebrates new work and encourages art awareness.

On a site listed on the 1926 Historic Registry is the Beaverton History Center, complete with archival images, maps and artifacts from Beaverton’s early days.

Local community theater company, the Beaverton Civic Theatre, stages a season of plays–from well-known to little-known plays–at the Beaverton City Library Auditorium, which also hosts book talks, free family matinees, foreign film series and more.

This is just a sampling of the goodies that can be found in Beaverton’s historic downtown district. Include a visit to the district in your Oregon’s Washington County getaway. Plan your trip today.

Find places to stay. | Create a personalized itinerary. | Find places to eat. | View the digital visitor guide.

 

 

 

Fall Farmers Markets Filled with Food and Fun

Posted on: September 22nd, 2012 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Washington County’s farmers markets are offering more than kale and squash this fall; they’re offering unique events and entertainment!

The Beaverton Farmers Market features an abundance of fresh goods--and entertainment

Beaverton Farmers Market

Saturday, Sept. 29: Author Diane Morgan will be at the market to sign copies of her recipe book, Roots. Her book offers simple yet creative ways to prepare dozens of different root vegetables, many of which are sold at the market, such as beets, potatoes and parsnips.

Saturday, Oct. 13: Fresh from their UK tour, The Water Tower Bucket Boys perform their foot-stompin’ eclectic mix of folk, bluegrass and rock music.

February 2 & 16, March 2 & 16, and April 6 & 20, 2013: Announcing the first-ever Beaverton Winter Farmers Market! Watch for details regarding vendors and entertainment.

Hillsboro Farmers Market

Saturday, Oct. 6: Enjoy the acoustic folk rock sounds performed by Dan Abrahamson.

Oct. 13: A Time Traveler’s Exposition, benefitting the Hillsboro Historical Society, will feature sword fighting, blacksmithing, pirates and related vendors in space adjacent to the regular farmers market. The Exposition lasts from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fun continues at 7 p.m. with a Time Traveler’s Ball.

Saturday, Oct. 27: Enjoy the guitar sounds of Jon Koonce, whose genre is described as “rock and roots.”

Experience a taste of what visiting farmers’ markets is like here:

A Closer Look at Our Cities: Hillsboro

Posted on: August 7th, 2012 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

Hillsboro is Washington County’s largest city (population, approx. 91,000), as well as one of the oldest communities in the state. With the emergence of the technology sector, as part of the region’s “Silicon Forest,” the city’s large farming community shares zip codes with some of technology’s biggest and brightest names. The city’s quaint downtown area has transformed into an artists’ community with art galleries and studios, live music venues and community and professional theater companies.

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The Great Egret is one of many species of birds that have been spotted at Jackson Bottom Wetlands (pictured) (Photo by John Wise)

Stop and smell the flowers at the Lloyd Baron Rhododendron Garden at Rood Bridge Park. Tended to by a group of volunteers, this community garden features hundreds of varieties of species and hybrids of rhododendrons, plus thousands of “companion” plants surrounded by walking paths, creeks and woodlands. Also in Hillsboro is Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, a 725-acre wildlife preserve featuring 4.5 miles of trails, wildlife viewing blinds, nature center and interpretive center that houses the only known authentic eagle’s nest on public display.

Discover

Hillsboro is home to two unique museums both appealing to all ages. The Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals showcases the world’s finest collections of crystals, fossils, meteorites, petrified wood, gems and more.  Near the Hillsboro Airport is the Classic Aircraft Aviation Museum, a “living history” museum/working hangar focusing on aircraft from the jet age and Cold War era. This fall, these two museums will get a new neighbor, so to speak, when the venerable Washington County Museum moves into its new home in downtown Hillsboro.

Dine

Housed in the historic, former Hillsboro library, is Syun Izakaya, a popular local spot near Main Street.  Syun is modeled after small, rustic taverns that are popular gathering places in Japan, and is consistently rated as having the best sushi in the Greater Portland region, and has been included among the best in the U.S. In addition to sushi, and an impressive saké menu, other Japanese dishes are included on the lunch and dinner menus. Located in a rural area of Hillsboro are two “hidden gems”: Cruise In Country Diner, a ’50s-style burger and shake joint, and South Store Cafe, which specializes in sandwiches, soups and salads.   (For more dining options throughout Washington County, visit our website.)

Several farms in Hillsboro, such as the Smith Berry Barn (pictured), offer ready-picked or "u-pick" produce. (Photo by Allison George)

Explore

Main Street Hillsboro is filled with charm and a collection of shops that harken back to a simpler time. This artistic center of downtown Hillsboro features art galleries, live theater and more, and includes the Glenn and Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center, which hosts live music, spoken word performances, informal lectures, art exhibits and art classes.  Also in downtown Hillsboro is the Venetian Theatre and Bistro, a bustling restaurant, movie and performance theater, which is home to local  professional theater company Bag&Baggage.

Antique shops, a book store, home-brewing supply store (home beer brewing, winemaking, soda making and cheese making supplies), bead store, garden shop, theater and restaurant align the historic main street. While on Main Street, check out the Hillsboro Pharmacy and Fountain, and old-timey store and soda fountain hangout serving  breakfast, lunch, ice cream.  or an old-fashioned malt, float or milkshake. (For more shopping options in Hillsboro, visit our Shopping in Hillsboro page.)

Pick

Although known for its high-tech contributions to the “Silicon Forest,” Hillsboro has a vast number of farms and farmers markets, making it a renowned agricultural zone, as well. More than two dozen nurseries and u-pick farms offer crops ranging from berries to pumpkins, while five farmers’ markets provide farm-fresh shopping nearly every day during peak season.  See the list of farms and farmers’ markets in Hillsboro.

Taste

Hillsboro is becoming the hub of Oregon’s Washington County’s burgeoning wine, beer and spirits scene. This area now is home to five wineries–Freja Cellars, Garden Vineyards, Helvetia Vineyards, J. Albin Winery and Oak Knoll Winery– three breweries– Ambacht Brewing, Vertigo Brewing and the brewery at McMenamins Cornelius Pass Roadhouse and Imbrie Hall– and Big Bottom Whiskey, the area’s only spirits tasting room.

 

Plan a weekend or week-long getaway in Washington County’s Hillsboro. Check out these hotels and motels in Hillsboro.

Making Mother’s Day 2012 Memorable (NEW WINE EVENTS ADDED!)

Posted on: May 3rd, 2012 by Angie Marsh 1 Comment

Mother’s Day weekend is approaching—but don’t let the mention of May 12 and 13 turn to panic. Special events and gift-buying opportunities to mark the occasion are happening locally, and any one of these is sure to impress. Take it from me, a mom who is dropping hints about this holiday, your weekend will be happier with a little planning ahead.

Mother’s Day Wine Events

The following wineries are offering special Mother’s Day events and tastings:

Enjoy a Mother’s Day Brunch at Garden Vineyards in Hillsboro on May 13. Beverages include wine, sangria, bellinis and mimosas, all of which will be for sale. The brunch buffet will feature goods that are baked, grilled, cured and roasted–and much of the food is grown on the premises. This buffet is $30 per person.

Taste fine chocolates and wines at three Washington County wineries during Mother’s Day weekend:

  • Artisan Fine Chocolates Tasting at Alloro Vineyard, May 12-13 ($15 per person)
  • Mother’s Day Weekend Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting at Kramer Vineyards, May 12-13 ($10)

Mother’s Day Special Events

Tea is offered at two locations in the county during Mother's Day weekend 2012. Photo by Ann Toffler, flickr.

Beaverton Civic Theatre’s final performance of “The Miracle Worker” is on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 13, at 2 p.m. This moving play brings to life the story of Helen Keller.

A special prime rib Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch is May 13 at Holiday Inn Portland South – Wilsonville. Choose from a carving station, custom omeletes, gourmet buffet items such as smoked bacon, dessert station and beverages. Brunch runs 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; reservations are encouraged.

Lavender Tea House in Sherwood is presenting a “Celebration of Mothers” tea on Saturday, May 12, featuring scones, tea sandwiches, fruit, teas and sparkling cider. Seatings are at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.; call for reservations, $35 per person.

Jenkins Estate in Beaverton presents its Barefoot Quilt Festival on both Saturday and Sunday, May 12 & 13. Enjoy quilting displays and demonstrations, as well as quilted items for sale at this free event.
- On Saturday, May 12, this event features “Tea to Remember” at 12:30 p.m., paid event; reservations required.
- On Sunday, May 13, a dessert cafe will be available at the event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; no reservation required.

Cooper Mountain Nature Park in Beaverton welcomes a naturalist to lead a hike, “Mother’s Day Birds and Blooms” on May 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Learn more about wildflowers and songbirds while enjoying the Tualatin River. Cost is $10.

Mother’s Day Gift-Buying Opportunities

So many local farmers’ markets are open Saturday, May 12th, that you’ll have fresh choices ranging from hanging flower baskets at Beaverton Farmers Market to seasonal bouquets and herb pots at Sherwood, Hillsboro or Cedar Mill Saturday Market. The Tigard Farmers’ Market kicks off the very day of–Sunday, May 13–so stop by between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. for gifts ranging from plants to bakery goods.

The Quilt Festival at Jenkins Estate on Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13, also incorporates both an artisan craft fair and a plant sale from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

A Closer Look at Our Cities: Forest Grove

Posted on: April 9th, 2012 by WCVA No Comments

This month we go westward for a closer look at Forest Grove, located in northwestern Washington County, a small city that transcends its college-town atmosphere with its exquisite wineries, unique stores, distinctive restaurants and historic lodge.

Forest Grove's iconic Main Street

Forest Grove, Oregon

Located in the foothills of the Coast Range at the base of the Tillamook State Forest, Forest Grove is home to Pacific University, unique restaurants, six wineries, one craft beer brewery and the world’s only American owned-and-operated large-production saké brewery.

Sip

Forest Grove boasts an impressive collection of placed to sip handcrafted beverages at the source–wineries and breweries. In addition to visiting the area’s artisans, two wine shops, both located on downtown’s Main Street, pour wines from around the world.  Or relax at one of Forest Grove’s coffee houses  or pubs.

Shop

Forest Grove’s collections of boutiques, ranging from antiques to art, provide a rewarding shopping experience, while a seasonal farmers’ market, farm stores and tree farms offer visitors more shopping options.

Dine

Forest Grove has a multiude of restaurants serving cuisine from the four corners of the world. Nosh on American comfort-food dishes,  pair a locally produced wine with your favorite Italian dish, explore Middle Eastern cuisine,  satisfy a craving for Mexican food, try Pad Thai or other Thai specialty, explore a buffet of your favorite Chinese dishes, or taste yummy baked delights from area bakeries and cafes.

Explore

Finding your way through downtown Forest Grove is now easier, thanks to its new way-finding signs, which connect visitors to the area’s key districts and points of interest.

Play

Forest Grove offers many events throughout the year, appealing to all interests, including these upcoming popular annual events:

Sleep

After a day (or two, or three) of exploration, you can be rest assured that Forest Grove has a selection of places to stay overnight, including

For additional information about Oregon’s Washington County and its  amazing cities, visit our website.

A Closer Look at Our Cities: Beaverton

Posted on: January 18th, 2012 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

Tualatin Hills Nature Park and Interpretive Center, located in the heart of Beaverton, is one of several attractions in this growing city.

Oregon’s Washington County encompasses 727 square miles and boasts 10 cities. Each month, we’ll be spotlighting each city and highlighting its various attractions. This month the featured city is Beaverton.

Beaverton is Washington County’s second-largest city, with a population of more than 90,000. Apparel giants Nike and Columbia Sportswear, Reser Foods, optical scope maker Leupold & Stevens, and makers of test and measurement equipment, Tetronix, are just some of the major companies that call this city home.

Nestled in the heart of the Tualatin Valley, Beaverton is surrounded by farm lands and natural resources, and boasts 30 miles of hiking trails and a 25-mile network of bike paths. It is home to a diverse array of attractions, dining and family entertainment centers, plus tens of miles of hiking trails and bike paths. Beaverton also is home to two wineries, which earn the acclaim of being the closest wineries to Portland.

 

Shop
Bibliophiles rejoice! Beaverton boasts a smaller version of the infamous independent bookseller Powell’s City of Books at Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd., Beaverton; 800-878-7323). With more than half-a-million used, new, rare and hard-to-find titles, it’s easy to spend half a day browsing the aisles of this iconic bookstore.  See more shopping options in Beaverton.

Dine
Fresh Italian cuisine, prepared with locally sourced ingredients makes up the ever-changing menu of decarli restaurant (4545 SW Watson Ave., Beaverton; 503-641-3223). Inventive and delicious cocktails, diverse wine list, warm and inviting dining room, and hopping happy hour make decarli a must while in Oregon’s Washington County. Also in Beaverton is the venerable Hall St. Grill, which specializes in traditional American dishes prepared with a distinctive Northwest flair. For more dining options in Beaverton, and throughout Washington County, visit our dining page.

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Beaverton is home to two nationally-recognized wineries, Ponzi Vineyards (14665 SW Winery Ln., Beaverton) and Cooper Mountain Vineyards (9480 SW Grabhorn Rd., Beaverton), both noted for their exceptional wine and commitment to sustainable farming practices.

For those under the age of 21, Beaverton offers myriad family-friendly activities, from batting cages and laser tag to indoor rock climbing and bingo. See the complete list of  attractions and activities for the entire family.

Explore
The 222-acre Tualatin Hills Nature Park and Interpretive Center features 1.5 miles of paved trail (which is ADA accessible) and four miles of secondary trails, each offering a relaxing journey through the ecologically diverse habitat that includes ponds, creeks, marshes and forests. The Interpretive Center offers programs and special events for all ages. The trails and the center are open year-round; admission is free. There are plenty of other places to explore in and around Beaverton. Check out our website for more interesting things to see in do here.

Cooper Mountain Nature Park, a 230-acre site, features 3.5 miles of trails that traverse the park and pass through a mosaic of oak and madrone woodlands, native prairies and conifer forests. The park also houses a demonstration garden and a play area for children.

Stay
The Beaverton area has a bed-and-breakfast, Rose Cottage Bed and Breakfast (3392 SW Delaney Pl., Portland), plus nearly a dozen hotels and motels.


If you’re in the Beaverton area, be sure to stop by the Washington County Visitors Association’s visitor information center (11000 SW Stratus St., Beaverton; 503-644-5555, open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., closed holidays) to pick up a visitor guide, area map, biking and recreation map and a host of additional material about Oregon’s Washington County.

Food & Wine Events

Posted on: November 4th, 2011 by Angie Marsh 1 Comment

November kicks off a season of food and drink. Let us lead you down this culinary path with a hors d’oeuvres plate of sorts that offers bites of what’s to come:

Beaverton Harvest Market
Saturday, Nov. 19
8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
SW Hall Blvd. & 4th Streets, downtown Beaverton

This is some of the bounty offered at the November Harvest Market.

Fill your cornucopia at this one-time harvest market, timed perfectly for the Saturday before Thanksgiving. In addition to seasonal foods, the market features vendors offering flowers and crafts. More info.

German Holiday Market
Saturday, Nov. 19 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) &
Sunday, Nov. 20 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
German American School, Beaverton

Enjoy traditional German food, novelties, nutcrackers and live entertainment at this free, two-day event, which is in its 12th year. More info.

Thanksgiving Wine Weekend
Friday, Nov. 25 – Sunday, Nov. 27
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Washington County wineries

Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend in Washington County’s wine country, when wineries are all open and often have special perks such as vintage tastings, live music and/or light appetizers. More info.

Hillsboro “Holly Days” Market
Saturday, Dec. 3
1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Second & Main Streets, downtown Hillsboro

This seasonal market is held in conjunction with the tree lighting and Santa visit. This year, there will be about 35 vendors, as well as live entertainment and activities for children. More info.

 

Watch for future posts regarding the holidays, including a rundown of community holiday celebrations and a guide to where to see Santa (and, in some cases, Mrs. Claus) in the area this season.