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Posts Tagged ‘Tualatin’

A Mid-Week Tour of Oregon’s Washington County Wine Country

Posted on: November 9th, 2012 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

Wine tasting isn’t just for weekends. Several wineries throughout Oregon’s Washington County–located in the northern end of the famed Willamette Valley–are open daily, year-round. On a beautiful autumn weekday, a wine blogger and I set out to experience wine country, and found some surprises along the way.

We started out quite early and arrived at our first stop, Elk Cove Vineyards, at 10:30 a.m. Elk Cove has been family owned and operated since 1977, and today, the second generation is running the winery, and earning applause with its Pinot Noir and other varietals. Our tasting flight included Elk Cove’s highly-rated Pinot Noir, and a selection of whites, such as a late-harvest Riesling. The crisp wines complemented the views of the fog-filled vineyard, which was lit up with the colors of fall: Brilliant yellow, golden orange, deep rust and dark green. (Elk Cove Vineyards is open daily, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed some holidays)

Miki's Christmas Shop has the 2nd largest collection of German Smokers (incense burners) for sale in the U.S.

After lunching at 1910 Main — An American Bistro– a cozy restaurant offering modern twists on American comfort foods–we set off for Shafer Vineyard Cellars (established in 1978) and home to Miki’s Christmas Shop.  We took in the breathtaking views of the foothills of Gales Creek Valley, as well as the vineyard, which was ablaze with yellow grape leaves, before entering the quaint tasting room. We were greeted by Miki Shafer, the owner and winemaker, who poured us tastes of her Pinot Noir, Riesling, and special holiday wine, the aptly named Holiday Magic (which, when combined with Shafer’s sparkling wine, makes a spicy, festive drink). Between sips, we ventured into the Christmas Shop, and perused the holiday decor from around the world, including what is the second largest collection of German Smokers in the U.S. (pictured, right). (Shafer Vineyard Cellars is open daily, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed on major holidays*)

The next stop was the quaint farmhouse tasting room at David Hill Vineyards & Winery, which boasts some of the oldest vines in the Willamette Valley. With sweeping views of Oregon’s Coast Range, David Hill remains one of the most picturesque wineries in the Willamette Valley, as well as one with one of the most diverse selection of varietals found in the northern valley. In addition to Pinot Noir (including the palate-pleasing BlackJack Pinot Noir, crafted with grapes from the estate’s oldest vines) and slate of whites, such as Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Riesling, David Hill offers Merlot, Tempranillo, Port and more. (David Hill Vineyards & Winery is open daily, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed on major holidays)

Visit the "wild west" at the L-Bar-T Bison Ranch Gift Shop

With a little time to kill, we journeyed to the gift shop at L-Bar-T Bison Ranch to pick up some bison jerky.  We were entertained with the signs warning passersby not to “tease” the wild bison that roam the fenced-off ranch in Forest Grove. As one of the most acclaimed ranches of its kind, it has an old, wild west feel to it, as does its gift shop (pictured, left).

Our final winery stop for the day was Oak Knoll Winery, one of the pioneering wineries in Oregon. Founded in 1970, Oak Knoll started with an “experimental” batch of blackberry wine; today, Oak Knoll produces a diverse variety of wines that appeal to all palates. I started with the 2009 Pinot Gris, which was named one of the “Top 100 Best Buys of 2012″ by Wine Spectator, and followed with the 2010 Rose of Pinot Noir. Oak Knoll’s tasting menu offers an interesting slate of blends and sweet reds not often seen in the northern Willamette Valley: “Toasted Cow Red Vintners Blend,” a blend of Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah; “Toasted Cow White Vintners Blend,” a sweet blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Müller Thurgau, Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris; “DEVIANT,” a sweet red billed as a “sweet red revolution”; and “Concord”, made from Concord grapes. (Oak Knoll Winery is open daily at 11 a.m.; closed on major holidays).

If you can’t make it to Washington County wine country during the weekend, plan a weekday to enjoy the warm and these warm and inviting wineries.  Additional wineries that are open daily year-round include:

  • Cooper Mountain Vineyards, the first certified organic, biodynamic winery in the Pacific Northwest (open daily, 12-5 p.m.)
  • Kramer Vineyards, a winery that offers a variety of red and white wines, as well as on-site roasted coffee (open daily, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • Montinore Estate, a family-owned, certified organic and biodynamic winery  (open daily, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • Plum Hill Vineyards, a small, family-owned winery built on a historical dairy farm (open daily, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; opens at noon on Sundays; closed major holidays)
  • Ponzi Vineyards, one of the pioneering Oregon wineries offering a diverse range of varietals (open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
  • SakéOne, an American owned and operated, premium saké brewery (open daily, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

 *Most wineries are closed on the following major holidays: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Easter.

Experience the Diversity of Oregon’s Washington County

Posted on: March 2nd, 2012 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

The Walters Cultural Arts Center is home to many culturally diverse performances.

Did you know that Oregon’s Washington County is the most culturally diverse county in the state? What does that mean for you, the visitor? It means you can experience a range of diverse cultural experiences and festivals, without having to renew your passport or leave the country.

Celebrate the Hindi spring festival, Holi (also known as Festival of Colors) at the Rang Barse ~ Holi Party at the Washington County Fair Complex (March 10; $15 for adults/$10 for children).

Each August, SakéOne (820 Elm St., Forest Grove), an American owned-and-operated saké brewery, hosts a Pacific Rim Festival (August 25; admission $5), celebrating the music, food, art (and saké) of Japan, Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest.

This year marks the second annual International Celebration (July 28, 2012 at the Howard M. Terpenning Recreation Complex, located at the intersection of 158th and Walker Rd.) which celebrates cultures from around the world through song, dance, arts and crafts and more.

Celebrate the luck o’ the Irish year round at the Winona Grange (8340 SW Seneca St.; Tualatin) with the “First Friday Live Irish Music and Dance” (the first Friday of each month; $10 for adults/$5 for students and 65+). These monthly events are produced by S and A Irish Entertainment, which also hosts Celtic concerts each month.

The Glenn and Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center, located in downtown Hillsboro, is home to a host of cultural music events. From spoken word events to dance and live music, the center features entertainment from around the world. Coming up is “Sampradaya: Traditions from Temple to Theater,” classical Bharatanatyam dance incorporating chants from ancient scriptures and the music and rhythm of ancient India (7:30 p.m., March 9; $20 in advance/$25 the day of show).

In April, the center will host the Oregon Mandolin Orchestra, which will be performing the music of Italy, including works from venerable composer Raffaele Calace as well as Italian classics, such as Feniculi-Fenicula (7:30 p.m., April 6; $15 in advance/$17 day of show). For a complete list of upcoming events at the Walters Cultural Arts Center, visit their website.

Film buffs may want to check out Joy Theater (11959 SW Pacific Hwy., Tigard), which shows Hindi and South Indian hit films. To learn more about this unique theater, read this blog post from  November 2010.

Finally, visitors can dine on some of the most authentic and exotic food from around the world, without having to leave the country. Beaverton has been praised for its variety of Korean restaurants, boasting some of the most acclaimed spots in the Greater Portland region!  If curry, masala and tandoori are your favorite flavors, try one of the area’s hottest Indian restaurants, also known as some of the best eateries in the area. Oregon’s Washington County also has a German, Mediterranean and Vietnamese restaurants, just to name a few of the many types of cuisine served here.

This is a sampling of the many experiences you can have here in Oregon’s Washington County.  Visit our website or our event calendar, updated weekly, for ideas of places to see, play and eat while visiting.

Discover Discount Shopping

Posted on: January 11th, 2012 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Winter is what we call “shopping season” in Washington County. What better time to comb through racks of retail deals, and find what you’re looking for while still keeping within your budget and never–ever–paying sales tax or paying for parking.

Even better, many stores here aren’t found elsewhere in the Portland area:

There are deals to be had in Washington County. Photo by Lynn Friedman.

Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th

This gem of a store, located in Bridgeport Village, is currently the only Saks 5th Avenue OFF 5TH north of San Francisco. Open in this location since Fall 2010, you can expect to find brand names ranging from DKNY to Calvin Klein, with designated sections of the store for men’s, women’s, children’s clothing; and footwear and accessories as well. Bargains can especially be had on off-season wear.

TJ Maxx

With two Washington County locations–Beaverton and Tualatin–this renowned discounter offers affordable fashion, much of which is brand name. Their stores are divided into sections, including activewear, women’s plus and baby–thereby giving shoppers the chance to find all sorts of retail items for less than the suggested retail prices.

Marshalls

Three of the four Marshall’s stores in the Portland-Metro area are in Washington County; specifically, in Beaverton, Hillsboro and Tigard, making one accessible around every turn here.

Nordstrom Rack

This shiny store is new to the county and not far from the freeway with ample parking, so it’s a must-see for many travelers. The discounted clothes, shoes and more are all from Nordstrom stores. With 450,000 square feet of shopping, there are deals to be had!

 

In addition, visitors from out-of-area can also enjoy the perks of a free coupon book for use at Washington Square, offering savings at dozens of participating retailers and select dining: details. Happy shopping!

What’s a Teen to Do?

Posted on: August 31st, 2011 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

Tree to Tree Adventure Park is one of several attractions in Oregon's Washington County that your teen will enjoy.

Traveling with teens can be a frustrating experience. Attractions that adults may find inviting, such as museums and art galleries, may be boring to the average American teenager. And kid-friendly spots can be too “babyish” for the finicky teen. As a parent to a teen, here is a handy guide of places that are fun for adults and are teen-friendly, too. (Although they will never acknowledge that they’re having fun, you know they are and will.)

For the Teen with a Sense of Adventure

Hands-down, Tree to Tree Adventure Park remains on the top of the list for teens when it comes to outdoor adventure. The thrill and excitement of playing in the trees while navigating a course of obstacles can bring out childlike enthusiasm in even the most jaded teenager.

Kayaking and canoeing is also a good pastime for teenagers, whether it’s a leisurely ride along the slow-moving Tualatin River, or a family race to an imaginary finish line. Boat rentals are available from the Tualatin Riverkeepers or Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe.

 

Bonding Time

Hagg Lake, located at Scoggins Valley Park, is one of several fishing spots perfect for a day of parent and teen bonding. Horning’s Fishing and Picnic Hideout also is another popular fishing hole, stocked with rainbow trout. As an added bonus, after a day of angling, try a game of disc golf at each of these locations.

For many, myself included, a great deal of bonding happens while shopping; however, we parents of teens know that this often creates some short-lived drama, so shop ’til you drop at your own risk.

 

Friendly Family Games

Washington County is chock-full of teen- and family-friendly hands-on activities: laser tag at Laserport, bowling at Big Al’s, outdoor go-kart racing at Malibu Raceway or indoor go-karting at Sykart Indoor Racing Center. For less competitive sports, try trampolining at Sky High Sports or rock climbing at Stoneworks Climbing Gym. (Some attractions are open during evening hours, which will keep your teen happy after the sun goes down.)

 

Teen-Friendly Dining

So you’ve hiked, biked and climbed your way to an appetite, and you ask, “Where can we go for dinner that has food my teenager will like?”  Here are some local places that teens will enjoy, for the food, and the ambiance:

For the complete list of restaurants in Oregon’s Washington County, visit our dining page.

 

So, there you have it, a quick quide to exploring Oregon’s Washington County with teenagers. My own teenager helped me compile this list, so it has an unofficial stamp of approval. There are hundreds of other things to do and see while here, more than what’s on this list. Whatever you choose to do while visiting, we’re sure you (and your teen) will have a blast.

 

 

This Week’s Music Events and Concerts

Posted on: August 1st, 2011 by WCVA 1 Comment

Kimberley Locke, from Season 2 of American Idol, will be performing this weekend at the Cure Kids Jam and Festival.

The weather outlook will be glorious, with clear skies and temperatures in the low 80s. In other words, it’s the perfect time to enjoy live music while lounging on the lawn, or sitting in an outdoor venue. The following are just some of the outdoor concerts taking place this week in Oregon’s Washington County:

Tuesday, August 2

Evening of Music at the Estate with Michael Allen Harrison & Friends

Jenkins Estate (Beaverton)

6-8:30 p.m. (gates open at 5 p.m.)

Suitable for all ages. $8 per person; children 10 years and younger are free.

Jenkins Estate’s 14th annual summer celebration concert on the lawn features concert pianist Michael Allen Harrison and friends for an evening of music ranging from jazz, ballet and classical to adult contemporary. Food and wine available for purchase on-site. Please no outside alcohol.

 

Wednesday, August 3

Music on the Green

Stella Olsen Park (Sherwood)

6:30 p.m.

Suitable for all ages. Admission is free.

Sherwood on the Green features singer/songwriter Melody Guy for an evening of country music. Food, beer and wine available for purchase on-site.

 

Thursday, August 4

Bridgeport Village Summer Concert Series

Bridgeport Village (Tigard/Tualatin)

6:30-8:30 p.m.

Suitable for all ages. Admission is free.

Bridgeport Village’s annual summer concert series welcomes dance-band Oncore, and its hit list of dance tunes from the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and beyond.

 

Showtime at the Shute

Shute Park (Hillsboro)

7-9 p.m.

Suitable for all ages. Admission is free.

The Hillsboro Community Arts’ “Showtime at the Shute” features jazz and blues with the Ellen Whyte Band. Enjoy an evening at the park, and don’t forget to come early to catch the pre-show performances, live visual artists and “You Create” art.

 

Bethany Village Summer Concerts

Cedar Mill Community Library (Bethany)

5:30-8 p.m.

Suitable for all ages. Admission: Suggested donation of 2 cans of food to benefit the Oregon Food Bank

The River City Band is the featured band at this month’s Bethany Village outdoor summer concert. Fun activities and crafts will also be available during the evening.

 

Concert and Theatre in the Park

Cedar Mill Park (Cedar Mill)

6-8 p.m.

Suitable for all ages. Admission is free.

The music of Hapa–recently seen on the television series Hawaii Five-O–will transport your senses to the islands of Hawaii with its Polynesian-style music.  Food and beverages from Bamboo Grove Hawaiian Grill will be available on-site.

 

Friday, August 5

Concerts on the Commons

Tualatin Commons (Tualatin)

6:30-8:30 p.m.

Suitable for all ages. Admission is free.

Dust off the dancing shoes when the Gretchen Miller Band takes the stage at the Tualatin Commons with their brand of pop and funk.

 

Friday, August 5 (through Sunday, August 7)

Fire in the Canyon

Horning’s Hideout (North Plains)

August 5-7

Gates open at 10 a.m. (see complete schedule)

Tickets: $50 (one-day pass) – $110 (three-day pass, includes camping)

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mercy Corps.

Fire in the Canyon is a three-day music festival of musical and cultural awareness through sound, visuals, speakers and interactive art installations. Hip hop artists such as The Pharcyde, Digable Planets, Del the Funky Homosapien and many, many more, are scheduled to perform.

 

Saturday, August 6

Cure Kids Jam and Festival

Hillsboro Stadium (Hillsboro)

2-6 p.m.

Admission is $12 per person; proceeds to benefit children’s charities

American Idol artists Kimberley Locke (top three contest during season three) and Blake Lewis (season six runner-up), plus emerging artists from the West Coast take to the stage for charity.  The Cure JM Foundation, United Way and Ronald McDonald House have come together to help raise money and awareness for children’s charities at this fun-filled concert and festival.

 

The Washington County Visitors Association makes every effort to ensure that the information provided is up-to-date and accurate. All concerts are subject to change without notice.

 

 

 

Holiday Hotel Deals

Posted on: December 17th, 2010 by Angie Marsh No Comments

If you’re in need of more space–literally or mentally–this holiday season, try these great local lodging deals. The tidings of comfort and joy will be all yours.

The Grand Hotel at Bridgeport is offering a home away from home experience for the holidays. Enjoy spacious rooms and suites, and excellent proximity to world-class shopping at Bridgeport Village. Relax and unwind in luxury after a busy day of “decking the halls” with rates as low as $99 +tax*.
Please call the Front Desk directly at 866-968-5757 and ask for the “Special Holiday Rates” to take advantage of this offer. *Rates based on availability

The Best Western Northwind Inn & Suites is offering a “Santa’s helpers’ delight”! Nestled between Washington Square and Bridgeport Village, you can shop and stay conveniently! Stay for 2 nights and save 20%, stay 3 nights and save 25%!  Just call 503-431-2100 and ask for rate codes 9I (2 nights) or 9Q (3 nights).

The Embassy Suites has a “Home for the Holiday” special offer: receive 20% off the best available rate and a 20% off voucher to use in Crossroads Restaurant. This runs until Jan. 10, 2011.

Courtyard by Marriott – Beaverton offers ” ‘Tis the Season of Giving: Great Rates through January 3, 2011.” Whether traveling to visit loved ones or taking a trip to do some holiday shopping, Marriott is helping make weekend getaways more affordable.
To learn more and check rates & availability, click hereiStock_000002036764Medium

Hilton Garden Inn – Portland-Beaverton has a “Naughty or Nice” holiday package: Stay with us for the holidays and receive a $25 egift card to Victoria’s Secret® or Toys”R”Us®. Offer good until Jan. 02, 2011.
Learn more, check rates & availability:

Homewood Suites By Hilton is offering a “Holiday Shopping Getaway,” December 17th, 18th and 19th, 2010. Homewood Suites is centrally located near many great shopping malls. Stay and enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each morning, and a complimentary shuttle to the closest mall. Wind down after a day of shopping by our cozy fire. Holiday shopping special rates start at $79.
Contact Bethany Painter for your Shopping Getaway Package Deal at (503)614-0900.

Phoenix Inn Suites – Tigard has a “Shop Washington Square” package, which includes a $25 gift card to the adjacent Washington Square Mall – Oregon & SW Washington’s premier shopping center.
Rates starting at $99 per night. *Rate and promotion is subject to availability.

WCVA Event at Refuge Recognizes Photo Contest Winner

Posted on: January 28th, 2010 by Angie Marsh No Comments
Photo_winner

WCVA CEO Ruthie Reinert holds the prizewinning photo while congratulating winner Christopher Pokorny during the event.

WCVA staff, stakeholders and partners convened in late January at The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge to network while discovering the natural wonders of the Refuge at sunset.
In addition, the grand prize winner of WCVA’s Vineyard and Valley Scenic Tour Route photo contest was recognized and awarded his prize money.

Taking top honors as the grand prize winner was Christopher Pokorny of Portland, Ore., for the photograph titled, “Tiller Curves,” which showcases a tractor tiller.

Pokorny took a moment to address attendees, expressing his thanks and enjoyment of driving the 50-mile Scenic Tour Route–which he has done seven times.
Pokorny also won the “History” category of the contest with his photograph titled, “Grossen.” This stunning photo is named after the family who owns the land along the Tour Route, where Pokorny had permission to enter their property to compose the perfect shot.

Overall, four photographers were selected as the winners of  contest, and all were invited to attend this event. Winners, whose images best represent Washington County’s agricultural- and wine-focused scenic drive, will share a total of $3,000 in prize money.

Attendees were also treated to a raffle of prints of the award-winning photographs from Pokorny.

WCVA Board Members Norm Penner, Jonae Armsrong, Terry Goldman and Teri Koerner and CEO Ruthie Reinert congratualte Christopher at the Refuge.

WCVA Board Members Norm Penner, Jonae Armsrong, Terry Goldman and Teri Koerner and CEO Ruthie Reinert congratulate contest winner Christopher Pokorny at the Refuge.

The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge provides a variety of recreational and educational activities and an ever-changing panorama of wildlife viewing. Located on the “Pacific Flyway,” the Refuge is an important stopover where migrating waterfowl, songbirds, and shorebirds stop to rest, refuel, and raise their young. The Refuge is open daily, offering new exhibits, a non-profit nature store, and indoor and outdoor viewing areas.

WCVA’s Westside Spotlight is a program where stakeholders partner with the WCVA to host an open house at their businesses/venues to create industry-wide promotional and networking events. Westside Spotlight showcases Washington County’s diversity of unique attractions and venues, and is designed to familiarize partners in the area to increase the number of both leisure and business visitors to Washington County.
Thanks to It’s Party Time Catering for providing light refreshments at this Westside Spotlight event.

TualatinRefugeBldg

The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge building.

View submitted photos >

View winning images >

Festivals & Celebrations Galore

Posted on: September 23rd, 2009 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Get out and enjoy unique events this weekend!

SATURDAY, Sept. 26:

Medieval Market Daymedieval2

The Beaverton Farmers’ Market hosts a one-day celebration of a time when all markets were open-air markets. So put on your medieval garb and join in the fun, including artisans demonstrating medieval crafts, children’s activities, music, cooking demos and sword tournaments.

This event is held in conjunction with the Washington County Chapter of the Society for Creative Anachronism – The shire of Dragon’s Mist, and is from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Oktoberfest at McMenamins Grand Lodge

grand-lodge_scaledJoin in a free gathering at McMenamins Grand Lodge in Forest Grove, complete with bands, beer, bratwurst and more in celebration of Oktoberfest!

Live music performances begin at 2 p.m.:

o CHERVONA (party troupe) 2 p.m.

o TRANSCENDENTAL BRASS BAND (marching jam band) 4 p.m.

o GYPSY CARAVAN (belly dancers) 5 p.m.

o DEER TICK (rock) 7 p.m.

o JACK McMAHON (folk/blues) 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, Sept. 27:riverfront_music09_360

Tualatin Riverfront Music Festival

Enjoy the unique bluegrass and gospel sounds of the Misty Mamas band at this new annual event in Tualatin’s Browns Ferry Park.
Paddle your boat to the festival or borrow a boat on site from Tualatin Riverkeepers, the beneficiaries of the event.
A special Tualatin River Oktoberfest beer, brewed by Fanno Creek Brew Pub, will be available, along with Oregon pinots, sausages, veggie dogs and dessert.
Cost is $20 for adults; kids are free. The event is from 3 to 7 p.m.

Both SATURDAY & SUNDAY:

Festival Japan

uwajimaya

Uwajimaya at 10500 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway in Beaverton, again hosts its annual free two-day festival, which includes Japanese food, music and art for all ages! It ranges from taiko drumming to martial arts. The fest is 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fuzzy, Furry & Scaly: Animal Expo, Alpaca Farms Open This Weekend

Posted on: September 23rd, 2009 by Angie Marsh No Comments

From scaly reptiles to furry alpacas, there are all kinds of creatures to see this weekend–September 26 and 27–in Washington County!

Unique Animal Expo & Pet Fair

snake
See and buy live birds, reptiles and mammals at the oldest and largest combined Animal Expo in the Pacific Northwest. This expo is open to the public and to trade buyers on both Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.  All types of animal-related merchandise will be available for purchase. You’ll also be able to meet and talk to the breeders of all types of livestock.

The event is at the Washington County Fair Complex – 873 NE 34th Avenue in Hillsboro, and admission is $8 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $4 for children ages 5 to 12.

National Alpaca Farm Days

alpacas
Five alpaca farms in the Washington County area are participating in the third annual National Alpaca Farm Days on Saturday and Sunday—a free event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Alpaca farming is an up-and-coming industry in the United States, and this is a day for the public to come to local farms and learn about alpacas.

See alpacas up close; tour the farms; learn about alpaca farming; and see the beautiful products made from alpaca fleece.

  • Black Acre Alpacas – 21930 SW Farmington Road, Beaverton – 503-848-2738
  • Bedrock Alpacas – 7775 SW Frobase Road, Tualatin – 503-638-0944
  • Double D Alpaca Ranch – 16530 SW 147th Avenue, Tigard – 503-521-1120
  • Alpacas of Oregon – 21345 SW Aebischer Road, Sherwood
  • Solar T’s Alpaca Ranch – 23100 NE Mountain Top Road, Newberg

Oregon Bounty: Things to Do, See and Taste That Savor Oregon

Posted on: September 16th, 2009 by Angie Marsh No Comments

or_bounty_orangeThis fall, as the leaves are turning, the grapes are gathered and farmers’ fields yield to the harvest, it’s time to discover Oregon Bounty. Come meet vintners, chefs, and farmers; travel down roads you’ve never driven; sample what these artisans make, grow and catch; and spend a night or two so you can discover more. There are myriad ways to get a taste of Oregon Bounty in Washington County:
salmon-bowl1

VISIT A WINERY
Tour Washington County wineries— more than 20 in all—many of which are conveniently located along the Vineyard and Valley Scenic Tour Route. Follow the signs on this driving journey that winds through quaint towns in the county known for their ideal grape growing conditions and outstanding finished products: wines!

SEE WHAT CHEFS DO
Taste the autumn bounty that’s abundant in Pacific Northwest flavor palates. Visit our site for details about the restaurants in the county that specialize in regional cuisine.

STAY A NIGHT OR TWO
Best Western is the Oregon Bounty preferred lodging partner, with two Washington County locations:  the Northwind Inn & Suites in Tigard and the University Inn & Suites in Forest Grove.

BE TOUCHED BY SPRITS
SakéOne, the world’s only American-owned saké brewery, produces Momokawa brand premium saké and Moonstone brand fruit-infused saké. These high quality Ginjo sakés are intended to be enjoyed cold on their own and with your favorite foods. Sakétini Saturday happens on the third Saturday of each month; the tasting room is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

bounty-bnr1

TAP INTO YOUR FESTIVAL SPIRIT

October 10: Great Onion Festival, Sherwood.  This classic community event pays homage to the onion farmers of Sherwood, with a barbecue and assorted activities.  Visit sherwoodchamber.org.

October 10: Oregon Heritage Farms hosts its annual Apple Fest. Enjoy the harvest of apple season with this festival–complete with country music, face painting, pony rides and hay rides. Plus, all proceeds benefit local students.

October 18: Heirloom Apple Festival, Hillsboro.  Sample more than 20 varieties of heirloom and modern apples and pears fresh from the orchard. Enjoy freshly dipped caramel apples, hot apple cider and homemade apple pie made from an assortment of different apple varieties, all while enjoying live music. Kids’ activities will include a straw maze, face painting, petting goats and pumpkin gathering.  Visit www.smithberrybarn.com.

pumpkin-regatta_tualatinOctober 31: West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta, Tualatin. Come cheer on 1,000 lb. pumpkin boats as people paddle across the lake at Tualatin Commons in races that are often wet and always entertaining. Visit ci.tualatin.or.us.

For a comprehensive culinary planning resource, visit TravelOregon.com/bounty, where you’ll find all that there is to see, do and taste. Oregon Bounty is produced by the Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, in partnership with Oregon’s many destination marketing organizations and industry guilds. Discover Oregon’s Bounty with special fly/stay/drive packages from Horizon Air.