Wanderlust World Wanderlust World With a wildly diverse landscape that ranges from sun-kissed beaches to snow-capped mountains, Oregon's natural beauty alone makes it an idyllic state for a romantic getaway with someone special. Your trip to Oregon doesn't have to break the bank either, whether you're headed to Portland for a romantic city escape or a rugged rendezvous in the Columbia River Gorge area. You'll find low-budget, yet cozy accommodations and free, or inexpensive activities all over the state that offer adventure, romance and bonding opportunities with the one you love.
Portland, Oregon's capital, offers big city romance on a tiny budget. One-of-a-kind budget accommodations include the Tierra Soul Urban Farm & Guesthouse, an intimate guesthouse with its own mini-farm and an ultra hippie vibe. Stroll with your love through the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park, which features hundreds of rose varieties. Find a cozy spot to read to each other in Powell's City of Books, believed to be the largest independent bookstore in the world. Rent bicycles from the many bike shops in Portland and take a scenic bike ride along the Columbia River. Find quirky and cheap trinkets to give to one another in Portland's cool shopping districts, such as Old Town Chinatown and the Pearl District.
Take a dip with your love in one of Oregon's many natural hot springs, which are touted for their mineral properties. In Burns, Oregon, the Crystal Crane Hot Springs offers accommodations ranging from tents and RVs, to small inns and affordable cabins with shared bathroom facilities. Indulge in a free soak in the small hot springs pond, included in your stay. Enhance the romance by spending a little more for a private soaking tub, which is filled with water from the springs. Go camping in the Willamette National Park, home of the Terwilliger Hot Springs. There is a small fee to access this public hot springs area, which includes six different cascading pools. Be prepared for the potential nudity of strangers, however, as clothing is optional. Go early in the day during the week for the most private experience.
Admire the striking beauty of the Painted Hills in Eastern Oregon. These ancient clay hills date back to prehistoric times and feature bands of bright colors that change with the season. Take a hike with your partner through the remote, desert-like landscape to view the hills up close. Book a stay at the historic Oregon hotel, a simple, but charming accommodation in Mitchell, the small gateway town closest to the Painted Hills. The Columbia River Gorge is another awe-inspiring, naturally beautiful area of Oregon. You and your partner can find a quiet spot on the riverbanks for a picnic, rent a kayak for an exciting river ride, hike to a waterfall, or find a secluded spot to watch the sunset over the river. Stay at the Vagabond Lodge, which has renovated and reasonably priced suites that overlook the river; some suites include a whirlpool tub.
Lined with endless beaches and idyllic seaside towns, affordable romance can be found along the entire Oregon coast. Book a cozy cottage overlooking the ocean at the Ester Lee Motel in Lincoln City, Oregon. The modest, private cottages include a fireplace so you can cozy up with your love by the fire. Relax on the beach, fly a kite or simply walk along the water's edge together at dusk. A little further south is the town of Newport, where you and your partner can explore the historic Bayfront boardwalk or the Nye Beach district, which is home to several independent shops and cafes. Book a stay at the Sylvia Beach Hotel, which encourages couples to disconnect from urban clamor by not offering television, phones or Wi-Fi service in the rooms. The hotel has a reading room filled with books and all the guest rooms are named after famous writers and poets.