Take a trip to Hood River, Oregon to find an exciting blend of historic and modern attractions. Experience the best winter sports that Mount Hood has to offer. On the other hand, in the summer, pack your hiking boots or bike and hit the trails. Enjoy family-friendly dining featuring fresh fruits and vegetables from the numerous local farms and orchards. Book a stay at a Hood River vacation rental today. Check out the most exciting activities in and around the Hood River area.
1. Enjoy the Snow
A vacation rental in Hood River puts you up close to Oregon’s best-known spot for skiing, snowboarding, and lots of other winter sports. Enjoy hills and runs for all ages and skill levels on Mount Hood or at Cooper Spur. Bring your own skis, or rent a pair and take a cross-country or downhill lesson.
2. Explore the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum
The Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum is a great place to start learning about the history of Hood River. Bring older kids to the museum to let them view this large collection of antique planes and automobiles, most of which are still fully functional. Visit the children’s play area within the museum to let your youngest kids explore at their own pace. Stop by on the second Saturday of each month to watch professional drivers and pilots operate these machines.
3. Hang Out at Waterfront Park
Book a vacation rental during the warmer months to enjoy fun-filled days of sun and waterside recreation at Waterfront Park. This riverside park is ideal for family picnics, walks along the sand, and letting kids and dogs run free. When you’re all tired out, indulge at one of the numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding area, or catch a movie at the cinema.
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4. Take a Hike
The area surrounding Hood River is known for spectacular hiking trails suitable for kids and adults of all outdoor skill levels. Try the low-elevation Gorge 400 Trail, a 4-mile scenic path through flat, lush countryside. For an even better view, head to Twin Tunnels, a 5-mile stretch with breathtaking vistas of the Columbia River and the two tunnels from which the trail takes its name. Pack a light backpack with snacks and water to make the most of your excursion.
5. Pick a Basket of Fresh Fruit
The Hood River County Fruit Loop is home to many farms and orchards. Arrive in the spring or summertime to take advantage of the delicious fresh fruits and summer vegetables, which make an ideal accompaniment to picnic lunches. Take the kids to a “U-pick” farm to pick your own ripe strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and more. During this fun family activity, your kids can learn more about where their food comes from.
6. Go Swimming Near the Spit
The Spit is a unique delta that stretches between Hood River and the Columbia River, offering access to both. This land mass creates a semi-secluded body of calm water that’s ideal for swimming on hot days. Let dogs play off-leash in the designated areas, and splash around with kids and pets while enjoying breathtaking views of the rivers. Bring along snacks and take advantage of the public picnic facilities for a relaxed day on the sandy delta beach.
7. Experience Oregon on Horseback at a Riding Stable
Go back in time and experience the primary mode of transportation of Oregon’s pioneer days. Numerous stables in the area offer horses for hire. Experienced riders can rent a steed and head out on one of the many equestrian-approved trails near Hood River. New to riding? Find a class or workshop to suit your level, and learn to ride alongside your kids.
8. Hop on Your Bike
The area around Hood River is known for its world-class hiking and biking trails. Bring your own bike and take the scenic route to and from your vacation rental, or traverse a dirt road through the wilderness. Consult a map or a local to find a trail that suits your family’s level of expertise, then get some fresh air and a great workout while exploring inland Oregon.
9. Discover the History of Mount Hood Railroad
Occupying a 22-mile stretch of tracks that begins at the Mount Hood Railroad Depot in Hood River, trains running along the Mount Hood Railroad deliver excitement for residents and tourists. Hop aboard the train to experience the area around Mount Hood as it flashes past the windows of your train car. In the spring and summer, book your train tickets for the Western Train Robbery, a railroad-based adventure where you and other guests thwart a train robbery perpetrated by actors in authentic turn-of-the-century garb.
10. Take Time to Play at Wonderworks Children’s Museum
Unleash your inner child and let your kids get creative at Wonderworks Children’s Museum of the Gorge. This facility features workshops and activities designed especially for kids eight and under. Foster your kids’ artistic side with craft tables and workshops, or excite your future paleontologist at the dinosaur exhibits.
11. Take a Sleigh Ride Through a Winter Wonderland
Reserve your Hood River vacation rental during the snowy season to see Mount Hood and the surrounding area blanketed in fresh powder. Horse-drawn carriages offer sleigh rides through the Mount Hood Villages and in Mount Hood Skibowl. Bundle up and sip some hot cocoa while you take in the sights.
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