Nestled in the Willamette Valley between the mountains and coast, Corvallis blends small-city charm, science and innovation, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relive your college days or need an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Corvallis delights with friendly locals, cozy accommodations, local craft breweries and restaurants, outdoor adventures, and more. 

Outdoors Explored
Scientists, nature lovers, and curious minds are all drawn to Corvallis – and not just because of its science-forward university. The small city is known for the ease in experiencing Oregon’s pristine nature and the old growth forests of the Coastal Range, whether it’s for wildlife or bird watching adventures, a mountain bike ride, or a brisk hike.

Bird watchers will love Finley National Wildlife Refuge, a 5,000-acre refuge bursting with species of all kinds. Or, just a quick walk from campus and close to downtown, experience Avery Park & Natural Area for year-round birdwatching.

If you’re looking for a true exploration of nature, head over to McDonald-Dunn Forest, a research forest managed by Oregon State University. Explorers can hunt for mushroom varieties and even sign up for guided forays and workshops that can help you identify different fungal species. 

Need some fresh air or want to ponder life under the stars? Peavy Arboretum has some stunning open meadows, so bring your telescope and link up with a stargazing app to identify what constellations you can find. 

Or, at 4,097 feet, Marys Peak has been named one of the best stargazing spots in western Oregon. It offers beautiful wildflower viewing during the warmer months, and vibrant panoramic views of autumn colors are also a sight to behold. In the winter, outdoor enthusiasts enjoy traversing Marys Peak with snowshoes or skis. 

Unique Stays and Places to Play
Outdoor discoveries and culinary adventures require rest in between. So, make sure your getaway includes one of the area's many unique accommodations. Courtyard Marriott Corvallis on the downtown riverfront  offers spacious rooms, and easy accessibility around town.

Retro boutique Hotel Corvallis, welcomes guests and their pets with an anything but boring stay with vintage furniture, plush bedding, electric car charging stations, and more. If you want to experience something even more unique or have a larger group, book a guest house at Donovan’s Place, a 13-acre Christmas tree farm, or Leaping Lamb Farm, a working farm that offers cottages and the opportunity to help with farm chores like feeding the animals or collecting eggs. 

Culinary Delights
From the lively downtown streets to the peaceful farmlands of nearby Philomath, the region’s chefs celebrate Oregon’s bounty with dishes that honor the season and the soil. The Dizzy Hen offers outstanding breakfast and brunch options made from locally-sourced ingredients, and dinner is available on the weekends.

At Castor Corvallis, you can enjoy a variety of menu options that include seasonal and sustainably harvested ingredients. For brunch, dine at Caves, which highlights culinary landscapes from across Northwestern Europe, and for lunch, make time for a chicken melt, a brass BLT, or a hearty Greek gyro salad at The Brass Monkey.

Looking for organic, local produce? Take some home from Gathering Together Farm’s farmstand or plan for a meal at their delicious farm-to-table restaurant that features their own farm goods, as well as other produce from farms in the area. 

We’ve got the Dives
Corvallis a college town after all and the Dive Bar Crawl showcases the city’s most relaxed and welcoming watering holes, featuring nine classic Corvallis sip stops like Harrison Bar & Grill, Clodfelter’s Public House, the Biere Library.

Don’t Leave Your Furry Friend Behind
Corvallis gladly welcomes furry friends of all sizes, with local businesses offering special amenities for your best friend like dog treats, water bowls outside, or just the ability to take them along with you inside. The popular Corvallis Farmers’ Market is a dog-friendly affair, Block 15’s two locations offer outdoor dog-friendly seating areas, and Airlie Winery’s host dogs would love to welcome your pups.   

Visit Corvallis
Whether you’re looking for a weekend exploring a city with small-town vibes or want to put on your science and explorer hat to learn something new, Corvallis is easily accessible and a smooth 1.5-hour ride from Portland. Learn more about how you can experience Corvallis here.