There’s something quietly brilliant about Corvallis. Maybe it’s the coffee-fueled scientists chatting in breweries or the ease of slipping into breathtaking natural beauty on the trails that surround this small city near the coast and mountains. Whether you are looking to relive your college days or need an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Corvallis offers you a weekend permission slip to slow down and geek out.

Outdoors Explored
Scientists, nature lovers, and curious minds are all drawn to Corvallis – and not just because of its science-forward university. Whether you’re the type who logs each bird sighting or just likes to brag about spotting a bald eagle, Corvallis makes nature feel accessible, and just a little bit nerdy. From the research forests of OSU, to nearby wetlands bursting with wildlife, you can study mushrooms, stargaze, or simply wander.

Bird watchers will love Finley National Wildlife Refuge, a 5,000-acre refuge filled 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 a forager at heart, 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
In Corvallis, even your sleep comes with a story. Crash downtown at the retro Hotel Corvallis, welcoming guests (and their pets) with anything but a boring stay with vintage furniture, plush bedding, and a dog who might greet you before the front desk does. Or lean into rural calm at Leaping Lamb Farm, where “helping with chores” turns out to be self-care. Courtyard Marriott Corvallis on the downtown riverfront offers spacious rooms, and easy accessibility to shops, restaurants and breweries. 

Or if you want to experience something truly unique, book a guest house at Donovan’s Place, on a 13-acre Christmas tree farm with an on-site pottery studio.

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 is a college town after all, and their 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, and 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, or just the ability to take them along with you inside. Look for ”Pet-Friendly” stickers on storefronts across the city and unleash some fun! Pet-friendly businesses include Block 15’s two locations, offering outdoor dog-friendly seating areas, and Airlie Winery whose two host dogs will gladly welcome your pups.  

Visit Corvallis
Whether you’re looking for a weekend exploring a city with small-town vibes or itching 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.