Woodburn, Oregon: 10 Fun Things To Do Near This Charming City

on

10 Fun Things To Do Near Woodburn, Oregon (Marion County)

If you’re planning a trip to Woodburn, Oregon in Marion County, you’re in a great spot to explore the heart of the Willamette Valley. This small city sits right off I‑5 between Portland and Salem, making it an easy stop on any Oregon road trip. Whether you’re into shopping, flowers, wine, or family fun, there are plenty of things to do in and around Woodburn. Here are 10 fun things to do near Woodburn, OR that locals and visitors love.

1. Shop and Save at Woodburn Premium Outlets

If you’ve heard of Woodburn at all, it’s probably because of the Woodburn Premium Outlets. This is one of the largest outlet malls in the Pacific Northwest and a huge draw for visitors from all over Oregon and Washington. You’ll find:
  • Big-name brands like Nike, Columbia, Under Armour, and Adidas
  • Fashion outlets such as Coach, Michael Kors, and Levi’s
  • Casual spots to grab a bite between stores
Parking is free, and the layout is outdoor, so on a clear day it’s actually a pleasant place to stroll. Just be ready: on weekends, especially around holidays, it can get busy. If you like deals, plan to spend at least a couple of hours here. Start early, grab a coffee, and work your way through the different sections instead of zig‑zagging all over the place (your feet will thank you).

2. Visit the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm (Springtime Magic)

About 15 minutes from Woodburn, the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in nearby Hubbard is a springtime favorite. Every year, usually from late March through April, the farm hosts the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival. Picture this: acres and acres of tulips in every color you can imagine, with Mount Hood on the horizon on a clear day. It’s like walking into a postcard. During the festival you can enjoy:
  • Colorful tulip fields and photo spots
  • Hot air balloons on select mornings (weather permitting)
  • Food trucks, wine tasting, and kids’ activities
Wear boots or older shoes if it’s been raining—it will be muddy. If you love photography or just want that perfect family photo, this is a must‑do near Woodburn.

3. Explore Historic Downtown Woodburn

Don’t skip Woodburn’s own downtown area. It’s smaller and quieter than bigger cities, but that’s part of the charm. Here you’ll find:
  • Local Mexican bakeries and taquerias with amazing food
  • Small shops and markets
  • Murals and colorful storefronts
Woodburn has strong Latino and Russian Old Believer communities, and you can feel that blend of cultures in the food and atmosphere. Stop into a panadería (bakery) and grab fresh conchas or empanadas, then wander a bit and people-watch. If you’re used to big city downtowns, this might feel laid‑back—but that’s the beauty of it. It’s real, everyday Oregon life.

4. Taste Local Wine in the Willamette Valley

Woodburn sits on the northern edge of the famous Willamette Valley wine country, known especially for its Pinot Noir. You don’t have to drive far to find a tasting room with a view. Near Woodburn, look for wineries around:
  • St. Paul
  • Hubbard
  • Mt. Angel
  • Salem and the surrounding hills
Many wineries offer:
  • Wine tastings (often a flight of small pours)
  • Indoor and outdoor seating with valley views
  • Snack boards or the option to bring your own picnic
If you’re traveling with a group, it can be fun to choose two or three wineries and make an afternoon of it. Just be sure to have a designated driver, or book a local wine tour if you prefer not to drive.

5. Enjoy the Oregon Garden in Nearby Silverton

About 30–35 minutes southeast of Woodburn is The Oregon Garden in Silverton, a beautiful 80‑acre botanical garden that’s great for all ages. Highlights include:
  • Beautiful landscaped gardens and walking paths
  • A children’s garden with fun features for kids
  • Seasonal events like Christmas in the Garden with lights
The garden is spread out, but the paths are easy and mostly gentle, so you don’t need to be super athletic to enjoy it. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and give yourself at least 2–3 hours if you like to explore slowly. A nice combo day: morning at the Oregon Garden, lunch in Silverton, then back toward Woodburn or Salem for the evening.

6. Experience the Mt. Angel Glockenspiel and Bavarian Charm

Just a short drive (around 20 minutes) from Woodburn is the small town of Mt. Angel, known for its Bavarian theme and annual Oktoberfest. The star attraction downtown is the Mt. Angel Glockenspiel, a tall clock tower that features carved figures and music at set times during the day. Check local times, then grab a coffee or ice cream nearby and wait for the show. Around the glockenspiel you’ll find:
  • German‑inspired restaurants and bakeries
  • Small shops and cafés
  • A walkable main street with a cozy feel
If you visit during Oktoberfest in September, expect crowds, live music, dancing, and plenty of German food and beer. It’s one of the biggest festivals in Marion County.

7. Get Outside at Local Parks and Trails

If you need a break from shopping and driving, there are plenty of simple outdoor spots around Woodburn to stretch your legs. In and near Woodburn, look for:
  • Legion Park – A local park with green space and picnic areas.
  • Mill Creek Greenway (in nearby Salem) – Walking and biking trails along the creek.
  • Willamette Mission State Park – About 20–25 minutes away, with hiking trails, disc golf, river access, and picnic spots.
Willamette Mission State Park is especially nice if you want a quick “nature fix” without driving into the mountains. There are easy trails, wide fields, and views of the Willamette River. Bring a picnic blanket, a Frisbee, or a book and slow down for an afternoon.

8. Learn Local History at Champoeg State Heritage Area

About 20 minutes north of Woodburn, along the Willamette River, you’ll find Champoeg (pronounced “sham-POO-ee”) State Heritage Area. This park is where early settlers voted in 1843 to form the first provisional government in the Oregon Country. Today, it’s a peaceful place to combine history and the outdoors. Things to do at Champoeg:
  • Visit the small visitor center and historic exhibits
  • Bike or walk along the paved trails
  • Enjoy river views and picnic areas
  • Camp or stay in a cabin if you want an overnight
It’s a great spot for families, history buffs, or anyone who enjoys a quiet, scenic park not too far from town.

9. Explore Salem, Oregon’s Capital City

Since Woodburn is less than 30 minutes from Salem, it’s easy to add a half‑day or full day in the state capital while you’re in the area. Top Salem highlights include:
  • Oregon State Capitol – Walk around the grounds, and if open, step inside to see the building and murals.
  • Riverfront City Park – A large park along the Willamette River with walking paths and a carousel for kids.
  • Gilbert House Children’s Museum – Great for families with younger children.
  • Downtown Salem – Coffee shops, restaurants, and local boutiques.
If you’re staying in Woodburn to save on lodging costs, doing a day trip into Salem is an easy way to add more city activities without changing hotels.

10. Eat Your Way Through Woodburn’s Diverse Food Scene

One of the best things to do in Woodburn, Oregon is simply eat. For a smaller city, the food here is surprisingly varied and full of flavor. Expect to find:
  • Excellent Mexican and Latin American restaurants and food trucks
  • Bakeries with fresh pan dulce (sweet bread) and pastries
  • Russian and Eastern European markets and delis
  • Classic American diners and fast‑casual spots near I‑5
If you’re not sure where to start, a simple approach is to:
  • Ask a local or your hotel front desk for a favorite taco spot.
  • Try a bakery in downtown Woodburn for breakfast.
  • Pick up snacks at a local market before you head out to the tulip fields or wineries.
Sometimes the best “attraction” in a town is whatever is on your plate.

Tips for Visiting Woodburn, Oregon

To make the most of your trip to Woodburn and Marion County, keep these quick tips in mind:
  • Best time to visit: Spring for tulips, summer for outdoor activities, fall for harvest and wine country, and September for Mt. Angel Oktoberfest.
  • Weather: Expect mild but often wet winters and springs. Pack layers and a rain jacket.
  • Getting around: A car is the easiest way to explore Woodburn and the surrounding area.
  • Crowds: Weekends, especially at the outlets and tulip festival, can be busy. Visit early in the day if possible.

Final Thoughts: Why Woodburn Is Worth a Stop

Woodburn, Oregon may look like a simple freeway stop, but once you slow down, you’ll find:
  • Big outlet shopping
  • World‑class tulip fields
  • Wine country right next door
  • Charming small towns and historic parks
  • A rich mix of cultures and great food
Whether you’re driving between Portland and Eugene or planning a Willamette Valley getaway, Woodburn makes a smart base for exploring Marion County and beyond.

Share Your Woodburn Experience

Have you been to Woodburn, Oregon or the nearby towns and parks?
  • What was your favorite thing to do near Woodburn?
  • Did you visit the tulip festival, the outlets, or a local winery?
Feel free to share your tips, questions, or favorite spots in the comments so other travelers can learn from your experience. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a trip through Oregon or looking for new places to explore in the Willamette Valley.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment