Nestled into the foothills of the gorgeous Wallowa Mountains is the charming town of Joseph, Oregon. This remote, artsy town is home to roughly 1,000 residents, and its tree-lined streets are full of unique shops and cafes, historic buildings, amazing bronze sculptures, and more. The town is surrounded by pristine natural beauty and incredible mountain silhouettes; it's even known colloquially as the "Little Switzerland of America." It might just be the best small town in Oregon.
Located in Wallowa County, Joseph is a perfect place for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Walking down the streets you'll find historic buildings, cobblestone sidewalks, charming businesses, and beautiful mountain views.
Amazing bronze sculptures adorn the city streets, paying tribute to the area's unique history, wildlife, and culture.
Despite the town's small size, you'll find a plethora of unique local businesses, including art galleries, a bronze foundry, clothing boutiques, and more.
There are also many wonderful cafes and restaurants to grab a coffee or a bite to eat.
If you want to stay the night, you can book a room at one of the town's lovely inns or B&Bs. Here's a photo of the wonderful Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast.
Just outside of town, you'll find green prairies and bucolic farmland. The meandering roads are perfect for a scenic country drive.
The surrounding area is full of stunning natural beauty and tons of opportunities for outdoor recreation. There's the Wallowa Mountains, Eagle Cap Wilderness, Zumwalt Prairie, Hells Canyon, and so much more. Right up the road is the breathtaking Wallowa Lake, which is a perfect place for boating, swimming, fishing, and more.
Joseph is a great lauching pad for all kinds of outdoor adventures, from hiking to white water rafting. Here's a photo of the amazing nearby Eagle Cap Wilderness.
This remote, beautiful town is absolutely charming.
Have you ever visited Joseph? Do you agree it's the best small town in Oregon? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you! Check out more lovely small towns in Oregon below:
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/oregon/coolest-small-towns-or/
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!