When it comes to visiting Oregon and the incredible small towns and up-and-coming cities, you really can't go wrong. There are so many wonderful pockets of adventure, paired with natural beauty, that make this state special. One such place is McMinnville, sitting at the base of the Oregon Coast Range. With a population shy of 35,000 people, McMinnville is a great place to add to your travel list, especially once you see the incredible things to do here.

Right in the heart of Willamette Valley’s wine country, McMinnville blends small-town charm with a fascinating history, a thriving arts scene, and numerous attractions. McMinnville was founded in 1853 by William T. Newby, a pioneer who traveled west on the Oregon Trail. He named the town after his hometown, McMinnville, Tennessee. As settlers arrived, McMinnville became an agricultural hub due to its fertile land and ideal climate. In the 20th century, the economy shifted to include education and tourism, particularly with the establishment of Linfield University in 1858 and the growth of the Oregon wine industry in the 1960s and 1970s. McMinnville is now known as the heart of Oregon’s wine country and offers over 250 wineries within a short drive.

When you're checking out McMinnville as a vacation destination, we have a few hand-picked experiences to consider. We mentioned the wineries already, so these are an absolute must. McMinnville is surrounded by world-class wineries, with the Willamette Valley being particularly renowned for its Pinot Noir. Notable wineries in the area include Eyrie Vineyards, Domaine Drouhin, and R. Stuart & Co. You can also enjoy tastings at numerous downtown tasting rooms, making wine tasting convenient for those who prefer to stay within the city.

In addition to some wine sampling, we recommend visiting the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum! This museum is home to the famous Spruce Goose, the world’s largest wooden airplane, built by Howard Hughes. The museum also features an extensive collection of aircraft, space-related exhibits, and an impressive indoor waterpark. It’s a popular destination for aviation and space enthusiasts and families alike.

Hiking is another favored pastime in the area here. The rolling hills around McMinnville are perfect for hiking and exploring nature. Miller Woods Conservation Area, located just outside the city, has trails through forests and meadows with views of the valley. Erratic Rock State Natural Site, a large rock transported by Ice Age floods, offers a short hike and scenic views of the Willamette Valley.

If you're looking for a fun event to plan your visit around, what could be better than UFOs and aliens? McMinnville has fully embraced an unusual part of its history: a famous UFO sighting from 1950. The annual UFO Festival, held each May, is the second-largest UFO festival in the U.S. and celebrates all things extraterrestrial with a lively parade, speakers, costume contests, and themed events. It’s a unique event that attracts visitors from all over.

Want to chow down while you're here? You're in luck - there are some stellar local restaurants in McMinnville to feed your soul and stomach. This food scene is superb, with a focus on farm-to-table dining. Some popular options include Thistle, known for its seasonal and locally sourced menu; Nick’s Italian Café, a historic restaurant famous for its pasta and wood-fired pizzas; and Red Hills Kitchen, offering New American cuisine inspired by the Pacific Northwest.

All in all, McMinnville is a beautiful city in Oregon that deserves a visit. If you're a wine fan, a nature lover, or just looking for a new place to explore, McMinnville has it all and more.

If you're looking for unique accommodations in McMinnville, Oregon, check out these options to start planning today. For a truly special stay, you can also check out Atticus Hotel in McMinnville.