Hermiston Travel Guide

Discover all the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Hermiston, Oregon with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Hermiston

Hermiston is a charming city located in Eastern Oregon, in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States of America. This city is best known for its breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture. Hermiston is famous for its wheat and sugar beet farming, and it plays a significant role in Oregon’s agricultural industry.

List of Places to Visit in Hermiston

Regardless of your interests, there are lots of fascinating attractions in Hermiston. Here’s our rundown of the top places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Umatilla County Historical Society & Museum - This museum showcases Preserving the History of Umatilla County and the surrounding areas with a wide range of historical artifacts and exhibits open for public viewing.
  • Hermiston Agricultural Research & Extension Center - A state-of-the-art research facility where you can learn about the area’s agricultural industry.

Natural Attractions of Hermiston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hat Rock State Park - A stunning park with picnic areas, hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing day out.
  • McNary Dam - A hydroelectric dam located on the Columbia River that provides a picturesque view and an excellent area for anglers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hermiston

Hermiston and the surrounding area offer fantastic opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the top trails in Hermiston include:

  • Hermiston Butte Trail - A moderate 3-mile hike offering panoramic views of the city and beyond.
  • Hat Rock State Park Trail - A 5.5 mile hike through the park’s distinctive rock formations and gorgeous scenery.

Best Things to Do in Hermiston: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, there are many other exciting things to do and see in Hermiston:

  • Go Fishing - The Umatilla River is stocked with various fish species, including trout and bass, making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Go kayaking or Canoeing - The Columbia River provides calm waters for kayaking and canoeing, perfect for a peaceful and scenic adventure. -Go to a farmers market - Many Farmers Markets happen in town allowing visitors to explore local foods and locally produced goods like souvenirs, lavender, and homemade crafts.
  • Visit the Blue Mountain Wildlife Rehabilitation Center - This is where injured and orphaned wild animals are cared for, rehabilitated, and eventually released back into the wild.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hermiston

Day 1: Start with a visit to the Umatilla County Historical Society & Museum to discover the city’s rich heritage. After that, head over to McNary Dam to appreciate the impressive sight of the dam. For dinner, Sample some farm-to-table cuisine at one of the city’s best restaurants.

Day 2-3: Explore the natural beauty of Hermiston by taking a hike on Hermiston Butte Trail and relaxing at Hat Rock State Park afterward. Spend the rest of your afternoon fishing or kayaking on the Umatilla River.

Day 4-6: Make the most of your last few days in Hermiston by visiting the Blue Mountain Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, going to the farmers market or exploring more of the city’s history. Spend your evenings enjoying the outdoors, camping, and grilling.

Day 7: On your last day in Hermiston, take a tour of the Hermiston Agricultural Research & Extension Center to learn more about the area’s agricultural heritage. Finish off with some souvenir shopping for your trip back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Hermiston

When it comes to dining and drinking, Hermiston has a lot to offer. From classic American pub fare to locally grown and sourced cuisine, here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Steak fajitas - A delicious Tex-Mex dish that combines tender flank steak with peppers, onions, and spices.
  • Dungeness crab - A tasty seafood delicacy that can be found at many local restaurants near the river.
  • Lamb Chop - Grilled lamb chops with a side of mint sauce and seasonal vegetables

Local Beverages

  • Brewpubs - There are several excellent breweries in Hermiston, where you can sample craft beers made with locally grown hops.
  • Local wines - The area around Hermiston is well known for its wine production, so be sure to try some local vintages during your stay.

Where to Stay in Hermiston: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hermiston has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable hotel room or a cozy guesthouse, you’ll find plenty of options. Here are some of the best:

  • Holiday Inn Express and Suites - A popular hotel near downtown with clean rooms and friendly staff.
  • Oxford Suites Hermiston - Another hotel located in a prime spot and offering excellent amenities and services.

What to Buy in Hermiston: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Hermiston, make sure to bring back some memorable souvenirs or locally made products. Here are some of the best items to take home:

  • Locally grown and produced products such as agricultural products, lavender and handcrafted items.
  • Authentic Native American crafts made by the local Umatilla tribes.

Local Culture and Customs of Hermiston

Hermiston is a city with a rich culture, history, and welcoming people. The tribal lands surrounding Hermiston provide a unique history that visitors can learn and appreciate in places like the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute. Music festivals also happen allowing you to experience the local lifestyle better. Make sure to show respect and be willing to have fun while enjoying Hermiston’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Hermiston

The best time to visit Hermiston is during the summer months (June to August), when temperatures are mild, and outdoor activities are at their peak. Winter months offer skiing opportunities, though Hermiston doesn’t have any skiing facilities nearby. However, due to consistent rainfall throughout the year, it’s always good to bring rain gear along with your outdoor gear.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hermiston

Do:

  • Do visit the local cultural highlights and take time to learn about the local tribes.
  • Do bring comfortable shoes and clothing for outdoor activities.
  • Do be open-minded and willing to try new things.

Don’t:

  • Don’t trespass in the Umatilla Reservation lands without a permit.
  • Don’t underestimate the rainfall. Be sure to bring appropriate gear even during the summer months.
  • Don’t forget to make reservations for popular attractions and restaurants.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hermiston

Hermiston is a relatively safe city with a crime rate lower than the national average. However, it is always good to be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, especially when travelling during the night time.

Health in Hermiston

Regarding health, Hermiston does not have many medical facilities, so check that your travel insurance is up to date before arriving. In cases of emergency, the Good Shepherd Medical center is about 20 minutes away within the city of Umatilla.

Getting to Hermiston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hermiston is relatively isolated with limited transportation options. Here are some ways to get to and around Hermiston:

Airports Near Hermiston

The closest airport to Hermiston is the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport, located in Pendleton, OR, which is about 35 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Hermiston

There is no Greyhound bus station, so it’s best to take an Amtrak train or rent a car.

Other Options

The closest train station to Hermiston is located in Pasco, WA, which is 35 miles away.

How to Get Around in Hermiston

Hermiston has limited public transportation options, so renting a car is the most convenient way to get around. Some hotels offer shuttle services to nearby attractions, so it’s always good to check ahead.

Where to Go Next from Hermiston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hermiston is the perfect starting point for exploring nearby attractions such as:

  • Pendleton - Home to the world-famous Pendleton Round-Up and one of Oregon’s main Western Heritage cities.
  • Kennewick - A small town in Washington state famous for its Wine Country, The Three Rivers Convention Center and Museum.

Conclusion

Hermiston is a beautiful city offering a rich cultural and natural experience. With plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies, you’re sure to find something to enjoy. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, this comprehensive tour guide will help you make the most of your time in Hermiston.