La Grande Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, and eat in La Grande, Oregon. Learn about local customs and culture, outdoor adventures, and transportation logistics in this guide.


La Grande is a small city located in Eastern Oregon, United States. Surrounded by natural beauty, it boasts a rich history and culture which makes it a perfect travel destination for those looking to explore the Pacific Northwest. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, things to do, food and drink scene, and logistics of getting around and staying in La Grande.

Introduction to La Grande

La Grande is a charming city located in Eastern Oregon. It is known for its small-town vibe, friendly locals, and historic sites. The city is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including the Wallowa Mountains, and the Grande Ronde River. Visitors can take in the views while hiking, biking or skiing in the nearby trails. La Grande is also home to several museums, galleries, parks, and shops that offer plenty to do.

List of Places to Visit in La Grande

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Eastern Oregon Fire Museum: A fascinating museum that celebrates the history of firefighting in Eastern Oregon. Visitors can learn about the evolution of firefighting techniques and equipment and check out vintage fire engines.

  • Union County Heritage Museum: The museum showcases the history and culture of Union County. It features artifacts and exhibits including Native American art, pioneer-era tools and equipment, and a replica of a Victorian-era home.

  • Hot Lake Springs: A historical hotel and natural hot springs that have been used for healing and relaxation for over a century. Visitors can take a dip in the hot springs or stay in the cozy hotel.

Natural Attractions of La Grande: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wallowa-Whitman National Forest: A vast forest filled with hiking, biking, and skiing trails, campgrounds, lakes, and rivers. The Wallowa Mountains offer some of the best alpine scenery in the Pacific Northwest.

  • Grande Ronde River: A beautiful river that flows through the heart of La Grande. It is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and rafting. Scenic drives along the river provide excellent opportunities for photos and relaxation.

  • Mount Emily Recreation Area: A 3,000-acre area perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching. It is home to various species of birds and wild animals like deer and elk.

Hiking/Biking Routes of La Grande

  • Mount Emily: A challenging trail that takes hikers to the summit of Mount Emily. The trailhead is located in the Mount Emily Recreation Area.

  • Grand Ronde River Trail: A scenic trail that follows the Grande Ronde River. It is an excellent option for hikers of all levels and offers breathtaking views of the river, mountains, and wildlife.

  • Little Ski Hill: A popular ski area that offers a beautiful landscape and snowy slopes. The resort offers a variety of terrain for skiers of all levels.

Best Things to Do in La Grande: Activities and Tours

  • Oregon Trail Interpretive Center: A museum dedicated to the Oregon Trail pioneers. Visitors can learn about the history of the westward expansion, the challenges of the journey, and daily life on the trail.

  • Art Center East: A contemporary art gallery that showcases local and regional artists. The center offers art classes, workshops, and events throughout the year.

  • Eagle Cap Excursion Train: A vintage train that takes visitors on a scenic journey through the Wallowa Mountains. The train offers breathtaking views of the mountain scenery and is a must-do for train enthusiasts.

Week-Long Itinerary for La Grande

Day Activity
Day 1 Take a dip in the natural hot springs at Hot Lake Springs
Day 2 Visit the Eastern Oregon Fire Museum and learn about the history of firefighting
Day 3 Day trip to Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Explore the stunning mountain landscape
Day 4 Head to Grande Ronde River and enjoy fishing, kayaking or rafting
Day 5 Check out the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center and learn about the pioneers of the Pacific Northwest
Day 6 Take a scenic train ride in the Eagle Cap Excursion train
Day 7 Relax and explore the city. Shop for local souvenirs and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of La Grande

Must-Try Dishes

  • Northwest Food: Many local restaurants offer a variety of delicious dishes that use fresh and regional ingredients. Be sure to try out some local seafood like Pacific salmon, oysters, and crab.

  • BBQ: La Grande has some of the best BBQ in Eastern Oregon. Visit Johnny’s BBQ & Catering, for some of the best pulled pork and brisket.

  • Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Many local restaurants feature farm-to-table cuisine that is both sustainable and delicious. Check out Ten Depot Street for some of the best dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: La Grande is home to several breweries that offer delicious craft beer. Check out Side A Brewing, Fermentation Barn, and Pattie’s Pub & Grill.

  • Wine: Eastern Oregon is known for its wine country. Visit Big Creek Winery for some of the best local wine.

  • Cider: La Grande is also home to some excellent cideries. Check out the Blue Mountain Cider Company for some delicious cider.

Where to Stay in La Grande: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Quail Run Motor Inn: A cozy motel that offers clean and comfortable rooms, a great location, and friendly staff.

  • Royal Motor Inn: A budget-friendly option that offers basic amenities and a great location to explore the city.

  • Hot Lake Springs: A historical hotel located in a natural hot spring. Guests can enjoy the warm waters and stunning mountain views while staying in one of the cozy and charming rooms.

What to Buy in La Grande: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Jelly Belly Factory Outlet: Take home some of the best jelly beans from the Jelly Belly Factory Outlet located in Downtown La Grande.

  • Eastern Oregon Marketplace: The marketplace offers a variety of local arts, crafts, and handmade items. Check out the beautiful ceramics, jewelry, and paintings by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of La Grande

  • Respect the Outdoors: La Grande is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or just exploring the city, be sure to respect the environment and wildlife.

  • Smoking is Prohibited: La Grande has a smoking ban in all public places. Be sure to respect this rule and avoid smoking in public places.

Best Time to Visit La Grande

The best time to visit La Grande is during the summer months when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities. The months of June, July, and August are the busiest and most crowded months, so be sure to book your accommodations well in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of La Grande

Do:

  • Do explore the outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of the Wallowa Mountains and Grande Ronde River.

  • Do visit the various local museums and historic sites to learn about the city’s rich history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to respect the local culture and environment by not littering, smoking in public places, or disturbing the wildlife.

  • Don’t miss out on the local food and drink scene. Try out some local craft beer, wine, and regional food.

Safety and Health

Safety in La Grande

La Grande is generally a safe city to visit. However, visitors should take standard precautions to avoid theft or crime.

Health in La Grande

La Grande has several medical facilities, including a hospital, clinics, and pharmacies. Make sure to carry any necessary medications and have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to La Grande: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near La Grande

The nearest airport to La Grande is the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport (PDT), located approximately 3 miles from the city center. Another option is the Boise Airport (BOI), located about 150 miles away.

Bus Stations Near La Grande

Greyhound Bus Lines operates a station in La Grande, with several daily routes to and from Portland.

Other Options

Another option is to travel by car as La Grande is easily accessible by highways and roads from neighboring cities.

How to Get Around in La Grande

Depending on your preference and budget, you can get around La Grande by car, bicycle, or foot. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available in the city.

Where to Go Next from La Grande: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Baker City: A historic town located about an hour’s drive from La Grande. Baker City is known for its well-preserved buildings, outdoor recreation opportunities, and local breweries.

  • Joseph: A charming small town nestled among the Wallowa Mountains. Joseph offers a variety of outdoor activities, art shops, and galleries.

  • Hells Canyon Scenic Byway: A scenic driving route that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. The route offers breathtaking views of Hells Canyon, the Snake River, and the Wallowa Mountains.

Conclusion

La Grande is a hidden gem located in Eastern Oregon. With its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and historical sites, it is a perfect destination for travelers looking to explore the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or just relaxing in natural hot springs, there is something for everyone in La Grande. This guide will help you plan your trip, discover the best places to visit, stay and eat, and avoid any pitfalls. We are sure you’ll have a memorable visit to La Grande.