Aloha Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and more in Aloha, Oregon with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Aloha

Nestled in the Portland Metropolitan Area of Oregon, Aloha is a small unincorporated community that attracts visitors with its charming surroundings, friendly locals, and numerous outdoor activities. Aloha serves as an ideal location for travelers who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Pacific Northwest. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all the top places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Aloha.

List of Places to Visit in Aloha

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Washington County Museum

Founded in 1975, Washington County Museum exhibits the region’s rich cultural heritage through a range of interactive exhibits, permanent collections, and educational programs. The museum provides insight into the area’s Native American, agricultural, and timber industries history, and it’s a great place to learn about the region’s past.

John Tigard House Museum

Built-in 1880, the John Tigard House is a historical landmark that provides visitors with a glimpse of life in rural Oregon. The museum displays the home furnishings of the early settlers that reflect the lifestyle of Tigard’s founding family.

Jenkins Estate

Jenkins Estate is a 68-acre property, consisting of a historic mansion and landscaped gardens. The estate offers guided tours of the house, showcasing elegant Victorian interiors, artwork, and antique furnishings.

Natural Attractions of Aloha: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cooper Mountain Nature Park

Located in the Tualatin Mountains, the Cooper Mountain Nature Park offers numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, a playground, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park includes more than 3 miles of walking trails and is the perfect place for families to spend a sunny day enjoying the outdoors.

Tualatin Hills Nature Park

Spread across over 200 acres, Tualatin Hills Nature Park is a serene green space featuring streams, wetlands, and old-growth forests. The park has a variety of trails, ranging from easy paved walks to more challenging inclines, making it an ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers.

The Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals

Located in the hills west of Portland, the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals is a must-visit attraction for rock and mineral enthusiasts. The museum’s collection includes over 20,000 specimens and features a wide range of fossils, meteorites, and minerals from around the globe.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aloha

Aloha offers plenty of wonderful natural spaces for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes include:

  • The Tualatin Hills Nature Park Loop Trail
  • The Rock Creek Trail
  • The Loop Trail at Cooper Mountain Nature Park

Best Things to Do in Aloha: Activities and Tours

Blue Heron French Cheese Company

The Blue Heron French Cheese Company features gourmet cheeses, wines, and other specialty foods from the local area. Visitors can take a tour of the working creamery and sample delicious artisanal cheeses.

Northwest Balloon Adventures

Experience the Pacific Northwest from a whole new perspective with Northwest Balloon Adventures. Soar high over the Tualatin Valley and take in stunning views of Oregon’s picturesque landscape from a hot air balloon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aloha

  • Day 1: Washington County Museum, John Tigard House Museum, and Jenkins Estate
  • Day 2: Cooper Mountain Nature Park, Blue Heron French Cheese Company, and Tualatin Hills Nature Park
  • Day 3: The Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals, Oregon Balloon Adventures, and Rock Creek Trail
  • Day 4: Day Trip to Portland
  • Day 5: Kayaking on the Tualatin River
  • Day 6: Golfing in the area
  • Day 7: Relax day

Food and Drink Scene of Aloha

Must-Try Dishes

If you’re looking to try some local cuisine, Aloha has got you covered:

  • Tater Tot Casserole
  • Marionberry Pie

Local Beverages

A visit to Aloha wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the local brews. Be sure to try:

  • Craft Beer from Plank Town Brewing Company

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

If you’re looking for accommodations in Aloha, there are plenty of options available, including hotels, motels, and guesthouses, to accommodate visitors of all budgets. Some of the popular choices include:

  • Phoenix Inn Suites Beaverton
  • Hilton Garden Inn Beaverton
  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott Portland Hillsboro
  • AirBnB

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

If you want to take home some local products, consider the following:

  • Oregon Hazelnuts
  • Marionberry Preserves
  • Huckleberry Syrup

Local Culture and Customs of Aloha

Aloha is known for being an eco-friendly, laid-back, and nurturing community. The region has a rich cultural heritage and takes pride in promoting sustainable living.

Best Time to Visit Aloha

The best times to visit Aloha are during the summer and fall months when the weather is mild and sunny, and the area’s natural beauty is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aloha

Do:

  • Take care of the surroundings and the environment
  • Respect local customs and culture
  • Plan ahead for trails

Don’t:

  • Litter around and contribute to the degradation of natural spaces
  • Disrespect natural resources and wildlife

Safety and Health

Safety in Aloha

Aloha is a relatively safe destination, with a low crime rate. However, it’s still important to take precautions, such as keeping valuable items in a safe place.

Health in Aloha

Make sure you have appropriate health insurance and vaccinations before traveling to Aloha. Be aware of ticks and mosquitoes during your outdoor activities.

Getting to Aloha: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aloha

  • Portland International Airport (PDX)

Bus Stations Near Aloha

  • Bus service to Aloha is available through TriMet, the public transportation system that operates throughout the Portland Metropolitan Area.

Other Options

  • Car rental is also a popular option for visitors.

How to Get Around in Aloha

The best way to get around Aloha is by renting a car, as many of the top attractions are spread out throughout the region. Alternately, biking or walking can also be great options for exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Where to Go Next from Aloha: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in the area, consider visiting the following nearby attractions:

  • Portland (West)
  • Hillsboro (North)
  • Beaverton (East)

Conclusion

Aloha is a charming and picturesque community that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re looking for history, nature, or simply a taste of local culture, Aloha is a must-visit destination in the Pacific Northwest.