Beaverton Travel Guide

Explore the best things to do and see in Beaverton, Oregon. Discover the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and travel tips for your next trip to Beaverton.


Introduction to Beaverton

Located in the Portland metropolitan area, Beaverton is a vibrant city worth exploring. This bustling community is known for its parks, hiking and biking trails, fantastic food and drink scene, and thriving culture. With its close proximity to the city, Beaverton provides a perfect balance of urban and natural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Beaverton

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, shopping, or outdoor activities, Beaverton has something for every traveler. Here are some must-visit attractions in Beaverton:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Beaverton History Center

The Beaverton History Center is a great place to learn about the city’s heritage. The center is home to a variety of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the area from the early days of Native American habitation to the currents times.

Tualatin Hills Nature Center

The Tualatin Hills Nature Center is a fascinating place for nature lovers. The center has several informative exhibits that feature the plant and animal species native to the region. Visitors can explore the nearby trails, including the interpretive bird watching trail.

Pittock Mansion

Pittock Mansion is a historic home located in Portland. The mansion is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of Portland’s most prominent citizens in the early 1900s. The mansion provides visitors with a blend of history, architecture, and scenic views.

Natural Attractions of Beaverton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cooper Mountain Nature Park

Cooper Mountain Nature Park is a 231-acre park in Beaverton. The park is known for its stunning views of the Tualatin Valley and its vast network of walking trails. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and bird watching.

Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge

The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge includes over 1,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and grasslands. The refuge is home to an impressive variety of wildlife species, including migratory birds, otters, and beavers. The refuge offers hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Jenkins Estate Park

Jenkins Estate Park is a 68-acre park located in Beaverton. The park features beautiful gardens, wooded trails, and stunning views of the Tualatin Valley. The park also has several historic buildings, including the Jenkins Estate mansion and Carriage House, which can be reserved for events.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beaverton

Beaverton is a paradise for hikers and bikers. The city has many trails suitable for both beginner and experienced hikers. Some popular hiking and biking trails in Beaverton include:

  • Waterhouse Trail
  • Fanno Creek Trail
  • Rock Creek Trail
  • Greenway Park Trail

Best Things to Do in Beaverton: Activities and Tours

There are many exciting activities to do in Beaverton. Here are some of the top-rated ones:

  • Visit the Farmer’s Market
  • Explore the Beaverton City Library
  • Experience the world of VR at Das Rec
  • Attend a show at the Beaverton Civic Theatre

Week-Long Itinerary for Beaverton

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week in Beaverton:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Beaverton Farmers Market in the morning. Spend the afternoon exploring the Beaverton History Center.
Day 2 Take a hike on the Waterhouse Trail in the morning. In the afternoon, explore the Tualatin Hills Nature Center.
Day 3 Take a day trip to downtown Portland. Explore the Portland Art Museum and have lunch at one of the food carts in the city.
Day 4 Rent a bike and explore the Rock Creek Trail in the morning. In the afternoon, visit the Pittock Mansion in Portland.
Day 5 Visit the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge in the morning. Spend the afternoon shopping at Washington Square Mall.
Day 6 Explore the Jenkins Estate Park in the morning. In the afternoon, visit Das Rec and experience the world of virtual reality.
Day 7 Spend your last day exploring the Beaverton City Library and enjoying a show at the Beaverton Civic Theatre in the evening.

Food and Drink Scene of Beaverton

Beaverton’s food and drink scene is diverse and impressive. Visitors to Beaverton can enjoy everything from farm-to-table bistros to food carts on street corners.

Must-Try Dishes

No trip to Beaverton is complete without trying some of these local favorites:

  • Sizzling sisig from Kusina Filipina
  • Pad Thai from Thai Bloom
  • Margherita pizza from Apizza Scholls
  • Roast beef sandwich from Caffe Allegro

Local Beverages

Be sure to check out some of these local beverages:

  • Beaverton double IPA from Golden Valley Brewery
  • Raspberry wheat beer from Two Kilts Brewing Company
  • Nitro cold brew coffee from Dutch Bros Coffee

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

Beaverton has numerous lodging options suitable for all budgets. Here are some popular options:

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Hillsboro
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Hillsboro/Beaverton
  • Comfort Inn & Suites West Beaverton
  • Extended Stay America Portland - Beaverton

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

Beaverton has a variety of shops offering unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some things to consider buying:

  • Craft beer from Golden Valley Brewery
  • Berry pies from Beaverton Farmer’s Market
  • Local wine from Cooper Mountain Vineyards
  • Handmade soap from Oregon Soap Company

Local Culture and Customs of Beaverton

Be sure to check out some of Beaverton’s unique cultural experiences:

  • Attend the Beaverton International Festival
  • Check out the Beaverton Arts & Culture Center
  • Learn about the traditional customs of the Tualatin people at the Tualatin Heritage Center

Best Time to Visit Beaverton

The best time to visit Beaverton is between June and August. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, and there are plenty of outdoor events and activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beaverton

Do:

  • Visit the Beaverton Farmer’s Market
  • Try the local craft beer
  • Explore the many parks and trails in and around Beaverton

Don’t:

  • Forget to tip at restaurants and bars
  • Litter in public areas
  • Smoke in public spaces

Safety and Health

Safety in Beaverton

Beaverton is a safe city with low crime rates. However, it is always advised to take the usual precautions when traveling, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings.

Health in Beaverton

Beaverton has excellent medical facilities and hospitals, including Adventist Health Portland and Providence St. Vincent Medical Center.

Getting to Beaverton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Beaverton

The closest airport to Beaverton is the Portland International Airport, which is approximately 20 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Beaverton

Beaverton has a Greyhound bus station located at 4055 SW Lombard Avenue.

Other Options

For those who prefer to drive, Beaverton is easily accessible via Highways 26 and 217.

How to Get Around in Beaverton

Beaverton has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, MAX light rail, and streetcars. Additionally, several rental car companies operate in the area.

Where to Go Next from Beaverton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Beaverton:

  • Downtown Portland
  • Oregon Wine Country
  • Mt. Hood National Forest
  • Columbia River Gorge

Conclusion

Beaverton is a fantastic destination full of exciting attractions, outdoor activities, and delicious food and drinks. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Beaverton has something to offer every traveler. With its close proximity to Portland and the surrounding natural beauty, Beaverton is a must-visit destination on any Oregon travel itinerary.

Downtown Beaverton Downtown Beaverton