Hillsboro Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink spots, accommodations, and local culture and customs of Hillsboro with this comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip to this stunning city in Oregon with ease.


Introduction to Hillsboro

Hillsboro is a charming city situated 16 miles west of Portland, in the Tualatin Valley region of Oregon. Often referred to as the “Silicon Forest”, Hillsboro is home to tech giants like Intel and HP, but it also offers a wealth of natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, museums, and galleries. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or urban explorer, Hillsboro has something to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Hillsboro

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals – a world-renowned museum featuring a vast collection of rocks, minerals, fossils, and meteorites.
  2. Glenn & Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center – an intimate concert and performing arts venue that hosts local and international artists.
  3. Washington County Museum – explore the rich history and culture of Washington County through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Natural Attractions of Hillsboro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve – a 725-acre wildlife refuge with over 200 bird species, hiking trails, and educational exhibits.
  2. Tualatin Hills Nature Park – a 222-acre park with meadows, forests, and wetlands, home to various wildlife and trails for hiking and biking.
  3. Bald Peak State Scenic Viewpoint – a stunning viewpoint in the Chehalem Mountains with a panorama of the Tualatin Valley and Portland skyline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hillsboro

  1. Banks-Vernonia State Trail – a 21-mile trail featuring hills, woods, streams, and bridges, perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
  2. Rock Creek Trail – a 4.8-mile trail with stunning views of the Rock Creek canyon, ideal for biking and hiking.
  3. Dairy Creek Trail – a 6-mile trail winding through the Dairy Creek Canyon, offering scenic views of the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Hillsboro: Activities and Tours

  1. Visit the Hillsboro Tuesday Night Market – an open-air market featuring local artisans, farmers, and food vendors.
  2. Take a wine tour of the Tualatin Valley Wineries – sample the exquisite Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varietals while enjoying the views of the countryside.
  3. Explore the Larkspur Trail – a 3.3-mile trail running along the Sunset Highway, perfect for walking, running, or cycling.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hillsboro

Day 1: Visit the Rice Northwest Museum and explore the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve.
Day 2: Take a hiking tour of the Tualatin Hills Nature Park and enjoy lunch at the Hillsboro Tuesday Night Market.
Day 3: Explore the art galleries and exhibits at the Glenn & Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center.
Day 4: Take a tour of the Tualatin Valley Wineries and sample the local wines.
Day 5: Hike the Dairy Creek Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Day 6: Visit the Washington County Museum and learn about the history and culture of the region.
Day 7: Take a scenic drive to the Bald Peak State Scenic Viewpoint and marvel at the stunning views.

Food and Drink Scene of Hillsboro

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chicken and Waffles – a Southern-style dish served at the Black Bear Diner.
  2. BBQ Brisket – slow-cooked, flavorful brisket served at the Hillsboro Farmers’ Market.
  3. Falafel Plate – a vegan-friendly Middle Eastern dish served at Ya Hala Lebanese Cuisine.

Local Beverages

  1. Pinot Noir – the flagship wine of the Tualatin Valley Wineries.
  2. Craft Beer – try the pilsners and IPAs from local breweries like ABV Public House and Three Mugs Brewing Co.
  3. Handcrafted Espresso – taste the rich blends from Hillsboro Coffee Co.

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

  1. Larkspur Landing Hillsboro – a cozy hotel offering spacious suites with full kitchens, fitness center, and free shuttle service.
  2. Holiday Inn Portland West – a modern hotel with a restaurant, bar, indoor pool, and free parking.
  3. Airbnb – choose from a variety of guesthouses, apartments, and private rooms tailored to your needs and budget.

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

  1. Oregon Pinot Noir – bring home a bottle of the region’s famous wine.
  2. Locally-made jewelry – discover unique pieces created by local jewelers and artisans.
  3. Produce and fruits – visit the Hillsboro Farmers’ Market for fresh, locally-grown produce.

Local Culture and Customs of Hillsboro

Hillsboro is a diverse city with a mix of cultures and customs. Respect for nature, history, and community is highly valued. It is customary to greet people with a smile and a friendly conversation, and tipping is generally expected in restaurants and bars.

Best Time to Visit Hillsboro

The best time to visit Hillsboro is between June and September when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are at their best. The Tualatin Valley Wineries are also at their busiest during this time, making it a perfect season for wine tours and tastings.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hillsboro

Do:

  1. Respect nature and wildlife.
  2. Be friendly and open-minded.
  3. Try local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or vandalize public spaces.
  2. Disrespect local customs and cultures.
  3. Overspend at the Tualatin Valley Wineries.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hillsboro

Hillsboro is a safe city with low crime rates compared to other cities its size. As in any city, visitors should remain alert and aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Hillsboro

Hillsboro has quality medical facilities and hospitals, including the Tuality Community Hospital and Kaiser Permanente Westside Medical Center. It is also advisable to have health insurance when traveling to Hillsboro.

Getting to Hillsboro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hillsboro

  1. Portland International Airport – a major airport located 31 miles east of Hillsboro.
  2. Hillsboro Airport – a small general aviation airport located in the city.

Bus Stations Near Hillsboro

  1. MAX Blue Line – connects Hillsboro to Portland with frequent train service.
  2. Greyhound – offers bus service to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

  1. Car rentals – several car rental companies operate at Portland International Airport.
  2. Uber/Lyft – ridesharing services are available in Hillsboro.

How to Get Around in Hillsboro

Hillsboro is a well-connected city, and most attractions are accessible by MAX train or bus. Car rental is also an option for those who prefer to explore the city at their own pace. Biking and walking are popular options for short distances and are encouraged for their environmental benefits.

Where to Go Next from Hillsboro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Portland – visit the iconic landmarks like Powell’s City of Books, Voodoo Doughnut, and the Portland Art Museum located just 30 minutes away.
  2. Willamette Valley – explore the beautiful vineyards, scenic drives, and small town charm of this region known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varietals.
  3. Mount Hood – hike the trails, ski or snowboard down the slopes of this iconic mountain, which lies just an hour’s drive away.

Conclusion

Hillsboro is a welcoming city that offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Hillsboro has something to offer. Book your trip and explore the best of this stunning city in Oregon.