Plan

5 Things To Do In Pendleton

5 Things To Do in Pendleton, Oregon

Built on either side of the Umatilla River in the shadow of the Wallowa Mountains, Pendleton has been a vital and vivid part of Oregon’s cultural identity since its founding in the late 19th century. The town’s robust economy grew from the success of Pendleton Woolen Mills, which has become one of Oregon’s most beloved and recognizable brands inspired by the state’s Indigenous peoples.

Today, that appreciation for history and tradition lives on in award-winning museums like Tamástslikt Cultural Institute and annual events like the Pendleton Round–Up Rodeo. But the town isn’t just about the past — there’s something for everyone, from history buffs to whisky connoisseurs and music fans. The best part? Pendleton is just a 3-hour drive from Portland down the beautiful Columbia River Gorge. For a faster and more luxurious travel experience, hop on a plane with Boutique Airlines for one of their Portland-Pendleton flights that take off three times every day.

“Pendleton is a rural small town that packs a BIG punch,” said Kristen Dollarhide, Travel Pendleton Contractor. “Pendleton is well known for our world-class Round-Up Rodeo, which drives 55,000 visitors to our community each year in September. But Pendleton offers so much more throughout the other 51 weeks in the year,” she added.

No matter how you get there, Pendleton offers endless opportunities for unforgettable experiences. Check out the top recommendations — it’s closer than you think.

1. Tamastslikt Cultural Institute

Visitors will be immersed in the history, culture, and hospitality of the people who have lived on this land for more than 10,000 years. Experience the storied past, rich present, and bright future of Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes through interactive exhibits, special events, and informative programs. More than just a museum, Tamástslikt celebrates traditions with dramatic exhibits, renowned artwork, and interesting events year-round, Tamástslikt Cultural Institute offers a 10,000-year journey in a single afternoon.

Tamastslikt Cultural Institute

2. Pendleton Round–Up Rodeo

The Pendleton Round up began in 1910, with bronc riding, horse races by Indigenous and Non-Indigenous riders, Indigenous feasts and war dances, greased pig contests, sack races, foot races and fireworks, the annual Round-Up Rodeo was born. Now in its 113th year, it has grown into a week-long celebration of western heritage that includes parades, concerts, a night pageant and more, thrilling tens of thousands of cowboys and cowgirls every year.

Pendleton Round-Up

3. Pendleton Makers Tour

Pendleton has a well-deserved reputation as a town where the best of Western tradition and heritage lives on. From saddles, hats, and boots to beer, whiskey, and vodka, Pendleton’s craft culture — driven by its pioneering spirit — is one of the most well-regarded in the state. While urban cities have seen the rise of artisan-driven businesses in the past decade, Pendleton’s makers were here long before it was cool — and they’re still around to show you. Meet the Pendleton Makers, from Stapleman Boots to one-of-a-kind purses from LL Bevington. There are world-class chocolatiers, winemakers, a brewery, a distiller, hat makers, and more. And, of course, the international iconic brand Pendleton Woolen Mills was founded in town over 100 years ago.

Plan Your Maker's Tour

4. Pendleton Underground Tours

Find out why Pendleton was known as the entertainment capital of Eastern Oregon. Follow your guide underground to the Shamrock Card Room, Hop Sing’s (Chinese Laundry), the Empire Ice Cream Parlor and through the tunnels beneath the sidewalks to the Empire Meat Market. Stand under prism glass and go through a secret passageway to a Prohibition Card Room. Tunnels will lead you to a Duck Pin Bowling Alley, then up the 31 stairs to one of Pendleton’s 18 bordellos; the famous “Cozy Rooms.” After learning about Stella Darby and her working girls, the guide will take you to the bleakest area of the tour: the Chinese living quarters, jail and opium den. Learn why the Chinese came to Pendleton and how they helped build the West.

Pendleton Undergound Tours

5. The Pendleton Whisky Music Fest

Since its inception in 2016, the Pendleton Whisky Music Fest has brought A-list acts like Maroon 5, Post Malone and 50 Cent, Blake Shelton and Pit Bull, Eric Church & Macklemore and many more. Be on the lookout for the announcement of the 2024 music line-up!

Pendleton Whisky Music Fest

Three Days in Pendleton

LET ’ER BUCK IN PENDLETON!

21640878_1885392184804159_2806936373326281654_o

YOUR PERFECT 3-DAY ITINERARY

Despite its stature as one of Eastern Oregon’s largest cities, weighing in at 17,000 people, Pendleton holds onto its small-town charm and has no shortage of personality. Fueled by wide open spaces, majestic mountain ranges, and the spirit of the wild west, the town provides instant gratification for those looking to escape the metropolitan bustle for a good old-fashioned time. Built on the hard work of Oregon Trail pioneers, rodeo riders, proprietors, and a lot of grit, there’s a vibe you can’t quite put your finger on. And the best way to understand it is to head out to Pendleton and experience it for yourself. To get you started, we’ve put together an easy three-day itinerary where you’ll find your fill of where to stay, what to eat and drink, and plenty of good times.

YOU HAVE ARRIVED AT YOUR FINAL DESTINATION

Located just off Interstate 84, traveling to Pendleton by car couldn’t be easier. A straight shot at just over three hours from Portland to the west, and just under three and a half hours from Boise to the east, it’s an easy destination for your next adventure.

For those who prefer flying, the Pendleton Airport offers three daily round-trip flights from Portland, which makes it easy to turn that work trip into a weekend getaway, or a hassle-free, car-free escape.

OVERNIGHT IN PENDLETON

If nostalgic urban vibes and Instagram-worthy shots are your scene, look no further than Pendleton’s newest motel, MotoLodge, whose American heritage-inspired decor, seasonal outdoor heated pool, and 6-person Pendleton Whisky™ Barrel Sauna celebrate the open road and the wild west. Or book a stay at the Pendleton House Historic Inn and bask in European elegance and refinement, magnificent views from the front porch, and gourmet breakfast. Opt for a family-friendly stay with a full breakfast and indoor pool for the kids at Oxford Suites or Hampton Inn, both just minutes from downtown. And if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, stay in Pendleton’s very own bordello, The Working Girls Hotel. This early 1800s boarding house will truly knock your socks off.

DAY 1: ALL THINGS PENDLETON

The name Pendleton is a brand in and of itself. From woolen mills to rodeos to whisky, these products pay homage to the authenticity, passion, and superior craftsmanship of the town’s residents. Spend the day exploring the history and products that put Pendleton on the map.

Early Bird

Start the day with breakfast at Pendleton’s famed Rainbow Cafe. Oregon’s oldest tavern, the Rainbow Cafe, has been in operation since 1883, is a hands-down local favorite, and is as colorful as its name implies.

Let’s Get Western!

Start at the Pendleton Woolen Mill Store to see where it all began. Here, you can watch their jacquard wool blankets being woven in the original mill, then shop for the perfect blanket, apparel, or other gifts to take home. For the full experience, sign up for a free tour, but be sure to stop in midweek, as tours are not offered on the weekends. Next, it’s off to the world-famous Pendleton Round-Up. If you can’t make the rodeo in mid-September, then catch the next best thing at the Pendleton Round-Up Hall of Fame Museum. Here you’ll learn about the Round-Up’s inductees and the history of the rodeo. Continue the edu-cation at the Heritage Station Museum, a converted 1909 train depot in downtown Pendleton that hosts exhibits about Pendleton and Umatilla County’s rich history. Last, end your afternoon with some levity at the Pendleton Underground Tours, “a place where culture is kept, history is told, and legends live on.” Here, guides dress in period clothing and offer up drinks named after the working girls and old proprietors that once resided upstairs. You’ll tour Pendleton’s unique subterranean tunnel system, passing through the Shamrock Card Room, Hop Sing’s (Chinese Laundry), the Empire Ice Cream Parlor, the Empire Meat Market, and beyond. Those over the age of 21 can book a 5 p.m. tour, which includes a drink and other tasters along the way. Continue the immersive Pendleton experience with a Pendleton Whisky™ in the Shamrock Bar every first Saturday of the month after the tour.

Dine and Drink

Now that you have a solid foundation on all things Pendleton, it is time to wine and dine in true cowboy style with a Barrel-cut filet, topped with bacon and finished with a Pendleton Whiskey demi-glace reduction at Virgil’s at Cimmiyotti’s, a historical landmark in downtown. This restaurant has seen its fair share of history but has remained an iconic Pendleton dining experience since 1959. Finish the evening with a nightcap at The Packard Tavern or live music at Hamley Saloon.

DAY 2: CHARM TRAIL, PENDLETON BUCKS, AND LOCAL MAKERS

Stroll the streets lined with merchants, makers, and restaurants, and you’ll quickly discover what makes Pendleton special: its people. Fittingly, day two of your Pendleton adventure is all about the local culture.

Pendleton Charm Trail

Before heading out on the Charm Trail, be sure to load up on some Pendleton Bucks at the Visitor Center. Available in any denomination and valid at almost 40 participating businesses, including some of Pendleton’s many entrepreneurs, makers, and proprietors, Pendleton Bucks work just like a gift card and allow cardholders to support local businesses while receiving specials and discounts in the process.

Makers Tour

Armed with your Charm Trail bracelet and Pendleton Bucks from the Visitor Center, you’re ready to hit the trail. While exploring the businesses on the Charm Trail, take the time to discover the incredible makers who call Pendleton home. Highly skilled as both makers and merchants, you’ll learn about and experience the dedication and heart that goes into their craft. At Alexander’s Artisan Chocolates, chat with French-trained Master Chocolatier Alexander about his chocolate bean-to-bar process. Then, step over to the wine bar and learn how to pair wine with chocolate from Sommelier Steve. A few blocks down the road Staplemans Custom Boot Shop is home to four artisan boot makers who create, customize, and repair leather boots and shoes on-site. See the entire process unfold while you shop the custom footwear.

When you’ve worked up an appetite (and a thirst), stop into Pendleton’s first craft brewery, The Prodigal Son. The brewery pours a lineup of appropriately named Pendleton ales and a full pub-style menu that will satisfy and quench your palate.

Next, it’s over to New York Clothier, a true American haberdashery, where you’ll try on handcrafted clothing designed with American aesthetics. You’ll find vintage-inspired bow ties, custom hand-tailored shirts, and curated lifestyle goods. If you’re lucky, you’ll meet the owners, Kevin and Kay, and learn what drew them to the area from New York to set up shop and make Pendleton home.

Cross the street to LL Bevington to meet maker/owner Linda Bevington. She works as she operates her storefront, creating custom purses and leather goods to accessorize your style and decorate your home.

Once you’ve got your steps in and loaded your trunk with local goods, head to Oregon Grain Growers Brand Distillery. This family-owned and operated establishment is the first post-Prohibition distillery in Pendleton. Focused on locally sourced ingredients and the highest-quality vodka, whisky, rum, and gin, their spirits pay homage to the hard-working growers that make the products possible. Enjoy a pizza in the eatery and taste their many handcrafted spirits.

After a full day of exploring Pendleton’s makers, artisans, and other local stops along the Charm Trail, we understand if you’re ready to call it a night. But if you’re looking to close out the day with one more activity, check out the Get Wild 2023! Live music calendar and catch a show before hitting the hay.

DAY 3: GET OUTSIDE!

Today it’s time to get outside and get to know Pendleton’s abundance of natural spaces. Surrounded by mountain ranges and wilderness areas, the region hosts ample opportunities to enjoy the town’s year-round recreation opportunities.

Hiking

On day three, recharge your wellness tank with Pendleton’s sweeping scenery. Begin with a light breakfast and a cup of joe at Buckin Bean Coffee. The only roastery in Umatilla County, the coffee beans roasted on-site are best when paired with their housemade pastries, breakfast, and lunch. With coffee in hand, follow the Pendleton Bronze Trail and get warmed up for an active morning. Scan the QR code on the Bronze Trail website and explore the 20 stops along the trail. From there, continue your walk along the Pendleton River Parkway, a non-motorized path that follows the South Bank of the Umatilla River and provides snapshots of the world-famous Round-Up grounds, parks, and downtown.

Or, immerse in nature at Umatilla National Forest; here, you can hike, bike, trot, and watch wildlife along the trail system of the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness. Be prepared with trail maps, appropriate footwear, and extra water; the trails can be challenging, and as always, please leave the wilderness area in better condition than you found it. The area’s dense natural beauty and shade trees provide a tranquil place to appreciate and connect with nature. After you’ve worked up an appetite, head back into town and refuel with a taste of Pendleton and an all-American lunch at a local favorite for over 40 years, The Saddle Restaurant and Lounge.

Views of the Blues

After lunch, drive through the Southern Blue Mountain Scenic Loop; the 120-mile route will lead you to small Eastern Oregon towns, over Battle Mountain, and through scenic valleys. Named by early settlers for the blue hue of the pine- and fir-lined ridges, the Blue Mountains, or as the locals say, “The Blues,” blanket the land southeast of Pendleton. The range extends east to the Snake River along the Idaho border, and north into Washington. Green lush rolling hills, remnants of pioneer-era homes, crystal clear lakes, and spectacular mountains will accompany you along the loop, and the Blue Mountains’ extraordinary beauty will leave a lasting impression.

Family Fun

If you’re joining us in summer for family fun, beat the heat at the Pendleton Aquatic Center. With three pools with multiple slides, concessions, and family picnic areas with gas grills, this place is FUN and is sure to wear the kiddos out for the last evening in Pendleton.

End your day with dinner on the patio at Joe’s Fiesta Mexican Grill, where Joe himself will most likely greet you. True to the Pendleton way, you’ll find top-notch service, refreshing drinks, incredible Mexican cuisine, and a whole lot of personality at Joe’s.

Now that we’ve made the planning easy, and fueled your hunger for excitement, book your stay and LET ’ER BUCK IN PENDLETON!

PLANNING THE PERFECT OUTDOORS TRIP IN (AND AROUND) PENDLETON

MAKE THE MOST OF THE PENDLETON OUTDOORS WITH THIS IDEAL ITINERARY

(Rolling hills near Pendleton / Photo by photos.jhayes/Flickr)

You can’t really visit the Pacific Northwest without enjoying some of its natural splendor, and Pendleton is no exception.

Our fair city sits at the foot of the Blue Mountains, rolling hills unfurl in every direction, and the Umatilla River runs through the heart of Pendleton. With all that natural beauty at our doorstep, you could plan an entire weekend around exploring the outdoors.

So we’ve drawn up an itinerary for doing just that. Whether you hit the links first thing in the morning, hike to the nearest viewpoint, or spend hours cycling the nearest backroads, here’s how to get started with the many outdoor recreation opportunities in (and around) Pendleton.

Friday Night: Hop in the Saddle

When we talk about “getting in the saddle” in Pendleton, it usually involves four-legged animals. But Pendleton and Umatilla County offer no shortage of cycling destinations.

Get a feel for Pendleton by taking the various bike lanes through town, riding along the bucolic Umatilla River, and getting lost (figuratively, of course) in the nearby wheat fields that stretch for miles in any direction.

Up for a thigh-burning workout? Make the 150-foot climb to the top of North Hill (naturally, at the northern edge of town) for an expansive view of the city and surrounding farmland. The imposing Cabbage Hill dominates the scene to the east, while the home of the Pendleton Round-up and Happy Canyon Arena sit straight ahead. And if you time it right, there may be no better place in town to watch a late-summer sunset.

Saturday Morning: Choose Your Own Adventure

(Hat Rock State Park / Photo by eddiecoyote/Flickr)

The hardest choice you’ll make all weekend just might be, “What do I do on Saturday morning?”

Golfers get an early start on the day at nearby Wildhorse Golf Course, which hosts 18 holes, picturesque lakes, long fairways, and deep bunkers just a few minutes outside Pendleton.

Hikers, meanwhile, love the surreal setting at Hat Rock State Park. The park’s centerpiece is a 70-foot monolith that bears more than a striking resemblance to a cowboy hat. A trail ascends to the base of the rock, and a short spur trail leads to a Lake Wallula overlook and the 10-mile Umatilla County Lewis and Clark Commemorative Trail.

Anglers also enjoy Hat Rock, though for a different reason: Hat Rock Pond is stocked with trout each spring. Other nearby fishing holes include Cold Springs Reservoir, McKay Reservoir, and (naturally) the Columbia River. Wherever you go, you might catch largemouth and smallmouth bass, trout, walleye, and more.

Saturday Afternoon: Take It Easy

You’ve gotten your workout in for the day, so why not while away the afternoon in the pool or on the lake?

The Pendleton Family Aquatic Center opens every summer and runs through Labor Day, offering more than 200 feet of open and closed tubes, three pools, children’s water features, and more near downtown Pendleton.

And if you’re looking to beat the heat, head into the heart of the nearby Blue Mountains, where Jubilee Lake hosts prime opportunities for swimming, camping, paddling, picnicking, and more.

Sunday Morning: Stretch Your Legs

You’ve packed a lot into the previous 36 hours; why not relax with an easy stroll along the Pendleton River Parkway? Enjoy three miles of flat, paved trails hugging the banks of the Umatilla River; along the way, you’ll pass the Pendleton Round-up Arena, the city’s historic downtown core, and other classic Pendleton landmarks.

After a long day on the river or in the mountains, you’ll want a comfortable place to you’re your head at night. Check out our Pendleton accommodations for historic hotels, classic B&Bs, resorts, lodges, and more.

YES, YOU CAN FLY TO PENDLETON – AND IT’S EASIER THAN YOU THINK

FLY BETWEEN PORTLAND AND PENDLETON – IN STYLE. HERE’S HOW:

Let’s face it: Flying commercial is about as much fun as finding out your favorite hotel is sold out for Round-up week.

But it doesn’t have to be that way: Thanks to Boutique Air, it’s never been easier (or more fun) to fly between Portland and Pendleton – whether for Round-up or a relaxing weekend getaway. That means free parking, no TSA line, and a check-in process that’s as easy as ordering your favorite drink at Rainbow Cafe.

Interested in a first-class flight experience? Here’s how it works:

Making Your Reservation

Boutique Air operates six daily flights – three each way – between Portland and Pendleton, with fares ranging between $59 and $99 each way. Just make your reservation on Boutique Air’s website – and then get excited and start planning your trip.

Ensuring a Smooth Travel Experience

With Boutique Air, the days of showing up hours before a flight – and waiting in glacial TSA lines, hoping flights aren’t delayed, and rushing to your gate – are but a memory.

Coming from Portland, the 200-mile flight couldn’t be easier. Here’s how it works:

Check in via the Boutique Air website up to 24 hours in advance; you can print your boarding pass or show your pass on a mobile device.
Show up 30-60 minutes before your flight, with free parking available at Boutique’s terminal; that terminal, by the way, is separate from the main terminal at PDX – so you’re not fighting for space in a mammoth parking garage. (And, yes, Boutique accommodates passengers with TSA Pre✓.)
Show your pass, and hop aboard the eight-seat plane; the limited seating means you don’t feel like cattle being herded into the cabin.
Kick back, relax, and enjoy your one-hour flight, high above the scenic Columbia River Gorge and Columbia Plateau – all from the comfort of a plush leather seat.

No, we didn’t leave out the TSA lines, baggage claim, and cramped gates. The check-in and boarding process really is that simple.

Getting Around Pendleton

Your flight will land at Eastern Oregon Regional Airport – just a few miles northwest of Pendleton – and you have two options for getting into (and getting around) town.

The first is through Boutique Air’s car rental service, Boutique Car. The service offers economy cars, standard sedans, SUV crossovers, and full-size SUVs – all from $64-$79 per day (which includes unlimited mileage).

If you’d rather not rent a car, you can arrange for a ride through Elite Taxis, Inc.

Stay the Night

You don’t really want to fly out and back the same day, so stay the night (or the weekend) in Pendleton.

Pendleton hosts a variety of lodgings to suit every budget and outing – including high-end business lodging, historic hotels, quaint B&Bs, and more. Check out the various lodgings around Pendleton, and make your reservation today.