Search Results for: charm trail
The Trails
The Trails
Discover Pendleton like never before with our themed trails, each offering a unique way to experience the town’s charm and creativity. Start your adventure with the Charm Trail, where you can create a personalized souvenir by collecting exclusive charms from various Trailheads around town. Pick up your bracelet and add to it with each charm you collect as you explore Pendleton’s local landmarks.
Continue your journey with the Bronze Trail, where you’ll encounter the city’s iconic bronze statues and public art, reflecting Pendleton’s vibrant artistic spirit. Enhance your exploration with the Sticker Trail by visiting the Pendleton Chamber of Commerce to grab a tumbler and start collecting stickers at designated stops. Finally, take in the beautiful murals scattered throughout town on the Mural Trail, with many located along the Bronze Trail. Each trail offers a distinct way to connect with Pendleton’s rich heritage and dynamic culture.
Charm Trail:
Create a one-of-a-kind souvenir of your visit to Pendleton as you follow the Charm Trail through town. Begin your journey by picking up a bracelet & signature charm at a Trailhead (stared locations in this document). Then visit each Stop around Pendleton & add other charms to complete your bracelet. Follow the trail in any order, & have a charming experience.
Bronze Trail:
Stroll through Pendleton & encounter the city’s iconic bronze statues & public art pieces. Embark on this walking tour to take part in Pendleton’s creative spirit.
Sticker Trail:
Stop by the Pendleton Chamber of Commerce to get your own tumbler, if you don’t already have one, & start collecting at the Sticker Stops!
Mural Trail:
Take a walk (or a drive) & see many of the beautiful murals in Pendleton! Many can be found downtown along the Bronze Trail.
Maps Coming Soon!
Explore
Explore Pendleton's Culture, Destinations, Makers & Trails First-hand
Ride into Pendleton & embark on a journey of rich heritage & craftsmanship. From the intricate weavings of Pendleton Woolen Mills to the hidden stories beneath our streets at the Pendleton Underground, our commitment to preserving our authentic history is as Tried & True as the threads that weave our community together.
Tried & True Explorations
Tamastslikt Cultural Institute
Culture
Pendleton Underground Tours
History
Makers Tour
Local Craft
The Trails
Destination[s]
Choose Your Category
Destinations:
In the heart of Pendleton lies a collection of timeless destinations that have stood the test of time, each offering a unique glimpse into the town’s rich history, culture, & character. These Tried & True destinations are a must-visit for anyone looking to truly experience the essence of Pendleton.
Cultural Sights:
Over the years, Pendleton has embraced its history while evolving into a modern community that celebrates its diverse cultural heritage. Festivals, events, & local initiatives pay homage to the past while fostering a sense of unity among residents & visitors.
Local Makers:
Don’t miss the chance to interact with local artists, musicians, & performers who infuse their passion into every brushstroke, note, & line. Experience the thrill of attending cultural festivals that celebrate the town’s Native American heritage, Western traditions, & more. You’ll find that Pendleton’s cultural scene is as diverse as it is captivating.
The Trails:
From one-of-a-kind souvenirs to captivating bronze statues, visitors & locals alike can connect with Pendleton’s past, present, & spirit. Embark on a journey of discovery as you explore the bronze statues, charms, stickers, & murals that grace the streets & spaces of this charming town.
Culture
Destinations
Makers
Trails
Three Days in Pendleton
LET ’ER BUCK IN PENDLETON!
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.
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.
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!
Biking
Option 1: Dive Deeper into Details
Are you eager to immerse yourself in the specifics? Visit the website of the location you’re interested in to learn more about what they offer. By directly engaging with their site, you’ll gather all the insights you need to tailor your experience to your preferences.
Quick Details:
Unveil the beauty of Pendleton from a unique perspective—on two wheels! Biking in Pendleton is not just an activity; it’s an immersive journey through picturesque landscapes, charming neighborhoods, and a community that embraces cyclists. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a casual rider, Pendleton offers a plethora of biking experiences that cater to every level of expertise.
A few ways to bike in Pendleton include:
Scenic Routes, Pendleton River Parkway Trail, Join cycling events, and the Pendleton adventure trails, but the best way to learn about biking in Pendleton is to visit pendletononwheels.org
Option 2: Craft Your Perfect Itinerary
Prefer to keep your options open while building an itinerary that suits your tastes? Feel free to add the location you’re considering to your personalized itinerary. Continue to explore the various pages for more inspiration and activities that resonate with you.
Pendleton Blog
The Travel Pendleton Blog
Welcome to the official Travel Pendleton blog, your home for the best food & drink, shops, attractions, entertainment, & lodging in Pendleton, Oregon. In addition to those great stories, we’re excited to tell the stories of the people, places, & experiences that make Pendleton such a fun & fascinating place to visit.
Pendleton is a town filled with timeless charm, rich history, & captivating experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for new inspiration, here are some tried & true tips, trips, & inspirations to make the most of your time in Pendleton:
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Pendleton Views
Pendleton is a town that exudes history, culture, & natural beauty, all intertwined with a distinctive Western flair. The town’s unique charm is beautifully captured in photographs, allowing you to glimpse into its captivating atmosphere.
Pendleton KOA
Open All Year.
Pendleton owes its establishment to the Oregon Trail emigrants of the 1840s, who traveled across the rugged Blue Mountains to reach the West.
Our park offers a full range of amenities to accommodate your family or group’s stay. The exceptional view of the Blue Mountains, along with our friendly and personalized service, is guaranteed to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable. We offer clean restrooms and shower facilities, plus a laundry area and a meeting room for groups.
Pendleton owes its establishment to the Oregon Trail emigrants of the 1840s, who traveled across the rugged Blue Mountains to reach the West. Today, those same rugged mountains and the beautiful Columbia River are just minutes from your comfortable base camp at this KOA. Spend the day exploring Pendleton’s charming galleries and shops or the world-famous Pendleton Woolen Mills, which has been distributing locally made blankets and tapestries since 1909. Don’t miss the Pendleton Underground Tours. Nearby, the Wildhorse Resort & Casino hosts many renowned entertainers and events throughout the year. Home to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Pendleton area is rich in history and culture. Enjoy the comfortable facilities at the campground, including free Wi-Fi and cable TV.
Campground Amenities
50 Max Amp
65′ Max Length
Wi-Fi
Cable TV
Propane ($)
Kamping Kitchen
Pavilion