The Columbia River Gorge is an outdoor lovers’ paradise, so it’s not a surprise that most of the best things to do in Hood River, OR, revolve around taking in the stunning scenery, hiking in the old-growth forests, kayaking on the Columbia River, and hunting for waterfalls. That doesn’t mean there isn’t an incredible selection of things to do in Hood River, OR, that happen indoors, often with a delicious spread of beautifully fresh meals and locally crafted drinks.
One of the most stunning landmarks in the Northwest is the 80-mile Columbia River Gorge. This gorge connects the borders of Southern Washington and Northern Oregon, and Hood River sits in the canyon’s drier woodland area on the Columbia River’s shores. We’re located just 30 minutes from the tallest peak in Oregon, Mount Hood, where millions of visitors head each year for all seasons of outdoor recreation.
Before you start filling up your itinerary, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and our Hood River Bed and Breakfast is in the ideal location for outdoor and indoor fun. The majority of our favorite things to do in Hood River, OR, are within a quick (and scenic) drive from our historic B&B. As a guest, you’ll love our comfortable accommodations, modern appointments, homemade breakfast, and welcoming service. Read on to learn more about all the exciting things to do in Hood River, and book your room today!
The Best Things to do in Hood River this Year
Hood River is all about outdoor excursions, surrounding yourself with nature, and trying something new. The best things to do in Hood River start with breaking a sweat and end with a tasty craft beer and a farm-fresh meal. As a guest at our Hood River Bed and Breakfast, we’ll treat you to a healthy and hearty meal before your adventures. We also offer our overnight guests plenty of extra storage room for those traveling with that extra gear that often comes along with outdoor recreation.
Here are our favorite things to do in Hood River this year:
- Hiking in the Columbia River Gorge: It’s no surprise that hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Hood River year-round. Whether exploring the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area or the Mount Hood National Forest, you’ll love the outlooks, wildflower meadows, wildlife, and hidden waterfalls. One of our favorite hikes is the Falls Creek Falls, a moderate three-mile adventure with waterfalls, streams, and a picnic area—add a stop to Backwoods Brewing on the way back!
- Kitesurfing on the River: One of the unique things to do in Hood River is kite surfing on the Columbia, and check out the Hood River Event Site for windsurfing, kiteboarding, and wing foiling, all of these water-based sports are fun to watch or take a lesson! For lessons and rentals, head to Oregon Kiteboarding or Brian’s Windsurfing for an exciting adventure on the river.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: If you’re looking for a more chill day on the water, the Gorge Paddling Center or Hood River SUP and Kayak offer rentals and tours for a mellow activity in the sunshine.
- Borrow our Ebikes: We have ebike rentals at the Inn for our guests, either for more extensive excursions to the Mosier Twin Tunnels Route or to tool around in the evenings in downtown Hood River.
- Book a Guided Rock Climbing Tour: Our neighbors at Brimstone Boulders have an indoor rock climbing gym and guided tours in the Columbia River Gorge. Brimstone offers 10% off day passes to our guests at our Hood River Bed and Breakfast, as well as free shoe rentals.
- Explore Multnomah Falls: You’ll only be a scenic 30-minute drive from one of the Northwest’s most popular and densely visited waterfalls. This striking waterfall can be seen from the parking lot, so for those who might not be prepared for hiking, this is your best bet.
- All-Seasons Recreation at Mount Hood: From spring wildflower hikes, bright summer days on the trails, fall foliage in the autumn months, and skiing in the winter, Mount Hood is a great place for adventures all year long. There are four main ski resorts for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
- Cherry Blossoms and Lavender Farms: The Hood River Fruit Loop is a 35-mile scenic road through farmlands and is one of the best things to do in Hood River. Discover more than 27 on-the-farm fruit stands with fresh and seasonal produce. During the spring and summer, visitors flock to this area for cherry blossoms and U-pick lavender farms. Check the website here before you go for seasonal information.
- Experience Oregon Craft Brews: It’s no secret that we love beer in Oregon, specifically hoppy craft brews. Check out pFriem Family Brewers, Double Mountain Brewery, and Ferment Brewing Company.
- Wine Tasting in Hood River: One of the best things to do in Hood River is taste through our delicate and diverse Pinot Noirs! Here’s a great list of wineries near Hood River to check out. Additionally, you’ll be within walking distance of a handful of lovely local tasting rooms; we suggest Stave and Stone, Evoke Winery, and Cascade Cliffs Winery.
- Excellent Meals at the Hood River Restaurants: Thanks to our bounty of farmland, chefs in the area have no shortage of some of the freshest and most seasonal produce and products. You’ll quickly see that supporting local farms isn’t a trend in Hood River; it’s a way of life. A few of our favorites are Sushi Okalani, Solstice Wood-Fire Pizza, and The Mesquitery.
- Hit the Hot Tub: As a guest at our Hood River Bed and Breakfast, there’s no better place to end your long day on the trails or biking than our backyard seven-person hot tub. Open a bottle of wine, relax, and soak under the stars. By far one of the best things to do in Hood River this year!
The Best Hood River Bed and Breakfast
Our historic Hood River Bed and Breakfast is just the place to call your home away from home on your next visit to our charming small town in the Columbia River Gorge. Not only will you feel fully welcomed with open arms, but you’ll be in the ideal location to explore all of the best things to do in Hood River, OR, including the breathtaking gorge trails and riverfront activities. That means hiking, biking, kayaking, and so much more are just a stone’s throw when you stay with us.
Each of our six elegant lodging accommodations creates a unique atmosphere for those looking to spark a little romance and reconnect. Every room offers a wonderfully soft and supportive mattress dressed in fine linens and duvets. En suite bathrooms have everything you need to feel pampered and ready to spend the day exploring our beautiful area in the Columbia River Gorge.
We’ll treat you to a beautiful breakfast each morning of your stay. Included with your room rate and served in our cozy dining room or on our porch area (weather permitting.) You’ll enjoy sweet and savory classics and modern takes on traditional recipes. We use local and organic ingredients whenever possible, and we’re happy to accommodate dietary restrictions; all we ask is that you let us know in advance! We can’t wait to host you at our Hood River Bed and Breakfast; book your room today!
