6 Things to Do in Newberg, Oregon
Surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, Newberg is the perfect destination for food & wine lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a small-town getaway. Whether you're planning a day trip, weekend trip, or a longer stay, Newberg is sure to captivate you with its historic downtown, natural beauty, and award-winning food and wine scene. Here are some of the top things to add to your Newberg itinerary.
Photo credit: Britt Eisele & Taste Newberg
Walk Around Downtown
If you only do one thing in Newberg, make it a lazy, no-rush wander through the historic downtown. The whole area gives off cozy, small-town charm with buildings that date back to the early 20th century and just enough personality to keep things interesting. We’re talking quirky shops, local art, and the kind of spots where the staff actually want to chat with you.
Start at the Chehalem Cultural Center. It’s housed in a gorgeous old brick school building and basically the heartbeat of Newberg’s arts scene. You might stumble into a gallery exhibit, a pottery class, or a live performance. Even if you’re not usually the “walk into a random gallery” type, this one’s worth the detour.
Just a few blocks away, the Hoover-Minthorn House Museum is a little slice of presidential history. Yup, Herbert Hoover (the one with the dam and the Depression) spent part of his childhood here. The Victorian house is packed with original details and stories that even non-history buffs will find cool.
And if you're the type who loves a good backstory, take a walking tour with the Newberg Area Historical Society to learn about the juicy town gossip dating back to the early settler days.
Once you've gotten your fill of culture, stroll through the shops. I always find myself poking around Little Lavender Shop, drooling over all the goodies I never knew I needed (lavender-infused syrup, anyone?). Add in some antique hunting, a stop at Chapters Books & Coffee, and a slow meander past some seriously cute storefronts, and you’ve got yourself a perfect afternoon.
Get a Taste of Wine Country
Photo credit: Carly Diaz & Taste Newberg
Newberg sits in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley (aka Pinot Noir paradise). Whether you're a wine newbie or a seasoned sipper, there's no shortage of cozy tasting rooms and scenic vineyards to explore. For a laid-back start, hit up Rex Hill or Compris Vineyard. They’ve got stunning views and wine that’ll make you rethink your grocery store's international pinot.
Looking for something a little off the beaten path? Try Et Fille Wines or Natalie’s Estate Winery. Both are family-run, warm, and welcoming. Not into wine? Newberg also has a few spots serving up craft cider and local beer, so you can still raise a glass to your visit, grape-free.
Pro tip: Many wineries are appointment-only, especially during peak season. A little planning goes a long way toward a relaxing day of vineyard hopping.
Soar Above the Valley
Photo credit: Britt Eisele & Taste Newberg
If you’re up for a little adventure (and not too afraid of heights), booking a flight with Vista Balloon Adventures is an unforgettable way to see Newberg from a whole new angle, literally. There’s just something magical about floating above rolling vineyards, winding rivers, and Mt. Hood peeking out in the distance while the world slowly wakes up below you.
Flights take off just after sunrise (yes, it’s early, but trust me, totally worth it), and you’ll get to watch the whole inflation process before climbing into the basket. It’s peaceful, surreal, and weirdly calming for something that involves floating in a giant balloon hundreds of feet in the air.
Eat All the Foods
Did you know Newberg was voted #4 for USA Today’s 10 Best Small Town Food Scenes in 2022?! And wow! Once you bite into any of their culinary delights, it’s no surprise as to why.
I picked SubTerra Kitchen & Cellar for dinner – a lavender cocktail and the most mouth-watering, tender scallops I’ve ever had (plus, look at the size of them!) with wild mushrooms, fried polenta, and foamed herbs. Yum! For dessert, I walked across the parking lot to Newburgundian Bistro to devour their honey lavender crème brûlée.
Go to the Drive-In
Yes, Newberg still has a drive-in - and it’s got all the retro charm you could want. 99W Drive-In has been family-owned since 1953, and it’s still going strong. They usually show themed double features (horror night? Yes, please). Fun fact: The current screen is from a closed drive-in that was in Portland (The 104th Street).
A few notes for your visit: Show up early; weekends tend to sell out. You pay per person, not per car. Bring your own snacks if you want, but the on-site snack bar is reasonably priced and surprisingly tasty (I’m looking at you, chili cheese nachos). It’s also pet-friendly, which means you can bring your dog to the movies. Can your fancy cinema do that?
And if you’re visiting outside their April through October season, you can still catch a flick at their indoor cinema, the Cameo Theater, that is just as full of vintage vibes.
Explore The Lavender Trail (In July)
Starting with the Willamette Valley Lavender Festival, Newberg transforms into the embodiment of the calming presence of lavender all July long. Try infused culinary gems, buy homemade herbal goods, and frolic through purple fields. Read my guide to the Newberg Lavender Trail to learn more.
Whether you’re sipping wine with a view, catching a drive-in double feature, or just soaking in the charm of downtown, Newberg is the kind of place that sneaks up on you in the best way. It’s relaxed but full of surprises, and it somehow manages to feel both like a vacation and a cozy hug. So pack your bags (or at least your stretchy pants… because the food is that good), and get ready to fall a little in love with this gem of Oregon wine country.
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