8 Best Places and Things To Do in Pendleton, Oregon

Pendleton, Oregon, is a charming city located in the northeastern part of the state. Known for its rich history, western heritage, and stunning natural beauty, Pendleton offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or exploring the city’s unique character,

1. McKay Reservoir

File:Shallow McKay.JPG

Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McKay_Reservoir

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the natural beauty surrounding Pendleton, and the McKay Reservoir is a great spot to soak it all in. Located just a few miles south of the city, this picturesque reservoir offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by stunning landscapes and take in the tranquility of the water.

2. Pendleton Center for the Arts

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g52016-d2187959-Reviews-Pendleton_Center_for_the_Arts-Pendleton_Oregon.html

For those seeking artistic inspiration, the Pendleton Center for the Arts is a hub of creativity. Housed in a beautifully restored former Carnegie Library, the center hosts rotating art exhibits, performances, workshops, and classes. Explore the diverse art forms and support local artists while gaining insight into Pendleton’s thriving arts scene.

3. Heritage Station Museum

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g52016-d673646-Reviews-Heritage_Station_Museum-Pendleton_Oregon.html

Learn more about the history of Pendleton and the surrounding region at the Heritage Station Museum. Housed in a former train depot, this museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and displays that provide a comprehensive overview of the area’s past. Discover the stories of pioneers, railroad workers, and early settlers who shaped Pendleton into what it is today.

4. Tamastslikt Cultural Institute

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g52016-d102608-Reviews-Tamastslikt_Cultural_Institute-Pendleton_Oregon.html

Explore the rich heritage of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation at the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute. This interactive museum showcases the history, art, and traditions of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes. Engage with exhibits, listen to captivating stories, and gain a deeper understanding of the indigenous culture that has shaped the region for centuries.

5. Children’s Museum of Eastern Oregon

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g52016-d2172725-Reviews-Children_s_Museum_of_Eastern_Oregon-Pendleton_Oregon.html

The Children’s Museum of Eastern Oregon (CMEO) is a delightful attraction in Pendleton that offers engaging and educational experiences for young visitors. Designed to ignite children’s curiosity and creativity, the museum provides interactive exhibits and activities that promote learning through play.

6. Deadman Pass Viewpoint

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g52016-d17560129-Reviews-Deadman_Pass_Viewpoint-Pendleton_Oregon.html

The Deadman Pass Viewpoint provides a stunning vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains. As you gaze out from the viewpoint, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the rugged mountain range, dense forests, and rolling hills. The changing seasons paint the landscape with vibrant colors, making it a picturesque sight throughout the year.

7. Pendleton First Assembly of God Church

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g52016-d17550326-Reviews-Pendleton_First_Assembly_of_God_Church-Pendleton_Oregon.html

The church holds regular worship services that provide opportunities for members and visitors to gather in a spirit of praise, worship, and fellowship. These services typically include contemporary music, inspiring sermons, and a focus on biblical teachings.

8. Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g52016-d14480362-Reviews-Crow_s_Shadow_Institute_of_the_Arts-Pendleton_Oregon.html

The Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts is a renowned Native American arts organization and printmaking studio located in Pendleton, Oregon. Established in 1992, the institute is dedicated to providing a creative space for Native American artists to develop their artistic skills, explore printmaking techniques, and showcase their works.

Pendleton’s history, outdoor adventures, or cultural offerings, this charming city has something to offer every visitor. Immerse yourself in the local heritage, explore the natural surroundings, and create lasting memories in this unique corner of Oregon.