Points of Interest between Castle Rock, Washington to West Linn, Oregon

picture of Castle Rock, Washington

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Castle Rock, WA to West Linn, OR

Driving from Castle Rock, Washington to West Linn, Oregon takes a little over two hours, but that doesn't mean it has to be a straight shot from point A to point B. In fact, there are many hidden gems along the way that are worth checking out. Here are five unexpected places that you should consider stopping at during your drive.

Ridgefield, WA - The Halfway Point

Halfway through your journey, you'll come across Ridgefield, WA. This small town is located just off of I-5 and is known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by waterways, wildlife preserves, and forests - perfect for a quick break from your long drive.

  1. BirdFest and Bluegrass (Bold)

BirdFest and Bluegrass is an annual festival held in Ridgefield that celebrates the natural beauty of the area. The festival features live bluegrass music, bird watching tours, and educational speakers. It's a great opportunity to learn about the local ecosystem and get up close and personal with some of the area's unique wildlife.

Best food to eat: Salmon chowder

  1. The Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge (Bold)

The Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge is located just outside of town and is a must-see for nature lovers. The refuge features a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and grasslands. Visitors can hike or bike along the refuge's many trails, take a guided bird watching tour, or even rent a kayak and explore the waterways.

Best food to eat: Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the trails

  1. The Old Liberty Theater (Bold)

The Old Liberty Theater in downtown Ridgefield is a historic landmark that has been beautifully restored. Visitors can enjoy live music, theater, and comedy shows in an intimate setting. The theater also hosts a monthly film series, featuring classic and independent films.

Best food to eat: Gourmet popcorn and locally brewed beer

St. Helens, OR (Bold)

Just across the Columbia River from Ridgefield is the town of St. Helens, Oregon. This charming town is full of history and has a vibrant arts community.

  1. Columbia Theatre (Bold)

The Columbia Theatre is a beautifully restored theater that dates back to the early 20th century. Visitors can catch a live performance or a classic film screening. The theater also hosts a variety of events, including comedy shows and dance performances.

Best food to eat: Local craft beer and small bites from the on-site cafe

  1. McBride's Antiques and Collectibles (Bold)

McBride's Antiques and Collectibles is a sprawling antique store that is sure to satisfy any collector's itch. The store is packed with all sorts of treasures, from vintage clothing to antique furniture. Visitors can easily spend hours exploring the store's many rooms and displays.

Best food to eat: Pick up a locally made pie at nearby Dutch Bros Coffee

Overall, taking a few detours during your drive from Castle Rock, Washington to West Linn, Oregon is definitely worth it. Whether you're interested in nature, history, or the arts, there's something for everyone along the way. So why not plan a road trip and explore these hidden gems for yourself? You won't regret it.