Summer in the Columbia River Gorge is filled with abundant natural beauty, diverse things to do, and, if you plan the trip right, plenty of unplugged downtime. There are plenty of things to do in Hood River, including staying with us at our relaxing cabins in Washington. While you’re here, don’t miss your chance to enjoy some of the best wineries near Hood River – the perfect complement to hiking, biking, boating, and exploring this diverse and scenic part of the Pacific Northwest.
Columbia River Gorge wineries are characterized by their diverse microclimates and unique terroirs, which give the wines a distinct flavor. Though the wines may be the reason for the visit, it’s hard not to admire the stunning beauty around wineries near Hood River. These dynamic landscapes and rich, fertile soils are the perfect environment for grape cultivation, and the result is an impressive range of wines, from robust reds to crisp whites.
Moreover, wine tasting in the Columbia River Gorge tends to be a more intimate experience. These boutique-style wineries near Hood River are often far less busy than their counterparts to our south, in the Willamette Valley, and the result is a more personalized, enjoyable tasting experience. As great as wine tasting here is, it’s just one of the many things to do in Hood River. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy summer getaways filled with hiking, biking, and kiteboarding on the Columbia River, while Hood River’s charming downtown is home to an eclectic mix of shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants.
End your adventure by retreating to one of the best cabins near Hood River. Our luxury Columbia River Gorge Cabins offer the ultimate escape and are outfitted with all the modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Surrounded by nature, our cabins are the perfect place to relax and unplug. Experience the best of the Columbia River Gorge this summer, and book our luxury cabins near Hood River today!
Incredible Wineries Near Hood River
If you love sampling wines from different regions around the world – especially when surrounded by some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the world – then visits to these top-rated wineries near Hood River should be on your short list of things to do in the Columbia River Gorge this summer. Wine tasting in the Columbia River Gorge near Hood River is an exceptional experience.
The wineries here pride themselves on their artisanal approach, often producing small-batch, high-quality wines that reflect the passion and expertise of their winemakers. Visitors can expect intimate tasting experiences. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the wine’s journey from vine to glass, not to mention the agricultural prowess of the Columbia River Gorge. Below, we’ve included some of our favorite wineries near Hood River.
- Marchesi Vineyards is one of the best wineries near Hood River, especially if you love Italian-style wines. The winery is beautiful, too, and offers a delightful outdoor patio perfect for summer wine-tasting adventures.
- Stave and Stone Wine Estates is another of our favorite wineries near Hood River. Though they have a tasting room in downtown Hood River, their vineyard views of Mt. Adams are where you’ll find the best tasting experience.
- Do you want to sip and swirl some delicious wine while enjoying scenic views of the Columbia River? Then head to Hood River Tasting Room at Evoke Winery.
- Hiyu Wine Farm offers a wonderful range of delicate wines. It’s located in the mountains, just 22 miles from Mount Hood’s peak. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a sensational farm-to-table meal at its restaurant.
- Cathedral Ridge Winery is one of the best wineries near Hood River. It is celebrated for its robust red wines and exquisite blends.
- With a focus on heritage and tradition, it’s hard to go wrong with a wine tasting at The Pines 1852. This Columbia River Gorge winery is renowned for its century-old vines and dedication to producing expressive, high-quality wines.
- If you’re looking for old-vine Riesling grown on-site, head to Viento Winery, one of the best Hood River wineries. They have a great lineup to taste, including sparkling wine and a Pinot Noir you don’t want to miss.
- Finally, enjoy a tasting at Mt. Hood Winery, where you’ll find panoramic views of Mount Hood and an impressive portfolio of wines.
More Things to Do in Hood River This Summer
Though there are plenty of fantastic wineries near Hood River to visit this summer, that’s only part of what’s waiting for you in the Columbia River Gorge. It’s a captivating destination for all types of adventure. Here, you’ll find a diverse range of things to do in Hood River. It’s an ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for windsurfing and kiteboarding on the Columbia River and hiking and biking on scenic trails that offer panoramic views of the Gorge and Mount Hood.
The vibrant downtown area of Hood River is the perfect place to take a break from adventure. Its inviting mix of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, breweries, and more makes it a great place to visit. Below, we’ve included some of our favorite things to do in Hood River and the immediate surrounding areas.
- Explore the Waterfall Corridor, home to impressive Columbia River Gorge waterfalls like Multnomah Falls. Waterfall hikes are among the most popular things to do in Hood River.
- Enjoy watching kiteboarders and windsurfers on the Columbia River. Hood River is a mecca for these exciting watersports and is known as the windsurfing capital of the world. A great place to watch is Hood River Waterfront Park.
- If you want to get out on the water, partner with Gorge Paddling Center or Hood River SUP and Kayak to enjoy a day on the Mighty Columbia.
- The area surrounding Hood River is crisscrossed with numerous hiking and biking trails, including the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail.
- Browse the shops, galleries, and eateries of downtown Hood River. This vibrant hub of activity is hard to beat on a summer afternoon.
- Head out for a scenic and delicious drive on the popular Hood River Fruit Loop, one of our favorite things to do in Hood River every summer.
- Take a scenic ride on the Mount Hood Railroad, or hop on a Railbike for a unique adventure.
- Wine tasting isn’t the only thing worth enjoying in the Hood River area. There are also plenty of great Hood River breweries, including pFriem Family Brewers, Double Mountain Brewery, Full Sail Brewing, and Ferment Brewing Company.
Of course, once you’ve had your fill of the best things to do in Hood River, retreat across the Bridge of the Gods to the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge and enjoy an unforgettable stay at our luxury cabins near Hood River. It’s more than worth the effort to get here – as there is no more peaceful or luxurious place to stay. We have everything you need to enjoy some restful downtime between incredible adventures in the Columbia River Gorge. Book your cabin getaway today!
