A whole lotta heart in the heart of Oregon wine country
Nestled in the Willamette Valley about an hour south of Portland, McMinnville lays claim as the heart of Oregon's wine country, and serves as a destination all its own. Whether you spend your time Pinot Noir-sipping at one of the many local wineries or strolling the charming little streets of McMinnville's historic downtown, one thing is for sure: this is a place with something for everyone. Opt for a sprawling villa overlooking the vines or a charming little cottage nestled downtown, and you'll be sure to feel right at home in your McMinnville vacation rental.
Activities and attractions in McMinnville
Are you searching for attractions to see during your stay? Venture out of your vacation home and experience everything that makes McMinnville a fun place to get away. Here are some of the most popular attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Wings and Waves Waterpark (2.2 mi / 3.6 km)
- Stoller Vineyards (6.3 mi / 10.1 km)
- Soter Vineyards (6.3 mi / 10.2 km)
- Domaine Serene (7.3 mi / 11.8 km)
- Erath Vineyards Winery (8.3 mi / 13.4 km)
- Argyle Winery (10.1 mi / 16.3 km)
Oenophiles and outdoorsmen unite!
While even the most casual oenophile will be happily occupied in McMinnville, you don't need to be a wine-drinker to fall in love with the Willamette Valley. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the miles upon miles of trails meant for cycling and hiking, while the local parks are practically made for picnicking. The downtown area plays host to regular farmers markets, public art exhibitions, and historic sightseeing, and the local vibe is so friendly and welcoming, you'll feel right at home almost instantly. Pair your travels with a robust McMinnville vacation rental, and you might just never leave.
Don't be bummed if it literally rains on your parade
McMinnville and the surrounding Willamette Valley has a mild year-round climate, making it the ideal destination for nature-lovers. It's warm in the summer (but rarely hot) and cool in the winter (but never snows), so it's the perfect place to cozy up in a light sweater and just enjoy your surroundings. The rainy season starts in November and lasts through March, but expect to get a bit wet all through the year. It's part of the charm of the Pacific Northwest, so just pack an umbrella and don't let the rain get in the way.
Ancient lava plus volcanic soil equals perfect pours
Thanks to the nearby Cascade Mountains, ancient lava flows have left McMinnville with volcanic soil that is perfect for producing full-bodied red, white, rose, and sparkling wines. There's plenty of walking to be done throughout the Willamette Valley -- whether you prefer to traipse through one of the many beautifully-manicured parks, or go urban hiking downtown, stopping only in wineries. The jagged, sandy beaches of the Pacific Coast are about an hour west, should the need for some salty sea air strike your fancy.
How to get to and around McMinnville
The nearest airport is in Portland International Airport (PDX), located 39.3 mi (63.3 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you might consider flying into Salem, OR (SLE-McNary Field), which is 22.8 mi (36.7 km) away.