15 Best and Free Things to Do in Lincoln City: Hidden Gems, Activities, Family and Kids Friendly Places
Lincoln City is a picturesque coastal city located in the heart of Oregon State. Lincoln City offers visitors the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, beachfront relaxation, and cultural experiences. In this article, we’ll explore the top things to do in Lincoln City, Activities, Family and Kids friendly places, and look at the hidden gems that will make your trip unforgettable.
List of 15 Best things to do in Lincoln City in 2023
| Place | Reason to Visit |
|---|---|
| Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area | Explore the natural beauty and enjoy outdoor activities |
| Cascade Head Scenic Research Area | Discover unique natural wonders and enjoy hiking |
| Chinook Winds Casino Resort | Experience casino gaming and entertainment |
| North Lincoln County Historical Museum | Learn about the local history and culture |
| Lincoln City Outlets | Shop for souvenirs and enjoy discounted prices |
| Pacific Coast Scenic Byway | Take a scenic drive and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views |
| Dockside Charters | Go on a thrilling whale watching trip and see marine wildlife |
| Lincoln City Kite Festival | Enjoy a fun-filled festival with kite flying and other activities |
| Pacific Ocean | Go crabbing or fishing and enjoy the fresh seafood |
| Lincoln City Beaches | Relax and take a stroll on the sandy beaches |
| Lincoln City Cultural Center | Discover the local art scene and attend cultural events |
| Connie Hansen Garden | Enjoy the beautiful garden and nature |
| Roads End State Recreation Site | Go hiking and enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities |
| Siletz Bay Music Festival | Attend an annual music festival and enjoy live performances |
| D River Wayside | Enjoy the spectacular sunsets and take memorable photos |
1. Explore the Coastal Beauty at Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area
Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. The park is home to a beautiful freshwater lake, surrounded by towering trees, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
You can enjoy a range of activities, including kayaking, fishing, swimming, and camping. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards from local shops or take a guided tour to explore the natural beauty of the park.
2. Discover the Natural Wonders at Cascade Head Scenic Research Area
Cascade Head Scenic Research Area is a stunning natural area located just a few miles north of Lincoln City. The area features a unique mix of ocean views, lush forests, and grassy meadows.
You can enjoy hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Salmon River Estuary, and the surrounding coastal mountains.
Visiting Oregon? Consider reading: Sea Lion Caves Oregon
3. Get a Thrill at the Chinook Winds Casino Resort
If you’re feeling lucky, head to the Chinook Winds Casino Resort. The casino offers a range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker.
You can also enjoy live entertainment, delicious food, and drinks at one of the on-site restaurants or bars.
4. Visit the North Lincoln County Historical Museum
For history buffs, the North Lincoln County Historical Museum is a must-visit attraction. The museum showcases the rich history of Lincoln City and its surrounding areas.
You can explore exhibits on Native American culture, the logging industry, and the region’s maritime history. The museum also hosts a range of events, including lectures, workshops, and art exhibitions.
5. Find Your Perfect Souvenir at Lincoln City Outlets
Lincoln City Outlets is a shopper’s paradise. The outlet mall features over 50 stores, offering designer brands at discounted prices.
You can find everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics. The mall also features a range of dining options, including fast food, coffee shops, and restaurants.
6. Take a Scenic Drive on the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway
The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway is one of the most beautiful drives in the country. The byway stretches over 600 miles, from Astoria to Brookings, and passes through Lincoln City.
You can enjoy stunning views of the coastline of Oregon, passing through quaint coastal towns and breathtaking landscapes.
The drive through Lincoln City offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, charming beach towns, and historic landmarks.
You can make several stops along the way, including scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and charming cafes.
Planning to head out for camping? Consider reading: Printable Camping Packing List
7. Go Whale Watching with Dockside Charters
Lincoln City is an excellent destination for whale watching enthusiasts. You can take a tour with Dockside Charters, a local company that offers guided whale watching tours.
During the tour, you can spot gray whales, humpback whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife. The company provides binoculars, and the tour guides offer fascinating insights into the behavior and biology of these magnificent creatures.
8. Try Your Luck at Lincoln City Kite Festival
The Lincoln City Kite Festival is an annual event that takes place on the beach in June. The festival attracts kite enthusiasts from around the world who come to display their creative and colorful kites.
You can watch kite flying demonstrations, take part in kite-making workshops, and enjoy live music and food vendors.
9. Go Crabbing or Fishing in the Pacific Ocean
Lincoln City offers excellent opportunities for crabbing and fishing in the Pacific Ocean.
You can rent crab pots and fishing gear from local shops or take a guided tour with a local company. The area is home to a range of fish species, including salmon, halibut, rockfish, and lingcod.
10. Walk the Lincoln City Beaches
Lincoln City’s beaches are some of the most beautiful on the Oregon Coast. The city boasts over seven miles of pristine coastline, featuring sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and tide pools.
You can take a leisurely stroll, go beachcombing, or enjoy a picnic with stunning ocean views.
11. Discover the City’s Art Scene at the Lincoln City Cultural Center
The Lincoln City Cultural Center is a vibrant hub of arts and culture. The center hosts a range of events, including concerts, art exhibitions, and workshops.
You can explore the galleries, featuring works by local and regional artists, or take part in a hands-on workshop, including painting, pottery, and dance.
12. Visit the Connie Hansen Garden
The Connie Hansen Garden is a beautiful botanical garden located in Lincoln City. The garden features a wide variety of plant species, including rhododendrons, azaleas, and magnolias.
You can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, relax in the tranquil surroundings, or attend one of the garden’s events, including plant sales, garden tours, and workshops.
13. Go Hiking at Roads End State Recreation Site
Roads End State Recreation Site is a scenic park located at the northern end of Lincoln City.
The park features hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Cascade Head, and the surrounding forests. Visitors can also enjoy beach access, picnicking, and birdwatching.
14. Attend the Annual Siletz Bay Music Festival
The Siletz Bay Music Festival is an annual event that takes place in Lincoln City every summer. The festival features a range of musical performances, including classical, jazz, and world music.
You can enjoy the performances at several venues, including the Lincoln City Cultural Center and the Salishan Spa & Golf Resort.
Consider reading: Oregon Country Fair
15. Enjoy the Spectacular Sunsets at D River Wayside
D River Wayside is a small park located in the heart of Lincoln City. The park features beach access, picnic tables, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll, fly a kite, or watch the sunset over the ocean, making it the perfect spot for a romantic evening.
Final Thoughts on Best things to do in Lincoln City
In conclusion, Lincoln City is a hidden gem on the Oregon Coast that offers a plethora of exciting activities and experiences.
From exploring the stunning natural beauty at Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area and Cascade Head Scenic Research Area, to shopping for souvenirs at Lincoln City Outlets and attending the annual Siletz Bay Music Festival, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.
Personally, I have always enjoyed taking scenic drives on the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway and watching the spectacular sunsets at D River Wayside.
So, if you’re looking for the best things to do in Lincoln City, be sure to add these top attractions to your list and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the beautiful Oregon Coast!
FAQs on Best things to do in Lincoln City
What is Lincoln City known for?
Lincoln City is known for its stunning coastline, charming beach towns, and a wide range of outdoor activities, including whale watching, crabbing, and hiking.
When is the best time to visit Lincoln City?
The best time to visit Lincoln City is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Is Lincoln City a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Lincoln City is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. From beachcombing to kite flying, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy with the whole family.
Where can I stay in Lincoln City?
Lincoln City offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. You can also camp at one of the nearby state parks.
Is Lincoln City a pet-friendly destination?
Yes, many of the beaches and parks in Lincoln City are pet-friendly. There are also several pet-friendly accommodation options in the area, including hotels and vacation rentals.
