01 Oct Autumn in Silverton, Oregon
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Silverton is a small town with big character. It’s filled with vibrant art and Pacific Northwest nature that becomes even more beautiful in fall. The sidewalks of tree-lined neighborhoods are blanketed with crunchy, golden leaves, and the soft blue sky showers us with light drizzles.
The gorgeous setting makes it a perfect time to visit without an agenda. But if you do want to make preliminary plans before visiting our downtown Silverton inn this autumn, here are a few recommendations.
FOR NATURE
The Oregon Garden provides 80-plus acres of diverse botanical beauty, with more than 20 specialty gardens. Examples of fall blooms have included Russian Sage and dahlias in September, Oakleaf Hydrangea and Cape Fuchsia in October, and lilac and magnolia in November.The pet-friendly garden is open year-round.
Distance from us: 1.3 miles
Silver Falls State Park is called the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Park System, and with multiple backcountry trails and waterfalls—including one at South Falls that you can walk behind—it’s no wonder why. There’s a day use area to recoup in between adventures, with barbecue stands, lawn space, playground, and picnic shelters that are especially handy in the rainier season. The park is also dog-friendly, just like us!
Distance from us: 15 scenic miles
FOR HISTORY
Gallon House Bridge is the oldest and last covered bridge in Marion County, according to its website. It cost just $1,310 to build in 1916, and its history includes tales of alcohol prohibition and flood damage before being transformed into a historical landmark. Even with several renovations over the years, it’s a sight that immediately beckons days gone by.
Distance from us: 2.2 miles
The Gordon House, located next door to the Oregon Garden, is Oregon’s only Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structure.The famed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright believed in “organic architecture,” or structures inspired by openness and environment. The Gordon House has been preserved to educate the public on Frank Lloyd Wright’s innovative approach and design principles. It’s open daily for guided tours by appointment.
Distance from us: 1.3 miles
FOR ART
The Silverton Oregon Murals prove that art is all around this splendid town. Scattered throughout town, the many murals offer glimpses into Silverton’s storied past. There are maps of different mural locations online, but many are within walking distance of the Silverton Inn & Suites.
Distance from us: Walking
Lunaria Gallery is one of the many downtown shops that surround us. The gallery rotates its shows each month, with current work from artists Kara Pilcher and Deborah Ungercoming in October, and a “Art Through the Generations”show held from Oct. 2- Oct. 29in the loft. Catch the artists’ reception from 7-9 p.m. on Oct. 5 during First Friday.
Distance from us: 600 feet
FOR INDOOR FUN
Silverton Country Museum dives deep into the history of our little town over the last 150 or so years. Here, you’ll find the collection of the Silverton Country Historical Society, with itemsfrom descendants of Silverton pioneers.
Distance from us: 0.4 miles
Palace Theatre provides an awesome independent theater experience. Built in 1936, the old-fashioned movie theater features one screen and a concession stand, styled with retro decor. It’s a perfect place to wait out rain.
Distance from us: 450 feet
Since our inn is centrally located in the downtown historic district of Silverton, we’re also a few steps away from a host of restaurants, antique stores, coffee and specialty shops and more to fill the day with. For several other year-round attractions, visit our website.