Seniors Enjoy Historic Oregon City

One may wonder how a city gets a name like that. A bit perhaps like Iowa City, Iowa. Like Iowa City, Oregon City was the first State Capital and today is the County Seat of Clackamas County. Senior travelers will find Oregon City on the Willamette River, 13 miles South of Portland.

The city has three major zones, defined by steep hills or bluffs. Oregon City (pop. 35,000) is home to shopping areas, recreational opportunities, businesses, a wide variety of historical and cultural attractions, and several Interpretive Centers and Museums dedicated to celebrating the Pioneer spirit.

Oregon City was the first incorporated city west of the Rockies. Established in 1829 by Dr. John McLoughlin as a lumber mill near Willamette Falls, and as mentioned above, was later designated as Oregon’s territorial capital.

  Seniors Visit One Of Oregon’s Fastest Growing Cities

Visiting its many museums and historical buildings allows senior visitors a glimpse of pioneer life in Oregon territory.  As for me, I’d enjoy a visit to the Museum of the Oregon Territory, which overlooks the powerful Willamette Falls and the Willamette River.

The local Chamber notes that while Oregon City is one of the fastest growing cities in Oregon, it remains strongly rooted in its sense of community and historical significance.

After that visit, I’d take in the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. Senior visitors are guided by a living history interpreter, who brings alive the journey from Missouri to Oregon through dramatization and storytelling.

I know that my wife would enjoy the Stevens Crawford House decorated in a 1908 classical Foursquare style. It was owned by the original family until 1968 and much of the period furniture is  in the house with 15 furnished rooms. We would both enjoy walking through Historic Downtown Oregon City.

Seniors Discover Municipal Elevator

TripAdvisor has been to Oregon City and does not want anyone to miss the local Farmer’s Market, the Municipal Elevator and the Museum of the Oregon Territory. The Municipal Elevator operates as one of the only four Municipal Elevators in the world.

The Clackamas Repertory Theatre produces musicals, comedies and classic and contemporary American plays and draws in visitors of all ages from across the nation. Clackamette Park is a great place for a leisurely stroll.

Seniors, consider a kayak or canoeing experience on the Clackamas River. Willamette Falls is one of the largest waterfalls West of the Mississippi and is another major highlight in the city. Toss your golf clubs in the trunk and play a round at Stone Creek Golf Club and later another at Oregon City Golf Club.

Welcome to Oregon City where history is alive. Spend some time on this site and you will be provided with a nice overview of the city and all its amenities. -jeb