A 7-Day Family-Friendly Oregon Road Trip Itinerary (From SF)
This is a ONE WEEK version of the 10 day SF to Oregon trip I posted before. This one cuts out longer hikes and detours in order to create a trip that is more manageable.
I dream about doing this trip again! I think a good time is June, so now is a good time to book and secure some good rates.
👉Serious note: Don’t forget to use this easy hack to get 3-10% cashback on any hotel bookings🤑
Day 1: San Francisco → Northern California Redwoods
San Francisco to Humboldt Redwoods State Park
What to do
- Early morning departure from San Francisco
- Drive through the Chandelier Tree in Leggett (quick, memorable stop for kids)
- Scenic drive along the Avenue of the Giants
- Walk the Founders Grove Nature Trail (flat, shaded, and easy for all ages)
Where to stay
Best Western Plus Humboldt Bay Inn ($120-$240)
Family-friendly rooms and breakfast
Home2 Suites By Hilton Eureka ($150-$200)
Highly rated breakfast, close to the mall and spacious modern suites. Great value.
Day 2: Redwoods → Southern Oregon Coast
Humboldt County → Brookings, Oregon
What to do
- Morning drive north through Redwood National & State Parks
- Explore the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor (huge stretch of beach with large rocks to climb)
- Visit Natural Bridges for tide pools and photos
Where to stay
Beachfront Inn Brookings ($140-$240)
Direct beach access and sunset walks. I wrote about this before, and I recommend it again.
Pacific Reef Hotel & Light Show ($80-$130)
The rooms are very nice for the price! Some even have ocean view.
Day 3: Central Oregon Coast
Brookings → Newport
What to do
- Beach walk near Sea Lion Caves (actually worth it for kids who are confident on stairs in low light)
- Stop at Heceta Head Lighthouse overlook
- Visit Thor’s Well and Cape Perpetua Scenic Area (short, dramatic walks)
- Quick stop at Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area (best at low tide)
Where to stay
Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites (Newport) ($150-$250)
You can walk to the beach from the property. Breakfast included.
Hallmark Resort Newport ($180-$280)
Another lovely property right on the beach with panoramic sea views from the restaurant.
Day 4: Tillamook → Portland
Newport → Tillamook → Portland
What to do
- Morning drive to the Tillamook Creamery
- Free, self-guided factory tour
- Overhead viewing of cheese production
- Sampling ice cream and cheese (huge hit with kids)
- Have lunch there!
- Optional quick stop at Cape Meares Lighthouse
- Afternoon drive to Portland
Where to stay
Embassy Suites Portland Downtown($120-$230)
Arcade games room, highly rated breakfast and located close to landmarks. Feels fancy without the price tag.
The Benson Hotel ($110-$170)
Exceptional service paired with great location. Rooms are modern. A historic hotel that also feels fancy.
Day 5: Columbia River Gorge → Bend
Portland → Bend
What to do
- Visit Multnomah Falls (timed reservation required; arrive early)
- Optional stop along the Hood River Fruit Loop for fresh fruit stands
- Scenic drive through Central Oregon to Bend
Where to stay
Riverhouse on the Deschutes ($140-$250)
Riverfront paths, right on the river with an indoor pool and great service.
Campfire Hotel ($100-$300)
Fun, affordable, and very family-friendly. Super cool vibes.
👉Serious note: Don’t forget to use this easy hack to get 3-10% cashback on any hotel bookings🤑
Day 6: Bend
Outdoor Adventure Day
What to do
- Breakfast at Sparrow Bakery
- Walk or bike the Deschutes River Trail
- Swim and relax at Farewell Bend Park
- Explore Lava River Cave (reservation required)
- Ice cream at Bonta Artisan Gelato
Where to stay
- Same Bend hotel (two nights recommended for families)
Day 7: Bend → San Francisco
High Desert → Northern California
What to do
- Morning visit to High Desert Museum (excellent for kids)
- Begin the drive back to San Francisco
- Scenic stops near Mount Shasta for stretch breaks and photos
Where to stay
- Return home to San Francisco!
