What's on tap this thanksgiving weekend in Oregon? Turkey, pinot noir, powder, and a civil war!

November 21, 2006

As the turkey thaws away in the fridge (one more day!) and the seemingly long pre-Thanksgiving work week draws to a close, I’m starting to drool with earnest anticipation about the prospects of the long weekend. Of course, the easy way out would be to give in to the unexplainable draw of the family couch and take in hours of pigskin action. But on second thought, with all the grazing I’ve already penciled in for Turkey Day, getting out there and “working out” might be better. Here are some cures for that post turkey hangover.

Thanksgiving in the wine country – What’s better than turkey? Pinor noir baby! Oregon's wineries are throwing open their doors this weekend. Festivities include tasting of new releases and older vintages, barrel tastings, specialty foods and sales of limited quantity wines. Some wineries have live music and some charge a tasting fee. Follow the following links for a listing of what’s going at area wineries in the: Portland Metro area, Willamette Valley, Central Oregon and Southern Oregon.

"Powder Days" are here again – The skiers in our office are pretty hyped about the opening of many of our ski areas this weekend. Having made the resolution last year to learn how to ski (or board), this might be my season to learn how to fly down a slope like a pro. Two of the biggest ski areas, Timberline and Mt. Bachelor are already open and our ski meisters (read the interview here) have already predicted a good snow year. Check out our partners SkiOregon.org for latest powder update.

Civil War – It’s not quite Antietam but a few die-hards may beg to defer. The 110th football game between the state’s two premier academic institutions (University of Oregon in Eugene and Oregon State University in Corvallis) takes place this year in Corvallis (disclaimer: I have to disclose…I live in Corvallis). With the game sold out for a week, you’d be hard pressed to find a seat at Reser Stadium this late. However, if you’re looking to soak up the atmosphere of the great college rivalry, this quaint, tree-filled town (population 50,000) with its distinctly Norman Rockwell feel is definitely the place to be this weekend.

If you do come, we suggest the Hilton Garden Inn or Harrison House Bed & Breakfast, both of which are offering Oregon Bounty specials. As for dining, you’d be surprised by the variety Corvallis has to offer.

Sahalie Wine Cellar Wine Bar Restaurant is a cozy place to swirl, sniff, and sip away a pinot over brie while the Big River Restaurant with its Northwest “fusion” food and eclectic drink menu is arguably the town’s hippest nightspot. For great Oregon beer and a laid back attitude, try either one of the two McMenamins in town. And for vegetarians in your group, Nearly Normals on Monroe is a “must eat.”

Finally before you go, be sure to check out the charming antique and clothing stores downtown, the beautiful Benton County Courthouse and the historic covered bridges in the area.

Of course, if none of these options are appealing, you could always opt to join the masses and head for the shopping malls...which by the way is a whole lot more fun in Oregon because we don't have sales taxes!

On behalf of all of us at Travel Oregon, Happy Thanksgiving!
~Mo

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