With over 100 wineries in a 10-mile radius, Newberg, Oregon, is known as the Gateway To Oregon Wine Country. The small city has also been recognized as a culinary destination, winning USA Today’s “Best Small Town Food Scene” in 2022. Situated in the Chehalem Valley AVA and part of the nationally-renowned Willamette Valley, the strolling country roads in Newberg lead to unique vineyards. Add to that delicious craft breweries, fabulous accommodations, and fun activities, and you have the makings of a fabulous weekend in Oregon’s famous Willamette Valley. Although only 25 miles from Portland, Newberg feels like a world away. From Portland, head south on Interstate 5 to exit 294, then follow Highway 99S.

Here are 17 of my favorite activities for a fabulous weekend in Newberg, Oregon.

My trip was sponsored by Taste Newberg and the wineries and craft breweries mentioned below. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

1. Anam Cara Cellars

The Anam Cara Cellars tasting room is one of six in downtown Newberg. The small family-run winery is dry-farmed organically. All grapes are from their own Nicholas Vineyard. We enjoyed a vertical tasting of a pinot noir, a chardonnay, and a riesling. My favorite was the 2019 pinot noir.

Anam Cara is a Celtic term meaning “soul friend.” That is what you will feel when your visit. Consider ordering the delicious charcuterie board to compliment your wines.

Take time to wander and admire the work of local artists displayed throughout the tasting room.

2. Natalie’s Estate Winery

We enjoyed meeting the owners of Natalie’s Estate Winery, another family-run vineyard less than 4 miles from downtown Newberg. During a tour of the facility, we observed their techniques of handcrafting wine and the old European methods of winemaking. Their sustainable vineyard and winemaking practices include dry farming and preservation of the local ecosystems.

Grapes are sourced from various fine growers in the area and their own vineyard of pinot noir grapes. Visit the Montana-style tasting room for samples of a broad portfolio of wines. Look for three labels: Natalie’s Estate Winery, Rock Horse Ranch, and Big Sky Collection. Enjoy the complimentary charcuterie boards. Check the calendar of activities for special offerings such as Wine & Cheese – A Pairing Event, Fall Holiday Cooking, and Wine & Dinner.