Things to do
in Pendleton.

01 · About 1.6 mi · 5 minutes

Downtown Pendleton

Start in the historic downtown, a few minutes’ drive from the motel. Local restaurants, boutiques and frontier-era brick buildings line the blocks around Main Street, and several of the stops below are within walking distance of each other. Park once and spend the afternoon on foot.

02 · Downtown

Pendleton Underground Tours

One of Pendleton’s best-known experiences is a guided walking tour through the passageways beneath downtown’s streets and the stories of Pendleton’s frontier past. Tours start at 31 SW Emigrant Ave and run about 90 minutes. Reservations are needed, so call (541) 276-0730 or visit Pendleton Underground Tours before you go.

03 · About 2.3 mi · 5–10 minutes

Pendleton Woolen Mills

The mill at 1307 SE Court Place is where Pendleton’s famous blankets and wool fabrics are woven. Free guided mill tours of about an hour are offered on weekdays, and the mill store out front is a favorite stop for blankets and gifts. Tour times can change, so check with Pendleton Woolen Mills before you visit.

04 · About 1 mi · a few minutes

Round-Up & Happy Canyon Hall of Fame

Even if you’re not in town for rodeo week, the Round-Up & Happy Canyon Hall of Fame at 1114 SW Court Ave tells the story of an event that has been held since 1910. It’s near the Round-Up Grounds, about a mile from the motel. If you’re planning a September trip, read our Pendleton Round-Up lodging guide.

05 · Downtown

Heritage Station Museum

Run by the Umatilla County Historical Society, the Heritage Station Museum occupies Pendleton’s 1909 railroad depot at 108 SW Frazer Ave. It’s a good stop for regional history and an easy add-on to a downtown walk.

06 · About 9 mi · 15–20 minutes

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute

East of town at 47106 Wildhorse Blvd, the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute shares the history and living culture of the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Tribes. It describes itself as the only museum on the Oregon Trail that tells the story from a tribal point of view. The museum is generally open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; confirm hours before you drive out.

07 · About 7.5 mi · 10–15 minutes

Wildhorse Resort & Casino

Just down the road from Tamástslikt, Wildhorse Resort & Casino offers gaming, golf, a movie theater and dining, making it an easy evening out or a rainy-day plan.

08 · A few minutes

Umatilla River Parkway

For fresh air close to town, the Pendleton River Parkway follows the Umatilla River for roughly 2.8 miles. It’s a paved path for walking and biking, with no motor vehicles, and it passes Roy Raley Park near the Round-Up Grounds. Bike and kayak rentals are offered at our front desk based on season and daily availability. A security deposit and valid ID or driver’s license are required, and we don’t provide kayak transportation.

09 · About 26 mi · 30–35 minutes

Blue Mountains & Emigrant Springs

Head east on I-84 and the road climbs into the Blue Mountains. Near Meacham (Exit 234), Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area marks a stop on the historic Oregon Trail, with interpretive displays, camping and cabins. In winter, check road conditions before crossing the mountains.

Drive times are rough estimates from Pendleton Inn and Suites in normal traffic and will vary. Heading back? See our rooms or return to the home page.