24 Unique & Fun Things to do in Seaside (Oregon)

Seaside, Oregon, is a picturesque city in Clatsop county on the Pacific Ocean coast.

This city is full of sight attractions which makes it a hub for tourists worldwide.

From seaside coves to Beaches to Amusement parks to Museums, these are a few among plenty of attractions in Seaside, Oregon.

While many travelers may think only that big cities are fun to visit, Seaside has proven otherwise.

Irrespective of its small population, Seaside is flexible in welcoming different people from all tribes and races worldwide.

Meanwhile, Seaside is the center of cultural events in Oregon, with its numerous cultural displays annually.

Furthermore, the climate of Seaside is oceanic with a typical pacific environment. It has rainy winters and mild-to-cool summers.

So to have a fun-filled expedition in Seaside, calmy go through some of the most exciting things to do in Seaside.

Things to do in Seaside, Oregon

1. Seaside Beach Oregon

Spf50 / Flickr

One of the best places to visit in Seaside is Seaside Beach Oregon.

From neat and flat trails along the water to a collection of a variety of shells, and driftwood, to craggy bluffs, there are enough attractions here.

It’s a perfect place for having a peaceful and refreshing walk along the shore. Meanwhile, this beach has lots of activities for locals and visitors.

For instance, tourists can get into the water for swimming, wave jumping, and paddleboarding.

You can join the locals for Volleyball games; you can collect shells, driftwood, and other curious things that wash ashore.

Families can Picnic and walk the trails together.

Overall, it’s a nice place for all ages to explore and enjoy nature.

Furthermore, Seaside beach is home to various exciting events, such as “Pouring at the Coast” beer weekend in the spring, hood to Coast relay in the summer, and a Beach Volleyball tournament yearly.

Lastly, this beach will surely be one of your top spots in the city of Seaside.

Address: 229-299 S Promenade, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

2. Seaside Aquarium

Peterson Photography / Flickr

Famous for its vast collections of aquatic life, Seaside Aquarium is a fun place to visit.

By way of history, the building that houses the aquarium was initially built as a natatorium before the Great Depression.

However, it opened as the Seaside aquarium in 1937, making it the oldest privately owned aquarium on the west coast.

This aquarium boasts 100 species of marine life, including sea lions, 20-arm sea stars, octopuses, moray eels, wolf eels, fish, and more.

Furthermore, the aquarium offers the chance for visitors to feed its seals.

As you approach and see tons of tanks with different kinds of sea life inside, you will get to appreciate nature even more.

Also, these sea lives will put on a show of their creation that will amuse and delight you.

When you visit Seaside, be sure to stop in for a visit, you won’t be sorry you did.

It’s open day of the week from 9 am to 5 pm.

Address: 200 N Prom, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

3. Haystack Rock

Haystack Rock

One of the popular tourist destinations in Seaside, Oregon, is Haystack Rock.

It’s a 235 feet-tall basalt sea stack that rises from the edge of the shoreline.

Located in Cannon Beach, it’s home to diverse birdlife and colorful tide pools.

You’ll be amused at the sight of this picturesque Natural area.

Furthermore, you can walk up to this sea stack at low tide and find colorful sea stars and other attractive tidepool creatures in its intertidal zone.

Its tide pools are home to numerous intertidal animals, including anemones, sea stars, chitons, crabs, limpets, and nudibranchs.

Also, the area surrounding the rock is mainly for picnicking, bird-watching, and kite-flying.

When you get closer to this rock, you’ll notice a designation indicating it as a protected area.

Therefore, you are not to remove any animal within 300 yards of Haystack Rock, also climbing above the barnacle line is prohibited.

Iconic. Beautiful. Free. This rock hits all the requirements for being a must on your Oregon Coast vacation.

Address: US-101, Cannon Beach, OR 97110, United States

4. Seaside Carousel Mall

Seaside Carousel Mall

One of the best places to visit in Seaside!

Seaside Carousel Mall is a brightly-colored building built in 1985 on the site of the famous bungalow dance hall.

The main feature of the mall is a dated indoor carousel where kids get attracted and enjoy the rides.

Small, family-owned shops sell different kinds of stuff, including candy stores, toy stores, and outstanding collections of hats.

Also, there are modern activities for all to enjoy; it’s full of boutiques, an arena for laser tag, and restaurants where the aroma of hot dogs and nachos passes through the air.

Indeed, it’s one of the fun places for families, friends, and love birds.

Lastly, you’ll surely enjoy the nostalgia that comes with the old-school and new-school fun at the Seaside Carousel Mall.

You’ll indeed have a blast!

Address: 300 Broadway St, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

5. Wreck of the Peter Iredale

N1el / Flickr

Calling on all history enthusiasts on a voyage to Seaside

Part of the beaches in Seaside is a stretch of rocky, foggy, and murky land that stretches from the northwestern United States to Canada called the “Graveyard of the Pacific,” which has caused thousands of shipwrecks over the years.

The Wreck of the Peter Iredale occurred over 100 years ago, but the wreckage is still visible today, making it a popular tourist attraction among locals and visitors.

The four-masted steel barque sailing vessel that ran ashore was named after its owner Peter Iredale and met its destruction in 1906 while sailing the Columbia River.

However, it was abandoned by its crew due to the turbulence of high winds.

Therefore, it has become a landmark for the city.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Seaside, visiting this shipwreck site will surely be an encompassing experience.

Address: Peter Iredale Rd, Hammond, OR 97121, United States

6. Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

For all history buffs, Seaside is a hub to discover the rich heritage of the native people.

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is located just about the vicinity of the mouth of the Columbia River.

Meanwhile, It commemorates Lewis and Clark’s adventurous expedition and other members of the Corps of Discovery and how they got help from the native people.

While in this park, you’ll follow in the footsteps of past explorers and have an adventure in history.

You’ll be amused to see how these explorers lived, cooked, and survived through the winter.

There are lots of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking the trails and a walk along the river boardwalk.

The visitors center is fun with a 30-minute documentary video about the history of all that happened here. There’s a little something for everyone.

Lastly, there is a small museum exhibit in the building.

Address: 92343 Fort Clatsop Rd, Astoria, OR 97103, United States

7. Ecola State Park

The Ecola Park

Ecola State Park stretches along 9 miles of coastline wrapped around Tillamook Head, between Seaside and Cannon Beach.

It’s a place with lush, beautiful landscapes with natural greenery.

Known for its biodiversity, Ecola State Park is home to many wildlife, such as deer, eagles, elk, and even migrating gray whales throughout winter and spring.

It’s even fondly referred to as “Oregon’s Garden of Eden.”

Furthermore, there are other activating sites to visit, including Tillamook Lighthouse, Indian Beach, and the Oregon Coast Trail.

You’ll get entertained based on your personality.

Cyclists and Joggers will enjoy the trails; Nature buffs can explore the beaches, woods, hills, swamps, and tide pools.

Overall, it’s a picturesque site, so don’t leave your camera behind.

In fact, there’s little something for everyone here.

If you are looking for places to visit in Seaside, try out Ecola State Park.

Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110, United States

8. Saddle Mountain Trail

Saddle Mountain Trail

One of the hottest spots for tourists in Seaside.

Saddle Mountain Trail is a destination for outdoor activities.

This gorgeous path climbs to the peak of Saddle Mountain, the tallest mountain in Clatsop County, and is one of Oregon’s hottest spots for hiking, climbing, and trekking.

Meanwhile, Saddle Mountain Trail provides access to the top, which is 3,290 feet above sea level.

The trail is steep and slippery along rock outcroppings; however, its leads to a 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean.

If you are fit for mountain climbing, you should consider Saddle Mountain a must-do.

Furthermore, the trailhead is a primitive walk-in campground and picnic area.

The panoramic views are stunning and include wildflowers in bloom in the springtime.

You’ll be thrilled by all the beauty that characterizes this beautiful site.

Address: Seaside, OR 97138, United States

9. Captain Kid Amusement Park

Captain Kid Amusement Park

If you are looking for something to do besides going to the beach.

Captain Kid Amusement Park is an excellent option for you in Seaside.

It boasts over ten attractions, including bumper cars, roto-whips, games, climbing walls, go-karts, and 18 holes of mini-golf.

Interestingly, this park is for all ages, hence why families, romantics, and other guests are invited.

Therefore, It’s a place locals and visitors are welcome to have a fun-filled experience.

The season for all-encompassing fun generally starts every mid-February until the 1st of November.

You don’t need to reserve a ticket, just hit the park and get access to whatever you love doing.

Moreover, the ticket is flexible as a ticket can serve two or more attractions.

Also, the ticket for attractions goes as low as $5.

Lastly, you can’t go wrong with the snack bar available, which includes ice cream, popcorn, chips, and more.

Address: 2735 S Roosevelt Dr, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

Exploring other cities in Oregon? Why not check out our list of top attractions in Tillamook, Eugene, and Beaverton?

10. Dooger’s Seafood and Grill

Breanna Schulze / Flickr

One of the best places for tasty seafood delicacies in Seaside is Dooger’s Seafood and Grill.

Located in downtown Seaside, this restaurant is the popular choice for quality Seafood on the North Oregon Coast.

The atmosphere is charming, with the appealing aroma of seafood wafting through the air and good music to keep guests entertained.

Meanwhile, the menu includes everything from salmon, clam chowder, lobster, oysters, and calamari to traditional American fares like burgers, pasta, and steaks.

Also, seafood is reasonably priced, making it affordable for both locals and visitors.

Dooger’s Seafood and Grill is a must-do for all lovers of seafood and sumptuous delicacies in downtown Seaside.

Address: 505 Broadway St, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

11. Turnaround at Seaside

Turnaround at Seaside

One of the free things to do in Seaside, Oregon, is the Turnaround.

The Turnaround is a historic landmark that depicts the end of the Lewis and Clark historical Trail.

It’s a great spot to start walking along the Seaside Promenade; therefore, you can catch a glimpse of every scenic view.

You can see the ocean from a long distance as you overlook the sandy shores and water-beaten cliffs.

The main features are the Lewis and Clark statue and the Seaside sign.

Interestingly, it’s a free and exciting thing to do in Seaside.

You will find some unique performers here who will amaze you with their talents.

Address: 30 N Prom, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

12. Lewis and Clark Salt Makers Return

Lewis and Clark Salt Makers Return

For all history buffs!

Another exciting thing to learn about Lewis, Clark, and the Corps of Discovery is how they made their Salt when the supply of salt got exhausted.

To tell tourists about this historic achievement, Seaside Museum hosts the annual event called Lewis and Clark Salt Markers.

This event celebrates the efforts of the Lewis and Clark and Corps of Discovery to make their Salt and bring more than 100 liters of salt into Oregon to preserve their meat.

During this event, Visitors can enjoy food and drink while learning about this historical past through workshops, lectures, and demonstrations.

Furthermore, There’s also a performance that shows what life is like for the expedition’s members.

One thing that makes Lewis and Clark Salt Makers Return peculiar is the fact that it happened in this particular destination.

If you’re looking for something unique to do in Seaside, consider Lewis and Clark Salt Makers Return!

13. Seaside Promenade

Seaside Promenade

If you are looking for cool things to do in Seaside this weekend, Why not go for the Seaside Promenade?

The historic Seaside Promenade is one and a half miles long, stretching the course along the Oregon shore and borders the gorgeous Pacific Ocean.

Also called “The Prom,” it is a 15-foot wide paved walkway that was built in 1920 and dedicated in 1921.

It’s absolutely a must-do to enjoy all Seaside has to offer, whether you are staying in Seaside for a few weeks or just passing by.

You can find a variety of walkers, cyclists, joggers, skateboarders, sightseers, and more.

As you walk along the paved walkway, you’ll experience the scenic green forest and the dunes.

Furthermore, other attractions include movie theaters, shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Also, the walkway is illuminated as the sun goes down for the nightlife.

Address: Seaside, OR 97138, United States

14. Sunrose

Linda T. / Flickr

Sunrose is a famed art gallery in Seaside, Oregon.

It features a wide range of pieces from various Northwestern Oregon artists.

Sunrose is a shop of inexpensive knick knacks filled with everything from mosaics made from broken credit cards to glass-blown bird feeders.

That said, it isn’t just a novelty store.

You’ll find genuinely creative antiques alongside the wide range of works of art and handcrafted jewelry and furniture.

These whimsical and interesting items can be found anywhere as work through the shops.

One exciting thing about Sunrose is that it’s something uncommon among big cities; therefore, it is one of the cool things to see while you engage in your voyage in Seaside.

It’s not one of the focal points of interest for tourists, but if you discover Sunrose, you will be happy you did.

Address: 606 Broadway St, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

15. Cannon Beach

Mike Weaver / Flickr

Cannon Beach is a city in Clatsop County and one of the best vacation spots in Oregon.

This famous Beach lies south of the downtown Seaside. Besides, It’s a popular tourist destination in coastal Oregon.

Cannon Beach has many activities, including swimming, Fishing, Picnicking, and horseback riding along the coast.

The renowned Haystack Rock landmark is widely recognized in Cannon Beach and located southwest of downtown Cannon Beach

Furthermore, you will be thrilled by all festivals and major events taking place annually.

If you want a breathtaking experience, be ready to take a trip to Cannon Beach.

Indeed Cannon Beach is the hottest spot for you to have a blast in Seaside.

You’ll have a memorable trip to this one-of-a-kind gem among cities in Oregon.

Address: Cannon Beach, OR 97110, United States

16. Best Western Plus Ocean View Resort

Best Western Plus Ocean View Resort

Are you visiting Seaside on short notice or for a short time?

One of the best hotels to stay in for this short time is the Best Western Plus Ocean View Resort.

This hotel is a 2-minute walk from the Seaside aquarium and a 5-minute walk from the Seaside Museum and Historical society.

Therefore, it’s a good choice for visitors participating in top attractions and festivals in the city.

Meanwhile, this 5-star suite offers comfortable accommodation to all travelers.

Overlooking the Seaside Beach on the Pacific Ocean, you can enjoy a scenic view of the Prom as it goes forth.

Also, other activities on the beach can be viewed on the balcony of the rooms on the top floor of the hotel building.

The service rendered in this hotel will be a memorable experience and a home away from home treatment.

You won’t regret your choice of checking in to this hotel because all facilities are up to date and convenient for your use.

Address: 414 N Prom, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

17. Clatsop plains

Clatsop Plains

Another neighborhood to visit during your trip to Seaside is the Clatsop plains.

Clatsop plains are an area of wetland and dunes between the Oregon Coastline and the Pacific Ocean in northwestern Oregon.

The plains got their name from the Clatsop tribe of Native Americans living in the area during the 18th and 19th centuries.

It’s definitely one of the best seaside attractions in the area.

These plains developed during the late Quaternary age from sand filling the shoreline.

Interestingly, no permanent residents can claim the Clatsop Plains, but they remain a popular sightseeing spot because of the beautiful rock formations and eroded sand.

The coastal grassy areas of the Clatsop plains are home to several exotic and rare species, such as the silver spot butterfly and the razor clam.

Indeed, this fauna makes Clatsop a picturesque spot for locals and visitors.

A grand voyage to these plains will make for an exciting and refreshing moment in Seaside, Oregon.

Address: Oregon 97146, United States

18. Seaside Farmers Market

Seaside Farmers Market

If you are looking for free things to do this weekend, you should consider visiting Seaside Farmers Market.

The Farmers Market offers an opportunity to access plenty of home-grown produce, foodstuffs, and handcrafted souvenirs.

It’s located in a tourist-friendly area with a well-constructed amphitheater where numerous vendor stalls are situated.

There are lots of local vendors to sell their home-grown produce, such as meat, cheese, baked food, fresh fruits, and craft and dry goods.

The market holds every weekend from June to September of each year; therefore, if you visit Seaside during the Fall or Summer, you will be privileged to experience all that this Market has to offer.

In addition, it’s a rare opportunity to interact with the people and support their small businesses; there’s a little something for everyone in this Market.

Address: 1120 Broadway St, Seaside, OR 97138

19. Necaricum Estuary Natural History Park

Necaricum Estuary Natural History Park

Another free thing to do in Seaside.

Necaricum Estuary Natural History Park is one of the best places in Seaside where there is no entrance fee for both locals and Visitors.

Just outside the hustle and bustle of the Seaside on the north end, the Nacanicum, Neawanna, and Neacoxie rivers meet the Pacific Ocean and combine to form a brackish water known as Estuary creating a beautiful landscape with diverse fauna and flora.

Therefore this Estuary is home to different wildlife and marine species, including coho Salmon, Clams, Roosevelt elk, and more.

Indeed, this is a top spot for bird-watching as the resident Osprey, blue herons, migrating barn, and tree swallows sing their song throughout the year.

Also, Bald eagles and peregrine falcons come around to hunt for their sealife prey.

It’s just a good decision to sunbathe, enjoy the relaxing fresh air, watch the sunset and organize a family-friendly Picnic in this natural landmark.

If you are looking for something free yet exciting, Necaricum Estuary Natural History Park offers more.

Address: 989 Broadway St, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

20. Seaside Inverted Experience

Seaside Inverted Experience

If you are looking for something spectacular and exciting, Seaside Inverted Experience comes with the best.

Seaside Inverted Experience is a Portrait studio with a one-of-a-kind photo Capturing service.

The “inverted” comes in the name because every photo snapped is turned upside down when it’s ready and comes out funny yet spectacular.

Unlike other photo studios, where photos are taken in one location with monotonous posture,

Seaside Inverted Experience will take you on a tour of all eight sets taking multiple images with multiple poses.

Then, you’ll pick your favorite poses and get them printed on a glossy photograph.

This unique photo experience is a must-do while in Seaside.

It will definitely be a memorable lasting souvenir When you hang the portrait on the wall of your room.

Address: 111 Broadway St # 11, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

21. Bell Buoy of Seaside

Bell Buoy of Seaside

You can’t visit Seaside, Oregon, and not have a thing for seafood.

One of the best spots for seafood is Bell Buoy of Seaside.

Established in 1946, this family-owned Seafood specialty store offers the best-selling fresh and in-house canned products like Salmon, Sturgeon, Dungeness crab, Clams, Oysters, shrimp, and more.

Meanwhile, one thing that sets Bell Buoy apart is that they source their seafood in the wild and directly from local fishermen.

You always want quality products, don’t you? Besides, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife sustainably manages Bell Buoy seafood.

Also, canned products are certified by the Marine Stewardship council.

You can enjoy both the store and restaurant-friendly service.

Furthermore, you can get Albacore tuna and other canned food products in the store, including Dungeness crab, Clams, and more.

However, the restaurant has a great and flexible seafood menu and order service for all guests to enjoy.

Other services include the sales of fresh and smoked seafood such as salmon, shrimp, and other peppered and plain varieties.

Address: 1800 S Roosevelt Dr, Seaside, OR 97138, United States

22. Oswald West State Park

Oregon State Parks / Flickr

Oswald West State Park is one of the most spectacular parks in Seaside, Oregon.

It’s a 2,448-acre park with many miles of hiking trails that stretch from inside the park ground linking to other parks and landmarks.

Named after Oswald West, the 14th Governor of Oregon and the man who led the preservation of Oregon’s beaches for public use, this park serves as a natural space for different kinds of activities.

The state park also contains a short sand beach, a short sand creek, Neahkahnie Mountain, Necarney Creek, Cape Falcon, and Smugglers Cove.

Also, it has a beautifully secluded sandy beach and miles of trails leading to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Therefore, Oswald West State Park is popular with surfers, hikers, and beachgoers and has much to offer in the way of recreation.

This Park is breathtaking from start to finish and one of the best places to spend the day.

If you are looking for a place with gorgeous scenery, this park offers more than expected.

Address: Oswald West State Park, Arch Cape, OR 97102, United States

23. Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site

Edmund Lowe / Flickr

Another Recreation site a few miles away from Seaside, Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site, is an excellent place to elope in nature.

Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site is located a mile south of Cannon Beach and is Sandy beach with a shady Grove above.

One of the best places to plan and have a family-friendly vacation.

With your food prepared and packed, you can take a few miles to the beach, either from the north or the south.

Come along with your blanket and everything needed for the campfire to stay warm during cold times.

Meanwhile, you can explore the beach and its tide pool areas to the north and south because many areas are accessible during the low tides.

Furthermore, Arcadia’s beach stretches for more than a mile between two headlands; the humbug point is a short distance to the north.

While the Hug Point and Lion rock to the south and Jockey cap. All these offer a breathtaking tour experience to tourists.

Furthermore, it’s a good place for surfers just off the shore; it’s a nice spot to take a walk along the beach and enjoy the scenic view of the cove.

Address: Arcadia Beach State Park, Arch Cape, OR 97102, United States

24. Buddha Kat Tasting Room

Buddha Kat Tasting Room

While in Seaside, you need a place to enjoy the taste of good wine and get a bottle for your family.

Buddha Kat Tasting Room is a good place to achieve that.

It’s a lovely Winery that produces a wide variety of handcrafts wine.

This Winery exists to produce the best wines out of the incredible variety of grapes available in the pacific northwest and to celebrate the rich bounty of berries and fruit Oregonians love.

Buddha Kat Tasting Room boasts the production of various wines, including chocolate port-style wine, fruit wine, dessert wine, and blackberry wine, among others.

You’ll have a nice treat as you visit Buddha Kat Winery and get a wine-tasting experience of up to 4 wines for as low as $10; then, the owner shares a few more of his favorites.

Discover some very delicious varieties and get home with a couple of bottles of your favorites!

Address: 37 N Edgewood St, Seaside, OR, 97138, United States