22 Best & Fun Things to Do in Lake Oswego (OR)

If you visit the Pacific Northwest and the Portland, Oregon area, make sure to stop at the City of Oswego Lake (often called just Lake Oswego).

It’s a little town with a population of 38,705 people. This town is notable for its breathtaking natural beauty.

It has a pleasant and humid temperate oceanic climate and is located about 60 miles (96 kilometers) east of the Pacific Ocean.

It is best to visit during July and August, with average daytime temperatures reaching 80°F (27°C).

You will adore Oswego Lake and the surrounding area, especially if you prefer spending time in nature.

This region attracts many day-trippers and vacationers due to its mosaic of parks, forests, and lakes.

Known as Oregon’s hike capital, Oswego Lake’s greatest advantage is the opportunity to explore a wide variety of parks, forest paths, and hiking trails.

Things To Do In Lake Oswego

1. The Lake Oswego Preservation Society

The Lake Oswego Preservation Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the natural state of Lake Oswego

It is a city monument, housed in a tiny worker’s cottage built by the Iron Company.

It’s also about 100 meters from Lake Oswego’s yacht dock, nestled under the heavy shade of enormous trees.

This is undoubtedly a significant historical center and museum for the city. Their vision is to have a Lake Oswego that embraces the social, economic, and environmental benefits of historic preservation.

The structure was finished in 1880 and has remained almost unmodified since then.

It is usually open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m.

Address: 40 Wilbur St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

2. Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Tryon Creek State Natural Area is the city of Lake Oswego’s largest green space and one of the largest parks inside a metro area of a city in the United States.

It is also the only Oregon state park within a major metropolitan area.

This 645-acre park lies between Boones Ferry Road and Terwilliger Boulevard in southwest Portland in Multnomah County and northern Lake Oswego in Clackamas County. Also, Tryon Creek runs through it from north to south.

Despite being bordered on all sides by residences and communities, the natural region appears to be utterly alone.

In addition, it is a very quiet and serene nature park equipped with a visitor’s center, decent parking, and an adequate trail map that is lodged between two upscale housing lots. 

The Trails here are also clearly labeled and allow for combinations of pedestrians, cyclists, and equestrians.

As a rule here, dogs must be leashed, and no smoking is allowed anywhere on the trails.

For one thing, the trails themselves are not challenging for an experienced hiker, being generally short (2 miles max), flat, and well maintained.

The elevation gain is nominal, but some stretches seem ideal for 5k and 10k training, given the nature of their loop distances.

It is also densely forested, and it is really beautiful, so you may have a leisurely walk without being bothered by crowds.

The area also has some of Oregon’s and the country’s most popular bicycle trails.

In summary, a visit here will be really nice. Do well to check it out.

Address: 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd, Portland, OR 97219, United States

3. George Rogers Park

In the city of Lake Oswego, George Rogers Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions here.

The 26-acre George Rogers Park is located in Oregon, United States, near the junction of Ladd and South State streets.

Two baseball fields, a soccer field, Willamette River access, a memorial garden area, restrooms, a playground, and two outdoor tennis courts are all available at this park.

The Oregon Iron Company Furnace is also located in the park.

The park is named after George Rogers, a City Councilman, in recognition of his tireless efforts to build and maintain the grounds.

It is located on the Willamette River’s bank and offers a variety of recreational and leisure options, including BBQ tables, sports facilities, and much more.

Also, the park’s historic Iron Furnace, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is particularly popular.

You can kayak here when you need to just get away and refresh. It is also fun to swim, do boat sports and play with your kids here.

A magnificent sandy beach is within a minute’s walk from the furnace and attracts a large number of visitors during the summer.

During the colder months, it’s quieter and people like to feed the ducks. The geese are quite unafraid as well.

In summary, if you’re in the area and haven’t visited, we highly recommend that you check it out.

Address: 611 S State St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

4. Farmers Market in Lake Oswego

The City of Lake Oswego hosts the Lake Oswego Farmer’s Market. Visitors come to this Market to discover the region’s finest products.

The farmers’ market is not only popular with visitors and day-trippers, but it is also a popular shopping destination for locals.

Every Saturday, they can purchase high-quality, fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

This is also a European-style market, with the majority of the produce coming from farms in the city’s surroundings.

The Lake Oswego Farmers open-air market boasts an average of over 80 vendors each week.

There’s certainly something for everyone among the exceptional produce, meats, nuts, cheeses, artisan bread, jams, jellies, baked products, fresh seafood, nursery items, hot dishes, and more.

The Market also has live music every week from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., as well as a Kids’ Corner for the little ones.

It opens mid-May through mid-October, and the market takes place once a week.

Address: 200 1st St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

5. Foothill Park

Foothill Park is a prominent tourist site in Lake Oswego.

It’s a 5-minute walk northeast of Lakewood Bay, near Oswego Pointe.

The park is rather modest, with a total size of approximately 9 acres. However, because it is beautifully kept, it is a pleasant site to visit for relaxation.

It is a really great park, with lots of grass and seatings – both covered and not covered.

While you’re here, be sure to visit the Veteran’s Memorial as well.

There are some cool structures to sunbathe, or you could just take in the views of the river.

You should also seethe William Stafford Stones here. For the best experience, make sure to take the path south along the river and Roehr Park.

One of the reasons this place is unique is clearly because of Its scenic setting along the Willamette River.

In addition, they have everything here from bocce ball courts to large glass areas to play, to water features, a dock where you can go down to the water, and an overlook point that’s covered with a shade sail to view the boats.

Usually, there are kayakers, rowers, and action sports all passing by.

It’s a very large area and always has ample room for parking, which makes it easy and convenient when trying to visit the river

Address: 199 Foothills Rd, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

Planning a road trip outside of Lake Oswego? Why not check out our list of best things to do in Albany, things to do in Beaverton, things to do in Astoria, and things to do in Medford?

6. Portland Oregon Temple Visitors’ Center

The Portland Oregon Temple is an outstanding edifice and one of the most frequented sites in the Lake Oswego area.

This is large because it is one of the most identifiable structures in the metropolitan area of Portland.

Indeed, such beautiful architecture and impressive buildings shouldn’t be missed.

When you’re here, you’ll want a tour so that you can get all the interesting details like the make of the marble walls.

The best time to visit is during the late spring when everything is in bloom and the leaves are on the trees.

You might also hear birds tweeting as you walk around.

The Portland Temple Visitors’ Center, which has been open since 2012, is undoubtedly a must-see.

Also, make sure you explore the surrounding region, which is lushly landscaped.

Address: 13600 Kruse Oaks Blvd, Lake Oswego, OR 97035, United States

7. Oswego Heritage House

The Oswego Heritage Council is one of the most popular locations to visit in the Lake Oswego area.

It is built in an antique traditional historical building around 300 meters north of the lake itself.

Part of the house is used as a museum, so you can learn about Oswego’s culture and history here.

You’ll definitely love the exhibition “children of Oswego” here.

And if you’re lucky enough to get a tour with explanations from Mark, it’s going to be so much better.

He is a staff here and he makes the old stories come alive with all the details they have found out. His enthusiasm is also very contagious.

We highly recommend spending an hour here!

It’s also a nice place for a small gathering.

While you’re here, don’t forget to see the historic rose garden, which is right next to the house.

Address: 398 10th St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

8. Summer concerts series

Every year throughout summer, the City of Lake Oswego hosts dozens of concerts.

As you might think, the majority of them take place in July, particularly around the Fourth of July and the following week.

The Fourth of July is noted for its spectacular celebrations, which include live music, fireworks, and barbeques.

Some of the musicians and artists they’ve had at the concerts in the past include Tom Grant, Satin Love Orchestra, Johnny Limbo and the Lugnuts, and Stone in Love. Yes, there’s also the Beatniks!.

The Beatniks perform songs by the Rolling Stones, Beatles, Steve Miller, Beach Boys, Santana, and other artists. Everyone would definitely be able to find something they enjoy.

Come hang out on the lake and concert grounds with your friends and family. Also, grab a few blankets, drinks, and food!

Address: Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

9. Iron Mountain City Park, Lake Oswego

Don’t miss a visit to Iron Mountain City Park, which runs along the northern edge of the leafy Lakeview-Summit neighborhood.

This is one of the cities of Lake Oswego’s must-see parks. It has a land area of around 69.2 acres.

If you’re traveling with children, you’ll discover a variety of recreation and relaxation options here, including sports facilities, walking trails, and a number of playgrounds.

There is a nice little hike trail here. It is not strenuous, or too short of a trail. It is also a great trail for walking dogs as well.

Overall, this place is a nice little park in the city.

The parking area is really big, in addition to that, the trails are well maintained. Dogs are also allowed, but they have to be on a leash.

After hiking through the trail, you are rewarded with a great view of the mountains at the end of the trail

Finally, if you’re looking for a park, excellent for a calm and relaxing visit, this is the place for you.

Address: Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

10. Rogerson Clematis Garden

The Rogerson Clematis Garden is a botanical garden in Lake Oswego, Oregon, located at Luscher Farm Park.

It is a Nationally Accredited Plant Collection with over 2,000 distinct clematis plants, and it’s housed in a garden, which is around one acre in size.

It is a must-see for flower, tree, and shrubs lovers, with over 700 plants.

This garden is also neatly maintained. It’s quite attractive, nicely accessible, and very enjoyable.

The enticing aroma of the blossoming plants can also be enjoyed here, and the large range of colors and shapes of the blooms will astound and really impress you.

Because of the area’s warm and pleasant climate, plant species from all over the world can be found here.

The Clematis Garden is well-designed, and the free maps and placards make learning more about the various portions of the garden enjoyable. It comes highly recommended!

Address: 125 Rosemont Rd, West Linn, OR 97068, United States

11. Willamette Shore Trolley

Don’t miss a ride on the Willamette Shore Trolley, the area’s most popular tourist attraction.

it is a reproduction of the major trolley system that connected the neighborhood to Portland’s downtown in the past.

The staff and volunteers who keep this trolley running are great, and in addition to that, the restored trolley is in excellent condition.

Also, the ride is smooth, and it runs for the perfect length

Coupled with that, the cart is absolutely authentic, so you will have a fantastic time aboard.

Address: 311 N State St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

12. Lake Oswego Cycle around the Lake

In the Oswego Lake area, there are dozens of cycling routes, some of which are among the best in the country.

However, as touching levels of difficulty, they are all different. Also, in the simplest example, altitude differences are negligible, and ascent or descent is almost non-existent.

The trip is less than 7 miles if you just want to cycle around the lake.

Going on a cycling trip around Lake Oswego is a good method of getting a sense of the surrounding area’s ambiance, and it’s highly suggested, especially if you just have a limited amount of time in the city.

Address: Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

14. Old River Road Pathway

The Old River Road Pathway is a historically significant hiking trail that is also one of the most picturesque in the area.

It stretches for roughly 1.3 miles (about 2 kilometers) south of Oswego Creek and George Rogers City Park, which was once home to Native Americans.

The Old River Road Pathway, which follows the Willamette River’s curves, is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and relaxation.

Besides, the Willamette River’s Old River Road Pathway also provides a lovely route along the river.

The trail begins in lower George Rogers Park and continues up and around the point to Old River Road, crossing the footbridge to the West Linn-Lake Oswego border, the walkway runs between the river and the road.

When the walkway comes to an end, walkers can continue along Old River Road to its connection with Highway 43, which is near Mary S. Young State Park.

You may easily walk the complete course in a single stroll due to its moderate length.

Address: Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

15. Go to Millennium Plaza City Park

The Milenium Plaza City Park is located in the heart of the city managed by the City of Lake Oswego

This is the handiest area to start from and then proceed to wherever you wish to go in the city.

There are various cafes, pubs, restaurants, and lodging options in the vicinity.

There’s a charming little square with a nice view of Lakewood Bay on one side and a shopping/dining village on the other.

It’s also a great place to hang out with friends, walk around, grab a coffee or snack. The restaurants nearby are a bit pricey but guess you pay for the great atmosphere.

This is also a lovely spot to take in the area’s Alpine splendor as well as the nearby thick pine trees.

Because of the wide sidewalks shaded by lovely trees, the city’s center could be readily explored on foot.

There are also many beautiful statues and monuments located in this area!

These structures are just brilliant! When visited on a sunny day, these statues are bursting with life and joy.

When visited on a day with overcast, it is as if these statues mourn throughout the day and into the night.

We would definitely recommend checking out this place if you are in the area. Visit these statues and get a chance to see them up close!

Address: 200 1st St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

16. Lake Oswego Bryant Woods Nature Park

Bryant Palisades Loop is a mile (1.6 km) south of Lake Oswego’s western end.

This is one of the best areas in the city to go for a walk.

It is a great nature park and feels awesome to walk among Mother Nature.

The lovely park reaches a peacefully flowing river, a tributary of the Willamette River, to the south.

The trail is one big loop, so that’s beneficial if you want to take your toddler there. You won’t get lost!

There is a good choice of loops to walk of various lengths. Dogs are welcome.

I’ve seen a rabbit, deer, and other wild animals, which is very enjoyable to behold. With the changing of the seasons, the foliage varies considerably.

The park is densely forested, with meadows of wildflowers filling the spaces between the trees.

Address: 4163 SW Childs Rd, Lake Oswego, OR, United States

17. West Waluga Park

You’ll genuinely love this place! It’s Perfect for families, children, elder people, couples, dogs, you name it!

This park also has an awesome gated dog park, completely fenced off.

Coupled with that; there’s a community dog water bowl for the dogs within the gated dog park.

There is metal gym equipment good for any age group to use to get a nice workout in!.

In addition, there’s also a decent trail that wraps around the whole park and a good-sized playground.

This is definitely a place that is worth visiting.

Address: 15775 Waluga Dr, Lake Oswego, OR, United States

18. Lakewood Center for the Arts

The Lakewood Center for the Arts is located near Lakewood Bay and is only a 5-minute walk from George Rogers City Park.

Home to Lakewood Theatre Company and The Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts, Lakewood Center for the Arts is a non-profit organization with a mission to inspire and nurture a love of theatre and the arts.

The center features two stages for plays and musicals, an on-site art gallery, several rooms for educational classes on visual and performing arts. There’s also an upscale thrift re-sale shop on the grounds.

Every June, the center hosts the Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts.”

It also holds a variety of theater productions, art festivals, and other events.

You will be able to see some of the temporary exhibitions as well as enroll in a course of your choice while you are here.

Visiting the center is a terrific opportunity to get a sense of the city’s rhythm and communal life.

Their shows are very well done and the vocal quality is top of the line.

The theater itself is beautiful and well cared for. Coupled with that, the seats are comfortable and have enough legroom.

We highly recommend paying a visit to this theater.

Address: 368 S State St, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

19. Boat tour, Lake Oswego

Every traveler and day-tripper should take a brief boat tour of Lake Oswego on a boat.

Given that non-residents are not permitted to swim in the lake, even in the swimming area, this is the finest opportunity to have a closer look at the lake.

If you have the opportunity to book a history boat tour, you will have the opportunity to visit some of the area’s most exquisite historical houses from the water.

Because seats are frequently limited, it is advised that you book your small cruise in advance.

Address: Lake Oswego, OR, USA

20. Springbrook City Park

Springbrook City Park is a terrific place to go for a quiet walk alone, with friends, family, or with your dog.

It’s about a half-mile north of Lake Oswego and a short walk from Iron Mountain City Park.

It is a 52-acre urban nature area in the Uplands neighborhood, dedicated to the enjoyment of all residents and visitors to Lake Oswego.

The park is tiny, yet its natural splendor is quite breathtaking.

This beautiful natural forest borders Uplands Elementary and Lake Oswego Junior High School and serves as an outdoor classroom for students.

Because the paths are not paved, it is best to avoid walking on rainy days or bring appropriate footwear.

Overall, it’s a nice wooded area, and it’s good for walking a dog.

However, it’s not big enough to run exclusively through but you can do this and the nearby iron mountain for a decent workout

Address: 2899 SW Diane Dr, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

21. Oswego Lake

The city of Lake Oswego completely surrounds Oswego Lake, which is located in Clackamas County, Oregon.

Despite the fact that the lake is natural, it has been dramatically affected by the concrete dam, which has expanded its size to 431.7 acres.

The official name of the lake is Lake Oswego, and it is classified as a reservoir by the US Geological Survey due to its artificially expanded size.

This lake is commonly referred to as Oswego Lake to separate it from the city.

In recent years, the lake has seen an explosion of algal development, owing in part to phosphorus-rich lawn fertilizer runoff.

Address: Lake Oswego, OR, USA

22. Arts Council of Lake Oswego

Arts Council of Lake Oswego strives to guarantee that the arts are a vital component of the city community’s life now and in the future.

Arts Council of Lake Oswego (ACLO) serves three purposes, which are: To assist the city of Lake Oswego in the placement and preservation of public art, to Provide residents and visitors with access to art shows and to encourage lifelong art learning through educational programs and tours.

They have a lovely display of works by local artisans.

They also have leather products from The House of Rose(THOR), a local designer in Bridgeport Village.

Overall, what you get here is a lovely collection and wonderful folks who are always willing to help with any questions.

Address: 380 A Ave Suite A, Lake Oswego, OR 97034, United States

Final Remark

This city is an amazing place, with lots of exciting and beautiful attractions

A visit here will be well worth your time.

You’re in for a blast!

Happy travels!