Nestled in the midst of the Coast Range, the area surrounding Tillamook has been designated as a state forest. Avid hikers and mountain bikers enjoy the more challenging paths, such as the Wilson River Trail, while anyone will appreciate the easily-accessible yet often overlooked beauty of Munson Creek Falls State Park. Both of these trails, as well as many others, are within half an hour of downtown Tillamook. For those who enjoy a sandier kind of trail, beautiful beaches are just fifteen minutes away in Oceanside and Netarts. And of course, any visitor to Tillamook should spend an afternoon taking the Three Capes Scenic Drive , which offers a loop of panoramic views along the coast and a winding path through the pastoral farmland back to town.

When it comes to dining and shopping, Tillamook has more options than any town within an hour's drive. From an unexpectedly delicious roadside taco stand, to an upscale fish house, to the ubiquitous coast-town pizza place, Tillamook has a little something for everyone (including a supermarket). Yet for these seeking a bit of solitude, the small coastal towns within a half hour of Tillamook offer plenty of laid-back charm (including Oceanside, Netarts, and Rockaway Beach, just to name a few).

Only 75 miles from Portland, Tillamook makes an excellent gateway to the Oregon Coast. The tourist hubs of Cannon Beach and Seaside are approximately an hour north, and the casinos and shopping at Lincoln City are an hour south. In between lies some of the most beautiful coastline in the state, ranging from wide sandy beaches to rugged cliffs and crashing waves.

And then, of course, there's the cheese.