Things to do

20 Interesting Things To Do In Baker City Oregon

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Baker City, Oregon is a small town that has great scenery and quite a rich history. Among the most visited places is the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, where the history of pioneers crossing the trail is theorized.

For nature lovers outdoor events are held in Baker City Butte and the Elkhorn Mountains, just a few miles away. With all the events and festivals, the town becomes lively for any time of the year.

So, here is the list of 20 interesting things to do in Barker City, Oregon when visiting.

1. Tour The Baker Heritage Museum

Various treasures are displayed in the Baker Heritage Museum for the visitor like gems, antique tools, and Native American items. Moreover, there is an extensive gathering of fossils and rock pieces which is a great chance for geological enthusiasts.

Family visits to the museum may be both entertaining and instructive because it regularly hosts different events and educational activities. It is also a very good chance to trace some memories and to learn something more about Baker City's history.

2. Hike The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

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For the settlers who walked alongside their wagons on an Oregon Trail during the 1800s. A stop at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center will bring them back into the life they had lived.

Among other things, visitors can also see actual artifacts from the journeys, including wagons and equipment, besides watching films and viewing displays. There are hiking trails in the complex where you can view parts of the old Oregon Trail.

The center is an outstanding place for American history and westward expansion because of its outstanding exhibits and breathtaking views.

3. Try Different Activities At The Elkhorn Crest Trail

Elkhorn Crest Trail is one of the most renowned trails with a vast view of lakes, valleys, and mountains. These 23 miles of trail cut across the ridge of Elkhorn Mountains.

It generally fits well for advanced hikers because of the length of the trail with uneven routes. There are places along it to camp, which makes it a great overnight hiking trip.

Horseback riding and mountain biking are two other activities done on the trail. The Elkhorn Crest Trail is not to be missed by the outdoor enthusiast for great views.

4. Visit Historic Downtown Baker City

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Many of the historic buildings that are so charming in downtown Baker City date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.

There are plenty of local stores, restaurants, and galleries to find. The community comes together when downtown hosts events such as festivals and farmer's markets. It's a great place to take a walk and learn about the history of Baker City.

It is another place no traveler should miss, as Historic Downtown Baker City has another spirit, representing history and culture mixed with the friendly atmosphere of a small township.

5. Discover The Baker County Public Library

The library provides a great deal of audiobooks, films, and books to check out. The facility does have public computers with free internet access connected.

This is a place where adults can enjoy the book club and other resourceful activities, while for kids, entertaining programs such as storytimes and crafts are also available. The library is a quiet, warm facility to read, study, or just relax.

If you want to learn something or just be hunkering down with a good book, the Baker County Public Library is the place to come to.

6. Watch A Show At Eltrym Theater

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The Eltrym Theatre is a nice place to enjoy the latest films, being a classic theatre. It opened in the 1940s and was renovated through the years without losing its classic charm. From new blockbusters to children-friendly productions, such movies could be watched in this theatre. 

The friendly atmosphere, comfortable seating, and casual movie nights make it a great venue. In addition to that, the Eltrym Theater has a snack bar where you can buy drinks, candies, and popcorn.

It's a popular place in Baker City where inhabitants and visitors can enjoy entertainment mingled with history and modern movie-going.

7. Go To Crossroads Carnegie Art Center

The Crossroads Carnegie Art Center is community-driven, offering various exhibitions, seminars, and activities. Based in a former Carnegie Library, the center displays paintings, sculptures, and ceramic pieces by regional and local artists.

It is a place where both art lovers and complete newbies can sink their teeth into a range of creative mediums in a friendly atmosphere. Learning new painting techniques is fun because the center also offers workshops and classes for any age.

8. Stay Overnight At Geiser Grand Hotel

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The Geiser Grand Hotel was one of the most known hotels in Baker City, and it is well-remembered for its beauty in history. 

It is characterized by high ceilings with antique accommodation for guests. It is equally a good hotel both for visitors and locals because it has a restaurant serving fine food. 

It is located in the center of the town, so several restaurants and shops and things to do are within walking distance. With its friendly atmosphere and all the historic character, the Geiser Grand Hotel would make a good choice of accommodations for someone wanting to visit Baker City.

9. Take A Drive At Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

The most spectacular drive is Hells Canyon Scenic Byway offering the beauty of vast valleys, rivers, and mountains.

This is ideal for nature lovers since you can view farms, forests, and wildlife along the route. In addition, there are areas for picnicking, hiking, and picture-taking activities.

The best time to travel is during a favorable weather condition; Baker City experiences hot summers and cold winters, so it would be advisable to check the weather before embarking on the journey.

10. Ski At Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort

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Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort is excellent for outdoor activities, offering summer hiking and mountain biking, while winters permit skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing here. This place seems always beautiful with the picturesque views of the lakes and mountains around.

It is thus recommended to check the weather in Baker City, Oregon when visiting. From classes to equipment rentals, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort meets the needs of both the beginning and experienced travelers.

Regardless of the time of year, the friendly atmosphere and variety of services make Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort a great destination to take in views while staying active.

11. Discover The Leo Adler House Museum

One historic house now acting as a museum is the Leo Adler House Museum. It belonged to Leo Adler, a businessman in this city, and was built in 1912. The wonderfully preserved rooms take one on a tour of living in the early 20th century. 

This museum contains personal belongings, artwork, and furnishings of the Adler family and consists of a series of displays showcasing personal and social times. The house itself is a stunning model of grand early 20th-century architecture.

It is a very valuable resource for anyone wanting to learn about the historic individuals associated with Baker City. The Leo Adler House Museum should be one of those quaint stops for anyone interested in local history and tradition.

12. Visit The Quail Ridge Golf Course

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The Quail Ridge Golf Course makes the golf play one of the nicest and most relaxing things to do. The 18-hole course had some attractive views out to the surrounding mountains and landscape. It has a mix of easy and hard holes, which makes this course good for both beginning and expert golfers.

Additionally, the course has a clubhouse where one can relax after a round or have something to eat. If any changes are going to happen, usually in spring and fall, it is not a bad idea to check the weather forecast of Baker City, Oregon before heading out.

13. Walk By The Chinese Cemetery

The historic landmark was for the Chinese that were immigrated to the area in the late 1800s and worked in the area. The majority of Chinese immigrants flocked to Baker City to find employment on railroads and the mines.

The cemetery's purpose was to provide rest for the deceased. While the bodies were returned to China, this cemetery has remained a big part of Baker City's history.

The site has been left alone so visitors can walk around and learn about the contributions the Chinese made. The Chinese Cemetery is one of the quiet spots in honor of those who helped in shaping the history of the area.

14. Attend The Baker County Fair And Rodeo

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Events happen here annually in Baker City, which makes the Baker County Fair and Rodeo an enjoyable activity among families. There is a rodeo where cowboys and cowgirls take part in high disciplines such as barrel racing and bull riding, among others.

There is plenty else that one can do in the way of games, rides, livestock displays, and so on. And, naturally, the fair includes some of the best BBQ and cotton candy-is available for visitors to munch on.

They can also show off their talents in several skill categories like the crafts, cookery, and gardening competitions. Come and understand the local life, meet nice people, and have all the fun and games.

15. Learn The Art Of Distilling At Glacier 45 Distillery

Glacier 45 Distillery is known for creating handcrafted premium spirits. With raw materials hauled from the local vicinity, the distillery manufactures many varieties of drinks that range from whiskey to gin to vodka.

Visitors can take a guided tour inside the plant to see where the spirits are made and explore the process used for the same. In the tasting room, you can try their products and be able to buy bottles, if you will.

The staff are friendly and enthused about discussing the different flavors and options. Glacier 45 Distillery is ideal for anyone looking for spirits crafted locally and a little, more intimate setting to learn about the art of distilling.

16. Ride The Sumpter Valley Railroad

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The Sumpter Valley Railroad is a historic steam train, that offers beautiful trips across spectacular scenery. It now carries visitors on a pleasurable trip between McEwen and the historic mining town of Sumpter. 

Originally built at the end of the 1800s, it carried gold and lumber. Mountains, forests, and wildlife are some of the sights that are visible along the journey. You will also make a stop at Sumpter Depot, where the Sumpter Valley Dredge can be viewed and the history of gold mining learned.

Enjoy family train excursions that are based on some of Oregon's history. Take the time to enjoy plays of history with the visual beauty only the Sumpter Valley Railroad can give.

17. Shop At Sumpter Depot & Gift Shop

For the Sumpter Valley Railroad, the stop has been made at the Sumpter Depot & Gift Shop. In this small, neat depot and a cute, small building, visitors can learn about the history of the gold mining of this town.

Inside the facility, a gift shop is also available that contains a range of different gifts, including books related to the local area, locally crafted items, and gifts related to the train.

The depot is a favorite among the tourist spots because this is where the Sumpter Valley Railroad embarks and ends its journeys. After a very beautiful ride on the train, visitors can walk around the gift shop and view the souvenirs on sale.

18. Enjoy Homemade Treats At Sweet Wife Bakery

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Sweet Wife Bakery is popularly known because of its newly prepared pastry products. This is one of the top restaurants in Baker City, which includes all types of varieties starting from cakes, pies, and cookies to fresh bread. Their bakery makes everything from scratch with quality ingredients. 

Many customers reviewed their pastries and cinnamon rolls, which are great in taste. It's a nice spot for breakfast or lunch because, other than sweet delights, they serve light fare such as sandwiches and coffee.

19. Have Fun At The Attic Social Club

The Attic Social Club is a relaxed and plush environment in which one can have drinks and mingle. It has been declared famous by many because of its casual, friendly atmosphere with wines, beers, and cocktails available.

It has a casual approach or disposition hence, it is one of the most favored hangout spots for locals and tourists alike. The Attic tends to be quite entertaining for a night's outing since it hosts live music events and gatherings regularly.

With its comfortable seating, this stylish restaurant is ideal for making new acquaintances or catching up with old ones. Be it a quiet drink or a night of revelry that one desires, the Attic Social Club in Baker City stands apart.

20. Enjoy Wine Tasting At Copper Belt Winery

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Copper Belt Winery is a family-owned winery recognized as the producer of the finest wines. It ranges from red, white, and rosés manufactured from grapes grown within the compound. Stop at the tasting room and get a feel of the different types of wines. 

You also get to observe how wine is prepared and packaged. The personnel are amicable and ready at any time to share the history and flavor of the wine with anyone willing to listen.

Accompanied by the wine, one may enjoy it in a relaxed casual environment with fantastic views of the surrounding landscape. Copper Belt Winery is a spot no wine lover touring the region of Baker City should miss, for it caters to them with a taste of the place surrounded by serenity.