Visiting Eastern Oregon

Eastern Oregon captivates travelers with its eclectic beauty, from John Day's color rich painted hills to the depths of Hell's Canyon. The peaks of the Wallowas and crags of Steens Mountain, provide a beautiful back drop to the wheat fields of the Columbia River Plateau. Ontario, an eastern gateway to Oregon sits close to the Idaho state line off interstate 84. Ontario is appropriately tagged with the moniker - the city where Oregon begins. Rich in history,Eastern Oregon is the land of Lewis and Clark, Chief Joseph and the Oregon Trail.

Ontario, quite appropriately celebrates the diversity of Oregon's heritage and the famous Oregon Trail in June, hosting America's Global Village Festival. Featuring a parade and main stage, the festival showcases cultural villages with native foods, arts and crafts. Each village will hold a kid's activity, making this a terrific family festival, featuring fun in the context of Oregon's history.

Enterprise in the northeast corner of Oregon is surrounded by the natural beauty of pine forest, the Wallowa Mountains and Wallowa Lake. An outdoor enthusiasts wonderland, residents take full advantage of their surroundings, and welcome visitors to do likewise. The Best Western Rama Inn and Suites in Enterprise is a perfect home base to discover northwestern Oregon.

The 28th Wallowa Valley Festival of Arts, in June, is held in Joseph less than 10 miles from Enterprise. With a vibrant arts community and loyal following, the festival showcases works from local to national artists. This is an excellent opportunity to find high quality, one of a kind pieces at great values. Enterprise Arts and Crafts Fair Celebrate Enterprise, an equally entertaining festival is held in July.

Pendleton to the north, famous as the original home for Pendleton Woolen Mills, is proud of its western heritage. 2010 is the 100th anniversary of the Pendleton Round-Up, a showcase for western and cowboy culture. Held in September, the round-up features a world-class rodeo, parades, concerts and shows. This is the event to show the family what a real rodeo is like.

Need something to do before the kids go back to school? The Umatilla County Fair is held in August. The fair is held in Hermiston at the fairgrounds, and is a classic event for family fun and entertainment. Complete with 4-H exhibits and judging, local livestock and agriculture, carnival and top notch performers, everyone will be happy.

Travelers to Pendleton and Hermiston have several Best Western Hotels to choose from. The Best Western Pendleton Inn, the Best Western Hermiston Inn and the Best Western Rama Inn and Suites in La Grande are convenient to the region and I-84. Whether you are traveling through or visiting one of the exciting sites or events in the area, make sure to rest-up and rejuvenate at Best Western Hotels.