11 TOP Things to Do in Tillamook, Oregon

Tillamook isn’t just about cheese—though we won’t lie, the cheese is reason enough to stop. This little coastal town is surrounded by wild ocean views, dense forests, and laid-back places to eat, hike, and wander.

If you’re passing through on a coast road trip or staying for a few days, here are our favorite things to do in Tillamook, Oregon!

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1. Wander Through Downtown Tillamook

Tillamook’s downtown isn’t huge, but it has a few gems that make it worth exploring. You’ll find fun mural-covered buildings, a few shops, a couple of low-key cafés, a theater, and more!

It’s a solid spot to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and get a feel for the local pace before heading out to the trails or the beach.

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2. Check Out the Three Graces Tide Pools

These three massive sea stacks sit just off the 101 and are best viewed from a tucked-away beach down by the railroad tracks.

You’ll need to walk along the tracks for a bit, then duck onto a small trail to reach the tidepool area.

On a clear day, it’s incredibly scenic—and if you time it right, the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad might rumble by in the background. Expect sea birds, seaweed, and lots of rock-hopping.

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3. Stroll Kilchis Point Reserve

This is a peaceful, forested trail just minutes from town. The path is flat and graveled, making it perfect for all ages and fitness levels.

Along the way, you’ll find interpretive signs about the area’s Native history and pioneer past, plus benches for soaking in the surroundings.

At the end, there’s a bay overlook—if the tide’s in, you’ll get nice water views; if it’s out, expect a muddy flatland with a vibe all its own. Either way, it’s a great nature fix.

READ MORE: 7 Tillamook State Forest Hikes to Tackle

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4. Visit the Iconic Tillamook Creamery

Yes, it’s a tourist stop—but it’s done well. The Tillamook Creamery offers a self-guided tour where you can watch the cheesemaking process from above, learn how everything works, and finish off with some cheese samples and ice cream!

Lactose-intolerant people need not apply; it’s all about the dairy up in here! Or you can be like Garrett and eat it anyway and pay for it later…

The massive shop is part deli, part merch explosion, and part local food hall. But let’s be real—you’re here for the ice cream.

Lines can look long, but they move fast. We waited about 10 minutes and got four scoops in a waffle cone. Totally worth it.

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5. Chow Down and Grab a Pint

We devoured some excellent fish and chips (plus award-winning chowder) at the Old Oregon Smokehouse, a casual spot known for doing seafood right.

Afterward, head to de Garde Brewing, where they specialize in wild-fermented ales aged in barrels. It’s a funky, farmhouse-style brewery with some truly unique beers—and a great place to chill after a day of exploring.

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6. Stop by the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum

Located in a historic courthouse building, this small-town museum covers everything from the region’s Indigenous tribes to pioneer settlement and logging history.

It was closed when we stopped by, but it’s worth checking hours if you’re into quirky collections and local storytelling.

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7. Relax at Carnahan Park

This small park sits along the Tillamook River and is perfect for a quiet break. There’s a kayak put-in, picnic tables, and easy access to the water.

You likely won’t run into crowds here—it’s one of those peaceful, local-use parks that’s great for a breather during a full day of sightseeing.

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8. Get Up Close to a Giant Plane at the Tillamook Air Museum

This place is hard to miss—it’s housed inside a massive WWII-era blimp hangar, one of the largest wooden structures in the world. The highlight outside?

The Guppy, a bulbous transport plane that’s just as weird as it sounds. There’s a staircase that leads you into the fuselage for a peek inside. Even if you just peek at everything from the outside, it’s worth a drive-by.

Can you see Lucy (or VW Bus) in comparison with the plane in size?! She’s a crumb!

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9. Cruise Sand Lake Recreation Area

If you’re into adrenaline, Sand Lake delivers. It’s a popular spot for OHVs (off-highway vehicles), with rolling dunes that stretch for miles.

Even if you’re not planning to rent an ATV, it’s fun to watch the action or walk along the edges for some windswept coastal views.

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10. Drive the Three Capes Scenic Loop

Just south of Tillamook, this loop is one of Oregon’s most beautiful coastal drives.

It winds past Cape Meares (with a lighthouse and cliffside views), Cape Lookout (with long coastal trails), and Cape Kiwanda (where sandboarding and surfing rule).

Each cape offers something a little different, and the loop as a whole is a top-tier day trip from town.

READ MORE: Three Capes Scenic Route on The Oregon Coast

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11. Hike to Munson Creek Falls

This easy half-mile out-and-back trail leads through lush, mossy forest to one of the tallest waterfalls in the Coast Range.

The gravel road to get there is a little rough, but any car should manage (unless you’re absurdly low to the ground).

The trail follows a creek, surrounded by giant ferns and old-growth trees, and ends at a viewing area set back from the base of the falls.

You’ll catch glimpses along the way, but the final view is the one you came for.

READ MORE: Munson Creek Falls—A Cool Oregon Coast Waterfall

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Final Thoughts on Tillamook

Tillamook blends big draws like the Creamery with low-key trails, hidden beaches, and coastal charm. Whether you’re staying for the weekend or just pulling off Highway 101, it’s easy to fill your day with good views, good eats, and good cheese.

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