I love holding photo sessions in Oregon’s wine country! Champoeg State Park is basically my favorite place in the whole darn state because of the incredible backdrop variety, beautiful glowing light, and sweet country feel. So when I invite clients to Champoeg, I know it can be a journey from Hillsboro or Portland for them, and I love encouraging them to enjoy spending some time in wine country after their session. You’re already dressed up, you might as well make a day out of it! I thought I’d share my top five Oregon wine country date ideas. And because I am also living that mom life, I’m of COURSE also sharing a few kid-friendly places you should check out!
This is an adorable spot in downtown Newberg, right in the heart of the historic district. They have a fabulous rotating selection of the best local wines and beers, plus comfy couches and patio seating to people watch!
If you’re looking to grab lunch and a glass of wine or coffee during the afternoon, this is the place to go! It’s a quiet little corner in Dundee that is perfect for relaxing and killing some time before your session.
This is my favorite stop for a quick lunch, especially if my kids are with me. There’s a great play area upstairs that can entertain them even on cold winter days, and downstairs there is a huge tap selection and delicious food!
Wolves & People Farmhouse Brewery
I’m not a beer drinker, but I totally love the vibe at Wolves & People Farmhouse Brewery. It’s in the country at the edge of town, and their brewery tasting room is in a historic barn from 1850. It’s white and bright and just the thing my little country heart is made of. Chill out on their patio seating on a nice day, and if you have kids with you, they’re welcome too!
It can be SO overwhelming to choose a good winery to taste at when you’re in Oregon wine country, and I bet you have a ton of recommendations already! If not though, stop by one of my favorite local spots, Winter’s Hill Estate. I love the low key vibe here, the patio seating, and the incredible views of wine country.
BONUS:
If you’re meeting with me for a family session in wine country and a winery visit isn’t for you, check out my Wanderlust Wednesday blog series! I spend a good chunk of my off time hiking with my kids, and I highlight some of my favorite kid-friendly hikes in and around Yamhill County in this series! Stop off at one for a quick walk on your way home!
I hope this inspired you to spend a little more time out in Oregon wine country! It’s a beautiful spot for family photos or engagement photos, but also, it really is just an incredible place to spend a day exploring! Enjoy these Oregon wine country date ideas, and if you check them out, let me know which one was your favorite in the comments!