Oregon is a state that offers more than just stunning landscapes; it’s also filled with charming towns and cultural treasures that are best explored on foot. Whether you’re interested in admiring vibrant murals, solving fun scavenger hunts, or soaking up history in picturesque streets, Oregon delivers engaging walking experiences. We especially like the Walking Tour of Beautiful Silverton Murals, which showcases the state’s vibrant public art scene—an immersive way to enjoy Silverton’s artistic heritage. Plus, these tours are accessible and city-centered, making them ideal for travelers who want authentic local flavor without the hassle of long drives or tours.
Oregon’s walking tours stand out for their diversity: from mural walks that celebrate local artists, to self-guided scavenger hunts in Corvallis and Salem. These experiences cater to different interests and fitness levels, offering both cultural insight and interactive fun. Below, we’ve put together a list of the top three walking tours that blend education, art, and adventure—perfect for making your Oregon trip memorable.
1. Walking Tour of Beautiful Silverton Murals
This self-guided Silverton mural tour features 31 of Oregon’s finest murals all within walking distance in Silverton’s downtown. For just $5 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring this outdoor art gallery. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Silverton’s creative spirit while learning about the stories behind each piece.
What makes this tour special is its accessibility and the free app that guides you through the murals. The app offers both written descriptions and recorded explanations of each artwork, making it easy to follow at your own pace. The murals are painted on various buildings, turning Silverton into an open-air museum. Starting at 220 S Water St, you can easily wander from mural to mural, soaking in the vibrant colors and local talent. The tour is available Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and it’s suitable for all ages and activity levels.
Bottom Line: If you’re a fan of public art and want a relaxed, self-paced experience, this mural tour offers unbeatable value and a genuine taste of Silverton’s artistic community.
$5.00 per person
2. Corvallis Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
For a more interactive exploration, the Corvallis scavenger hunt combines walking with a fun puzzle-solving challenge. Priced at $24.50 per person, it takes around two hours to complete and is perfect for those looking for a playful way to discover the city.
This tour is entirely smartphone-based, allowing you to explore at your own pace along a two-mile route. As you hunt for clues and solve puzzles, you’ll learn about Corvallis’s local landmarks, neighborhoods, and history. The activity is private, meaning only your party will participate, making it great for families, friends, or small groups. Up to six people can join, and there’s no set schedule—so you can take as long as you like to enjoy the experience.
Key highlights include discovering hidden spots, engaging with local architecture, and learning fun facts about the city’s development. It’s ideal for visitors who prefer to explore independently but want a structured, engaging activity. However, since it’s a self-guided hunt, some participants might miss out on live commentary or a guided narrative.
Bottom Line: This scavenger hunt is a fun, budget-friendly way to see Corvallis for those who enjoy puzzles and personal exploration over guided tours.
$24.50 per person
3. Salem Oregon Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
The Salem scavenger hunt offers a lively way to explore Oregon’s capital city at your own pace. For $24.50 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours wandering Salem’s streets with a smartphone guide. This tour emphasizes the city’s historic districts, riverfront views, and cultural landmarks.
Starting in downtown Salem, you’ll explore the Oregon State Capitol grounds, walking past historic monuments and scenic spots like Salem Riverfront Park. The route takes you past notable shops, galleries, and restaurants, giving a well-rounded glimpse of Salem’s character. The self-guided format means you can spend as much or as little time as you like at each stop. It’s particularly suited for those interested in Oregon’s political history, architecture, and lively cityscape.
While there are no reviews yet, the tour’s customizable nature appeals to travelers who prefer independent sightseeing but want a structured route. Plus, with the ability to explore at your own pace, it’s well-suited for families or small groups who enjoy flexibility.
Bottom Line: This scavenger hunt is a flexible, interactive way to learn about Salem’s historic sites and enjoy its scenic parks without the fuss of a guided group.
$24.50 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Picking the best walking tour depends on your interests, budget, and how active you want to be. If you love public art and a relaxed stroll, the Silverton mural tour is hard to beat, offering rich visual experiences for only $5. For a fun, interactive challenge, the Corvallis scavenger hunt provides a playful way to explore at your own pace and is perfect for groups up to six. If your focus is on Oregon’s capital city, history, and scenic parks, the Salem scavenger hunt offers a customizable, self-guided experience.
Consider your fitness level, interests, and how much you’re willing to spend. Self-guided options like the murals and scavenger hunts give you flexibility and affordability, while guided tours (if added later) may offer more background and storytelling. Booking early, especially for popular times or weekends, ensures you won’t miss out.
Final Thoughts
Oregon offers a wide range of walking experiences that cater to different tastes. From the vibrant murals of Silverton to the puzzle-solving fun in Corvallis and Salem, these tours provide a meaningful way to see local sights while staying active. For art lovers, Silverton’s murals are a must-see, while those seeking interactive exploration might prefer the scavenger hunts. For history buffs and city explorers, Salem’s self-guided walk offers a deep dive into the state’s capital.
No matter which tour you choose, preparing ahead and booking early ensures a smooth experience. Each of these options provides a unique perspective on Oregon’s cities—so pick the one that fits your style and get ready to discover this diverse state on foot.