2025 VISITORS GUIDE TOP TRAILS ARTS & CULTURE ENTERTAINMENT FOOD & DRINK
JOSH HAVELIND
Welcome to Lincoln City, Oregon Oregon is a special place, and the Coast may be its most beloved region. In the center of the coastline sits Lincoln City, a charming small town featuring stunning natural surroundings, endless outdoor adventures and a vibrant creative culture, all with a steady undercurrent of playful family-friendly fun. Around here, expect the unexpected. Maybe you’ll find the best clam chowder you’ve ever tasted, or encounter a photo-worthy sea lion sculpture near the Pacific Ocean. Sip a craft brew with a view of the bay or attend a colorful Native American powwow. Gaze in awe at a sky full of kites, discover a blown-glass float on a sandy beach, take a guided hike through a protected coastal headland and so much more. Visit and see for yourself — Lincoln City is bound to surprise you.
SEASONAL TRAVEL Fun things to do in every season and all year-round. 4 BIOSPHERE Explore Oregon’s Cascade Head Biosphere Region, a rare and diverse ecosystem that extends south from Cascade Head to encompass 6 miles (9.7 km) of Lincoln City itself. 5 CONTENTS 10 LOCALS’ PICKS Tips about where to play, stay and dine from local experts who share their favorite spots with visitors. 12 BEACHES & OUTDOORS How to enjoy sandy beaches, paddle bays and rivers, hike forests, take a swing, fly through the sky and more. SPOTLIGHT 8 25 Years of Finders Keepers Glass floats created by local artists have been dropped on the beach for over 25 years. Learn how to find your own. Drift Creek Falls Cover photo by Sean Chess 2 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
EAT & DRINK Healthy dining, fresh seafood, craft brews, great brunches and a lively foodcart pod are just some of the offerings. 22 30 SHOPPING From brand names to local shops and antique finds, treasures await shoppers all over town. 36 CULTURE & HERITAGE Lincoln City’s vibrant art scene and glass-art tradition, the enduring cultural contribution of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, and casino and other entertainment. 46 WHERE TO STAY Cozy places to lay your head from romantic stays to family-friendly and petfriendly lodgings, and camping galore. 52 RESOURCES Maps, neighborhoods, transportation and more. Learn about accessible options, how to care for the Coast and stay safe, exciting annual events, and Exploriences. Lincoln City Glass Center EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 3
EXPERIENCE LINCOLN CITY: A YEAR-ROUND COASTAL GETAWAY In Lincoln City, waves crash against rugged cliffs, misty forests meet sandy shores, and 7 miles (11 km) of coastline offer something special to enjoy with each new season. Here’s how to immerse yourself in Lincoln City’s beachside beauty and vibrant culture. FALL Misty Mornings & Serene Beaches As autumn settles in, Lincoln City transforms into a serene, misty wonderland. The summer bustle fades, leaving miles of uncrowded shoreline. Gather around a crackling beach fire or enjoy the annual Fall Kite Festival, where experts and families fly colorful kites. Take advantage of off-season deals on oceanfront hotels, making it the perfect time for a budget-friendly coastal escape. WINTER Nature’s Drama Unfolds Winter in Lincoln City is a spectacle to savor. Each winter is storm-watching season, where you can catch the spectacular king tides — nature’s most dramatic show of high and low tidal swings on the coastline. Watch the dramatic winter weather unfold through your window on a winter getaway. Browse the local bookstores for your next fireside read, or pick up gifts at the holiday- themed Christmas Cottage. Spot migrating gray whales during Winter Whale Watch Week the last week of December, and hunt for treasures at the Lincoln City Retro Expo every February. SPRING New Life & Hidden Treasures As winter recedes, Lincoln City bursts into life. Wildflowers dot the landscape, creating a colorful backdrop for your adventures. Try your hand at clamming, a quintessential Oregon Coast experience. Spring is also prime time for treasure hunters. Keep your eyes peeled Connie Hansen Garden Migratory whale for handblown glass floats placed on the beach by Finders Keepers Float Fairies for visitors to find and keep — your chances of finding one are higher during the off-season. SUMMER Sun-Soaked Adventures While Lincoln City shines year-round, summer brings its own brand of coastal fun. Soak up the sun on bustling beaches, try your hand at kayaking or explore the numerous hiking trails in the area. Don’t forget to check out the city’s major summer events for an extra dose of excitement. Help give back by volunteering for a beach cleanup, or enjoy sand sculptures at the Cascade Head Biosphere Region’s Art on the Beach celebration. FROM LEFT: BOB GIBSON; JOEY HAMILTON / OCVA 4 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
UNESCO CASCADE HEAD BIOSPHERE REGION SEAN CHESS
Did you know? The Oregon silverspot butterfly was once common along the Oregon Coast but is now found in only a few places, including Cascade Head. FROM TOP: COURTESY OF OREGON MARINE RESERVES; COURTESY OF WOODLAND PARK ZOO One of the most wildly beautiful stretches of coastline, Lincoln City is also a world-renowned biodiversity hot spot. The UNESCO Cascade Head Biosphere Region enchants with steep rocky cliffs, densely forested uplands and breathtaking ocean views for miles at Cascade Head, and even extends south over Lincoln City to encompass the built environment. In over 100,000 acres (40,469 ha) of pristine habitat, more than 350 species of wildlife call this ecosystem home. Four federally listed endangered species — the spotted owl, marbled murrelet, coho salmon and Oregon silverspot butterfly — as well as elk, black bears, cougars and bald eagles also roam the reserve. HIKING THE BIOSPHERE You can hike out-and-back trails around Cascade Head — a headland named for the cascades that surge from the cliffs to the ocean — and seek numerous native plants that sprout along trails from wispy EXPLORE OREGON’S ONLY BIOSPHERE REGION red fescue to wild rye. In spring and summer, wildflowers erupt with vibrant colors and include coastal paintbrush, goldenrod, blue violet and streambank lupine. The hairy checkermallow, a rare flower with deep-pink petals, also grows here. Many of the trails wind through swaths of ancient forest, from old-growth stands of Sitka spruce to feathery western hemlocks and towering Douglas fir trees. The Lower Cascade Head Trail weaves through a dense forest before opening up to breathtaking views of a coastal prairie, offering a moderately challenging, year-round adventure starting at Knight Park. Always check for weather-related closures before traveling to trails. CONSERVATION FOR THE FUTURE UNESCO Biosphere Reserves are found globally and focus on local conservation, sustainability and education, as well as the interplay between humans and the environment. While there are 47 Cascade Head Marine Reserve 6 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
dedicated regions in the U.S., only one is in Oregon, established in Lincoln City in 1976. The Cascade Head Marine Reserve was established to protect marine habitats, promote biodiversity and educate visitors. A portion of the biosphere reserve is a protected wildlife sanctuary. At low tide, you can peek into tide pools for anemones and sea stars. You can also spot gray whales migrating throughout the year. When visiting, keep in mind that hunting, camping, fires, bicycles, removal of foliage and dogs are not allowed (even on a leash). ART & NATURE PROGRAMS For an immersive experience, you can join seasonal programs and workshops provided by supporting organizations. The Cascade Head Biosphere Collaborative — in collaboration with Explore Lincoln City — offers naturalist- led hikes that explore the rare flora, fauna and geology of the biosphere reserve, along with current conservation efforts on the Salmon River. It also hosts afternoon and moonlit kayak tours, as well as a 45-minute boat ride around the estuary. You can take a deep dive into art and nature with some of the region’s premier artists. Duncan Berry, an artist who calls the biosphere home, offers seasonal workshops on gyotaku, the traditional art form of Japanese fish printing. The Sitka Center for Art and Ecology explores connections to nature through art with its workshop program that runs May through September. You’ll find over 100 artist-led courses that range from watercolor journaling in the forest to Native American basket weaving and woodworking. The historic Camp Westwind is set on 529 acres (214 ha) in the middle of the biosphere reserve and offers traditional summer camps for youth, teens and families with a range of activities from archery to arts and crafts. In April all are invited to attend a free Earth Day event with conservation talks, walks and other activities. In late autumn, the camp hosts two popular mushroom-foraging camps. Artist Duncan Berry Salmon River Estuary Sitka Center for Art and Ecology CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF DUNCAN BERRY; ALEX JORDAN; JOSH HAVELIND EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 7
One of the wonders of the Oregon Coast is the bounty of vibrant sea life you can spy on beach walks. But in Lincoln City, you’ll find other sea- inspired treasures to seek out on coastal treks. Every year over 3,000 handblown glass floats — all made by regional artists — are hidden by volunteers, known as Float Fairies, along a 7-mile (11-km) stretch of Lincoln City’s sandy beaches from Roads End to Siletz Bay. Finders Keepers, a program of Explore Lincoln City, is an annual treasure hunt that started 25 years ago as a way to ring in the new millennium. The project was inspired by the antique Japanese glass fishing floats that would wash up on Oregon’s shores and were coveted by local beachcombers for generations. Most modern-day fishing floats are made of plastic or aluminum, but regional artists — commissioned by Explore Lincoln City — revived the tradition of creating beautiful glass floats and allowing visitors to find them on the beach. The floats are dropped 365 days a year, unless extreme weather gets in the way. Each one is a singular marvel, handcrafted and signed by a coastal artist with distinct colors and textures — ranging from a metallic finish to multicolored designs that evoke seascapes and sunsets. To find one, head to Lincoln City’s 7 miles (11 km) of public beach, rain or shine, and keep your eyes peeled. If they elude you there, similar glass floats are available in several galleries and shops around town. Even better, you can sign up to make your own with experienced glassblowers at the Lincoln City Glass Center. Finders Keepers Celebrates 25 Years of Glass Treasures Register your float If you find a float, register your treasure and you’ll be mailed a certificate of authenticity and information about the artist who made it. The registration number is located on or near the “button” on the underside. One float per household per year. Visit ExploreLincolnCity.com/Glass-Floats to learn more. NATHAN HOLSTEDT 8 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
TIPS FOR FINDING GLASS FLOATS Start your hunt at public beachaccess points to find floats hidden by Float Fairies all year round. Plan your trip around one of the multiple special drops throughout the year, when Float Fairies scatter hundreds of extra floats. These dates include the opening weekend, which rings in the New Year; the Lincoln City Retro Expo in mid-February, when organizers drop 100 antique Japanese floats; and holidays like Independence Day and Halloween. Find a full list of special drop dates on the website. Look for the glimmer of these glass treasures tucked into visible spaces between the high-tide line and the beach embankment (the bluffs that run along the edge of the beach). Floats are hidden throughout the day, not just once a day, and during daylight hours only. ALEX JORDAN
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Tony Gile, owner of Safari Town Surf Shop, leads popular guided kayak tours for groups or single passengers. Gile and his family can teach you to surf or take you fat-tire bike riding on the beach. Reserve your dates early for the best availability for activities, especially for group trips. When he’s not leading tours, Gile likes to take visitors on the Cascade Head Trail, “one of the most scenic hikes on the West Coast,” he says. “Sometimes you see whales below you and eagles soaring over you — it’s pretty incredible,” Gile says. ENGAGING ART & CULTURE Kelly Howard, a glassblower and co-owner of Lincoln City Glass Center, curates a gallery representing more than 100 artists from Oregon and Washington who create everything and anything glass. Make an appointment to pair up with an artist and design your own glass masterpiece, or just watch glassmaking in the 8,000-square-foot (343-sq-m) space, one of the largest on the West Coast. Walk across the street to Volta Gallery, where you can find glass work by Howard and others. Howard enjoys taking visitors to Beachcrest Brewing Company, which offers live music most nights of the week, and the Siletz Bay Music Festival, held each August. She also recommends independent bookseller Bob’s Beach Books. Hearth & Table NATHAN HOLSTEDT LOCALS’ PICKS Locals know Lincoln City best, and our insiders have shared their favorite spots, from must-try restaurants to art studios where creativity reigns. 10 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
GREAT EATS & DRINKS Danelle Lochrie, one of the culinary masterminds behind wood-fired pizza restaurant Hearth & Table, offers the following spots to check out: Otis Cafe is home of legendary all-day breakfasts and baked goods, including the famous German potatoes. Located in the Lincoln City Outlets, breakfasts and lunches at Salt can’t be beat; linger to browse photography, furniture, hats and more. Kyllo’s has been a local favorite for more than 30 years, offering a laid-back dining experience with stunning ocean views and an outdoor deck. If there’s a wait, enjoy a stroll along the beach until your table is ready. The Rook & Larder food cart has a menu focused on local seafood and produce. Savor a juicy burger and a creamy milkshake at Hwy 101 Burger. TRIBAL HERITAGE & EVENTS Alfred “Bud” Lane III, vice chair of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, recommends visitors check out the full calendar of events — including concerts and exhibits — at the Lincoln City Cultural Center. For more local lore, stop by the North Lincoln County Historical Museum. The galleries showcase the cultural heritage, traditional practices and enduring presence of Native communities in the region, as well as how the area changed with European settlement. The Chinook Winds Casino Resort, owned and operated by the Siletz tribe, is a mustvisit destination for gaming and more. “I usually take friends and family to the casino for dinner or events like shows,” he says. “It’s near really beautiful areas like the beach and the Siletz River.” For natural beauty and to connect with the area’s tribal heritage, try Devils Lake and the Devils Lake State Recreation Area. Golfers can tee off at the tribeowned Chinook Winds Golf Resort, just a five-minute drive from the casino and part of the resort complex. Bob’s Beach Books North Lincoln County Historical Museum Salt CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: NATHAN HOLSTEDT; SHANNON WEISS PHOTOGRAPHY; NATHAN HOLSTEDT; ALEX JORDAN EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 11
CODY CHA
BEACHES & OUTDOORS From oceanfront adventures to open-space hikes
SUMMER & FALL KITE FESTIVALS Lincoln City’s reliable winds and mild weather make it the perfect place to host two vibrant kite festivals each year. The summer and fall Lincoln City Kite Festivals brighten the skies every June and September, dazzling attendees with dozens of colorful kites floating overhead on the beaches. Some gigantic inflatable kites have been hand-crafted by professional kite flyers to resemble whales, octopuses and other creative designs, while other aerodynamic racing kites have curves and streamers, designed for fast choreographed performances. In addition to a full weekend of performances led by professional kite fliers from all over the world, you’ll enjoy kite-making workshops, carnival games, demonstrations and other fun activities. TIMOTHY REED 14 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
BUILD A BEACH FIRE Beach bonfires are a cherished tradition in Lincoln City; huddle around to bask in a colorful sunset and admire starry night skies over the ocean. Before buying supplies and firewood from a nearby grocery store, check local regulations to see whether fires are permitted during your visit. If so, dig a pit that covers most of your fire, limit your fire’s size to about 2 feet by 2 feet (0.6 m by 0.6 m), keep your distance from beach grass and driftwood, and always build on dry sand to avoid incoming tides. When it’s time to head home, douse your fire with plenty of water until it is cool enough to touch. Never cover a fire with sand, which can create hazards for others. TIDE-POOL EXPLORATION As the tide recedes from the Lincoln City shoreline every day, it leaves behind shallow pools in rocky outcroppings called tide pools. These tiny ponds offer the chance to encounter marine wildlife like sea stars and anemones in their natural element. Enjoy these activities just north of Roads End State Recreation Site, near the ocean’s edge at the Northwest 15th Street beach-access point, and in front of the Inn at Spanish Head. Consult a tide table — typically available at local businesses and visitor centers — so you’ll know when to expect low tides. Take care to admire the sea creatures, but don’t touch, and watch your footing as you make your way across the rocks so as not to injure the animals or their habitat. As always, never turn your back on the ocean — watch for dangerous sneaker waves. BEACH FIRE: CODY CHA EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 15
CASCADE HEAD Hit the trail on a hike that takes you deep into old-growth forests and to the summit of a wide-open coastal headland. Just north of Lincoln City, Cascade Head sits within Oregon’s only UNESCO Biosphere Region — and is home to a 5-mile (8-km) round-trip trail that ascends nearly 1,200 feet (366 m), heads through meadows covered with summertime wildflowers and arrives at a wide-open summit. From the top, you’ll look down on the Salmon River Estuary, enjoy broader Pacific Ocean views, and possibly even spy elk and deer. DRIFT CREEK FALLS The 75-foot-tall (23-m) Drift Creek Falls tumbles over a shelf of columnar basalt in the Oregon Coast Range. That dynamic display, coupled with its close proximity to Lincoln City, makes the hike one of the area’s top outdoor adventures. A 4.5-mile (7.2-km) round-trip trail — featuring about 570 feet (174 m) of elevation gain — cuts through a quiet forest of Douglas fir and Sitka spruce. After crossing a 240-foot (73-m) suspension bridge, you’ll arrive at the base of the waterfall, which reaches its roaring peak in spring. Did you know? There are 738 biosphere regions in 134 countries across the globe, which serve as learning places for sustainable development. FROM TOP: ALEX JORDAN; CODY CHA 16 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
OPEN SPACE TRAILS & PARKS Agnes Creek This is a popular spot to view wildlife. Look for a variety of birds amidst a moss-covered forest of Sitka spruce and western hemlock. Cutler City Wetlands At the southern edge of Lincoln City, the Cutler City Wetlands trail heads through marshland and past massive ferns and rhododendron blooms every spring. The Knoll For more of a challenge, pay a visit to The Knoll. The headland, reached via Lincoln City is rightfully proud of its 15 parks and trails. Its eight Open Space Trails include short hikes, mostly 1 to 2 miles (1.6 to 3.2 km) in length, and are managed by Lincoln City Parks & Recreation. These trails are easily accessible, in town, mostly flat and typically (on-leash) dog-friendly. Explore these and more trails with the Explore Lincoln City Hiking Trails Passport. Download the mobile app to learn more about the natural wonders in and near town. a 3-mile (4.8-km) trail, affords sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Devils Lake, the Coast mountain range and all of Lincoln City. Spring Lake A compact network of trails — passing by the shore of a small forest lake — this area is home to great blue herons all year long. Spyglass Ridge This is a lush woodland hike through 73 acres (30 ha) of open space with a moderate incline. Did you know? Thrasher Magazine once billed the Kirtsis Park skate park as the “gnarliest“ skate park in America. Even the legendary Tony Hawk has dropped in. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: NATHAN HOLSTEDT; PHILIP BURNETT; ALEX JORDAN Agnes Creek Spring Lake EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 17
DEVILS LAKE Around Lincoln City, you’ll enjoy plenty of aquatic fun away from the Coast — including the calm waters at Devils Lake. Bring your kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard to the boat launch at East Devils Lake State Park, where you’ll paddle through wetlands; head past stands of Douglas fir; and may spy bald eagles, snowy plovers and other native birds. Pitch a tent or park your RV at Devils Lake State Recreation Area. The campground hosts dozens of tent and full-hookup sites, as well as 10 yurts — five of which are pet-friendly and two of which are wheelchair-accessible. Regatta Park sits on the western shore of Devils Lake and offers fun for kids and kids at heart. Get on the water with an on-site boat ramp; cast a line for rainbow trout, bass and panfish from the park’s fishing dock; and admire a 400-year-old Sitka spruce tree along the Regatta Open Space Trail. SURFING & PADDLING From catching some waves in the open ocean to paddling calm waters in a coastal forest, you’ll find aquatic opportunities of all kinds around Lincoln City. You’ll find several surf spots that cater to various skill levels, though it’s particularly well-suited to intermediate and advanced surfers who can handle the often powerful waves and cold water. Check out rentals, purchase gear and sign up for lessons at Lincoln City Surf Shop, Safari Town Surf Shop, and ZuhG Life Surf Shop. Kayakers get an up-close look at the iconic Four Brothers rock formation after setting out from Josephine Young Memorial Park in Siletz Bay. Also in town, Devils Lake sits protected from Lincoln City’s regular winds and hosts a few boat ramps in the midst of a quiet forest. Just north of town, paddlers can head out of Knight Park into the Salmon River Estuary, where you can paddle alongside seals, salmon and elk in the Cascade Head Biosphere Region. Kayak tours and rentals are available from Safari Town Surf Shop and the Salmon River Wooden Kayak Company. Did you know? Devils Lake is connected to the Pacific Ocean by the “World’s Shortest River,” D River. FROM TOP: CODY CHA; JARETT JUAREZ 18 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
SILETZ BAY Separated from the Pacific Ocean by Salishan Spit, Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers a memorable introduction to Siletz Bay’s natural wonders. Enjoy a ramble on the flat Alder Island Nature Trail, which visits marshlands, mudflats, meadows and forests in just 1 mile (1.6 km) round-trip. Siletz Bay Park At the northern edge of its namesake inlet, Siletz Bay Park’s warm waters and gentle waves make it a fun place for families to swim on summer afternoons. After you dry off, enjoy lunch on the driftwood logs that routinely wash ashore, or head down to the beach to try clamming. Josephine Young Memorial Park Roughly halfway between the refuge and the family-friendly Siletz Bay Park sits Josephine Young Memorial Park, whose shady picnic area amongst a grove of coastal shore pines provides a dreamy getaway into nature. From the park’s viewing platform, watch for western sandpipers, brown pelicans and other shorebirds. 101 101 SILETZ BAY PARK JOSEPHINE YOUNG MEMORIAL PARK SILETZ BAY DEVILS LAKE CODY CHA EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 19
FAT-TIRE BIKING Lincoln City is home to more than 7 miles (11.2 km) of sandy beaches that provide the perfect backdrop for fat-tire biking. Rugged fat-tire bikes come equipped with extra-wide tires that won’t sink into wet sand and offer traction on all kinds of terrain. Start by renting your bike or signing up for a guided tour through the family-owned Safari Town Surf Shop. From there, begin your ride at the mostly flat Roads End State Recreation Site or the bustling Taft Waterfront Park at the northern edge of Siletz Bay. Then enjoy the salty air whipping through your hair, the ocean waves at your side, gulls soaring overhead and craggy headlands on the horizon. GOLFING Spend a day on the links at one of two golf courses around Lincoln City. In northern Lincoln City, the 18-hole Chinook Winds Golf Resort heads through old-growth forests, passes wetlands and offers enough water features to keep even the most experienced golfers guessing. At the southern edge of Siletz Bay, Salishan Golf Links works its natural surroundings into 18 exciting holes. You’ll play fast-moving fairways that afford occasional ocean views, navigate strategically placed sand traps, and wind through a towering forest of spruce and fir. FROM TOP; NATHAN HOLSTEDT; SALISHAN COASTAL LODGE 20 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
SALISHAN AERIAL PARK Take your trip to new heights at the Aerial Park at Salishan Coastal Lodge. The fun includes a pair of 400-foot (122-meter) zip lines, 18 platforms and a multitude of course layouts that deliver high-speed thrills in the midst of an old-growth forest of Sitka spruce. Did you know? Salishan Coastal Lodge also has hiking trails and an indoor pool. THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 21
Pelican Brewing Company at Siletz Bay PELICAN BREWING COMPANY
EAT & DRINK Culinary masterpieces, great views and casual gathering spots
Kyllo’s Chinook’s Seafood Grill Barnacle Bill’s Seafood Market There’s a good reason Kyllo’s has occupied a prominent Lincoln City perch for 40 years. Since the family-owned institution sits atop pilings directly over the sand, you’re guaranteed good views of waves and sunsets. But the fresh seafood — local rockfish tucked into tacos, Willapa Bay clams and Dungeness crab — is what keeps people coming back. There’s not a bad seat in the dining room, though if you’ve somehow tired of gazing at the ocean, snag a bar table next to the charmingly short D River. For flaky fried fish, including locally caught halibut and lingcod when available, try Squatchsami food truck in The Marketplace at Salishan. Fish and chips are served with tangy housemade sauces and sea-salt fries. You can’t go wrong if you upgrade to rosemary fries or add on a side of creamy slaw. There may be an abundance of fresh seafood in Lincoln City, but it’s harder to find crustaceans served as a boil. Fortunately, Chinook’s Seafood Grill has dedicated an entire section of its menu to this one-pot meal. Scallops, lobster tail and clams are all protein options, but if you opt for the classic boil, it comes with three: steamers, shrimp and Dungeness crab. The near constant crowd outside Barnacle Bill’s Seafood Market & Annex is a sure sign that the little white cinder-block building has some of the freshest catches around. The takeaway business proudly advertises it hasn’t changed a thing since opening in 1949, which means you’re paying in cash. But you’ll also find robust slabs of wild chinook salmon that have been smoked to perfection on locally sourced alder. SEAFOOD Did you know? You can catch your own dinner from the shoreline or unearth it from the mud flats at low tide. CODY CHA (3); CLAMS: NATHAN HOLSTEDT Learn more about dining in Lincoln City. 24 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
Originally inspired by the London chophouses of the late 17th century, Oshen’s Chophouse masterfully cooks thick cuts of meat while encouraging customers to indulge in slow, European-style dining. Locally sourced dry-aged steaks, including a showstopping bone-in tomahawk, may be what the kitchen is best known for; however, recent menu additions include everything from flaky pan-seared rockfish to linguini primavera to prawn giardino in a pomodoro sauce, inspired by a version the chef’s nonna used to make. Most every room at the Inn at Spanish Head boasts an ocean view, including one of the public women’s bathrooms. But the best vantage point from which to admire the Pacific might just be at Fathoms Penthouse Restaurant & Bar, Fathoms Penthouse Restaurant & Bar DATE-NIGHT DINING located on the 10th floor. The menu is divided into two main categories, “Oceans” and “Farms,” to help steer you toward fresh Yaquina Bay oysters and steamed lobster tails or grass-fed filet mignon. Either way you go, any meal here pairs well with a local pinot noir and that panoramic view. If the thrill of date night is enhanced by gaming fun, then Chinook Winds Casino Resort should be your go-to Lincoln City stop. Take your winnings to the second floor, where Rogue River Steakhouse and its nearly 180-degree view of the Pacific awaits. The standout meal is the Siletz Duet, where you get not one but two hyperlocal entrees — elk medallions with marionberry chutney and grilled salmon coated in a silky pesto- cream sauce. COURTESY OF FATHOMS PENTHOUSE RESTAURANT & BAR EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 25
CULINARY HIGHLIGHTS The flickering soul of Hearth & Table is reflected in the first half of the bistro’s name. A massive Forno Bravo wood-fired oven not only immediately catches your eye, it’s the kitchen’s workhorse, pumping out most of the dishes that grace your table. That includes appetizers like a rosemary-infused baked brie as well as 10 varieties of blistered-crust pizza finished with Oregon-made olive oil. The spacious, high-ceilinged dining room at the Side Door Cafe devotes an entire wall to heirloom baking pans — a charming addition to the historic building. The food coming out of the kitchen is of the highest caliber, including Marcona almondcrusted salmon, chargrilled rib eyes and a bouillabaisse brimming with Northwest steamers, oysters and prawns. Enjoy a handcrafted cocktail for happy hour, or a relaxing date night where burger lovers will be just as happy as diners who enjoy Dungeness crab cakes and pink shrimp Louis salads. Half the fun of eating at a food-cart pod is building a wild buffet of entrees you’d never be able to find on the menu at one restaurant. The Pines Dine, Lincoln City’s first collection of kitchens on wheels, allows customers to ping-pong from souvlaki to smoked-meat sandwiches to Nepalese-style dumplings all in the same sitting. Picnic tables abound, but don’t bypass the pod’s permanent structure, Vin & Bräu, a beer-and-wine bar with an open, elegant ambiance inside. FIND YOUR SWEET SPOT Whether you need a morning jolt of energy in the form of a marionberry bear claw or a sugary midafternoon snack — cookies, doughnuts, sticky buns and more — Depoe Baykery has you covered. Owner and baker Ray Degele has overseen the ovens for more than a decade and racked up plenty of awards in the process. Don’t miss the eclairs or the locally famous Depoe Dongs. Yes, you can buy chocolate frogs at The Chocolate Frog, a question that’s sure to cross the mind of any visitor. Just like the rest of its dark, milk and white confections — haystacks, s’mores bark, truffles and more — those candied amphibians are handmade on-site with chocolate imported from Switzerland. Saltwater taffy and the Oregon Coast have been synonymous for decades. That’s thanks, in part, to Read’s Homemade Candies, which has been producing its own taffy for more than 60 years — the only shop in Lincoln City that continues to do so. You can watch the candymakers pulling sugary batches on an antique machine before stocking up on caramels and chocolates. Depoe Baykery Hearth & Table FROM LEFT: ALEX JORDAN; COURTESY OF HEARTH & TABLE 26 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
COFFEE SHOPS & DINERS Salt Part cafe, part boutique, Salt is a departure from the typical outlet-mall experience. A hip environment leads customers past displays of jewelry and clothing to the back, where you’ll find the counter to order breakfast burritos and bagel sandwiches, as well as yogurt or açaí bowls. If you’re in the mood for a boozy brunch, Salt’s bartenders can whip up a mimosa, too. Located in the Nelscott strip, Left Coast Coffee Co. sells coffee and espresso using its exquisite, freshly roasted beans. You can also purchase a bag to take home or just start your day off right with classic coffee specialties like cappuccinos and lattes. Otis Cafe, the little diner with a big heart, opened in Lincoln City’s Taft neighborhood in 2021 following a destructive fire at the original inland location. Today customers eagerly pack tables at the new spot, which is more than double the size. Any classic breakfast will fill you up for the better part of a day, including the signature original German potatoes: hand-shredded spuds flecked with green onions and smothered in Tillamook white cheddar — a lumberjack-worthy dish. Plenty of coastal restaurants seat customers in front of the ocean, but few immerse you in the quiet beauty of a coniferous forest. In fact, a meal at The Wildflower Grill almost feels like stepping into a Brothers Grimm tale, since it’s a converted cottage on the edge of the woods. While at the beach, it’s hard to bypass Wildflower’s Benedict, where the traditional ham is swapped out for local crab. Colorful plates come out of the kitchen at Nelscott Breakfast House, including sunny eggs Benedicts; huevos rancheros showered in green onion, avocado and bell pepper; and beignets with strawberry garnishes. This is also home of the French toast flight — one Texas, one almond-cornflake coated, one crusted in oats — which should fuel anyone for a day on the beach. ALEX JORDAN (2) EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 27
To add the chance to win prizes to your Lincoln City pub crawl, download the free passport app on Explore Lincoln City’s website, and check in at all the stops on the Tap & Brew Trail, a selfguided exploration of Lincoln City’s brewing culture. In 2022 the highly decorated Pelican Brewing Company opened its first pub in Lincoln City right on Siletz Bay. The stunning interiors feature cedar walls and ceilings and a warming fireplace. Take a Kiwanda cream ale or a velvety Tsunami stout to the 2,600-square-foot (242-sq-m) deck, where all are welcome to enjoy the Adirondack chairs facing the inlet — a perfect place to take in a sunset. When Beachcrest Brewing Company opened five years ago, it kicked off the revival of the The Marketplace at Salishan. The original taproom has grown into a full-on pub with vibrant tikithemed art, a wood-fired pizza oven and a bigger brewhouse to meet demand for beers like the tropical-sweet Siletz Bay Hazy IPA. Don’t miss trivia night. Two things are guaranteed at Rusty Truck Brewing every weekend: rollicking live music in the neon-lit, dollar-bill-lined bar in the evenings and a DIY bloody Mary bar the next morning. But also make time for the Moonlight Ride blackberry ale, a tribute to Oregon’s wild berry. Snug Harbor Bar and Grill is the kind of dive that immediately makes you feel like a regular. The drinks are stiff, conversations flow naturally and there is a semi-secret multilevel patio out back. No wonder it’s the oldest continuously operating bar on the Oregon Coast. Shuckers Oyster Bar is about as nautical-themed as you can get, from the collection of wooden ships and glass floats to the life-size, hook-handed pirate statue. Sure, the bar serves burgers and sandwiches, but everyone comes here for oysters: a plate of perfectly shucked raw ones or cooked in various ways, including pan-fried or sauteed in wine. Old Oregon Saloon is a laid-back watering hole with felt-topped poker tables, billiards and some of the cheapest craft-beer pints around. The dive frequently hosts events for locals, so don’t be surprised if you are welcomed as a guest at someone’s 60th birthday party or potluck. BREWPUBS & FAVORITE BARS Did you know? Beachcrest and Pelican have six-packs you can take home. Beachcrest Brewing Company Pelican Brewing Company at Siletz Bay CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ALEX JORDAN; COURTESY OF PELICAN BREWING COMPANY; NATHAN HOLSTEDT 28 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
HEALTHY EATS El Torito Meat Market Lincoln City has plenty of fresh, healthy options. Cooking at your vacation rental? Stock up on fresh organic produce, wild-caught salmon and organic chicken that’s been raised humanely at Trillium Natural Foods, which has supplied Lincoln City with a wide range of fresh foods since 1973. You’ll also find a large supply of goods sold in bulk, including herbs, nuts and grains. El Torito Meat Market offers fresh cuts of meat alongside groceries and Mexican imports. Every Sunday from May to October, you’ll find booths at the Lincoln City Cultural Center. The variety of vendors at Lincoln City Sunday Market makes hunting for fresh food all the more fun because you’re just as likely to stumble across a piece of ocean-inspired art or a tie-dyed shirt as you are to find produce harvested from a Willamette Valley farm. Other offerings could range from jars of raw honey to Guatemalan tamales and fresh-fruit cups. On Fridays and Saturdays (weather permitting) in-season, the parking lot at The Marketplace at Salishan turns into the Artisan Faire, where you’ll find more crafts from sculptures to wooden spoons. Farmstands sell baskets piled high with tomatoes, strawberries and peaches, depending on what’s ripe. You can also score packaged homemade foods like salsas, jams and pickles. The event typically gets underway on Mother’s Day weekend and wraps in October. EXPLORE LINCOLN CITY EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 29
Ginger Roots ALEX JORDAN
SHOPPING Find the perfect treasure at these unforgettable shops.
Scout Northwest Trading Co. LINCOLN CITY OUTLETS Bargains abound at Lincoln City Outlets, home to more than 50 shops ranging from major name-brand stores to independent retailers. Score great deals on outdoor apparel from Oregon brands such as Nike, Columbia Sportswear and Pendleton, as well as The North Face, all great places to pick up all the gear you need for an outdoor adventure on the Coast. There are also wonderful local makers and unique souvenirs at smaller shops. Scout Northwest Trading Co. offers on-site axe- and knife-throwing sessions to add to your shopping trip for outdoor gear and leather goods. Ginger Roots is a family-owned boutique with gifts galore from greeting cards and leather-bound journals to coffee mugs, decorative cushions and bath accessories. Look for wind chimes crafted from beach glass. The North Face FROM TOP: NATHAN HOLSTEDT; ALEX JORDAN 32 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
Learn more about shopping in Lincoln City. ANTIQUES Lincoln City has long been a hot spot for antique shopping, and not just during the annual Lincoln City Retro Expo, which brings scores of treasure seekers to this part of the Coast every February. Not Just Another Little Antique Mall is anything but little; it’s the largest antique mall on the Oregon Coast, with over 80 different dealers selling everything from collectibles to elegant furnishings, all in one sprawling space. Spread across two stories, Rocking Horse Mall has a range of vendors all under one roof. Familyowned Coastal Treasures sells antique and secondhand wares plus a selection of handmade gifts created by local artisans. On the southern end of the city, Streetcar Village is a shopping complex dedicated almost entirely to old finds, from the vintage clothing and wares at Second Hand Chic to the sparkling crystals and agates at Visions Rock Shop. Left Coast Antiques stocks an expertly curated selection of furniture, artwork and fine jewelry; while The Second Coming stocks vintage and antique homewares, toys and ephemera. North by Northwest Books and Antiques focuses on secondhand books and antique medical paraphernalia. TIMOTHY REED EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 33
Lincoln City has tons of great local shops selling everything from handcrafted gift items to books and records. Pick up your own kite after one of the annual kite festivals at Winddriven, which specializes not just in kites but in all things wind-driven, from fanciful metal garden-art pieces that spin in the breeze to decorative windsocks and flags. For a special gift, make your way to Mossy Creek Pottery, a beautiful farmhouse gallery and shop that has been showcasing the masterful creations of Oregon potters since it opened in 1973. Crystals, candles, tarot card decks and incense burners summon visitors to Tah·Lume Curiosities and Gifts in the Nelscott District. This little shop also stocks a wide array of art pieces that range from vintage floral prints to whimsical sculptures of mushrooms and gnomes. Pick up a good beach read or a collectible tome at Robert’s Bookshop. This labyrinthine bookstore is filled to the brim with secondhand books on topics ranging from beekeeping to aviation along with trading cards, DVDs and comics. Music lovers, especially those with a fondness for records, shouldn’t miss Output Records, which stocks a huge selection of vinyl pressings along with new and used turntables, DJ gear, and music-themed apparel and home goods. LOCAL SHOPS Did you know? Christmas Cottage in the Nelscott District celebrated its 50th year in business in 2024. Mossy Creek Pottery Robert’s Bookshop Tah·Lume MOSSY CREEK POTTERY: ALEX JORDAN 34 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
Just beyond Lincoln City, near the southern shores of Siletz Bay, The Marketplace at Salishan is well worth a visit, even if you aren’t staying at Salishan Lodge across the street. For apparel that’s as cozy as it is chic, check out Searenity Boutique, where you’ll find a wide selection of women’s clothes and accessories ranging from oversize sweatshirts — ideal for chilly beach days — to handcrafted earrings inspired by the colors of a coastal sunset. Pick up rugged outdoor apparel that will keep you warm and comfy as you explore the Oregon Coast at the Adventure Collective. Hot items include durable trousers with lots of pockets that are The Marketplace at Salishan THE MARKETPLACE AT SALISHAN designed specifically for outdoor use, along with cotton hoodies and jogging pants emblazoned with evergreen trees. Children will find plenty of fun and excitement at Hopscotch Toys, an independently owned purveyor of fun that focuses on creativity-boosting toys for kids big and small. It’s a great spot to pick up an arts-and-crafts kit, a rainy-day board game or a new plush toy to add to your collection. For handcrafted treasures and local produce, visit on a Friday or Saturday between Mother’s Day weekend and the end of October, when the Artisan Faire at Salishan Marketplace takes place (weather permitting). COURTESY OF MARKETPLACE AT SALISHAN EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 35
Lincoln City Pride Festival NATHAN HOLSTEDT
CULTURE & HERITAGE Arts, Indigenous culture and nightlife
GLASS ART Lincoln City has long been lauded for its glass-arts scene. Every year thousands of visitors uncover locally blown glass floats that have been strategically hidden on area beaches as part of the city’s beloved Finders Keepers program. However, you don’t need to set foot on the sand to see — or even take home — beautiful glass art, as there are plenty of glass-art galleries and workshops that are open to all. In the Historic Taft District, the Lincoln City Glass Center is a great place to start. Here you can watch artists at work on the torch, blowing beautiful, colorful pieces in open sight for all who stop by. For an even more immersive experience, you can sign up for a glassblowing workshop, which will enable you to create a glass float, heart, candleholder, fluted bowl or paperweight under the tutelage of an expert instructor. There’s also a spacious gallery featuring art from glassblowers from across the region, from pendants to delicate lotus flowers crafted by Lincoln City Glass Center’s co-owner and in-house artist, Kelly Howard. Just across the street from the Lincoln City Glass Center, Volta Gallery is a multidisciplinary studio featuring pieces by artists working in a variety of media, from photography to ceramics. There’s a dedicated glass-sale room where you can browse — or purchase — vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces for your home. There’s also a large assortment of locally made jewelry, much of which is crafted in silver, available for purchase. Did you know? A collection of historic glass fishing floats are displayed at the North Lincoln County Historical Museum. Alder House Lincoln City Glass Center FROM LEFT: JEREMY BURKE / OCVA; TIMOTHY REED; JEREMY BURKE / OCVA 38 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
A block south of the center, Mor Art is an art school that focuses on a different type of glass artisanry: fused glass. Students of all levels, from complete beginners to experienced glassworkers, are welcome at this hands-on studio school. Sign up for a one-on-one intensive course or join a group class and learn how to make a colorful coaster, bowl, light cover, or even a backsplash, all under the guidance of a professional glass artisan. If you want to design your own piece of glass art but don’t feel ready to get behind the torch yourself, head to the Alder House, a working studio set on a lovely patch of farmland just south of Siletz Bay. It’s the oldest glassblowing studio in Oregon and a great place to learn about the intricacies of glass art from some of the area’s most passionate glass artists. Even if you don’t have a commission in mind, you’re welcome to stop in (at no cost) and watch glassblowers in action. Note that the Alder House is only open from May through the end of October. A 10-minute drive down the road from the Alder House, on the banks of the Siletz River, ThornMeadow Glassworks is part glass-art gallery, part educational institute. Stop by to pick up beautiful pieces for your home, from decorative pieces infused with Oregon Coast sand to handblown seashells, or sign up for a private class and learn how to make your own multihued float, paperweight or wine glass. Alder House EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 39
ART GALLERIES Although glass arts often take center stage in Lincoln City, there are local artists working in a wide range of media, from painting and photography to sculpture and mosaic arts. The Pacific Artists’ Co-op Gallery is an artist-owned-and-operated gallery showcasing the works of 25 celebrated local artists, many of whom draw their inspiration from the oceanic world around them. The gallery is open to the public seven days a week, though the best time to visit is during one of its quarterly art receptions, when member artists provide live demonstrations. The Freed Gallery is another top stop for art lovers in Lincoln City and showcases the works of over 90 artists from the Northwest and beyond. Don’t miss the display of wind-powered kinetic sculptures by artist Lyman Whitaker on display in the gallery’s garden. It’s not all glass art at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, where many arts coexist. The Fiber Arts Studio Gallery offers exhibits on fiber creations from rope weaving to quilts, as well as fashion and basketry. Housed in a former schoolhouse on the same campus, the PJ Chessman Gallery presents 12 art shows annually, focusing on local and regional artists. Ceramicists of all levels are welcome to get their hands dirty at Studio 3, a clay studio with potter’s wheels and plenty of space for throwing pots or attending a mosaic workshop. Art education is the main focus at the Artists’ Studio Association, a nonprofit organization that offers workshops on topics ranging from mixed media to creating art with pastels and pencils. Open studios in media such as mosaic arts, painting and drawing are free to members, and some have instructors on hand to guide artists. Did you know? Local artist Ben Soeby’s wood paintings can be found at art galleries and shops around town, including ZuhG Life Surf Shop and Scout Northwest. Lyman Whitaker sculptures at Freed Gallery Painting by Beth Capen at Pacific Artists’ Co-op Gallery CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF FREED GALLERY; COURTESY OF PACIFIC ARTISTS’ CO-OP GALLERY; NATHAN HOLSTEDT 40 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
LINCOLN CITY ART TRAIL A great way to explore Lincoln City’s vibrant art scene at your own pace is by using the digital Lincoln City Art Trail Passport, which highlights over 30 public art pieces. Download the free app to your mobile phone to head out on a self-guided “artventure” of your own choosing. Murals brighten up buildings and plazas around town. Visit Justin Sparks’ series of undersea murals on Northeast 22nd Street and the emeraldine dragon guarding the Sapphire Center. The city’s beloved kites are celebrated in the new “Magic of the Lincoln City Kite Festival” mural on the exterior of McKay’s Market. Must-see sculptures include Gary the Octopus — a massive cephalopod at the Lincoln City Cultural Center — and Joe the Sea Lion, who has taken up residence at the Southwest 35th Street beach-access point. Friends of the Forest, a massive wood sculpture created by local arborist turned artist James Lukinich, is also worth visiting. Mosaics on the trail include the colorful creations of artist Sharon Wiggins inviting viewers to enjoy “Look What I Found” and “Beach Treasures,” both located on Northwest 17th Street. “Blue Night on Siletz Bay” is an intricate mosaic created by Lawrence Adrian, the director of the Oregon Coast Children’s Theatre. See more at ExploreLincolnCity.com/ Art-Trail. Art Trail Passport Scan for more info about the Lincoln City Art trail passport. Gary the Octopus by Dreamland Skateparks “Magic of the Lincoln City Kite Festival” mural by Jeremy Nichols and Blaine Fontana ZuhG Life ground mural by Bryan Nichols ZUHG LIFE GROUND MURAL: BRANDON SHELTON EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 41
INDIGENOUS HERITAGE Did you know? You can learn about the early days of Lincoln City and its surroundings at the North Lincoln County Historical Museum. COURTESY OF THE CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF SILETZ INDIANS Feather Dance Lincoln City and the surrounding area is part of the ancestral homeland of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. We celebrate this vibrant and resilient Indigenous heritage. When visiting Lincoln City, take some time to learn about these communities that continue to steward the land and shape the culture of this area. The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is the most diverse confederation of Native Americans on a single reservation in the United States. It is composed of more than 30 bands and tribes, including the Clatsop, Chinook, Tillamook, Lower Umpqua and Shasta. These tribes speak 10 completely different languages, each with multiple dialects, and have a combined ancestral territory of over 20 million acres (8.1 million ha) in Western Oregon, Northern California and Southwestern Washington. Despite these differences, the varying Siletz tribes shared many cultural values and practices before the arrival of Europeans. They traveled by canoe, passed down their history through oral traditions, revered sacred sites, fished, hunted and gathered plant foods from the rich natural environment around them. They were skilled basket makers, canoe carvers and architects, and they continue to be so today. The Siletz people have faced relentless and brutal oppression over the past 250 years. In 1856 they were forced onto the 1.1-million-acre (445,000 ha) Coast Indian Reservation on the Central Oregon Coast. Nearly 900,000 acres (364,000 ha) of that land was unlawfully seized from them over the following decades. The community was simultaneously devastated by starvation, violence, exposure, depression, disease and boarding-school abuse. In 1954 the U.S. federal government “terminated” the tribe, stripping it of its federally recognized status. This was part of a nationwide series of terminations that aimed to assimilate Native Americans into mainstream society and strip them of their traditional cultures and communities. After termination, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians lost their sovereign government, as well as their remaining resources and land. 42 EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM
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