Comments for Eye on Oregon

Comment on Darlingtonia Wayside Botanical Garden near Florence by Troy

Troy — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 04:48:37 +0000

A friend told me I had to check out the Darlingtonia Wayside. I was headed down to Florence and stopped in. I was quite surprised. The park is located right off HWY101, a bit north of Florence. Visitors are greeted by a large sign and a path. Following it and you will find a raised wooden pathway that leads you into the ‘garden’ of prehistoric pitcher plants. They are everywhere and make for a very interesting experience. These bog plants lure insects where they eventually fall into the plants digestive juices. While not the most beautiful landscape I have ever seen, the place has a strange appeal. I can’t imagine a kid that wouldn’t love it – insect eating plants and a good length of raised deck “trail” to run one over the swampy area. It isn’t going to take you long to see the entire thing. It is a great quick stop when traveling along the coast – unusual and kind of strange.

Comment on Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport by Troy

Troy — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 04:39:53 +0000

OK – this is a great place. Before the Oregon Coast Aquarium, there was the Hatfield Marine Science Center. I remember spending hours here as a kid checking out the great exhibits and numerous aquariums. Skewed more toward learning and science than strictly a tourist event, the center is a hidden gem in Newport.

Comment on Crystal Wizard in Gleneden Beach by Troy

Troy — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 04:35:10 +0000

A most perfect shop. I started going to the Crystal Wizard years ago when it was located in HWY101 on the north end of Lincoln City. The location is now just south of Salishan. While harder to find, the shop is still great. If you are into all things New Age – this is the place for you. It has a great selection of crystals, books, incense, jewelry, etc. etc. etc.; along with a friendly staff. The shop is nestled into a beautiful setting. I always feel more relaxed after I spend some time there.

Comment on Yaquina Head Lighthouse by moonpie

moonpie — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 21:46:07 +0000

If you’re researching and planning a trip around Oregon by now I’m sure you’ve read about several Lighthouses. Oregon has wonderful ones. A trip to see them all would be great - but if you can only do one or two at a time that’s enough to give you the feel for their pull. This one and the surrounding area/scenery is gorgeous. Allow for time to walk the nearby beach. Oregon is all about the coast, beaches (though not for swimming), lighthouses, seafood… oh see what you’ve done? I’m off and running and wanting to do another trip myself. Sigh.

Comment on The Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport by moonpie

moonpie — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 21:40:20 +0000

You’ve got to do this at least once. Very interesting - also very trippy. With kids, your Sweetie, alone - it doesn’t matter - cruise the aquarium and you’ll come away with a different view of the world. Very cool stuff.

Comment on Portland Japanese Garden by moonpie

moonpie — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 21:36:28 +0000

Oh! Oh! Oh! Please, please, please go. Please. If the gardens don’t render you speechless I’ll reimburse you for your ticket. This is in the middle of a bustling city! Can you imagine creating something like this? Tending it? I didn’t think so. Few could, few do. Other than going to Japan (also recommended!), this is the next best thing. Oh my. Way cool.

Comment on Elkhorn Scenic Byway by moonpie

moonpie — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 21:31:23 +0000

Oh come on! Stop waffling about where you’re going and do this loop. It’s like moving back in time - LOTS to see, do, gosh, there’s something for everybody whether you like to rough it, be pampered, cook over a fire, or fine dine. Very cool, all of this area. Check it out.

Comment on Mt. Angel Oktoberfest by moonpie

moonpie — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 21:26:06 +0000

Mt. Angel is a fun, very scenic little town even when something’s not happening. So add the Oktoberfest and you’ve got a real treat. Great food, drink, people watching….a lovely place to stroll. Go early. Mosey around, eat, eat some more, find a spot to sit and watch. It’s so close yet feels so far. Beautiful!

Comment on Acadia - A New Orleans Bistro in Portland, Oregon by moonpie

moonpie — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:57:09 +0000

Oh. My. God. Are we there yet? Go. Please, just Go. Come to think of it, I’m going to insist my dearest of friends - a Portland local of some reknown (wink, wink) - take me to feast at Acadia at first opportunity. Get ready to wake up and shake up your taste buds. You’ll go back. Guaranteed.

Comment on Paleys Place in Portland Oregon by moonpie

moonpie — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:51:18 +0000

Perfect for a romantic date. Seduction in mind? Here you go. No alterior motives - just want a killer dinner? This is it. Take time to savor each course, and go with an appetite to savor. It’s all about intimacy: with food, your companion, your palate, your surroundings. Indulge.