Located in the central portion of the state, Corvallis is home to the acclaimed Oregon State University; translation, it definitely has that energetic college town feel. Quaint and still contemporary, the downtown scene is teeming with restaurants (over 150), bars, and eclectic little shops. Given its convenient location, Corvallis is also a terrific destination for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors. The town itself boasts over 60 miles of trails—hike, bike, jog or hoverboard to your heart’s content. Not to mention it is less than an hour from the ocean.
Oregon State University, home of the Beavers, is a major state university with Division 1 sports in the Pac 12 Conference. The university offers a wide range of activity, from classes to sports to performing arts. The Oregon State baseball team won back-to-back College World Series national titles in 2006 and 2007,
Corvallis is something of a bird paradise. Bird watching enthusiasts from across the country actually come to check out the many exotic species in the region. The William Finley National Wildlife Refuge tends to be a hot spot especially in the warmer months.
Designed with college students in mind, this is definitely a city that is easy to walk. With tons of pedestrian trails both in and around the heart of Corvallis, you have access to everything from restaurants, to art galleries, to wineries.
Corvallis is situated down in the Willamette Valley. This means that upon looking up, you encounter stunning mountain views, including the must-visit Mary’s Peak.
Because it is in a valley, the climate of Corvallis is highly conducive to growing some of the best Pacific Northwestern grapes. With a number of award winning labels, this is the heart of Willamette wine country.
Corvallis is cool in the winter and will even see trace amounts of snow. More often, the city gets winter rain. The highs are typically in the upper-40s.
Spring is a great time to visit just to see one of the country's best college baseball programs in the Oregon State Beavers. By May, the daily highs near 70 degrees and it is much dryer than the winter months. Hotels book up around graduation weekend so be sure to plan accordingly.
Summers are wonderful for exploring the outdoors. It is the dry season and daily highs are in the low-80s. Even though the weather is great, the city slows down a bit with many of the university students leaving for the summer.
Fall can also be a good time to visit. The area has several wine events. Also, the university has plenty of activity, including the Oregon State football games.