Tasting is by appointment only at Helvetia Vineyards & Winery the popular local winery, so be sure to get in early if you plan to visit on a holiday. Once here, you will be glad you set it up. Not only do you get to sample some of Oregon's finest wines, including the local staple, Pinot Noir, but the countryside can be breathtaking out here. The tour is interesting, and this winery has a rich history dating back to 1917. Take a bottle home or have it shipped.

Built in 1907, this museum was once the home of prominent citizens of Oregon, Mary Elizabeth Crawford and Harley Stevens. It still contains the original antique furnishings of both the owners and other long passed prominent citizens of this area. The classic foursquare architectural style was popular in the 1910s and '20s so tours through the museum are like taking a trip back in time to the turn of the century.

Covering more than 650 acres, the Jackson Bottom Wetlands is run by a small staff and a large number of wonderful volunteers who help to make the Wetlands a completely free site to visit. The Preserve holds a wide variety of events and programs for the public on a regular basis, and whether you make a trip during one of these events or simply visit for passive recreation you'll be introduced to thousands of waterfowl, deer, otter, beaver and a multitude of other species living in the sanctuary of the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve.

Children and adults can enjoy water slides, wave pools, sand volleyball and more inside this giant building. Conference rooms are also available as well as an onsite cafe, a small retail shop and an outside picnic area under trees and sun. Adults can get away from the hectic swim area and head over to the adult-only hot tub to relax, knowing that lifeguards are always on duty. The lifeguards try to keep two lanes open for lap swimming at all times.

This is an impressive site from almost any vantage point along State Highway 99 East and Interstate 205 near Oregon City. The Willamette River pours more than 40 feet of water over a basaltic ridge built in the 1870s. From certain locations, the falls appear to be completely round, dropping into a hole, while the actual shape is a huge half circle, built to direct traffic around the river. A view from West Linn can be used to watch boats along the river, while the Oregon City side offers frequent turnouts.

Long before he was president of the United States, Herbert Hoover lived here in Oregon. At the age of 11 (in 1885), he moved in with his uncle, Dr. John Henry Minthorn and grew up in this large house, which was restored in the 1950s. Among displays are some of the original furniture and decor. Admission charges vary for adults, seniors and children. Newberg is about a one-hour drive south of Portland.

Milwaukie Museum-this farmhouse and its contents are as they were more than 100 years ago. Half of the house has been rebuilt, while the other half remains in its original form, so it is an interesting look at restoration. Inside you will find lots of old stuff, including washing machines, farm tools and other household items common to history's citizens of Milwaukee, located about 10 miles southeast of Portland. Museum admission is free.

Clackamas County is the 'country' southeast of Portland and offers a lot, ranging from wine and cheese tasting and country fairs to outdoor concerts and rodeos. Truly a taste of Oregon, the attractions include Mt. Hood, the ghost that looms in the distance, and the End of the Trail Interpretive Center, where covered wagons house tales of the pioneers who came to the Northwest. The council has information on all of it and the web site can help you plan your day of fun out here.

Located on the southeast edge of Portland, the chamber offers information on everything. The main attractions of North Clackamas County are the parks and the outdoors. This county is where you will find the entrance to the Springwater Corridor, one of the area's best places for hiking, biking and picnicking. You will also find Mt. Scott, where you can step back and get a good view of Portland's skyline. In addition the county has golf courses, rivers, streams and shopping strip malls.

Come visit McIver State Park whether you haul a trailer or sleep in a tent. Numerous activities to tackle include taking use of the sometimes challenging Columbia River in canoes or kayaks. Alternatives include riding lazily through the scenic trails on horseback or playing a leisurely game of golf. Among some of the occasional events here is an annual Civil Way re-enactment in April, where you are welcome to reserve space ahead for gatherings.