You’ve just finished up your classes for the week and now it's time to feed your soul however you choose to do so. The weekend is a great time to rest and reset or explore all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer! One of the great things about George Fox is its location, which ensures you’ll never run out of things to do on the weekends.

Whether you want to stay within walking distance or take that long drive with your friends, there are plenty of places to go and explore on your days off!

Explore Downtown Newberg

If you’re looking for something to do that’s just a short walk away, you’re in luck! Downtown Newberg has a lot to offer, and you could easily spend a couple of hours exploring. Starting the morning at the coffee shop is one of my favorite things to do on a Saturday, where I maybe get a little homework done and get some coffee with friends! 

Next, I’d highly suggest stopping in the antique shops and boutiques. There are so many things to explore and find. I could spend hours just going through the shelves at the antique stores discovering something new every time. 

For a little rewind that’s good for the soul, stopping into Critter Cabana to hold some puppies is a must! You could spend hours in here if you aren’t careful because these puppies are cute and cuddly and the perfect remedy for a stressful week of school and homework. 

Girls With Coffee

Check Out the Fun Nature Spots 

If you’re looking for a place to relax and take in nature’s beauty, Newberg is home to beautiful views. Bald Peak is the perfect place to watch the sunset to experience some peace and tranquility. Just a 16-minute drive away, this is the perfect spot to visit on your own or with a group of friends. Make sure to bring a hammock!

Just a five-minute drive from campus, Rogers Landing is a beautiful spot to spend some quiet time. If you like fishing, this is a great place to visit. You don’t even need a boat – you can fish right off the dock. If you are looking for some fun in the water, you can rent out kayaks and paddleboards from Hadlock here on campus! 

Lastly, you’ll want to check out Champoeg State Park! Just a 10-minute drive from campus, it gives you the perfect opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle for a day trip or even weekend campout.

The park has access to the river, hammocking, disc golf, kayaking and camping! If you discover you’re missing some of the gear to make this trip happen, stop by Hadlock and they will have everything you need. 

Hiking Shoes

For Our Hikers 

Whether you are looking for a brisk easy hike, or something a little longer and more challenging, the Pacific Northwest has plenty of hiking destinations!

Students backpacking

Some of my favorites include the Trappist Abbey hike just a 15-minute drive from campus, making it the perfect option for a quick day trip. For those of you who want to venture out, I highly suggest checking out God’s Thumb hike, just a 75-minute drive from campus, which will reward you with a view of the coast at the end!

With plenty of hikes to choose from, some awesome ones to consider are: Saddle Mountain, Blue Pool, Multnomah Falls, Drift Creek Falls, Cape Falcon Trail, Latourell Trail and many more! All of these hikes can be found in our guide to “Hiking near Fox.”

Take a Trip to the Coast

Want to make memories with your friends that will last a lifetime? A trip to the coast will surely make for an unforgettable adventure! There are many cities to visit along the Oregon Coast, including Seaside, Newport, Lincoln City, and the most popular among Fox students, Pacific City. Spend a day on the beach having a picnic or making s’mores with your friends!

Bonfire on the beach

A Day Trip to the City

Campus is just 45 minutes from Portland, making it the perfect day trip for a shopping getaway! If you’re looking for something fun and different, stop by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), where they have some spectacular exhibits to enjoy.

If you love reading, Powell’s Books is a must! It is known as the world’s largest independent new and used bookstore, covering an entire block! You’ve had a day full of fun and exploring, so you will definitely need a snack, so stop by the famous Voodoo Doughnuts to try their fun flavors!

The Adventures are Endless

When the week is over and you’re ready for a break from school work, there are plenty of things you can do near campus! Whether you are seeking some peace or want a fun new experience, the adventures are never too far away.

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