Best known as the gateway to Silver Falls State Park, Silverton also gets a major glow-up in the winter.
Family Activities
The Silverton Christmas Market, held outside in The Oregon Garden, is undoubtedly this town’s seasonal main attraction. With more than a million lights, the event brightens up even the dreariest winter night. Sip a hot cocoa or traditional mulled wine while you stroll past the light displays (most paths are ADA-accessible), buy treats and gifts from independent vendors, zoom down a snowless tubing hill and put in a good word with Santa. Pay for entry and parking ahead of time online.
During the day, check out the public Christmas tree in Town Square Park and burn off steam at All Abilities Park or Coolidge McClaine Park. Walk all or a section of the self-guided tour of the town’s murals, many of which celebrate Silverton’s history (silvertonmuralsociety.org). Or take a hike at Silver Falls State Park, which runs a Winter Festival with guided nature hikes, winter-themed crafts and outdoor education most years (free with park entry, $5 per car).
Family Dining
When your crew gets hungry, pick one of the many restaurants along N Water Street. Our picks: People’s Taphouse (wood-fired pies come in mini sizes in case some folks want conventional toppings and others want something more adventurous, like the lemon pizza) and the local favorite Mac’s Place (kid-pleasing pub fare can be leveled-up; think elk burgers and tots with marionberry ketchup).
Where to Stay
The Oregon Garden Resort offers complimentary breakfast, great happy hour bites at the Fireside Lounge and a package that includes admission to the Silverton Christmas Market. Pets are welcome in some rooms. Your furry friends can also sleep with you at the Silverton Inn & Suites, which offers some rooms with kitchenettes and lots of space for families that need to stretch out.
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