We are blessed to have our venue in such a beautiful forestland setting. Vernonia, Oregon is a small logging community in the Pacific Northwest, complete with natural beauty and outdoor activities. If you’re hosting your outdoor wedding at Vernonia Springs, you may want to include local attractions on your wedding website. Consider doing some things as a group after your checkout time, to lengthen your wedding weekend fun! Below is a list of things to do in Vernonia that you and your guests are sure to enjoy.
Historic Mill Pond
While the large body of water on the East side of town is now called “Vernonia Lake”, it was once the log pond for the mill. There is a paved pathway around the lake that makes it easy to ride bikes, jog, or take a walk with the family. This pathway also marks the Vernonia end of the Banks-Vernonia Bike Trail. The pond is regularly stocked with trout, allowing you to spend a quiet afternoon fishing if you choose. If you explore through the grass, you’ll find a few building ruins that remain from the Oregon-American Lumber Co’s mill.
Photo by Chris and Inga — see more photos from their visit here.
Antique Shops
Vernonia’s Main Street is home to a variety of restaurants, service-based businesses, and like any small town – quaint antique shops! Whether you’re looking for something specific or just want to browse through each shop, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. A few options include:
- The Rusty Nail
- Penney Lane Antiques
- Red Door Reclaimed & More
Rails to Trails
Two other things to do in Vernonia are to explore either of the rails to trails options in our town. Rails to Trails is a nation-wide project to give life to unused railroad tracks by converting them into paths for all to enjoy. Whether you are wanting to walk with the family or are planning a bike ride, these trails are great for everyone! If you’re coming from Portland, you’ll find the Banks-Vernonia State Trail which follows Highway 47 South from Banks to Vernonia. On the North side of Highway 47 you’ll find the Crown Zellerbach Trail which goes from Vernonia to Scappoose.
Rock Creek Dam
In the summer months, the City of Vernonia dam’s Rock Creek in the downtown area. This creates a swimming hole, which is one of the kids favorite things to do in Vernonia after school’s out. The dam is typically up by the end of June, weather depending, and stays up through early/mid September. Since the pond at Vernonia Springs is not available for swimming, this is a great option for those wanting to take a dip!
Stub Stewart State Park
L.L. Stub Stewart is a State Park only a few minutes down the road from Vernonia Springs. Throughout the 1,800 acres of the property, it’s a great one-stop-shop for things to do in Vernonia. Spend the day exploring the 30 miles of trails, some of them being horse friendly as well! Or if you prefer some friendly competition, try out the 18-hole disc golf course. Stub Stewart also has RV sites, tent sites, and cabins onsite which makes it a great supplemental accommodation option. Have your wedding party stay in the glamping accommodations at Vernonia Springs with other guests at Stub Stewart.
Other Things to Do in Vernonia
- City Library
- Pioneer Museum
- Grey Dawn Gallery
- Playgrounds
- Variety of Restaurants (Pizza, Mexican, Mediterranean, Brunch and more!)
If you are putting your wedding website together and need other suggestions for your guests, let us know! We’re happy to give you a curated list of things to do in Vernonia or the surrounding areas.
