Cultural Heritage in Tillamook

Built in the 1890s, Cape Meares Lighthouse guided ships to safety along the rugged Oregon Coast long before GPS was a reality. The Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint offers visitors hiking trails, views of migrating whales, the famous and historic Octopus Tree, Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge, picnic areas, and birdwatching at its finest. The viewpoint is open daily, the lighthouse is open in summer, and has a gift shop.

Located in the historic Maple Leaf school, Latimer Quilt and Textile Center partners with a variety of guilds and groups, including traditional rug hookers, spinners, weavers, quilters and knitters to provide demonstrations and classes. Six exhibits each year feature the work of local and nationally-known artists.

Step back in time to the 1940s and into one of the last remaining World War II blimp hangars. This all-wooden structure is one of the largest in the world. The museum is home to more than 15 aircraft, many wartime artifacts, and interactive exhibits. ‘Hangar B’ is a one-ofa- kind experience for the entire family.

See video…

Founded in 1935 by the Tillamook Pioneer Association, the museum began as one room in the old 1905 county courthouse. Today, the collection has expanded to three floors. The Natural History Room is one of the best collections of birds and animals on the Oregon Coast. Displays include histories of native peoples, the first pioneers, logging and the dairy industry. Special exhibits are regularly displayed, and annual events, such as the Festival of Trees, are popular with locals and visitors.

The first of its kind on the West Coast, the Quilt Trail showcases the heritage of historic barns and buildings throughout Tillamook County with handpainted wooden blocks featuring quilt designs, both traditional and modern. Whether by car or on foot, this selfguided tour is a history of dairy farms and coastal culture. The quilt trail is also a geocache treasure hunt.

Home to famous cheese and ice cream, this visitor center is one of the most popular attractions in Oregon. Upstairs, learn how cheese is made through interactive exhibits, from farm to table. Through large overhead windows, you can watch as cheese is packaged and sent to millions of fans. Open daily.

Are you ready for an adventure in the forest? At the Tillamook Forest Center, you can climb a tower and explore what it’s like to be a fire lookout. See, hear, feel and smell the Tillamook Burn during the Legacy of Fire movie. Stroll onto the Wilson River suspension bridge and explore the hands-on exhibits that show the resilient, dynamic and productive nature of forests.