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St Helens, Oregon: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – Best Places to Visit and Things to Do

October is the month when the whole of this town turns itself right into Halloweentown itself. The Spirit of Halloweentown festival runs the full month of it out there, every single year. Summer out here is the river, the kayaking and all of the fishing that goes on out there. The library is air-conditioned for when the whole Oregon heat out here properly gets going. October.

Are you planning a trip to St. Helens, Oregon and wondering what to do? This is where to start. This town, set in the curve of the Columbia River, covers a lot of ground. Time outdoors, art and antiques, history and heritage, food and drink, shopping, or the local events, St. Helens runs all of it.

One of the things this town is known for is being the filming location for the film Halloweentown. If you follow the film, come during the Spirit of Halloweentown festival in October and watch the town turn itself into the world of the film. But even if the film means nothing to you, St. Helens runs plenty else. Take the historic Columbia Theatre, restored to what it was and now running live performances and film screenings.

If you want to be outside, you will take to how close St. Helens sits to the Columbia River and the forests around it. Put a boat on the river, fish or kayak, or work the hiking trails and drives in the area. And when you are ready to stop, head back into town for food and drink, or work the local shops and galleries. With this much on, St. Helens holds a trip together properly.

Key Takeaways

• St. Helens, Oregon has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to art and antiques.
• Fans of the movie Halloweentown can visit during the Spirit of Halloweentown festival in October.
• St. Helens is the perfect destination for a fun and memorable getaway, with plenty of activities and attractions to explore.

Discovering St. Helens, Oregon

Welcome to St. Helens, Oregon, a town along the Columbia River. This place carries history and character, with plenty to do and plenty to see.

One of the strongest ways to work St. Helens is a walk through the Olde Towne Historic District. This area runs historic buildings, the Columbia County Courthouse and St. Helens City Hall among them. The years come off you as you work the streets and take it in.

If you want to be outside, head to Columbia View Park. This park sits right on the river and opens the water and the mountains out in front of you. You can also eat outdoors, put the children on the playground, or cool off in the small splash park.

For the local flavour, head to the Klondike Tavern. This restaurant sits in the former St. Helens Hotel and has been serving food since 1910. The building is also said to be haunted by friendly ghosts, so keep your eyes up.

And no trip to St. Helens is finished without the Old Theater. This historic building appeared in the film “Halloweentown” and is now where the visitors go. You can also take a film or a show while you are there.

So what are you waiting for? Come and take what St. Helens, Oregon runs.

Halloweentown and Movie Magic

You have probably heard of the Disney Channel film “Halloweentown.” Did you know it was actually shot in St. Helens, Oregon? This small city about 30 minutes north of Portland in Columbia County, looking out over the Columbia River, is where all of it was made.

If you follow the film, you will want the Spirit of Halloweentown festival in St. Helens. This month-long festival runs every October and marks everything Halloween and everything Halloweentown. You get the sign, the City Hall plaza, and the big pumpkin they put in front of it, straight out of the film.

But the festival is not only Halloweentown. You also get haunted tours, a mystery manor, magic shows, costume contests and more. And if you follow the “Twilight” series, the festival also runs self-guided walking tours covering film locations for both “Halloweentown” and “Twilight.”

One of the strongest parts of the festival is the Haunted Hotel Haunted House. This one is not for everybody, so come ready to be frightened properly. But if you go in, what you get out of it stays with you.

And no festival is finished without a gift shop. The official gift shop and dark market at the Spirit of Halloweentown festival is where to pick up souvenirs to carry home. You will find everything from t-shirts to pumpkin spice-scented candles to witch hats.

So if you want Halloween done properly, head to St. Helens, Oregon and get into the spirit of Halloweentown. And you may run into some of the film’s characters while you are there.

Outdoor Adventures

St. Helens is a small town that runs serious ground outdoors. Seasoned walker or simply somebody after a day out, both are covered.

First, the parks. Columbia View Park works for eating outdoors or a game of frisbee. But if you want something rougher, Grey Cliffs Park runs hiking trails that will cost you something and pay it back at the top. Just wear shoes that grip and carry plenty of water.

If you want to be on the water, the Columbia River is the answer. You can rent a kayak or a boat and give the day to the river. And if you fish, the river runs salmon and steelhead. Just get your fishing license first.

And no trip to St. Helens is finished without Mt. St. Helens. You cannot walk to the summit, but there are plenty of trails that open the volcano out in front of you. And if you time it, you may see wildlife on the way.

If you want somewhere nobody sends you, check out Warrior Rock Lighthouse. This historic lighthouse is only reachable by boat, but it earns the trip. The years come off you as you work the lighthouse and the ground around it.

So St. Helens runs plenty outdoors at any level. A slow lunch in the park or a walk that costs you something, both are here. So grab your hiking boots, pack a lunch, and get out into it.

Art and Antiques

You are not an antique, but you like them. You also follow art, which puts you in the right place in St. Helens, Oregon. There are plenty of places here for both.

First is the 2Cs Vendor Mall. This place is a trove of antiques and collectibles, and there is treasure in it. You can find everything from vintage clothing to old records to furniture. You never know what turns up, so it earns the walk. And it is air-conditioned, so you can work it through the heat.

If you follow art, check out the displays at the Columbia Center for the Arts. They run work from local artists, so you get a sense of what the area actually produces. And you may come out with something.

The other strong spot for art is the Olde Towne Art Gallery. They run a rotating selection of work from local artists, so there is always something new. And they run classes and workshops if you want to make something yourself.

And if you want something you will not get elsewhere, head to the 2Cs. Not the vendor mall this time, but the 2Cs Paint and Sip Studio. You make your own piece with a glass of wine in hand. It is how to spend an evening with friends or family.

So antiques or art, or both, St. Helens runs plenty.

History and Heritage

You may be surprised to learn that St. Helens carries a history going back to the Lewis and Clark expedition in 1805, and it runs deep. The city was named after Mount St. Helens, the volcano over in Washington.

The St. Helens Courthouse is one of the buildings this city is known by. Built in 1926, it was originally a courthouse and jail. Today it runs as a museum and event space. You can tour the building and work the history of the city and the courthouse together.

The other historic building in St. Helens is the Pythian Building. Built in 1904, it was originally a meeting hall for the Knights of Pythias. Today it holds a range of businesses and is where the visitors go.

If you want to work the eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980, head to the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center. Here you can watch a film about the eruption and work the science behind volcanoes.

St. Helens City Hall is another historic building worth the walk. Built in 1928, it was originally a city hall and police station. Today it holds the city’s administrative offices and is where to work the city’s government and its past.

So St. Helens carries a history and a heritage that go deep and are worth working. From the Lewis and Clark expedition to the eruption of Mount St. Helens, there is plenty to take in this city.

Food and Drink

You cannot hold a trip together without good food and drink, and St. Helens delivers on both. A quick stop or a long meal, you will find plenty here.

If you’re looking for a wine bar, check out The Vault. This cozy spot is housed in a historic bank building and features an impressive selection of local and international wines. Sip on a glass of pinot noir while you nibble on artisanal cheeses and charcuterie.

For some finger-licking good BBQ, Smokin’ J’s BBQ is the place to be. This family-owned joint serves up slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, as well as classic sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw. Don’t forget to try their homemade BBQ sauce – it’s the perfect blend of sweet and tangy.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, head to Dockside Steak & Pasta. This waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of the Columbia River and a menu of mouth-watering steaks, seafood, and Italian specialties. Start off with the crab-stuffed mushrooms or the calamari, and then dive into a juicy ribeye or a plate of fettuccine alfredo.

And if you’re just looking for a quick bite, you can’t go wrong with Dari-Delish. This old-fashioned walk-up burger stand serves up classic burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes that will take you back to the good old days. Plus, the prices can’t be beat.

Whatever you are after, St. Helens runs it. So go on, take a little more than you meant to. You have earned it.

The Disney film Halloweentown was shot right here, and this town has run with it. The sign, the City Hall plaza and the big pumpkin are all straight from the film. There are the haunted tours, a mystery manor and the costume contests. There is a walking tour for the Twilight locations as well as that. And there is an official gift shop selling pumpkin spice candles.

Shopping and Retail

You might not think of St. Helens as a shopping town, but the range of retail in this small place will surprise you. Souvenirs you will not see twice or everyday things, you will find plenty here.

First is Top Notch Thrift Store. This place is one nobody sends you to, running quality stock at prices that will not hurt. You never know what turns up, from vintage clothing to antique furniture to knick-knacks nobody else has. Do not let the plain exterior fool you, because this thrift store is exactly what the name says.

If you want something smarter, check out the local boutiques. These shops run a carefully chosen selection of clothing, accessories and home goods, built on quality rather than volume. You may pay more, but the finds and the service earn it.

And no shopping trip is finished without the reviews. St. Helens runs plenty of online resources to help you decide. From Yelp to Google to Facebook, you can read what other shoppers found before you walk into a store.

On prices, you will find a range depending on where you shop. Some stores run deals that will not hurt, while others aim higher. But whatever your range, you will find something that fits your budget and your style.

And on how the shopping actually feels. St. Helens does not run the malls or department stores of bigger cities, but that does not mean the shopping is any worse. Plenty of local shops sit in historic buildings, with architectural detail and rooms you want to stay in. And you will often find staff who know the stock and will help you find what you came for.

So bargain hunter or somebody who follows clothes, St. Helens runs plenty of shopping to work. Just bring the willingness and your wallet, because you never know what turns up.

Accommodation and Stay

The great question of every trip is where to sleep. St. Helens has that covered with accommodation worth taking. From inns to hotels, it is all here.

Start with the Best Western Oak Meadows Inn. This hotel works for a slow few days. With the Columbia River in front of it, comfortable rooms and staff who will look after you, you settle in fast. And if you time it, you may catch sight of Bigfoot. Probably not, but it is still a strong place to stay.

If you want somewhere you will not get elsewhere, check out the St. Helens Hotel. This historic hotel has stood since 1890 and has been restored properly. With its Victorian architecture and antique furnishings, the years come off you. And you may meet a ghost or two. They are friendly.

If you are watching the money, check out the Best Motel. This motel sits right in the heart of St. Helens and runs comfortable rooms at a price that will not hurt. And it is a short walk from everything in town.

Wherever you stay, the time in St. Helens will hold. So pack your bags, book your room, and get out here.

Local Events and Festivities

St. Helens works all year round, and it also runs events and festivities. Music, activities, or simply a good few days, there is always something on in this town.

One of the events people take most in St. Helens is the annual “Cornhole Tournament.” This event pulls players from across the state, and it is how to spend a Saturday afternoon. The tournament runs in an outdoor venue, and there is plenty to eat and drink. And if you are not playing, you can still turn up and shout for somebody.

If you want something on the spiritual side, take the Sunday School and Worship Service at one of the churches in town. St. Helens is known for its open hearts, open minds and open doors, and you will be taken in.

And if you want music, St. Helens has that covered. There are plenty of local bands and musicians playing across the venues in town. You can take live music with a cold beer or a glass of wine in hand.

And if you are feeling generous, volunteer at one of the events and festivals in town. St. Helens is a tight-knit community, and volunteers are always taken in. You can help with setup, cleanup, or simply wherever a hand is needed.

So St. Helens is a town that knows how to run. From cornhole tournaments to worship services, this place covers everybody. So come down and take the character of it for yourself.

Books and Libraries

You might not think of books and libraries as the strongest thing to do in St Helens, but they hold up. The St Helens Public Library is where to give a wet afternoon, with shelves of books waiting to be worked. And it is air-conditioned, which matters through an Oregon summer.

If you read, the St Helens Public Library will hold you. They run everything from classic literature to the newest releases, and the librarians will find you the next one. And they run a strong selection of audiobooks and e-books, so you can take the reading with you.

But the library is not only for readers. They also run a strong selection of DVDs and Blu-rays, so you can catch up on a TV series or take a film. And if you make things, they run a strong selection of crafting books and magazines.

And if you want something with people in it, the library also runs events and programmes through the year. From book clubs to writing workshops to film nights, there is always something on at the St Helens Public Library.

So do not walk past the library when you are planning St Helens. It may surprise you.

Parks and Recreation

St. Helens may be a small town, but it runs hard. With parks and outdoor ground across it, there is always something to do in this community.

If you want to stretch your legs and take some air, check out McCormick Park. This green space covers everybody, from playgrounds for the children to horseshoe pits for the adults. And if you want a run at something, walk over to Sand Island. This piece of ground in the middle of the Columbia River is reachable by boat or footbridge, and it works for eating outdoors or a game of frisbee.

For rougher ground, head over to the nearby Scappoose Bay Marine Park. This natural area runs over 500 acres of forest, wetlands and waterfront, which makes it where to hike, fish or kayak. And if you time it, you may see the park’s own wildlife, bald eagles, river otters and beavers among them.

So a quiet afternoon in the park or a hard day on the water, St. Helens covers both. Get out there and take the country this town runs.

Travel Tips and Reviews

You have decided to come to St. Helens, Oregon and take what it runs. Here is what to know before you go.

Listen to the Travelers

Before you go, make sure to check out what other travelers have to say on popular review sites like TripAdvisor. You’ll find tons of helpful tips and reviews from people who have already been there and done that. You can also see the popularity of different attractions and activities, so you can plan your itinerary accordingly.

Price Matters

St. Helens works if you are watching the money. Plenty of the strongest things to do cost nothing or close to it, working the town’s parks and the riverfront among them. You will also find accommodation and food that will not hurt. But if you want the smart version, you will have to go deeper into your wallet.

Get Ready to Have Fun

St. Helens is known for its fun and quirky attractions, like the Spirit of Halloweentown festival and the Columbia View Park splash park. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just young at heart, there’s something for everyone in St. Helens.

Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously

St. Helens runs at an easy pace and the people will talk to you, so do not be afraid to let go a bit. Take ridiculous photographs at the Spirit of Halloweentown, try your hand at fishing in the river, or simply sit with the country in front of you. The strongest trips are the ones where you stop worrying about how you look.

So St. Helens, Oregon works at any age and any budget. Listen to what other travellers found, weigh what things cost, take the town’s willingness to be silly, and stop taking yourself seriously, and the trip will stay with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Halloweentown in St Helens, Oregon?

Halloweentown is a serious matter in St Helens. Every year the town turns itself over to it, with haunted houses, pumpkin patches and a parade. It earns the trip for anybody who follows Halloween. But be warned, because it gets busy, so plan around that.

Are there any good restaurants in St Helens, Oregon?

Yes. St Helens may be a small town, but the food holds up. If you want pizza, head over to Mama’s Pizza. For classic American, check out Dockside Steak & Pasta. And if you want something smarter, take the Gables at the Green.

What are some fun things to do in St Helens, Oregon that won’t break the bank?

You have timed it, because St Helens runs plenty that will not empty you. Take a walk through the town’s historic riverfront with the Columbia River in front of you. Visit Sand Island, a man-made island that works for camping and hiking. And do not miss Columbia View Park, where the river and Mt. St. Helens open out around you.

Is it worth taking a trip to St Helens, Oregon?

Yes. St Helens may be a small town, but it carries a great deal. Somebody who wants to be outdoors or somebody who follows the historic side, both are covered. And if you follow Halloween, you cannot miss Halloweentown.

What’s the view like from Columbia View Park in St Helens, Oregon?

The view from Columbia View Park will stop you. You see for miles along the Columbia River and get Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Hood standing out in front of you. It works for eating outdoors or simply sitting there for an afternoon.

Can you see Mt St Helens from St Helens, Oregon?

Yes, you can. Mt. St. Helens is visible from several spots in St. Helens, Columbia View Park among them. It holds the eye and it earns the look while you are in town.

Frequently asked questions about St Helens, Oregon

What exactly runs at the Spirit of Halloweentown festival over at St Helens, then, really now, these days?

It runs the whole month of October out there and the whole of the town changes for it. You get the sign, the City Hall plaza and the big pumpkin all straight from the film. There are all the haunted tours, a mystery manor, magic shows and the costume contests. Shop.

What exactly is the view like from the Columbia View park over at St Helens, then, really now?

You can see for miles along the whole Columbia River from up there on it. Both of the mountains are visible from it on a properly clear day out there. There is a playground and a small splash park on that same site out there. Free.

How exactly do you reach the Warrior Rock lighthouse near St Helens, then, really now, in the end?

By boat, because that is the only way in to it at all out there. The lighthouse is historic and the ground all around it is well worth the trip. You will feel the years come right off you standing out there on it. Boat.

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