If you’re looking to get out of Dodge, there’s lots of places besides Bend, and they’re way easier on the bankroll. Plus they’re distinctive.

Think Estacada with its writer/artist bent. The superb Liberty Theater in Camas. The Gorge. Mt Hood. And of course all the farmie/aggie towns up north of Vancouver in Washington.

You’ll still be within an hour of Portland plus you’ll have some elbow room.

We’ve done the heavy lifting for you here on the website. Just click Featured Areas.