How to Explore the “Great Indoors” on Oregon’s Adventure this Winter! 

Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston is certainly known for the variety of epic outdoor adventures for visitors to experience (think water recreation , running, ATVing , hiking , golfing , cycling , fishing , beachcombing , etc), but it’s a little known fact that there are plenty of fantastic indoor adventures to enjoy.

That’s not to say outdoor adventures are off limits during the winter months! After all, our beautiful undeveloped beaches, untamed dunes , and the popular Whiskey Run Mountain Biking Trail System are just some of the outdoor attractions accessible year round. Not to mention, it’s not uncommon to experience days with surprisingly beautiful and balmy days of sunshine during the winter months along the Oregon Coast. 

But what does one do on those days when the weather isn’t cooperating and the outdoors don’t seem as appealing? Not to worry, here are ideas to have a great time while staying out of the cold:

Dive Into the The Charleston Marine Life Center

We can all but guarantee that everyone who enters this oasis of marine knowledge will leave having learned something new. The University of Oregon’s Charleston Marine Life Center , located on the harbor’s edge in Charleston, offers an engaging year-round destination for all ages. Come explore the center’s touch tide pool, fossil displays, and live sea creature tanks as you view the fishing boats unloading their catch from across the dock. 

Go Ice Skating (through Feb 14, 2024)

Last year, the City of North Bend implemented a special winter tradition when it opened the North Bend Ice Skating Rink ! The 3,250 sq. ft. synthetic ice skating rink, housed in a 60-foot by 83-foot event tent, is sure to keep spirits bright during the holiday season and beyond - even if it’s raining outside! There is no fee to enter, but ice skate rental is $5 per hour. Anyone with their own ice skates can skate for free.

Catch a Movie at The Egyptian Theatre

The beautifully restored and historic Egyptian Theatre features classic movies and live entertainment throughout the year. Located in the heart of downtown Coos Bay, this destination is fun for the whole family. You don’t need to travel across the world to visit an historical Egyptian landmark, there’s one on Oregon’s Adventure Coast! The Egyptian Theatre, a historic 1925 movie theater and performance venue, is located in the heart of downtown Coos Bay. The beautifully restored and historic entertainment venue features classic movies, live entertainment and, of course, the famous Wurlitzer Organ throughout the year - a fun destination for the whole family!

Hot Tip! Depending on the timing of your trip, you just might be able to catch a live performance by talented actors and musicians at one of our local theatres, like The Liberty Theatre and The Dolphin Playhouse . Visit their websites for current productions, showtimes, and ticket information.

Grab a Pint - or a Fresh Cup of Joe!

7 Devils Brewing Co ., located in the heart of downtown Coos Bay, and its newer location, 7 Devils Waterfront Alehouse , is a favorite among locals and visitors, along with other local pubs like Coney Station in Coos Bay, Liberty Pub in North Bend, and Wildflour Public House (also in North Bend), where you can enjoy live music every Wednesday night from 6-8pm. You can also taste handcrafted rum, vodka, and whiskey at Stillwagon Distillery (by appointment only). If you’re more of a coffee person, enjoy a delicious, hot cup of joe and a delicious pastry at a local coffee shop or bakery, including So It Goes Coffeehouse , Kaffe 101 , and many others. Download our new Coffee Shops, Bakeries & More Guide to see more options. 

Throw a Strike at North Bend Lanes

When the weather’s cold, you can’t go wrong with bowling!  North Bend Lanes offers 14 lanes to accommodate parties of all sizes. Offering cosmic bowling, bumper bowling and a ball ramp means everyone can get in the game. We recommend you reserve a lane ahead of time to guarantee a spot! The Back Alley Pub & Grill , located inside of North Bend Lanes, is also a popular spot for casual dining, microbrews, and a full bar!

Spend the Day (or Evening) Gaming

Whether it’s slots, cards, or games, visitors will find round-the-clock adventure and indoor fun at one of our two casinos ! The Mill Casino * Hotel & RV Park features Vegas-style table games, more than 600 slots, the only Sports Betting Casino on Oregon’s South Coast and more! If you play your cards right, you can also hit Three Rivers Casino – Coos Bay, just ten minutes away!

Get Inspired at a Local Museum

Learn something new together as you explore art, history and culture in some of our museums like the Coos History Museum & Maritime Collections , located on the waterfront in Coos Bay.  The Coos Art Museum features exhibits by local and national artists, as well as memorabilia and photographs depicting Steve Prefontaine’s running career and Olympic medals.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

While visiting the Coos Bay, North Bend, and Charleston area, be sure to stop by Cranberry Sweets for a sweet treat made from Oregon cranberries and other delectable flavors. You can watch candy being made most weekdays, while also sampling your heart out.  In downtown North Bend, Sweet Street’s hand-crafted chocolates, fudge, ice cream, and Boba Tea are sure to please.

Indulge in Fresh Seafood (like Clam Chowder)

When it comes to fresh seafood on Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston, there is no shortage of options - too many, in fact, to list in one place! We recommend bookmarking the Oregon’s Adventure Coast Dining Page to help you choose the right spot! Whether you’re craving a hot bowl of clam chowder that rivals chowder from the top restaurants in New England, fish tacos, crab cakes, fried oysters, and everything in between - we’ve got you covered!  

Treat yourself to a spa experience

Our nickname is “Oregon’s Adventure Coast'', but sometimes you just want to relax and unwind during your stay. Why not pamper yourself while overlooking the bay at Beautiful You , a Medi Spa in Coos Bay Village? Choose from a massage, facial, mani/pedi or all the above! Be sure to call and make an appointment before your trip to guarantee a session

For even more travel inspiration, visit our Adventures page and our Trip Ideas page to discover all there is to do on Oregon’s Adventure Coast. Please contact us with any questions.

There is an adventure for everyone on Oregon’s Adventure Coast. Whether you are on the hunt for awe-inspiring landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, eclectic shopping, fine dining, special events, or an evening of entertainment, you will find it here. For more information, please contact the Coos Bay – North Bend Visitor & Convention Bureau . You can also follow Oregon’s Adventure Coast Facebook, @travelcoosbay on Instagram and TikTok to find inspiration on the best spots to visit, eat, stay and explore any time of the year.