There’s a small town just outside of Salem that feels like an entire continent away. Mount Angel is a tiny Bavarian-inspired town of just 3,500 people that’s a total off-the-beaten-path treasure. The town dates back to the mid-1800s when German-Catholic families and a group of Benedictine monks and sisters settled the area. Today, Mount Angel is a charming community with Old World buildings, German-inspired cuisine, and a proud Bavarian culture. While the annual Oktoberfest celebration is the town’s best-known attraction, the village’s history and culture can be enjoyed year-round, making Mount Angel one of the best day trip destinations in Oregon.
Located in the idyllic hills of the Willamette Valley, Mount Angel is unlike any other place in Oregon – in the very best possible way.
Ian Sane/Flickr
Mount Angel is a treasure of a place in Oregon that will make you feel as though you’ve entered the Old Country when you visit – starting with the daily performances at the town’s historic clock tower!
City of Mt. Angel/Facebook Mount Angel, Mt Angel, OR 97362, USA
Culture, history, and food combine to create a truly unique experience here. The architecture in the town is Bavarian-inspired, with Tudor-style buildings and lots of charming and unique European features.
Doug Kerr/Flickr
There’s even a wishing well in the downtown area! You’ll find this whimsical little spot at Saalfeld Park.
City of Mt. Angel/Facebook Saalfeld Park, 195 E College St, Mt Angel, OR 97362, USA
The best way to experience all of the town’s historic architecture is the Mt. Angel Heritage Trail. This five-mile loop winds through town and highlights points of interest along the way, including the Willamette Valley Southern Rail, the Glockenspiel Restaurant, and Queen of Angels Monastery. Walk or bike for a scenic day trip adventure!
City of Mt. Angel/Facebook
Each year, the town hosts an Oktoberfest that’s the best in the state. But while this is a must-visit festival, Mount Angel is a delightful place to visit all year-round.
Mount Angel Oktoberfest/Facebook
Architecture aside, the town is best-known for its eponymous Mount Angel Abbey, a Roman Catholic monastery of Benedictine monks that’s been around since 1882.
JPLDesigns/iStock via Getty Images Plus Abbey Drive, Abbey Dr, Mt Angel, OR 97362, USA
The abbey is located on the top of Mount Angel, and is an absolutely stunning place to visit.
Ian Sane/Flickr
If you have an appreciation for architecture, you’ll absolutely love visiting this historic church!
CarbonBrain/iStock via Getty Images Plus
While at the Abbey, meander down the road to the Benedictine Brewery, a beautiful brewery and taproom that’s operated by the monks from the monastery. Tastings and beer flights are available, and it’s easily the most unique brewery you’ll ever visit.
Benedictine Brewery/Facebook
In fact, food is an important part of the Mount Angel experience, and the town’s Glockenspiel Restaurant is a must visit. You won’t get better bratwurst or schnitzel anywhere else!
Glockenspiel Restaurant/Facebook Glockenspiel Restaurant, 190 E Charles St, Mt Angel, OR 97362, USA
Before you leave, be sure to stop by Touch of Bavaria, an adorable shop that specializes in traditional German and Bavarian clothing and apparel. Pick up a hat or some lederhosen to remember your visit!
Touch of Bavaria/Facebook
Mount Angel is a delightful little place that feels a bit like stepping back in time. Once you visit, you’ll totally fall in love with this little slice of the Old Country in Oregon.
Mount Angel Oktoberfest/Facebook
Ian Sane/Flickr
City of Mt. Angel/Facebook
Mount Angel, Mt Angel, OR 97362, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Saalfeld Park, 195 E College St, Mt Angel, OR 97362, USA
Mount Angel Oktoberfest/Facebook
JPLDesigns/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Abbey Drive, Abbey Dr, Mt Angel, OR 97362, USA
CarbonBrain/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Benedictine Brewery/Facebook
Glockenspiel Restaurant/Facebook
Glockenspiel Restaurant, 190 E Charles St, Mt Angel, OR 97362, USA
Touch of Bavaria/Facebook
Have you visited this quaint Bavarian town before? Go take a day trip to Mount Angel — we guarantee you’ll fall in love with this little locale in Oregon!
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Address: Mount Angel, Mt Angel, OR 97362, USA
