The Ultimate Guide to Lincoln City: 15 Must-Do Activities

Nestled along the stunning Oregon Coast, Lincoln City is a charming destination known for its windswept beaches, rugged cliffs, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re drawn to tidepool adventures, scenic hikes, or quirky roadside attractions, this coastal town has something for everyone. From exploring hidden gems to indulging in fresh seafood, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to fill your itinerary. In this guide, we’re sharing 15 of the best things to do in Lincoln City, Oregon—perfect for a weekend getaway or an extended coastal road trip!

1. Explore Tidepools in Lincoln City

Tidepooling is one of the most exciting things to do in Lincoln City, offering a chance to discover an underwater world without even getting wet. Tidepools are small, shallow pools of seawater left behind in rocky areas when the tide goes out. These pools become temporary homes for fascinating marine creatures like sea stars, anemones, hermit crabs, mussels, and even small fish.

Tidepooling is a hands-on way to connect with nature and observe marine life up close. It’s a perfect activity for families, photographers, and anyone curious about coastal ecosystems. Every visit is unique, as the tides and seasons bring different creatures into view. Plus, it’s free, making it an excellent budget-friendly adventure in Lincoln City.

Best Tidepooling Spots in Lincoln City

• NW 15th Street Beach Access – The easiest tidepools to reach in Lincoln City, with a public parking lot just steps away. A great option if you don’t want a long walk.
• In Front of the Inn at Spanish Head – You can’t park directly at the hotel, but use the 35th Street Beach Access nearby and take a short walk along the shoreline to reach these tidepools.
• Roads End – A little more of an adventure, these tidepools are tucked near the “hidden beach” at the north end. Getting there at low tide is key!

Tips for a Great Tidepooling Experience

1. Check the Tide Charts – Visit during low tide for the best chance to see marine life. The lower the tide, the more tidepools will be exposed.
2. Wear Sturdy Shoes – Rocks can be slippery, so wear waterproof shoes with good grip.
3. Be Gentle with Marine Life – Avoid touching or picking up creatures. Observe them without disturbing their natural habitat.
4. Watch for Sneaker Waves – Always keep an eye on the ocean, as unexpected waves can roll in.
5. Go Early for the Best Views – Early morning tides often provide the best opportunities before crowds arrive.

2. Attend a Lincoln City Explorience

If you’re looking for interactive and educational things to do in Lincoln City, the city’s Exploriences program offers a fantastic lineup of free, hands-on activities led by local experts. These experiences are designed to help visitors and residents connect with the natural beauty, history, and culture of the Oregon Coast.

“Exploriences” (a blend of “explore” and “experiences”) are seasonal programs hosted by Lincoln City to encourage people to engage with the local environment. The city organizes these events as a way to highlight the area’s unique coastal ecosystems, promote responsible tourism, and offer enriching experiences for all ages. Best of all, they’re free to attend!

Types of Activities Available

• Tidepool Exploriences– Held at NW 15th Street Beach in partnership with Oregon Shores Conservation Coalition and the Hatfield Marine Science Center
• Beachcombing Exploriences– Held at SW33rd Street Beach with experts teaching how to find and ID agates, fossils, shells, minerals, & more
• Crabbing Exploriences– Held at Siletz Bay, learn to to toss traps for Dungeness crabs
• Clamming Exploriences– Held at Siletz Bay, learn to find and collect purple varnish clams
• Bird Watching Exploriences- Held at various spots around town in partnership with Seven Capes Bird Alliance
• Hiking Exploriences– Held at various sites around town with local guides
• Cascade Head Biosphere Exploriences– 90 minute walking tours of Oregon’s only UNESCO biosphere region, in collaboration with Cascade Head Bisosphere Collaborative

Complete 5 Exploriences to join the Lincoln City Explorers Club and receive an exclusive glass coin!

3. Hike The Knoll

If you’re looking for scenic hikes in Lincoln City, The Knoll is a must-visit trail offering breathtaking views of the Oregon Coast. This short but rewarding hike leads to an open grassy bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, making it a favorite spot for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.

The Knoll is located just north of Lincoln City, near the popular Cascade Head Scenic Area. The trailhead can be accessed from the Roads End neighborhood, where hikers follow forested paths that gradually lead up to the scenic viewpoint.

The Knoll Trail Basics

• Distance- ~2.5 miles roundtrip
• Elevation gain- ~500 feet
• Difficulty- Moderate
• Trail map

Tips for Hiking The Knoll

• Park respectfully – Since the trailhead is in a residential area, be mindful of parking signs and local driveways.
• Wear sturdy shoes – The trail can get muddy, so waterproof hiking shoes are recommended.
• Check the weather – Coastal fog can roll in quickly, so try to hike on a clear day for the best views.
• Bring binoculars – You might spot eagles, deer, or even whales from the top.
• Pack out what you bring in – Keep this beautiful area clean by taking all trash with you.

4. Visit Regatta Park

2700 NE 14th St, Lincoln City, OR 97367
Park Website

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Lincoln City, Regatta Park is a fantastic place to visit. Located on the eastern shore of Devils Lake, this scenic park offers a mix of outdoor recreation, play areas, and unique attractions, making it a great destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to relax by the water.

Things to Do at Regatta Park

• Enjoy the Playground – The park has a large, nautical-themed playground with slides, climbing structures, and swings, making it a favorite for kids.
• Have a Picnic – Several picnic tables and a covered shelter provide a great spot to enjoy a meal with a view of Devils Lake.
• Go Boating or Kayaking – The park has a boat ramp and dock, making it easy to launch a kayak, paddleboard, or small boat onto the calm waters of Devils Lake.
• Swim in the Lake – The sandy beach and shallow water make it a great place for kids to splash around safely.
• Take a Nature Walk – The park features short walking trails with scenic lake views and plenty of space to explore.

Unique Attractions at Regatta Park

Besides all the fun activities at Regatta Park, there’s a couple of must-see unique sights. First up, make sure you say hi to Sparky the Wish Guardian. Sparky is a 13 foot tall dragon that was created through a unique process from recycled pieces of steel, round bar, and retread ties.

Next, head into the woods to visit Nuu-k’wii-daa-naa~-ye’ (aka “Our Ancestor”), an Oregon heritage tree. This sitka spruce is thought to be at least 400 years old and is 212 feet tall- that’s a big tree!

5. Learn About Local History at the North Lincoln County Historical Museum

4907 SW Highway 101, Lincoln City, Oregon 97367
https://northlincolncountyhistoricalmuseum.org/
Wednesday-Saturday, 11am-4pm
Free admission

If you’re looking for things to do in Lincoln City beyond the beach, the Lincoln County Historical Museum offers a fascinating look into the area’s past. Operated by the North Lincoln County Historical Society, this small but engaging museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of the Oregon Coast.

The North Lincoln County Historical Museum has exhibits on Pixie Kitchen, the automobile era, Japanese glass fishing floats, Native American history, homesteading, logging, fishing & canning, recreation, WW2, 1950s advertising, as well as rotating exhibits and a kid’s room.

6. Chow Down at The Pines Dine

5040 SE Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367
https://thepinesdine.com/
Closed Tuesday, Bar closed Mondays

If you’re searching for unique and delicious places to eat in Lincoln City, The Pines Dine Food Truck Village is a must-visit spot. This vibrant food truck pod brings together a variety of local vendors, offering a diverse range of flavors in a relaxed, communal setting.

The Pines Dine is an outdoor food truck village designed to provide both locals and visitors with a fun, casual dining experience. Instead of a traditional restaurant, you’ll find a rotating selection of food trucks parked around a central seating area. Guests can order from any truck, then enjoy their meal at one of the covered or outdoor seating areas. The indoor seating area is part of Vin & Brau, which is a bar with a large selection of beers and wines- including many locally made options. There’s also regular entertainment like trivia and bingo nights.

7. Gets Hands-on at the Lincoln City Glass Center

4821 SW Highway 101, Lincoln City, Oregon 97367
https://www.lincolncityglasscenter.com/
Summer hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Winter hours: Sunday-Thursdays 10am-5pm, Friday/Saturday 10am-6pm

For a unique and hands-on experience, the Lincoln City Glass Center is one of the best things to do in Lincoln City. This popular glassblowing studio allows visitors to watch skilled artists at work, shop for handcrafted glass pieces, and even create their own glass art to take home. Creating your own glass requires booking an appointment and starts at $75. There are options to create pieces like glass floats, candle holders, paperweights, and bowls.

8. Join in the Hunt with the Finders Keepers Float Hunt

One of the most famous things to do in Lincoln City is the Finders Keepers glass float hunt, a year-round event that turns a simple beach walk into an exciting treasure hunt. The city hides handcrafted glass floats along its seven miles of sandy shoreline, and if you find one, it’s yours to keep!

The Finders Keepers tradition started in 1999 as a way to attract visitors to the Oregon Coast during the off-season. Inspired by Japanese glass fishing floats that once drifted ashore, the event has grown into one of the most beloved traditions on the Oregon Coast, bringing joy to both locals and tourists.

How the Lincoln City Float Hunt Works

• Glass artists create thousands of unique floats each year, each handcrafted with stunning colors and designs.
• Every day, from mid-October through Memorial Day, volunteers hide hundreds of glass floats along the beaches between Siletz Bay and Roads End. Special holiday drops and themed weekends add even more chances to find a float.
• If you find a float, it’s yours! You can also register it online with the city to receive a certificate of authenticity and learn about the artist who made it.

Where Can You Find Glass Floats?

You can search for floats along any public beach in Lincoln City, but some of the best areas to look include:

• Roads End State Recreation Site – A less crowded beach with plenty of hiding spots among the driftwood and sand dunes.
• D River State Recreation Site – A central location near downtown, great for an easy beach walk while searching.
• Taft District & Siletz Bay – The calm waters and scenic views make this a great place to search, especially near the beach access points.
• NW 15th Street Beach Access – A favorite spot for float hunters, with wide sandy stretches and fewer crowds.

Tips for Finding a Glass Float

• Go out looking at low tide
• Check near driftwood, rocks, and grass
• Go early in the morning before the crowds
• Check beaches after storms that might uncover floats
• Be patient & have fun!

Lincoln City Packing List

Make sure you come prepared for any kind of adventure with our handy packing list!

9. Visit Devil’s Lake

Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area

If you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Lincoln City beyond the beach, Devil’s Lake offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of activities for nature lovers, boaters, and families. This 685-acre freshwater lake, located just east of town, is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

What to Do at Devil’s Lake

• Boating & Water Sports – The lake is a popular spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. There are multiple boat launches available, including at Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area.
• Fishing – Anglers can catch rainbow trout, largemouth bass, yellow perch, and catfish. The lake is regularly stocked with trout, making it a great place to cast a line.
• Swimming & Relaxing on the Shore – The calm, freshwater lake is ideal for swimming, especially for families with kids who want a break from ocean waves.
• Hiking & Picnicking – Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area has scenic trails, picnic tables, and spots to relax by the water.
• Wildlife Watching – Keep an eye out for otters, herons, bald eagles, and other wildlife that call the lake home.

10. Find Some Beauty at the Connie Hansen Garden

1931 NW 33rd Street, Lincoln City, OR
https://www.conniehansengarden.com
Grounds open daily dawn-dusk
Free admission

For a serene and beautiful escape, the Connie Hansen Garden is a hidden gem among the things to do in Lincoln City. This charming 1.3-acre public garden is dedicated to Connie Hansen, a local resident with a passion for gardening, who started the garden in the early 1970s. Her vision was to create a space that celebrated the beauty of plants suited for the Oregon Coast’s unique climate.

What You Can See at Connie Hansen Garden

• Unique Plant Collections – The garden showcases a range of plants that thrive in the coastal environment, including fuchsias, rhodos, azaleas, and hydrangeas.
• Seasonal Beauty – Different plants bloom throughout the year, offering a constantly changing landscape with vibrant colors.
• Themed Garden Areas – The garden is divided into different sections, such as a woodland garden, perennial beds, and a water feature that attracts birds and other wildlife.

11. Go Shopping at the Lincoln City Outlets

1500 SE East Devils Lake Rd, Lincoln City, OR 97367
https://lincolncityoutlets.com/
Sunday-Thursday 10am-6pm, Friday/Saturday 10am-8pm

If you enjoy shopping in Lincoln City, the Lincoln City Outlets is the place to be. This popular shopping center features a variety of brand-name stores offering significant discounts, making it a great stop for bargain hunters and those looking for quality products at lower prices.

Whether you’re looking for clothes, home goods, outdoor gear, or toys, the outlets offer a wide variety of shopping options for everyone. Located just off Highway 101, it’s a convenient stop while you’re in town or on your way to explore other things to do in Lincoln City. The outdoor shopping center allows for fresh air and scenic views while you shop, but it also has covered areas to keep you dry if the weather turns.

12. Visit the Lincoln City Cultural Center

540 NE Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367
https://www.lincolncity-culturalcenter.org/
Wednesday-Sunday 10am-5pm (Closed Mondays & Tuesday)

For a blend of creativity, culture, and history, the Lincoln City Cultural Center is a must-visit location when you’re exploring things to do in Lincoln City. Located in a beautifully restored building that was once a school, this cultural center serves as a hub for local art, performances, and community events. It offers a variety of exhibits, activities, and performances throughout the year, making it a great place for visitors to engage with the local arts scene.

What to See and Do at the Lincoln City Cultural Center

• Art Exhibits – The cultural center hosts rotating art exhibitions featuring local and regional artists. You’ll find a diverse range of media, from paintings and sculptures to photography and fiber arts.
• Performances and Events – There are regular music concerts, dance performances, and workshops that cater to all ages and interests.
• Classes and Workshops – The center offers a variety of educational programs, from painting and pottery classes to music lessons and creative writing workshops, making it a perfect spot for both locals and visitors looking to get creative.
• Gift Shop – The center’s gift shop features works by local artisans, from handmade jewelry and pottery to prints and home décor, making it a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.

13. Hike Cascade Head

For breathtaking coastal views, unique ecosystems, and memorable hikes in Lincoln City, Cascade Head is a must-visit. This 2,000-foot headland juts out into the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning panoramas, diverse plant life, and a sense of solitude. It’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers due to its mix of coastal cliffs, meadows, and forested trails.

Cascade Head is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty and diverse habitats. It’s part of the Cascade Head Scenic Research Area, which is designated to protect both rare plant species and scenic landscapes. The location offers incredible opportunities to spot wildlife like sea birds, elk, and sometimes whales along the coastline. The area is also a great spot for botanists and nature photographers to capture vibrant wildflower blooms, especially in spring and summer.

Trail Options at Cascade Head

• Lower Cascade Head Trail: 4.7 miles, 1,243 ft. elevation gain, moderate difficulty
• Upper Cascade Head via Lower Cascade Head Trail: 6.5 miles, 1,368 ft. elevation gain, moderate difficulty

Tips for Hiking Cascade Head

• Best Time to Go: The trails are best explored in spring, summer, or early fall when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in full bloom. However, the area can be foggy or windy at times, so always check the weather forecast.
• Parking: Parking is limited at the trailheads, so be prepared for potentially full lots, especially on weekends. Consider arriving early to secure a spot.
• Prepare for Elevation: Some of the trails, especially the Cascade Head Trail, can have steep sections, so make sure you’re prepared with sturdy footwear and plenty of water.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, including birds, elk, and even whales during the migration season. Be respectful of the natural surroundings and wildlife.

14. Do Some Gaming or See a Show at Chinook Winds Casino

1777 NW 44th St, Lincoln City, OR 97367
https://www.chinookwindscasino.com/

Located in Lincoln City, Chinook Winds Casino Resort is not only a popular destination for those interested in gambling, but also offers a wide range of entertainment and activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to try your luck at the casino, enjoy live shows, or participate in family-friendly activities, there are plenty of things to do in Lincoln City at this vibrant resort.

What to Do at Chinook Winds Casino Resort

• Gambling: Bingo, Keno, Slots, Table Games, Sports Wagering
• Live Entertainment: Event center with a wide variety of shows
• Dining Options: 10 different options for dining and drinks!
• Golf: Chinook Winds Golf Resort is just north of the casino
• Gift shop
• Arcade: Featuring new and classic arcade games

Tips for Visiting Chinook Winds Casino Resort

• Check for Promotions – The casino often runs promotions for new and regular guests, including free play, discounts, and special events. Be sure to ask about any current offers when you arrive.
• Arrive Early for Entertainment – If you plan to attend a live show, make sure to arrive early to get the best seats and secure your tickets. Popular performances tend to sell out quickly.
• Parking – There is plenty of free parking available at the resort, but it can fill up during peak times, so try to arrive early, especially on weekends or during major events.
• Check Age Restrictions – While the casino is an adult venue, be sure to check the rules for children in certain areas. Minors are allowed in restaurants and some entertainment areas, but not in the gaming section.

15. Play at Game Over Arcade

2821 NW Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR. 97367
https://gameover-arcade.com/
Monday-Thursday 3-9pm, Friday/Saturday 12-10pm, Sunday 12-9pm

For those looking for a nostalgic experience or just some fun, Game Over Arcade in Lincoln City offers a wide variety of games and activities. Whether you’re into classic arcade games or newer digital challenges, this place has something to entertain everyone. It’s one of the best things to do in Lincoln City for families, couples, and friends looking for a bit of friendly competition or a break from outdoor adventures.

Game Over Arcade features a mix of classic and modern arcade games that are sure to spark some friendly competition. There are classic arcade games, pinball, fighting games, racing games, skee-ball & ticket games, vr games, and just about everything you can think of! Game Over also has a bar and serves pizza, so you can easily spend a whole evening here.

On Wednesdays, Game Over Arcade offers a special of $10/hour for unlimited freeplay. This includes most games- just about everything that doesn’t give out prizes. You won’t earn tickets, but it’s a great deal if you’re into classic games like pinball and cabinet games.

Things to Do Beyond Lincoln City

Looking for more to do outside of town? Check out our full two-week itinerary exploring the Oregon Coast!

Lincoln City Annual Events

There is always something go on in Lincoln City, so be sure to check the city events calendar when planning your trip! We also put together this graphic with some of the most popular annual events that you can save on your phone or computer.

• February- Lincoln City Retro Expo is a ten day long event with city-wide sales at local antique and vintage shops
• April- Lincoln City will be participating in the Great Oregon Coast Garage Sale, which reaches from Otis to Depoe Bay
• June- the Summer Kite Festival will be held at D River State Recreation Area
• July- Fourth of July will include live music and a drone show
• September- the Fall Kite Festival is also at D River State Recreation Area
• November- Chinook Winds Casino will host the Siletz Restoration Pow-Wow
• December- Lincoln City Christmas lights will kick off with a lighting ceremony at Taft Dock
• November/December/January- the King Tides are the highest tides of the year and draw people to Lincoln City every year

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