Check off your end of summer bucket list
![4 scence spliced together showing hot air balloons, hiker, outdoor movies, and food carts](/sites/default/files/2022-08/stories-summer-list-600x600.png)
Summer flies by in a blink. Before you know it, the days get shorter and the air begins to cool. That’s why we’ve created a list of experiences — in Corvallis and across the Willamette Valley — for you to enjoy before classes begin and the first leaves start to fall.
Local cuisine
Summer is a great time to take a break from cooking and check out the area’s hidden gems. At in Philomath, you can try meals with fresh-picked ingredients — like wood fired pizza. And don’t forget to shop in the farm store!
![mural of woman with green hair that transitions into ocean waves](/sites/default/files/2022-08/downtownedits003-640x480.jpg)
At downtown Corvallis, you’ll find sustainable ingredients in seasonal items like shrimp and grits and fresh vegetable bowls. offers creative options like the chicken curry taco. If a classic burger is more your style, enjoy one with some tater tots on the rooftop at .
Fairs, festivals and performances
Right here on campus, check out — an outdoor theater performance by Oregon State students. But hurry, because the last few showings of the season take place in mid-August. At the in Albany, you’ll have the chance to see hot air balloons soar across the sky. But if carnival rides, local ice cream and elephant ears are more your jam, head just a little farther north to Salem for the .
Picnic spots and walking trails
Sneak a peek of a turtle sunning on a rock at in Albany or take a stroll or short hike through the followed by a picnic in the barn. At , you could see one (or more!) of the 70 species of birds that have been spotted there. And if you’re lucky, you might even encounter a beaver.
![turtles on a log in a pond surrounded by lily pads](/sites/default/files/2022-08/20220629_124525-640x480.jpg)
Movies in the park
Grab a picnic blanket, some popcorn and watch a show under the stars at in Corvallis, in Albany or The in Independence.
Live music
Sway to a variety of tunes at several local venues, including , , and . Bring a friend and get dancin!
Pools and swimming holes
Escape the late summer heat with a day of swimming or kayaking. At in Corvallis and Albany’s , spend the day relaxing or cruising down the water slide. At , jump into the swimming hole at the end of the boardwalk. Or soak in the scenery of the as you float or paddle.
Have a blast soaking up the sunshine and exploring the valley!