Sea Kayaker on the Columbia River / Photo by Sam Drevo, eNRGKayaking.com

Local Visionaries: Dreamers Realizing Their Dreams

Dreamers have long been drawn to the Pacific Northwest by open lands and open minds. Many stay, inspired by the scenery and the region’s receptiveness to new ideas.

“Seattle businessman Samuel Hill first purchased 240 acres of land overlooking the Columbia River more than 100 years ago to create a Quaker farming community in what he described as ‘the most beautiful country I have ever seen.’ Today Hill’s land is home to his ultimate dream: the Maryhill Museum of Art.”

—Colleen Schafroth, Executive Director, Maryhill Museum of Art, Goldendale, WA

Examples of Local Visionaries

  1. Old Mill District

    The story of the Old Mill District began almost 100 years ago when two sawmills opened on the Deschutes River.  Today, with the lumber business long gone, the same site is a full-scale mixed-use complex that boasts a carefully restored riverbank and preserved mill buildings…

    Location: Powerhouse Drive, Bend, OR 97701

  2. Brewers Union Local 180

    The Brewers Union Local 180 is Oregon’s only real ale pub and brewery.  They offer up to six cask-conditioned ales that are brewed on-site, as well as numerous regional microbrews, wines and hard ciders.  Food is top-notch and is prepared to order.  House specialties include…

    Location: 48329 East 1st St, Oakridge, OR 97463

  3. Imperial Stock Ranch

    The Imperial Stock Ranch has been operating continuously since 1871, producing sheep, cattle, grains and hay. Established as an 160-acre homestead claim, it grew to become Oregon’s largest individually owned land and stock holding.  Designated a National Historic District, the ranch headquarters is an ongoing working…

    Location: 92462 Hinton Road, Maupin, OR 97037

  4. Maryhill Museum of Art

    Come explore Maryhill Museum’s world-class collection of art ranging from early 20th century European works to an extensive Native American collection. Set in a castle-like chateau on a stunning 6,000-acre site overlooking the scenic Columbia River Gorge, Maryhill Museum is one of the Pacific Northwest’s…

    Location: 35 Maryhill Drive, WA 98620

  5. Wolf Haven

    Take a guided walking tour through this prairie sanctuary for 50-plus captive born wolves. Located on 80 acres of native prairie habitat, Wolf Haven has teamed with federal, state and conservation agencies and organizations to restore native plants, flowers, birds and butterflies, including 170 endangered…

    Location: Tenino, WA
National Geographic