Florence, Oregon, is known for its rich coastal history, iconic lighthouse, engaging museums, and walkable historic district. Located on Oregon’s Central Coast, just an hour west of Eugene, Oregon, Florence blends pioneer heritage, military history, and maritime landmarks with great food, lodging, art galleries, and outdoor recreation.
If you’re wondering what to do in Florence, Oregon, history lovers, adventure seekers, friends, and families will find some of the coast’s most meaningful experiences right here.
Discover Florence, Oregon: A Coastal History Adventure with Museums, Lighthouse Views, Great Food & Lodging
If you’re asking “What is there to do in Florence, Oregon?”, you’ll find a rich blend of history, scenic beauty, art, food, and lodging that makes this charming coastal town a must-visit destination. Known for its historic Old Town, the powerful Heceta Head Lighthouse, and engaging local museums, Florence “coasts” along the Pacific with a story at every turn.
- Siuslaw Pioneer Museum – The Heart of Florence’s Early History
Start your historic exploration at the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum, located in charming Historic Old Town Florence. This museum brings the past to life with compelling exhibits that trace the region’s story—from Indigenous life and pioneer settlement to early logging, fishing, and daily living in the 1800s and early 1900s.
Inside this welcoming museum, visitors discover:
- Indigenous tools and artifacts from early Native life along the Siuslaw River, including an authentic dug-out canoe
- Pioneer artifacts, quilts, furniture, and household items
- Early logging, fishing, and river commerce exhibits
- The original control panel from the Siuslaw River drawbridge
- Early telephone switchboards
- The museum’s research library also provides a treasure trove of local records and photos for deeper discovery—photographs, yearbooks, directories, and family records.
Volunteers—many with deep local roots—share stories and insights that make each artifact feel alive.
Located at 278 Maple Street, this museum is just steps from shops, galleries, and restaurants — perfect for history lovers and curious travelers alike. Grab a map and take the historic walking tour! Call for hours and ticket prices: 541-997-7884
- Oregon Coast Military Museum – Honoring Service and Sacrifice
Florence’s strong veteran community makes this museum a powerful and uniquely local experience.
Florence plays an important role in preserving America’s military history. Honoring the service and sacrifice of military veterans, the Oregon Coast Military Museum is a heartfelt tribute to America’s armed forces, showcasing powerful exhibits honoring veterans from World War I through modern conflicts. Opened in 2015 after years of community effort, it houses more than 80 displays, including:
- Life-size dioramas from WWI through Vietnam
- Military vehicles and artifacts
- A USO-style canteen and documentary theater
- Personal stories, photographs, and memorabilia from local vets and their families.
With one of the highest per-capita veteran populations in Oregon, Florence is a fitting home for this meaningful museum honoring local and national military history.
Located at 2145 Kingwood Street, Florence. Call for hours and ticket prices: 541-902-5160
- Heceta Head Lighthouse – Oregon’s Coastal Icon
Just 13 miles north of Florence stands the Heceta Head Lighthouse, an Oregon Coast landmark that combines stunning views with maritime history. From its perch 205 feet above the Pacific, the lighthouse’s powerful beam is visible for 21 miles, guiding ships along the rugged coast since 1894.
Heceta Head Lighthouse is:
- One of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States
- Home to the strongest lighthouse beam on the Oregon Coast
- Perched 205 feet above the Pacific Ocean and accessible by a path of fine gravel and pine needles from its parking lot below, which gives direct beach access to a secluded, sheltered-cove beach used occasionally by surfers. Day use fee required.
The scenic walk from the visitor center to the light offers panoramic coastal views and unforgettable photo ops. Seasonal tours of both the lighthouse and the lighthouse keepers’ home are available.
Visitors can learn about:
- Historic lighthouse operation
- WWII military connections
- Highway 101 construction history
- Lighthouse keeper family life
Visitors can explore the interpretive center, learn about lighthouse keepers’ lives, and enjoy breathtaking coastal views during the short walk to the light. The nearby historic keeper’s house—now a beautifully restored bed & breakfast—adds to the site’s timeless charm.
This iconic landmark perfectly answers the question: What is Florence, Oregon, known for? Scenic beauty paired with deep maritime history.
Food & Drink — Eat Like a Local
After a day of exploration (or while preparing for it), Florence’s culinary scene awaits. Florence pairs history with comfort! Whether you’re craving the fresh catch of the day, comfort food classics, or an array of international cuisine, Florence’s food scene keeps visitors satisfied.
- Classic clam, crab, and other chowders and fresh Dungeness crab
- Farm-, ranch-, and sea-to-table favorites
- Riverfront dining with sunset views
- Artisan coffee shops in Historic Old Town
- Craft breweries and wine bars
- International flavors
Where to Stay — Great Options for Every Traveler
From cozy bed & breakfasts in historic buildings to modern waterfront hotels, Florence has lodging to suit every style:
- Historic inns near Old Town
- Waterfront properties with views of the Siuslaw River, Sitcoos Lake, and the Pacific Ocean
- Quaint B&Bs close to galleries and eateries
- Campgrounds and vacation rentals near dunes and beaches
More to Do — Beyond the History
Florence is known for adventure and creativity, too:
- Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area — ride, hike, or explore sandy landscapes
- Sea Lion Caves — watch marine life in its natural habitat
- Art galleries — discover local artists and coastal inspiration
- Historic Old Town — unique shops and cultural experiences
Customized Sample Itineraries
Day 1 – Old Town & Local History
- Morning: Breakfast in Old Town
- Mid-day: Siuslaw Pioneer Museum & Historic Old Town walking tour
- Lunch at a riverfront café
- Afternoon: Explore the shops, galleries, marina, and riverside parks of Historic Old Town, then a short drive to see the Oregon Coast Military Museum
- Dinner: Seafood dinner with sunset views
Day 2 – Lighthouse & Coast
- Morning: Scenic drive to Heceta Head Lighthouse
- Picnic lunch at the site with ocean views
- Afternoon: Visit Sea Lion Caves or dunes adventure
- Evening: Local brewpub for dinner
3-Day Deep Dive into Florence
Day 3 – Outdoor Fun
- Morning: Sandboarding at Sand Master Park (world’s first sandboarding park) or take a guided sandrail excursion (high-powered dune buggies with professional drivers. Equal parts terrifying, safe, and serene) at Sandland Adventures (also has seasonal minigolf, go karts, bumper boats).
- Lunch in Historic Old Town
- Afternoon: Kayak the Siuslaw River or Siltcoos Lake. Or hike nearby trails or uncrowded beaches. Local golf is great year-round!
- Evening: Sunset at the dunes, beaches, or overlooks, and a farewell dinner in town
Why Visit Florence, Oregon, for History?
Florence offers some of the best historical attractions on the Oregon Coast, all within minutes of one another. From pioneer stories and military service to an iconic lighthouse overlooking the Pacific, Florence makes history easy, scenic, and unforgettable.
Whether you’re here for history, scenic beauty, great food, or adventure, Florence, known internationally as Oregon’s Coastal Playground, offers a rich tapestry of experiences that keeps visitors coming back year after year. From pioneer stories and military heritage to a legendary lighthouse overlooking the Pacific, Florence, offers an unforgettable blend of history, scenery, arts, culture, outdoor adventure, and rustic small-town charm.
Plan Your Historic Getaway to Florence, Oregon
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer coastal vacation, Florence invites you to slow down, explore deeply, and discover why its past continues to shape an extraordinary visitor experience. Order your free visitors guide here, or call 541-997-3128 or email info@FlorenceChamber.com.
