Lake Oswego Oregon sits south of Portland and is a poplar destination with city residents for weekend getaways and vacations. A Lake Oswego vacation rental is a hot commodity and something to be planned for ahead of time, especially in the hot, summer months when everyone wants to be near the cool lakeside. A typical scene in Lake Oswego includes a veil of verdant trees flanking beautiful shoreline vistas, vibrant local art showcased throughout downtown, and abundant, well-maintained local parks. With a sweet location on the western banks of the Willamette River, the many things to do in Lake Oswego focus on the outdoors and the unique city center.

The historic shore trolley in Lake Oswego is a hit with visitors who want to explore the six miles of rail track extending between Portland (which is only twenty minutes away by car) and Lake Oswego. The historic mode of transportation passes by several key attractions throughout the city and offers sublime river views. The shore trolley also travels through downtown Lake Oswego Oregon revealing the penchant residents have for outdoor art. Every single block in downtown Oswego is adorned with art, complemented by plants in downtown squares, baskets filled with seasonal foliage and flowers, and lush trees everywhere.

There are many things to do in Lake Oswego in the core for those looking for an interesting urban experience away from the busy streets of Portland. Robert Doerr Fine Art Gallery, Oswego Lake Gallery, and the Christi Gallery appeal to art lovers and focus on a variety of art forms from all over the country. The Lake Oswego Farmer’s Market is a great place to soak in a distinct European-style shopping market and sample a huge variety of fresh food from more than 75 vendors. This agricultural-based market, open from May to October, offers up fresh breads, just-picked produce, jellies and jams, nuts, fine cheeses, fresh meats, and much more. The market is also a great place to snag a fresh snack like omelets, waffles, cupcakes, and even burritos.

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With the lake as the center of attraction in Lake Oswego Oregon, you can bet that water sports reign. Waterskiing, boating, sailing, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing, not to mention fishing, are big draws for local folks and visitors alike. Golfing is another popular sport to try out at either Lake Oswego Golf Course or Lake Oswego Country Club.

Other things to do in Lake Oswego include attending the Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts in June. The summer crowds maintain a charged and exciting atmosphere during the three-day festival. Special events include fine art exhibitions, live music, beer and wine tastings, a huge array of food, kids activities, and a craft fair.

If you are staying in a Lake Oswego vacation rental, getting to the many attractions in town is easily done at a leisurely pace. Another advantage of a Lake Oswego rental is the cost: it can be more economical to reserve a lakeside cottage than stay a week or more in one of the area Oregon hotels. From cute and cozy to grand and lavish, vacation rentals are available to suit every budget and group sizes.

Many vacation rentals are close to key points such as antique shops, dining options, parks, nature trails for hiking and cycling, and plenty of outdoor fun. Popular and difficult to book in the summer, a Lake Oswego vacation rental should be arranged well in advance of late spring and summer vacations. A Lake Oswego vacation rental is also an excellent base for exploring more of Portland without the chaos of the city scramble.