It is no secret that Oregon is home to some of the best golf courses in the country, and Langdon Farms Golf Club is ranked high among the best of them!

That is why The Grand Hotel at Bridgeport has partnered with Langdon Farms Golf Club to give our guests easy access to one of the top courses in the state.

The “It’s Tee Time” Golf Package combines our luxurious guest rooms and suites with some of the best golf around. In fact, Langdon Farms Golf Club was rated four out of five stars by Golf Digest’s Best Places To Play for 2010 and ranks as the “#1 Course In Oregon To Host Tournaments and Corporate Events” course  in Oregon.

Call the front desk at 866-968-5757 to schedule your tee time today! Click here to book this package online.

photo credit: OregonGolfAssn via photopin cc

The Wooden Shoe Farms is located in Woodburn, Oregon (approximately 30 minutes south of  The Grand Hotel Bridgeport) and the festival will be open to the public each day through May 5th, 2013. Fun family activities and entertainment are scheduled for the duration of the festival! Visit the events schedule  for details.

Just look at some of these images captured by The Grand Hotel in Salem Marketing Manager, Kristi Reed:

Every year the varieties are arranged differently in a new pattern of color as we rotate our tulip fields to a new location. Photo Credit: Kristi Reed

Over 40 Acres of Tulips and Daffodils! Photo Credit: Kristi Reed

There is nothing like the colors of the Wooden Shoe tulip fields in the spring.

Every day enjoy a variety of activities and events each weekend!

Directions to 33814 S. Meridian Rd., Woodburn, OR 97071

Main Route
I-5 South to Exit 282A. Continue south on the Hubbard Cutoff Rd turning into 99E towards Woodburn for 10 miles. At the first stoplight in Woodburn, turn left (east) onto Hwy 211 towards Molalla. Follow this 3.6 miles and turn right (south) on S. Meridian Road. Follow 2 miles and we are on the left hand side.

Direct Route
I-5 south to exit 271 and the Woodburn Interchange. Turn left (east) towards Molalla on Hwy 214/Hwy211. At Hwy 99E, continue straight and follow the signs towards Molalla (Hwy. 211) for 4 miles then at the flashing yellow light turn right (south) on S. Meridian Road. Stay on Meridian for 2 miles and we are on the left hand side.

Willamette Valley Wineries invites you to the 23rd annual Memorial Weekend event, May 25-27, 2013.

For the past 23 years, Willamette Valley wineries and tasting rooms throughout the region kick off the summer by opening their doors inviting the public to spend Memorial Day weekend  in Oregon Wine country.  Visitors can expect to partake in extraordinary tastings of the region’s acclaimed Pinot noir, Pinot gris and other exciting wines, vineyard tours, food, special events and entertainment.

Here’s your chance to explore wine country in a fun and casual setting or  spend the weekend getting to know the smaller or newer producers that are only open on Memorial Day & Thanksgiving weekends.

Now is the time to plan your visit by completing the following actions:

• Request a copy of the printed Guide to Memorial Weekend in the Wine Country, which includes all winery activities and a touring map. Simply email info@willamettewines.com to request your guide (distributed in early May). Please include your mailing address.
• Plot your course with these wine tasting routes.
• Get ready to sip with these wine tasting tips.
• Sign up for a special Memorial Weekend Wine Essentials Class to start your wine tasting experience on the right foot.
• Use the Mobile Wine Tour to navigate to your destinations, offering turn-by-turn directions to our wineries right on your smart phone.

Here are some tips from The North Willamette Vintners to get the most of your holiday weekend:

• Drive less, taste more. Avoid the long drive and congested roadways by visiting the wineries located in Portland’s backyard, shaping the northern gateway to Oregon’s wine country.
• Discover new wineries. Experience a new label or visit a boutique winery not typically open for tastings.
• Taste exceptional wines. Be among the first to enjoy new releases, barrel samples and paired flights.
• Learn from the pros. Meet the winemakers and learn about the style, characteristics and unique attributes of their wine.
• Experience wine country. Participate in a traditional tribal salmon bake, watch a live landscape painting, stroll along a garden walk, tour the vineyards, relax to live music and soak in the spectacular vineyard views while enjoying a picnic lunch.

For more information and to plan your weekend visit Willamette Valley Wineries Association.

Need a place to stay? The Grand Hotel Bridgeport is proud to offer wine lovers luxurious accommodations, free parking, free WiFi(helpful as you are planning your afternoon of wine tasting!), and a free chef prepared breakfast the following morning! What more do you need?  Book a Grand Hotel at Bridgeport Wine Package and you will see what we mean!

Photo: Tualatin River Bird Festival

There are numerous reasons to stay at The Grand Hotel Bridgeport, whether it is for business, visiting family and friends, a wedding, a reunion, or just to get away.  No matter the reason for being here, we encourage our guests to get out and enjoy what our local community and nearby towns have to offer!

We are of course just minutes from downtown Portland where you will always find a special event or festival, or you can explore some of these local gems (no pun intended!):

• Gem Faire (April 12-14). The renowned marketplace for gemstones, beads, jewelry and more at the Washington County Fair Complex.

Gem Faire Apr 12 – 14: Washington County Fairgrounds
Photo: Gem Faire

• 9th annual Storytelling Festival (April 13-20) featuring professional storytellers, workshops and more! Check site for locations; admission is free.

• North Willamette Wine Trail Weekend (April 13-14) This annual event celebrates the best of Oregon Wine Country and features wine tastings, pairings, and entertainment, tours, hands-on activities, gifts and other locally crafted artisan products.

• Annual Lu’au at Pacific University (April 13) features an authentic Lu’au meal and traditional Polynesian dance, music and entertainment.

• Broadway Rose Theatre Company presents Always…Patsy Cline (April 18 – May 19).   Based on a true story, ‘Always…Patsy Cline’ tells the true story of the country music legend’s unlikely friendship with fan Louise Seger and features many of Cline’s timeless hits.

Photo Credit: Broadway Rose Theatre Company

• Favorite 5 Country Farms Spring Tour (April 19-21) Self-guided tour of farms in Sherwood, Tualatin and Wilsonville featuring friendly animals, good food, home & garden decor, art & crafts, antiques and more.

• Every Husband’s Nightmare Bazaar (April 23-27) features more than 100 vendors selling handcrafted gifts, collectibles and antiques, gourmet foods, and garden, floral and seasonal decor.

• Earth Day weekend (April 20-21) Various Earth Day activities and events are scheduled throughout the area.

• “Ed Asner as FDR” (April 21) Ed Asner stars in this one-man show as Franklin Delano Roosevelt for one night only at Pacific University in Forest Grove.

•  Faire in the Grove (May 4-5) The whole family with enjoy the merriment at this medieval featuring food, performances, dance, music, storytelling, merchants, and more.

Faire in the Grove (May 4-5)

• Tualatin River Bird Festival (May 18) A celebration of wildlife featuring outdoor fun and activities, entertaiment, guided bird walks and more at the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge.

Photo: Tualatin River Bird Festival

Check out the Visit Washington County Visitors Association Events & Festivals Calendar for a complete list of upcoming events. You can also visit the spring performing arts calendar and spring cultural arts calendar for more listings.

photo credit: eyeliam via photopin cc

Hiking the great outdoors is just one of the many outdoor adventures you can find here in Oregon (and Camping, too!). Biking through the hundreds of miles of impressive trails and paths is also a great way to enjoy what our beautiful region has to offer.

Traveling on a budget?  No problem!  Some of our favorite attractions are under $10 per person and in many cases, free of charge. Article source: Washington County Visitors Association

Washington County boasts some of Oregon’s most scenic and lush natural spaces, making it a desirable year-round destination for nature walks, hikes and cycling adventures. Most of the area’s natural outdoor attractions are free of charge (donations may be suggested), making it one of the most affordable adventures available.

1. Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is one of only a handful of national urban refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System, and is home to more than 200 species of indigenous and migrating birds, waterfowl and mammals.
(19255 SW Pacific Hwy, Sherwood, Ore.)
Admission is free (unless otherwise posted); complimentary parking. Bicycles and pets are not permitted. Open year-round: Trails open dawn until dusk; interpretive center open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Monday and major holidays.

2. Jackson Bottom Wetlands (2600 Hillsboro Hwy., Hillsboro, Ore.)
Jackson Bottom Wetlands is a 725-acre wetlands preserve that is home to various species of birds, including bald eagles, egrets and red tail hawks, as well as a host of mammals. Trails meander through the preserve, allowing for exploration of the wetlands.
Admission is free (donation requested); complimentary parking. Bicycles and pets are not permitted. Open year-round: Trails open daily, dawn to dusk; interpretive center, daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

3. Banks-Vernonia State Trail (Banks trailhead: Main St./Banks Road/Sellers Road, Banks, Ore.)
The scenic, 21-mile Banks-Vernonia State Trail connects the towns of Banks and Vernonia, and a portion runs through L.L. “Stub” Stewart State Park. The trail, part of the Rails-to-Trails conservancy program, is open to all non-motorized users, including horseback riders, bicyclists, walkers and hikers. Pets allowed and must be on a maximum 6-foot leash at all times.
Free to the public (unless otherwise posted); complimentary parking available at some trailheads
Open year-round, dawn until dusk

4. Cooper Mountain Nature Park (18895 SW Kemmer Road, Beaverton, Ore.)
Cooper Mountain Nature Park is a 231-acre park with 3.5 miles of gravel hiking trails –plus a 3/4-mile loop designed for accessibility– that traverse through the park’s rare habitats and natural features. The park is open for hiking, walking and wildlife watching. A Nature House and demonstration garden also are located at the park.
Free to the public (unless otherwise posted); complimentary parking. Bicycles and pets are not permitted.
Open year-round, dawn until dusk

Oregon’s Washington County is scenically situated between Portland and the Oregon Coast. The destination covers 727 square miles and includes the growing communities of Banks, Beaverton, Cornelius, Forest Grove, Gaston, Hillsboro, King City, North Plains, Sherwood, Tigard, Tualatin and Wilsonville. Washington County is home to world-class golf courses, award-winning wineries, an array of outdoor recreation opportunities, lush, natural and scenic wetlands and wildlife preserves, superb dining, and myriad shopping.

photo credit: retsoced via photopin cc
photo credit: KTesh via photopin cc
photo credit: Matt.Picio via photopin cc

Photo: North Willamette Vintners

Love Oregon’s Wine Country?  The North Willamette Vintners invite you to spend a weekend exploring dozens of local wineries! 

Now in it’s 5th year, the annual wine-touring weekend takes place Saturday, April 13 and Sunday, April 14, 2013 from 11-4 each day.

Guests are treated to complimentary wine tastings, pairings, entertainment and activities at EACH participating winery along with food, local art and live entertainment.  Each winery has partnered with a local artisan food producer, cookbook author, artist or craftsperson to showcase Oregon’s northernmost wine region and its artisan community.

Make it a weekend getaway by booking  The Grand Hotel Bridgeport Wine Tour Package 

To purchase your tickets, visit shop.northwillamettevintners.org

TICKETS: (On Sale Now)

Saturday & Sunday, April 13-14, 2013 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• $45 per person includes the two-day Wine Trail weekend with activities, wine tastings, light food pairings, North Willamette Vintners wine glass, and canvas tote bag for wine purchases.
• $30 per person for Sunday only ticket from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ticket includes Willamette Vintners logo glass, activities, wine tastings, light food pairings and canvas tote bag for wine purchases.
• $10 for Designated Driver ticket includes a wine trail kit with a bottle of water, beverage bottle and snacks in a reusable tote bag.

About North Willamette Vintners
Located near the northern boundary of Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine region, North Willamette Vintners is a cluster of independent wineries crafting finewines from the valley’s most fertile land. Passionate, creative and diverse, this young industry association is made up of 43 members representingwineries, tasting rooms and wine tourism partners throughout the northern reaches of the valley. Most of the wineries are located just outside Portland, in the nearby communities ofBeaverton, Cornelius, Forest Grove, Gaston, Helvetia, Hillsboro and Tigard. On the way to Oregon’s scenic coast and to the heart of the Willamette Valley, the North Willamette Valley wine region is easily accessible for a day trip or weekend excursion. For more information or a list of member wineries, please call 503-941-0609 or visit www.nwvintners.org. Follow North Willamette Vintners on Facebook and Twitter at @NWVintners.

This month, we will share tips to explore Oregon’s Washington County wine country for less than $10 per person! Wine, saké and beer enthusiasts on a budget may venture to specialty beverage makers in Washington County for a day of sampling.

Here are a few suggestions to get you started (Prices subject to change):

Helvetia Vineyards  (23269 NW Yungen Road, Hillsboro, Ore.)
Helvetia Vineyards was started by former U.S. Congresswoman Elizabeth Furse (1993-1999) and husband John Platt, located in the rural, unincorporated area of Helvetia. The winery, which has been producing wine since 1996, follows sustainable practices—it is a “salmon safe” farm—and produces Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris.
Tasting fee: $3 per person 
Open Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

SakéOne (820 Elm St., Forest Grove, Ore.)
The American owned-and-operated saké brewery, SakéOne, produces traditional, premium-grade Japanese saké, plus organic and flavor-infused blends. At the brewery, visitors can tour the kura where each step of the saké-making process is explained, and sip a selection of saké in the tasting room.
$3 per person (Kura flight of four saké tastes); Kura tours are complimentary
Open daily, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Kura tours 1, 2 and 3 p.m.

Two Kilts Brewing Company (14841 SW Tualatin-Sherwood Road, Sherwood, Ore.)
The latest introduction to Oregon’s “beervana” culture is Two Kilts Brewing Company. The company was founded in 2009 and the tasting room opened its doors in 2011. In its short time, Two Kilts has amassed a following and praise from local beer enthusiasts with their India Pale Ale, Scotch Ale and other brews made with local ingredients.
$4 per pint, tastes from $1
Open Monday-Saturday, 3-10 p.m.

For more ideas with a broader price range, download this Wine Tour Itinerary 

Oregon’s Washington County is scenically situated between Portland and the Oregon Coast. The destination covers 727 square miles and includes the growing communities of Banks, Beaverton, Cornelius, Forest Grove, Gaston, Hillsboro, King City, North Plains, Sherwood, Tigard, Tualatin and Wilsonville. Washington County is home to world-class golf courses, award-winning wineries, an array of outdoor recreation opportunities, lush, natural and scenic wetlands and wildlife preserves, superb dining, and myriad shopping. For more information, visit the Washington County Visitors Association’s official destination website or visit the online pressroom.

photo credit: Vincent Ma via photopin cc

If you were among the many that got engaged this Valentines Day, congratulations!

Luckily, brides-to-be have a number of dream wedding locations to choose from throughout the Portland area, especially in Washington County.  From vineyards to traditional churches to historic buildings, there is something for every taste and budget.

Here are some recommendations to get you started!

• Visit the Washington County Visitor’s Association list of local venues. The WCVA’s Wedding Wonderland Page contains great suggestions for vineyards and other unique and special locations well suited for for your big day!
• Consider Hosting Rehearsal Dinners, Showers and Parties at Bridgeport Village. We love Bridgeport Village because it is elegant, unique, service oriented and convenient to our guests.  The center also provides a variety of popular restaurants to suite any taste and budget.  You may also want to consider booking one of their specialty salons and spas to pamper your bridal party on the big day!
• Consider the Service Options Available at The Grand Hotel in Bridgeport.   There are numerous reasons we are a great choice to host your important event. Wedding guests love our amenities (Free WiFi, Indoor Pool, Hot Tub, Workout room, and hot breakfast buffet to name a few). Our committed staff will provide the outstanding service you deserve to make your day perfect.  We also offer special group rates when you reserve a block of rooms.
• Utilize Local Wedding Planners and Search for Vendors Recommended by the WCVA and Local Merchants.   Visit the WCVA Wedding Venue and Services Finder to locate the perfect venue and find caterers, photographers and more.

photo credit: Edgar Barany via photopin cc

photo credit: Sean Molin Photography via photopin cc

photo credit: Rubyran via photopin cc

So why are we talking about movies? We’ve decided to take advantage of our proximity to the Bridgeport Village experience and prepared an inclusive package of delicious food and thrilling cinema. The Regal Bridge Village Stadium theatre is 18 theaters of cinema magic just a quick jaunt away. The Lights, Camera, Action package combines one of our rooms with a $50 gift certificate to the guest-favorite Italian bistro, Pastini, and two movie tickets to the enormous Regal Bridge Village Stadium theatre.

The Bridgeport Regal is a popular destination for the Portland metropolitan area. It is new and clean, gives spacious stadium seating and offers an enormous variety of shows on regular and IMAX screens. Have you seen all the Oscar nominees yet? Les Misérables, Django Unchained, Lincoln, Life of Pi, Silver Linings Playbook and Zero Dark Thirty are each showing at the Regal right now. That’s two-thirds of the best picture contenders at one theatre. Ready to be scared silly by Mama? They’ve got it. Skyfall? But of course. And Portland’s own Gus Van Sant’s latest indie flick, Promised Land, just opened here. The number of must-see films is so staggering, we don’t know how you’re going to choose. Check out the package details for more information, or give our front desk a call at (866) 968-5757.

There is always something to do in this area, check these helpful resources to plan your trip

• www.travelportland.com @travelportland
• www.traveloregon.com @traveloregon
• www.downtownportland.org @inDowntownPDX
• www.oregonswashingtoncounty.com @WCVA

Here are just a few events The Grand Hotel at Bridgeport staff recommends checking out during your stay:

Downtown Tigard Night Out - Friday, January 18, 2013: Downtown Tigard merchants are hosting specials on local shopping, tastings, unique dining, music, classes and more! Mark your calendar for the 3rd Friday of each month from 4 to 9 p.m. for Downtown Tigard Night Out.

ChocolateFest - January 18-20, 2013: Chocolate lovers and chocolatiers come together at the Oregon Convention Center. All proceeds benefit the 501(c)(3) non profit the World Forestry Center.
www.facebook.com/ChocolateFestPDX

Fertile Ground Festival – January 24 – February 3, 2013: Presented by Portland Area Theatre Alliance, this10-day arts festival aspires to increase the appreciation for Portland’s lush creative culture. The event showcases play premieres, art installations and events, all created by local artists. Follow their events on Facebook 

Chinese New Year at Lan Su Chinese Garden  – February 10-24, 2013: Celebrate the Year of the Snake at this family friendly event spanning over a 2 week period. Highlights include a lantern-viewing ceremony, lion dances, children’s activities, martial arts and cultural and historical demonstrations.
Lan Su Chinese Garden on Facebook 

Portland Jazz Festival – February 15-24, 2013: A multi-venue series of jazz events presented each February within Portland, Oregon. Nationally and regionally supported as a cultural tourism initiative in celebration of Black History Month, Portland Jazz Festival is dedicated to preserving America’s indigenous art form by presenting internationally recognized jazz masters alongside local jazz musicians. A series of jazz education and outreach programs that extend into Portland’s schools and neighborhoods is at the heart of the annual event. Follow them in Twitter  and Facebook

Oregon Seafood and Wine Festival – February 1& 2, 2013: This winter event is a celebration of all things Oregon, but most specifically our wonderful Oregon seafood and wines. The 2 day festival features Fresh Oregon Seafood, Wines from 50 Oregon Wineries and Live Music.  Follow them in Facebook

The 36th Portland International Film Festival -February 7-23, 2013: The biggest film event in Oregon, premiering more than 100 international shorts and feature films to Portland audiences each February. Audiences can experience a variety of parties, visiting artists, and plenty of festival adventure taking in this feast of cinematic fare. Follow them in Facebook and Twitter

Source: www.travelportland.com