Pendleton, OR

Pendleton, Oregon, is located in the northeastern corner of the state, where wide open spaces meet rich cultural heritage. Founded in 1868 and named after George H. Pendleton, a U.S. senator from Ohio, the town grew along the banks of the Umatilla River. With a 2021 population of around 17,000 residents, Pendleton has managed to keep its small-town charm while embracing its Wild West legacy. It’s best known for the Pendleton Round-Up, one of the most famous rodeos in the country, held every September. The Round-Up brings in visitors from all over the world (so many that the population during rodeo increases to about 70,000!) and transforms the town into a living tribute to cowboy culture, complete with parades, Native American dancing, and traditional Western events.

But Pendleton is more than just rodeo dust and boots. The city is also home to the Pendleton Woolen Mills, which have been producing high-quality wool blankets and garments since 1909. This historic mill is still in operation and offers tours where visitors can see how the iconic patterns come to life. Downtown Pendleton offers a mix of old and new—historic saloons sit alongside local coffee shops, art galleries, and boutiques, all backed by a strong sense of community and pride. It’s the kind of place where shop owners greet you by name and everyone has a story about the Round-Up.

Pendleton also has a fascinating, lesser-known side hidden just below the surface—literally. Beneath the streets lies a network of underground tunnels once used by Chinese immigrants, gamblers, and bootleggers. The Pendleton Underground Tour takes you through these preserved spaces, offering a glimpse into the town’s more mysterious and gritty past. This blend of deep-rooted history, community warmth, and open landscapes makes Pendleton a place that’s both engaging and easy to love.