Your Winter Itinerary For The Willamette Valley
While Wine Country conjures images of sunny days and green vineyards, Oregon Wine Country isn’t just for the summer months — it has plenty to offer visitors in the winter, from cozy fireside wine tastings to holiday shopping in historic downtown McMinnville. Cellar season in the Willamette Valley brings a laid-back rainy winter, often with mild temperatures, as the vineyards rehydrate for the growing season. Beginning in November and extending through March, the valley’s off-season offers a more relaxed experience than the warmer months, allowing guests to connect with winegrowers and locals alike.
Wintertime Activities in the Willamette Valley
For those looking to plan a winter itinerary in the Willamette Valley, Tributary Hotel is your ideal base for a stay in downtown McMinnville. Conveniently located steps away from some of the city’s most vibrant attractions, Tributary is perfectly placed for enjoying winery excursions and city days alike. We’ve created the ultimate winter itinerary based on recommendations from Tributary’s knowledgeable concierge, Stefani.
Discover All Manner of Libations
The cooler months are the perfect time to try a fireside wine tasting at Soter Vineyards, Fairsing Vineyard, or Domaine Divio. If you’re interested in prioritizing comfort and convenience, there are a number of wine tasting opportunities in McMinnville within walking distance from Tributary, including Hifi Wine Bar (featuring pours from Martin Woods Winery), The Grove (featuring game nights and wines from two acclaimed wineries), R. Stuart & Co., Willamette Valley Vineyards, Troon Vineyard, and Brittan Vineyards.
In November, guests to the area can also check out the Oregon Pinot Noir Auction, ¡Salud!. Beer lovers can get a sampling of the area’s offerings with beer flights at Foreland Beer, Bitter Monk, or Bierly Brewing, while PNW-inspired cocktails are on offer at the Conservatory Bar.
Attend Community Events
Take advantage of truffle season by attending the Oregon Truffle Festival, with dates in both January and February. Make a day of visiting McMinnville’s local art galleries, including two that combine art with tasting rooms, Artist Block and Trisaetum, or check out a paint and sip event. If you’re intrigued by an olive oil tasting, you’ll have options at Durant Vineyards and Third Street Oil and Vinegar. Get competitive at game night with a round of pool at Hifi Wine Bar or a shuffleboard showdown at Blue Moon.
Shop Local in McMinnville
If you’re in town ahead of the holidays, bring your gift list and head out for holiday shopping on Third Street with a hot cocoa in hand from Union Block. A trip to Third Street Books is a must and afterward, enjoy your new read while sipping on tea in Velvet Monkey's basement. Music lovers can add to their vinyl collection with a trip to the only independent vinyl shop in Yamhill County, Vortex.
Get Cozy in Your Luxury Suite
After a full day of exploring the Willamette Valley, the suites at Tributary provide a relaxing sensory experience from the carefully-chosen coffee and tea selection to the luxurious bath amenities. The cooler months are the perfect time to take advantage of in-suite massages or our therapeutic bath soak which includes local soaps and salts for a full sensory immersion. Afterward, cozy up next to the fireplace in your suite with a cup of tea or glass of wine.
Plan Your Winter Stay in McMinnville Today
If you’re planning a stay in downtown McMinnville, Tributary offers a boutique hotel experience featuring world-class hospitality and luxury suites. With a lavish in-room breakfast spread from okta, curated amenities from local artisans, and a fireplace in every suite, Tributary will be your winter haven in the Willamette Valley.
Book now to reserve your stay.