Woodburn, Oregon is home to the best example of a cosmetically-restored steam locomotive from the engine's era that exists west of the Mississippi River. Southern Pacific Engine 1785 sits along the edge of Highway 99E, where it has been since being donated to the city in 1957.
Just about halfway between Portland and Salem is where you can find the small city of Woodburn
Woodburn, Oregon is home to the best example of a cosmetically-restored steam locomotive from the engine's era that exists west of the Mississippi River. Southern Pacific Engine 1785 sits along the edge of Highway 99E, where it has been since being donated to the city in 1957.
Just about halfway between Portland and Salem is where you can find the small city of Woodburn. It's part farming town, part suburban community, and part retail-centered shopping destination. The Woodburn Outlet Mall is one of the largest in the Pacific Northwest. Surrounded by the fertile farmland that drove settlers to hit the Oregon Trail in pioneer days, Woodburn is still a major agricultural area. Conveniently located about an hour from Cascade Mountain peaks and just over that from the spectacular Oregon Coast, it's a place that can serve as a base for untold explorations. If you are daring, you can get a surfboard and a snowboard out on the same day!
It's not the kind of town that has housing so in demand that you must plan a move for months and months. That said, it is a popular place to live within the Willamette Valley, so a little forethought is good -- better safe than sorry as they always say. Try to begin your search with enough time before you move so that you can shop around. A rental apartment in Woodburn that is easy to get into can be found at one of the larger complexes with 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments options that come with a full slate of desirable amenities. If you are moving to the area and want a short-term situation until you find something permanent, consider a month to month lease for convenience.
It's important to know every neighborhood before you make your move. Are you looking for a period home? Are nearby amenities a must-have? Do you need more room? Take a look at the following neighborhoods in Woodburn for an idea of what they have to offer.
Historic Downtown: Tree-lined streets in front of classic period architecture dominate the area around downtown. Here you can find houses with old-fashioned front porches and mature landscaping.
South Pacific Highway/Silverton Road: This part of town is mixed use where you can find a good apartment rental in smaller complexes or a duplex. There is an industrial sector along the main road, as well.
West Woodburn: One of the new parts of town, West Woodburn is along Interstate 5 and Highway 219, also known as Newberg Road. As it transitions to farmland on the western edges, you will find Woodburn Raceway, where competitive drag races are held. Some dates even allow you to put the pedal to the metal in your own ride and test it against others on the strip.
The community is a diverse mix of people from all over the world who have come together to mold a town. The agricultural heritage is evident in events like the annual Tulip Festival south of town and the fresh fruit stands. It's easy to get out and enjoy nature or take a short trip up to Portland for some city adventure. But if you're looking to stay in town, check out the museums in Woodburn: the Jesse H. Settlemier House, Berry Center Museum and La Fiesta Mexicana. For something a bit more active, try your hand at golfing at the Oregon Golf Association Golf Course! There are also the expansive Woodburn Premium Outlets--a popular stop for both locals and those driving by on I-5 to get some of the hottest brands at rock bottom prices.
