Estacada, Oregon, a charming town incorporated in 1905, boasts a rich history deeply woven into the fabric of its present-day community. Throughout the town you'll find a unique self-guided walking tour with over 25 murals of stories in strokes of vibrant color.
This free and accessible public art experience allows visitors to embark on a journey through Estacada's past. Art enthusiasts can explore the murals at their own pace using a handy online map or pick up a printed brochure from the Estacada Chamber of Commerce.
The murals are a product of the Artback Artists Cooperative, a local group established in 1992. Each year, these talented artists create or restore a new mural, enriching the town's cultural landscape. The overwhelmingly positive response from the community is a testament to the program's success.
Estacada's murals depict a variety of themes, serving as a chronicle of the town's history. For example, you'll find murals that showcase the area's Indigenous American heritage and its prominent role in the logging industry. One noteworthy mural highlights the Barlow Road section of the Oregon Trail, which once traversed Estacada. Restored in 2017, this mural now finds its new home at the nearby Philip Foster Farm.
Artists hand paint a mural in the heart of Estacada.
For an even deeper dive into Estacada's mural magic, look for the QR codes displayed beneath each artwork. Simply scan the code with your smartphone to unlock a treasure trove of information about the mural's story and the artist who brought it to life.
Estacada's murals offer more than just visual intrigue; they foster a genuine connection between visitors and the town's heart and soul. Come experience Estacada's unique blend of history and artistic expression through this captivating self-guided mural tour.
While strolling streets of Estacada looking at the artwork, stop in at a selection of great shops, food carts and restaurants. Sample some craft beer at Time Travelers Brewing, a location on the Mt. Hood Territory Tap Trail whose specialty is sustainable beer made with grain grown and harvested from small farms. Here you'll get your second dose of art for the day: The interior walls of the brewery boast a display of works by a local artist featuring items on the tap list.
Estacada is along the Clackamas River, which is not only one of the best whitewater rafting locations out there, but also the closest whitewater to Portland and the Portland International Airport. Prefer to keep your feet on dry land? Check out Milo McIver State Park for year-round hiking, paddling and other activities. Estacada is also known as being Oregon's second best disc golf destination, with four disc golf courses to choose from.
