As the location of two rivers, a lake, a marine reserve, many trails and Oregon’s only UNESCO Biosphere Region, Lincoln City is where the outdoors reign supreme. Take in scenic beauty on a walk along 7 miles of coastline in search of a glass float made by local artisans as part of the Finders Keepers program, or tag along with a local expert on a variety of guided outdoor tours called Exploriences such as the Biosphere Explorience, a naturalist-led journey through the Cascade Head Biosphere Region. The walk-and-talk interprets the unique flora, fauna and geology of the area, the revolutionary conservation efforts on the Salmon River and the history of the Nechesne peoples, the first inhabitants of the land.

Take a self-guided hike on the Lower Cascade Head Trail or one of eight open space trails in town, including the Knoll which leads to sweeping views of the community and the Pacific Ocean. In the Taft District, visit the new Schooner Creek Discovery Park, featuring the Oregon Coast’s first inclusive and accessible playground. Interested in stargazing? Lincoln City benefits from less light pollution than similar-sized cities on the coast and is a peaceful place to take in the majesty of the night sky. Visit on the night of March 14 to see the lunar eclipse or during International Dark Sky Week April 21-28 to enjoy interpretive programs offered by Central Coast Friends of the Night Sky.

Lincoln City was the location of the Coast Reservation, where tribes from all over Western Oregon were relocated beginning in 1855. The Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians continue to steward this place, as well as present tribal culture and entertainment at Chinook Winds Casino Resort. Catch shows and live music at the casino or at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, which also interprets the history and ongoing contributions of the Siletz tribe. Spring break brings the family-friendly Festival of Illusions to the Cultural Center from March 23-30; while you’re there, stand under the towering figure of Poppy, a stainless steel beast installed as public art in the plaza, and a stop on the Lincoln City Art Trail. Also on the art trail is the new mural, “The Lincoln City Kite Festival,” with an illustration reimagining Oregon as a magical place where whales and jellyfish fly. At the North Lincoln City Historical Museum, peruse the “25 Years of Finders Keepers” exhibit in celebration of the local glass art program’s silver anniversary.

Following the Tap and Brew Trail is a solid way to kick off a food and beverage tour of Lincoln City, with stops at Beachcrest Brewing, Gilgamesh Brewing-The Coast, and the Lighthouse Pub—the third McMenamins property established in 1986, and the first brewpub on the Oregon Coast. Pelican Brewing on Siletz Bay is worth a trip just for the view; look for wildlife galore to emerge while the sun sets spectacularly over the estuary, including the eponymous pelican. For fine dining, visit the Rogue River Steakhouse at the casino. Kyllo’s, perched in the center of town over the D River (once lauded as the world’s shortest), delivers with its Cioppino Bowl, chock full of clams, salmon and calamari; its fresh cocktails also hit the spot—try the Original House Margarita.

In the morning, grab a cup of fresh roasted brew at Left Coast Coffee in the Nelscott District and wander to the beach for a glimpse of Joe the Sea Lion (he’s a statue). Breakfast at the Otis Café is worth the wait—once located in the outlying community of Otis, the longtime locals’ favorite moved into town after suffering a devastating fire. The bread is homemade, so is the pie, the portions are huge, and the service is just how you remember your favorite diner from when you were a kid.

The Oceanlake District offers the best bet for walkable shopping. Stop in at Prehistoric for rocks, gemstones and collectibles, and to visit the resident T. Rex. Bob’s Beach Books is packed with vacation reads; next door, Output Records presents music and gifts with a retro vibe. In the Taft district, drop in at the Lincoln City Glass Center, where visitors purchase a glass float (or make their own) as well as find other custom glass art treasures. Venture to the Lincoln City Outlets for national brands including Columbia, Coach and The North Face, as well as local shops such as Scout Northwest Trading Co. to find themed gifts. There’s a good chance you’ll leave with something bearing the likeness of Sasquatch.