Ontario, OR: The Route Down The Oregon Trail
With a total of 11, 366 residents, Ontario, Oregon is the largest city in Malheur County. It was founded, by developers William Morfitt, Mary Richardson, Daniel Smith, and James Virtue. Though growth was slow at first, it soon flourished with the construction of the Oregon Short Line Railway. Businesses were more interested to set up shop in Ontario, now that transportation became easier. Neighboring Boise Airport (BOI) catered into incoming visitors in the area. In fact, several hotels have popped in the area such as Clarion Inn Ontario, Sleep Inn and Best Western Inn and Suites.
Best Time to Visit
July is usually the peak season in Ontario, OR. Many tourists come during the warmer months and should expect an increase in hotel prices during these months. To avoid crowds it is best to visit the city in December.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Ontario, OR has wide sprawling land with the most distinctive landmark, the Malheur Butte. This served the early Indians as a vantage point for spotting wagons on the Oregon Trail. Here visitors can dip into its hot springs caused by geothermal activity. Another key site in the city is the Ontario State Recreation Site which sits at the west bank of the Snake River. Here visitors can go kayaking, rafting, hiking, boating, fishing and many more. On the other hand, visitors can immerse themselves to Ontario, Oregon's history and culture by visiting the Four Rivers Cultural Center & Museum.