A myriad of docks, old buildings – often gussied up in funky colors – and a welcoming variety of businesses inhabit Florence’s Old Town. Eat, shop, go nightclubbing later at night and then take in breakfast and plenty of espresso the morning after. Clothing shops, kite sellers, book stores, art galleries, gift shops and all sorts of goodies fill this atmospheric and somewhat unforgettable old-times vibe area of Florence.

Along this waterfront and in Old Town, you'll find little treasures like the Florence Farmer's Market. The Siuslaw Pioneer Museum takes you back in time to previous decades in this central Oregon coast hotspot (278 Maple St, Florence, Oregon. (541) 997-7884 siuslawpioneermuseum.com).

In May, the place erupts with the Florence Rhododendron Festival, often featuring that giant Ferris wheel, visible throughout much of the town. It's a few days of pageantry, carnival rides, fun runs/walks, food and over 100 years of tradition.