by Andrew Dickson
January 10, 2024
Starry Nights and a Picture Perfect Town
We’re going to let you in on a little secret. Winter is a really special time to come and stay in Sisters. The crowds thin, the nights get long and if you’ve never taken a stroll through our downtown when it’s blanketed in white as the street lights come on at dusk… you’re in for a treat. So if you’re looking to break up the long winter with a romantic getaway, bring your special someone to Sisters.
Rooms for Two
Romance is all about setting the mood so start by booking your stay. And why yes, we do have several great options for couples looking for something not so cookie-cutter.
If you’re looking for somewhere cozy and private, The Scout is ideal. There are several fully-appointed, stand-alone cabins with hardwood floors, gas fireplaces, king beds and walk-in showers with heated floors. And there’s a main lodge and an outdoor fireplace with seating if you’re feeling social.
Or you can stay at FivePine Lodge & Spa. Families have been known to come with their kids…and then come back the next time without them. Not that it isn’t kid friendly, it’s just even more couples-coming-all-by-themselves friendly. They offer lodge suites as well as six different cabin types, all of which have king beds, fireplaces and soaking tubs. We recommend the Romance cabin, with the Luxury cabin a close second. Be sure to book a couples massage or time in the thermal tub at the on-site Shibui Spa, or splurge for a romance package.
Work up an Appetite
As far as activities, you’re going to be smack in the middle of one of the most exciting and easy-to-access outdoor areas in America.
If you love to downhill ski or snowboard Hoodoo Ski Area is just 16 miles down the road and is typically less crowded with shorter lift lines than Mt. Bachelor, so you’ll spend more time on the runs and riding the lift together, staying warm. If you’ve never skied but always wanted to, this is the perfect place for lessons.
If snowshoeing or cross country skiing is more your speed, Sno-Parks abound. Pack your gear, or plan to stop at Eurosports or Hillside Ski & Sport; you can pick your snowshoes or skis the night before for no extra charge and their knowledgeable staff will give you all the tips for local trails and permits.
Downtown Sisters is downright darling, full of coffee and candy shops, vintage stores, book shops, art galleries and boutiques. So have a wander. And if it’s been too long since you went to the movies together, see what’s playing at the Sisters Movie House which offers beer, wine, great food and four screens.
Cheers to You
If your idea of a romantic weekend revolves around coffee, breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert (not necessarily in that order), you’re coming to the right place.
Start your mornings over at Sisters Coffee for all kinds of espresso drinks and pair it with a pastry or sit down for brunch. If you’re getting an early start, they have food as early as 6am, serve food until 3pm, and their single origin coffee until 6pm.
If you’ve been outside all day, pull right up to Three Creeks Brewing on your way home and order one of their signature beers along with tasty pub fare like inventive burgers, pizza and salads.
For dinner, be sure and call ahead to make a reservation at The Open Door restaurant and wine bar. Their menu is seasonally inspired to go with their fantastic wine list. With its eclectic decor connected to a gallery, it’s a special place for a birthday or anniversary. And if you happen to propose anything over dessert… They host weddings in summertime. Just saying.
Top Tips:
- Shops and restaurants tend to have reduced hours in winter, so do a little internet research before you come to book some dinner reservations and so you know when the shops and galleries you want to visit are open.
- Pack for the cold and bring layers, but also bring your sunglasses. Sisters is known for its sunny winters.
- If you’re driving, we recommend driving during the day. It’s safer, and no matter where you’re coming from, all roads to Sisters are beautiful.
- Snow chains are a must, so make sure to have a set and practice putting them on if it’s been a minute. Expertly putting snow chains on quickly is a must for safety (but also pretty sexy).
- Coming between Thanksgiving and February? Enjoy a bazillion glittering lights in what some people call “Oregon’s Christmas town.”
