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The Dalles, Oregon
The city where the Columbia River narrows and once spilled over a series
of rapids, French travelers named The Dalles, or the trough. Native Americans and
fur traders found this site to be a good one to stop and trade goods. Lewis and Clark
even mentioned The Dalles in their writings as, "the great Indian mart of all this country."
Much of The Dalles history lingers in its buildings and homes. The river has since been
dammed at the narrow location, but even though, you can feel a sense of the past as you travel
the streets. One of the oldest buildings in town, the Wasco County Courthouse presents films on
Wasco County, the Columbia River Gorge, and The Dalles itself. It is open Tuesday through Saturday 10-4
April through Labor Day and is well worth the visit.
St. Peter’s Church is an 1898 Gothic Revival church. The steeple is 176 feet tall
with a six-foot tall clock weathervane. There is a tin ceiling cover embossed with
abstract floral designs, painted portrait medallions, an altar of Carrara marble, and a rare
tigerwood pipe organ. This is one site that you don’t want to miss.
As with any city there are many places to stop and get a bite, but not
many places have a restaurant/motel like Cousins’. The restaurant is teaming with model trains, one
electric one that runs around the restaurant and life-size animals for the kids to sit on. The food
is down-home country cooking with great meatloaf and mashed potatoes. Make sure you stop by on your
travels through The Dalles.
If you are looking for nice, yet reasonable lodging try the Best Western
Dalles Inn and Suites. The Dalles is a sure stop on your trip through the Gorge. If nothing else, just
come for the food at Cousins'!
More Information on The Dalles
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Hotels and motels in The Dalles