Life by the river in Toledo
Toledo is located at a bend of the Yaquina River, which flows into Yaquina Bay, roughly 7 miles east of the coastal town of Newport. "We can do clamming, crabbing and fishing in the bay and don’t have to go out in the ocean,” says DeeAnn Ramon, the administrative specialist for the Port of Toledo. Ramon retired here for the riverside lifestyle but says much of the community traces its origins back to Toledo’s lumber days, and many still have a stake in its fishing industry. Toledo’s economy now integrates boat repair businesses and the shipyard at Port of Toledo, which also functions as a marina and park in town. Toledo also has a vibrant arts community and a strollable downtown area with specialty shops, restaurants, art galleries and art studios.
Older homes with architectural variety
Homes in Toledo are mostly on the older side but there are some 2020 builds. Architecturally, homebuyers can find everything from simple cottages to ranch styles to custom builds and log cabins. Pricing begins from $150,000 to $300,000 for everything from fixer-uppers to small move-in-ready homes. As quality, size and architectural uniqueness increase, the range rises from $315,000 to $520,000. Custom builds surrounded by private wooded lots or those overlooking the lake fetch the higher $670,000 to $800,000 range. Lots can be anywhere from less than 10,000 square feet to 5 acres or more with private ponds and established fruit trees.
Places to fish, boat, take the pup and skate
The Port of Toledo has been recognized by the Oregon State Marine Board as a Certified Clean Marina since 2007 for operating in environmentally sound ways. The port is multifaceted and supports both commercial industries and community recreation. Its boat launch and day-use area is free to use, complete with docks, a fish cleaning station and a picnic area. “We have a paddle park across the river from the boat launch and it’s strictly for kayaks, canoes, nonmotorized boats,” says DeeAnn Ramon, the administrative specialist for the port. “And then we have a waterfront park with a pavilion.” The pavilion is connected to the port’s marina and transient mooring dock by a waterside path dotted with benches and metal sculptures. Toledo also has many city parks, including a skateboard park and dog park and other waterside parks.
Downtown's historic charm
Local shops and restaurants settle in early to mid-20th century buildings on Main Street, just a stroll from the river. Toledo Coffee Depot even integrates history through decor that nods to the railroads that helped the town’s early timber industry grow. Timbers Restaurant and Lounge serves hearty American food, from burgers to salads and wraps. Cobblestone Pizza Co. is a go-to for a slice. Cafe 235 serves Hawaiian and Asian fare. Locals snag groceries at JC Market Thriftway. Retailers include Toledo Gifts and More and the Methodist Thrift Shop. The Yaquina River Museum of Art is also downtown in an old schoolhouse that was built in 1887. The museum hosts Art Toledo, now in its 30th year, on Labor Day weekend – allowing people to stroll and participate in a self-guided tour of local galleries and studios.
Public education in Toledo
Students attend the Lincoln County School District, which participates in school choice. They begin at Toledo Elementary School, which covers kindergarten through sixth grade and earns a C-plus on Niche. Learners advance to the B-minus-rated Toledo Junior/Senior High School, which offers career and technical training in art and communication, culinary arts and drafting and manufacturing.
Highways and a local bus service
U.S. Route 20 passes along Toledo’s northern side, intersecting with Oregon Route 229. U.S. Route 20 Business is another major highway, running through the center of town. Lincoln County Transit offers bus services between Toledo and nearby communities, including Newport.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
