Situated on the south bank of the Columbia River, Boardman is a rapidly growing industrial hub driven by the Port of Morrow. It’s a major food processing and logistics center, as well as being home to industry ranging from renewable energy and data centers to manufacturing and regional commerce.
Where is Boardman?
Boardman sits along Interstate 84, roughly 45 miles west of Pendleton and just south of the Columbia River. Its location makes it a key stop for travelers heading toward the river, the Tri-Cities in Washington, or exploring the broader Columbia Basin.
Why Come to Boardman?
Boardman isn’t a traditional tourist destination — you come here for perspective on Eastern Oregon’s agricultural and industrial landscape. The riverfront offers quiet walks, fishing spots, and expansive views, while the surrounding farmland and orchards show the area’s productivity and connection to Pendleton’s markets.
One of the town’s highlights is the SAGE Center, an educational facility focused on sustainable agriculture and energy. Visitors can learn about renewable energy, innovative farming practices, and how science and technology shape the future of the region — a unique stop for curious travelers interested in the workings behind Eastern Oregon’s economy.
Annual community fairs bring neighbors together for food, music, and celebration, offering a glimpse of local culture. For visitors passing through, Boardman provides a balance of working landscapes and riverfront charm alongside educational insight at the SAGE Center.
Visiting Boardman – What to Know
Boardman has motels and enough decent restaurants and breweries to warrant an overnight stay. Two Barrels Taps & Grill and Burnt Field Brewing are both pretty good. But the real culinary attraction that pulls people in off the interstate is the food cart pod situated off South Main just south of highway 84, with carts serving inexpensive and surprisingly good Mexican, Thai & Salvadoran cuisine.
