Run Oregon Road Trip to The Compass McMinnville

At Run Oregon, we obviously love running — no surprise there. But we also love the Pacific Northwest and everything that makes this corner of the world such an incredible place to explore. Running is a big part of who we are, but it doesn’t define us entirely.

That’s where our Road Trip features come in: they celebrate the best of both worlds by spotlighting great local lodging while also highlighting nearby routes, trails, and race opportunities to help you make the most of your adventure.

The latest installment in this series takes us to The Compass McMinnville, a five-room, modern spin on the classic inn — tucked right into the heart of downtown McMinnville. It’s the kind of place that blends small-town charm with thoughtful design, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring everything the area has to offer, both on and off the run.

First the Running:

McMinnville may not shout “running town” at first glance, but spend a night at The Compass and you’ll quickly realize how runner-friendly the area actually is. Sidewalks are plentiful, routes are easy to access, and with Linfield University right there in town, you even have a collegiate-level track option if you’re looking to sprinkle in some speedwork. And whether you’re chasing miles on pavement or dirt, there are a couple true gems nearby.

Westside Bicycle/Pedestrian Greenway (Strava Link)

If you’re sticking to the roads, the Westside Bicycle/Pedestrian Greenway is your go-to. The access point is roughly 1.6 miles from The Compass, and once you hop on the path, you’ll find a pedestrian-only stretch that heads north for another 1.2 miles to Baker Creek Road. It’s not technical or hilly — just clean, simple, uninterrupted running. Make it a full out-and-back from the hotel and you’ve banked a smooth 5.6+ mile run without having to overthink a thing.

Miller Woods Conservation Area

Prefer trails? You absolutely luck out here. Just six miles from The Compass sits Miller Woods Conservation Area — one of the most underrated trail-running spots in the entire Valley. I almost hesitate to even mention it, because its quiet, tucked-away charm is part of the magic.

This 130-acre property packs in an impressive amount of quality running. The highlight is the Outer Loop, a roughly 4.5-mile route that offers wide-open hay fields, dense forest cover, and about 560 feet of gain — enough to feel it, but not so much that you regret your life choices. It’s open dusk to dawn, free to access, and honestly worth tossing a donation their way; every time I leave, I feel like I got away with something special.

Races to Plan Around

McMinnville itself doesn’t host a large slate of races, but it makes a fantastic basecamp for some of the region’s signature wine-country runs — including Fueled by Fine Wine and the revived Oregon Wine Country Half. If you’re planning a visit around race day, you’re right in the middle of it all.

The Spot:

Since we started out Run Oregon Road Trip series, we’ve been fortunate to stay in some truly remarkable places. The Compass McMinnville is a great option for someone looking for a little running staycation, or a traveler who wants something a little unique while checking out the famed Oregon Wine Country.

Downtown McMinnville is arguably one of the best small-town main streets in Oregon — maybe even the country. 3rd Street is the kind of place you could easily spend an entire day wandering, eating, sipping, and people-watching. Do yourself a favor and carve out the time; it’s worth every minute. And with The Compass sitting just two blocks south on First Street, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy it all on foot.

The Compass operates inside a historic house and blends the warmth of a classic B&B with the ease of an Airbnb and the polish of a boutique hotel. There’s no front desk and the check-in process is fully digital, yet support is always just a message away if you need anything.

Guests can choose from five total options: four suites (21+ only) and one separate studio that offers more space and is family-friendly. While each suite has its own personality — think king vs. queen beds, different floor levels, tub vs. shower — the shared throughline is updated charm and a thoughtful attention to detail.

Every room includes a private bathroom stocked with organic, Oregon-made bath products, luxurious linens, and a curated selection of snacks and beverages. And yes, Liquid I.V. is included — a touch that runners and wine-tasting adventurers alike will appreciate. Add in the in-room AC units (not always a guarantee in the Valley), and you’ve got a stay that feels both comfortable and elevated.

Our Room:

 

We stayed in the South Suite, a second-floor space with an entire wall of south-facing windows — perfect for greeting (and sending off) the sun each day. The suite itself is warm and inviting — not oversized, but definitely not cramped for one or two people.

A small workstation sits beneath a skylight, giving you natural light for any computer time or trip planning. There’s also a smart TV, though we always encourage exploring your surroundings when traveling. Still, The Compass is one of those places that’s hard to walk away from; even wandering the building itself feels like part of the experience. And the bed? Let’s just say the ultra-soft linens make getting up for that morning run a little more challenging than usual.

The bathroom, meanwhile, has no business being this nice — in the best way. A freestanding soaking tub sits alongside a full standing shower, giving you the best of both worlds. Morning rinse to wake up, post-run soak to celebrate your miles? Exactly.

Refueling:

While I know it’s not technically designed specifically for active travelers, The Compass sure feels like it was. Some of the amenities make it hard to believe otherwise. Case in point: the outdoor sauna and cold plunge, open daily from 7a-9p. — a dream setup for runners looking to relax, recharge, and reset. Just remember to pack a swimsuit. You can reserve a 60-minute private session through the QR code in your suite or via the link in your confirmation email.

Food-wise, The Compass keeps things simple but thoughtful. Every room is stocked with complimentary snacks, tea, local steeped coffee, sparkling water, and even a small bottle of local wine.

Each suite also comes with two $10 vouchers to spend at a pair of our favorite local spots: Aveline (downtown) and Alea (inside the always-awesome Mac Market). Both are an easy stroll ~.6mile from the inn, and both offer pastries, coffee, and a cozy atmosphere – though you may want to drive if the weather is less than ideal. The rooms also include a free glass of wine at the awesome HiFi Wine Bar on 3rd Street – a spot that is open late.

And speaking of wine, you’re literally in the heart of Oregon Wine Country, so get out there and explore. Third Street alone has plenty of tasting options, but if you’re up for a short climb into the surrounding hills, we recommend Youngberg Hill and Maysara for their views, vibes, and standout wines.

If you’d rather just stay put (and honestly, we wouldn’t blame you), The Compass has a charming honor bar stocked with wines by women and indie winemakers, plus beer and non-alcoholic options — all available via QR code. It’s a perfect low-key way to wind down without leaving the building.

Overall:

All told, The Compass McMinnville makes for an exceptional runner’s basecamp. You’re steps from one of the best downtowns in the state, minutes from solid road and exceptional trail running routes, and surrounded by endless food, wine, and small-town exploring. Add in the runner-friendly touches and the ease of a fully digital stay — and it’s hard to imagine a better launching pad for miles and adventure in the heart of Oregon Wine Country.