Wildlife Safari (1790 Safari Road, Winston; 541-679-6761), Oregon's only drive-through animal park, continues to attract families eager to observe more than 500 animals roaming natural habitats. The park is committed to research, education and conservation. In fact, it prides itself on being one of the top cheetah breeding research centers in the world (number two cheetah breeding facility outside Africa). About 90 species of mammals, birds and reptiles (some threatened or endangered) indigenous to Africa, Asia and North and South America are showcased. To the delight of youngsters, many brush up next to visitors' autos. Before or after your safari (the drive-through takes about an hour and a half), explore the village with unique animals, train rides and a petting zoo, as well as a cafe, gift shop, play area and gardens. Private encounters such as helping feed the bears and tigers are by reservation. Please keep in mind that no pets are allowed on the drive-through, although kennels are available for the duration of your visit at no extra charge. Hours change seasonally, but are currently 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Nov. 7 for the drive-through, village and gift shop. Fall cafe hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (until 3 p.m. in the winter), with a limited menu after 3 p.m. when they close the grill down.

If you're up for a short 20-minute drive after your Wildlife Safari adventure, head to Roseburg's historical downtown district and dine at True Kitchen and Bar (629 S.E. Main Street, Roseburg; 541-900-1000), a neighborhood gem. True prides itself on a well-balanced variety of dishes serving American-style cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant's mission is to satisfy "meat and potato lovers" and "foodies" alike. Signature crab cakes are a great starter, but it's the gruyere mac and cheese with bacon that's especially hard to turn down. Other lunch and dinner options include fresh and crisp salads, a daily special, grass-fed certified angus beef burgers served with your choice of housemade chips or sidewinder fries, a fully loaded filet mignon steak sandwich and other entrees which include steak, poultry, seafood and vegetarian offerings. The drink menu includes nearly two dozen craft cocktails, martinis, Moscow mules and margaritas; otherwise order your favorites from the full-service bar or off the local beer and wine list. Both dishes and cocktails are attractively presented and taste as good as they look. Hours are 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and are extended to midnight Friday and Saturday; closed Sunday. Just make sure to save room for the housemade desserts.

--Gerry Frank

The all-new fourth edition of "Gerry Frank's Oregon" guidebook is available through oregonguidebook.com; 503-585-8411; gerry@teleport.com; amazon.com; Macy's; and P.O. Box 2225, Salem, OR 97308.