McMinnville is nestled in the heart of Oregon's scenic Willamette Valley wine country and is known as the "Gateway to the Oregon Wine Country.".

Its origins trace back to 1843 when William T. Newby, a pioneer from Missouri, settled on the site and named it after his hometown in Tennessee.

Incorporated as a city in 1882, McMinnville flourished as a regional center for agriculture, particularly wheat farming and hop production.

In the early 20th century, McMinnville became a hub for the logging industry, with several sawmills operating in the area.

Today, McMinnville's economy is primarily driven by tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing, with a focus on high-tech industries.

The city is home to Linfield University, a private liberal arts college founded in 1858.

McMinnville boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and festivals throughout the year.

The annual UFO Festival celebrates the city's association with unexplained aerial phenomena.

The Yamhill County Historical Museum showcases the rich history of the region, including exhibits on Native American heritage and pioneer life.

McMinnville is situated on the banks of the Yamhill River, offering scenic recreational opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.

The city's historic downtown features charming Victorian architecture and is home to boutiques, restaurants, and tasting rooms.

The McMenamins Kennedy School is a unique hotel and restaurant housed in a former elementary school, preserving the city's educational heritage.

McMinnville has a population of approximately 35,000 residents, making it the third-largest city in Yamhill County.

The city experienced a population growth rate of over 10% between 2010 and 2020.

McMinnville is home to the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, which houses the world's largest privately-owned collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft.