Nestled in the heart of Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley, Medford and Ashland create a perfect blend of culture, nature, and small-town charm. These neighboring cities offer unforgettable Oregon weekend getaways, packed with diverse experiences that capture the region’s unique spirit.
The Rogue Valley tourism scene shines with world-class attractions. Ashland draws 120,000 visitors yearly to its renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, while Medford attractions range from historic landmarks to thriving wine scenes. With fewer than 22,000 residents, Ashland maintains its small-town appeal while delivering big-city cultural experiences.
From award-winning restaurants like MÄS and Alchemy to outdoor adventures at Lithia Park, this Southern Oregon travel destination packs endless possibilities into every visit. The region’s celebrated wineries, including Padigan Estate Vineyard, showcase distinctive local wines grown in the valley’s ideal climate.
Getting to Southern Oregon’s Cultural Hub
Southern Oregon’s enchanting blend of culture and natural beauty draws visitors year-round. The Rogue Valley airport serves as the gateway to this vibrant region, offering connections to major cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, and San Francisco.
Flying Direct with Direct2 Private Charter
The Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport welcomes travelers with convenient flight options. Private charter services enhance accessibility, complementing regular commercial flights from seven major cities.
Ground Transportation Options
Medford transportation options cater to diverse preferences. The Rogue Valley Transit District connects key destinations across the region.
- Airport taxi service: $17 plus 15% tip to downtown
- RVTD bus line #61: Airport to downtown route
- Ride-sharing: Lyft and Uber services available
- Car rentals: Multiple agencies at the airport
Best Time to Visit the Rogue Valley
The region’s favorable climate makes it perfect for year-round exploration along Southern Oregon travel routes.
| Season | Temperature | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | 94°F (34°C) | Rafting, hiking, festivals |
| Winter | 36°F (2°C) | Skiing, theater shows, wine tasting |
| Spring/Fall | 65-75°F (18-24°C) | Outdoor markets, cultural events |
“The Rogue Valley’s mild climate and stunning landscapes create an ideal destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and cultural adventurers.”
36 Hours in Medford, Ashland
Your perfect Southern Oregon attractions tour starts with a morning visit to Dos Mariposas Vineyards and Lavender Farm, a charming addition to the region since 2022. The farm offers breathtaking views of fall foliage bursting with oranges, reds, and yellows.
Your Medford itinerary continues with lunch at Steamworks Meadery, where owner Peter “Drea” Paulsen crafts unique honey wines. For dinner, experience the culinary excellence of Chateaubriand 36 in Ashland, known for its farm-to-table cuisine and local wine selections.
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Lavender Farm Visit | Dos Mariposas |
| Afternoon | Mead Tasting | Steamworks Meadery |
| Evening | Fine Dining | Chateaubriand 36 |
Day two brings exciting Ashland activities at the revitalized Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Pacific Crest Trail or join Rogue Valley Anglers for guided fly fishing. End your stay with stargazing at the Oregon Outback, designated as the world’s largest Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2024.
“Southern Oregon offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences and natural wonders, making every 36-hour visit uniquely memorable.”
- Stay at My Place hotel for convenient access to attractions
- Book guided outdoor adventures in advance
- Reserve dinner at Chateaubriand 36
- Check festival schedules before visiting
Exploring Downtown Medford’s Cultural Scene
Medford downtown pulses with an eclectic mix of heritage and modern attractions. The city’s cultural activities span from historic theaters to contemporary art spaces, creating a vibrant atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Diverse dining options complement the area’s artistic spirit.
Historic Districts and Architecture
The downtown core showcases preserved Victorian architecture dating back to the region’s gold rush era. The Craterian Theater, with its intimate 750-seat capacity, stands as a testament to Medford’s commitment to performing arts.
Local Dining Hotspots
Medford restaurants blend local flavors with culinary innovation. The award-winning Rogue Creamery, just 10 minutes from downtown, earned the title of World’s Best Cheese in 2019.
“Medford’s dining scene represents the perfect fusion of local ingredients and creative cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.” – Forbes Magazine, 2019
Art Galleries and Entertainment
The city’s cultural activities thrive through its diverse entertainment venues. Local art galleries showcase regional talent, while performance spaces host year-round events.
| Cultural Venue | Specialty | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Craterian Theater | Performing Arts | 750 seats |
| 2 Hawks Winery | Wine Tasting | 200 guests |
| Marco’s Pepper Grill | Fine Dining | 120 seats |
- Regular art exhibitions featuring local artists
- Live music performances at historic venues
- Seasonal cultural festivals and events
Ashland’s Theater and Natural Beauty
Nestled in Southern Oregon, Ashland blends artistic heritage with natural wonders, creating an unforgettable destination for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Oregon Shakespeare Festival Experience
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival stands as a cornerstone of Ashland things to do. This renowned festival attracts 120,000 unique visitors annually, contributing over $120 million to Oregon’s economy. The festival showcases both classical and contemporary productions across multiple stages.
| Festival Impact | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Annual Visitors | 120,000 |
| Economic Impact | $120+ million |
| Pandemic Relief Funds | $14.71 million |
Lithia Park Adventures
Lithia Park offers a peaceful retreat with 93 acres of natural splendor. Visitors can enjoy:
- Walking trails through native gardens
- Duck ponds and picnic areas
- Tennis courts and playground facilities
- Seasonal ice skating rink
Downtown Shopping and Dining
Downtown Ashland presents a charming blend of local shops and eateries. The area has evolved to meet changing tourist preferences, with many historic bed and breakfasts transforming into modern vacation rentals.
“Ashland’s charm lies in its ability to balance cultural richness with natural beauty, creating an enchanting destination for visitors of all interests.”
Plan your visit around the festival season to experience the full magic of this cultural haven.
Wine Tasting and Outdoor Adventures
Southern Oregon outdoor activities blend perfectly with wine tasting experiences across the Rogue Valley. DANCIN Vineyards, located at 2335 N Phoenix Road in Medford, offers 15 distinctive wine varieties. Their tasting room welcomes visitors with outdoor seating and bike-friendly amenities, making it an ideal stop during your wine country exploration.
The Rogue Valley wines shine at numerous Ashland wineries, where vintners craft exceptional Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, and Pinot Noir. Wine enthusiasts can take advantage of the Oregon Wine Flies Free program, letting them bring their favorite bottles home without extra baggage fees. The region’s electric vehicle charging stations and wheelchair accessibility ensure everyone can enjoy these wine destinations.
Beyond the vineyards, adventurers can tackle the Pacific Crest Trail, where dedicated hikers cover 25 to 30 miles daily through breathtaking landscapes. The trail stretches an impressive 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, offering stunning views of the Rogue Valley. For water enthusiasts, the Applegate River provides excellent rafting and fishing spots throughout the warmer months.
The Oregon Outback earned recognition as the world’s largest Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2024, creating perfect stargazing opportunities after a day of wine tasting. During June, outdoor enthusiasts can participate in the Lake County Tour de Outback, combining cycling adventures with visits to local Ashland wineries.
FAQ
What’s the best way to get to Medford and Ashland?
When is the best time to visit Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley?
What are the must-see attractions in Ashland?
What wine tasting opportunities are available in the region?
What can I explore in downtown Medford?
What outdoor activities are available in the Rogue Valley?
Is it possible to visit both Medford and Ashland in 36 hours?
Source Links
- 36 Hours in the Applegate Valley | Travel Southern Oregon – https://www.southernoregon.org/36-hours-in-the-applegate-valley/
- Things to Do – https://www.travelmedford.org/groups/things-to-do?s=36&city=Medford
- The 17 Essential Restaurants in Ashland, Oregon – https://pdx.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-ashland-oregon-shakespeare-festival
- Medford (Oregon) – Travel guide at Wikivoyage – https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Medford_(Oregon)
- Travel Southern Oregon is an All-Season Travel Destination – https://www.southernoregon.org/
- Medford | Travel Southern Oregon – https://www.southernoregon.org/activities/medford/
- Ashland Oregon Restaurant – Chateaubriand 36 Steakhouse Restaurant – https://chateaubriand36.com/
- The Oregon Cultural Trust Mural – https://www.travelmedford.org/the-oregon-cultural-trust-mural-
- Best of Medford 2013 – https://www.sneakpre.com/best-of-medford/item/best-of-medford-2013
- City of Medford Comprehensive Plan – https://www.medfordoregon.gov/files/assets/public/v/3/planning/documents/comp-plan/conclusions-goals-policies_2023-0921.pdf
- Regional Attractions – https://www.travelmedford.org/things-to-do/regional-attractions?s=80
- Battered by pandemic, Ashland reimagines its tourism economy – https://www.opb.org/article/2022/06/21/battered-by-pandemic-ashland-reimagines-its-tourism-economy/
- Padigan – Oregon Wine Board – https://www.oregonwine.org/wineries/padigan/
- Play | Travel Southern Oregon – https://www.southernoregon.org/activities/
