Things To Do
in Medford
Medford, Oregon sits in the Rogue Valley between rolling foothills and the Siskiyou mountains. It serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, from river days on the Rogue to alpine forays on nearby peaks. The city blends a growing arts scene with farm-to-table dining and convenient access to wineries and Crater Lake.
Whether you’re here for hiking, wine tasting, or a relaxed city stroll, Medford makes a solid base for Rogue Valley explorations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic downtown area of Medford, where you can admire the charming architecture of the old buildings. Grab a freshly brewed coffee at one of the local cafés and take a leisurely stroll through the streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the Rogue Valley Messenger building, a symbol of Medford's rich history.
After lunch at a local deli, head to the Craterian Theater to catch a matinee show or explore the nearby Medford Carnegie Library, a beautiful structure filled with history. Spend some time at the Medford History Museum to learn about the region's past and its cultural significance. As the afternoon wanes, enjoy a walk through the nearby Vogel Plaza, where you can relax and people-watch.
For dinner, indulge in local cuisine at a farm-to-table restaurant, where you can savor fresh ingredients sourced from the Rogue Valley. After your meal, take a short drive to the nearby Bear Creek Park for a peaceful evening walk along the creek. Conclude your night with a visit to a local brewery, where you can enjoy a craft beer and unwind.
Begin your day with a scenic drive through the Rogue Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. Visit a local winery for a guided tour and tasting session, where you can learn about the winemaking process and sample some exquisite wines. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at the winery, paired perfectly with their own selections.
Continue your wine adventure by visiting several more wineries in the area, each offering unique varietals and picturesque views. Engage with local winemakers and learn about the terroir that makes Rogue Valley wines special. Take a moment to relax on the patio of one winery, soaking in the sun and savoring your favorites.
Head back to Medford for dinner at a restaurant known for its wine pairings, allowing you to enjoy a perfect combination of flavors. After dinner, take a stroll through downtown to explore local shops and perhaps find a unique souvenir. Consider ending your evening at a cozy wine bar, where you can enjoy a glass of your preferred vintage while chatting with friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/espresso | $3-5 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🛒Grocery staple (weekly) | $40-60 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to outdoor adventures and scenic day trips
- Strong farm-to-table and winery scene
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to big cities
- Limited public transportation within town; car often needed
Places to Visit in Medford
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic river corridor with bridges and woodland edges; ideal for golden-hour photos along the water and with local wildlife.
Historic storefronts, courthouse architecture, and street scenes that capture the city’s character.
Broad valley views from a high ridge, offering dramatic photography of the Rogue Valley and surrounding hills.
Iconic blue crater lake scenery with dramatic cliffs; a classic location for landscape photography if weather permits.
Lined with trees and water features, perfect for early morning or sunset shots along the parkways.
Food in Medford
Medford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh, pan-seared or grilled salmon prepared with seasonal herbs and vegetables; commonly featured at seafood-focused restaurants along the Rogue River and in downtown Medford.
Must-Try!
Seasonal grain bowls or salads built around Rogue Valley berries (blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries) and locally sourced greens.
Creamy risotto with foraged or locally sourced mushrooms and herbs, a staple at Italian-inspired eateries in the downtown area.
Wholesome breakfast pancakes using local oats, often topped with fresh berries and maples; popular at cozy cafes in Medford.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmer’s market offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal foods, and prepared street-style snacks.
Vendors selling regional wines, crafts, and ready-to-eat bites; great for tasting local flavors and meeting producers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be friendly and patient in shops and eateries; small-town friendliness is common. Respect quiet residential areas during early mornings and evenings.
Tipping follows standard U.S. norms; servers appreciate timely service and friendly interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Medford
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. practice is 15-20% at restaurants and bars; large groups may have gratuity automatically added. Tipping for takeout is appreciated but not always expected.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always available. Contactless payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are common in many venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, warm days with low humidity; outdoor activities are ideal, but pack water and sun protection. Evenings can be cool near the rivers.
Pleasant temperatures with fall color in the foothills; great for hikes and vineyard visits. Rain chances increase later in the season.
Mild to cool with occasional rain and snow in higher elevations; expect shorter days and potential road closures for higher passes.
Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers; rivers swell with runoff, making riverside photography particularly vibrant.
Medford at Night
Hiking in Medford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hike with sweeping valley views and a relatively steep ascent; rewards with panoramic scenery.
Challenging climb offering expansive views of the Rogue Valley and surrounding terrain.
Moderate climb with forested paths and city views from the summit.
Lush canyon routes featuring streams, wildflowers, and shaded canopies in spring and summer.
Airports
How to reach Medford by plane.
Main regional airport offering domestic flights and convenient connections to major hubs; easy access to Medford via rental cars and shuttles.
Major international hub about a 4-5 hour drive from Medford; provides extensive domestic and international connections for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of families, retirees, and professionals drawn to the Rogue Valley’s lifestyle and outdoor opportunities.
Visitors seeking outdoor adventures, regional wines, and cultural experiences in a manageable city setting.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local leagues and college-impact play are common in the Rogue Valley; parks host games during spring and summer.
High school and college games draw local crowds in fall; a typical community event.
Nearby Mt. Ashland offers winter sports with a scenic backdrop for seasonal enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Medford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Medford’s restaurants commonly offer vegetarian options; look for farm-to-table vegetables, grain bowls, and mushroom-based dishes. When dining out, ask for plant-based adjustments and request cheese-free options if needed.