Medford, a city in the southern part of Oregon, is known for its cultural experiences and wineries. Named ‘Medford’ by David Loring, a civil engineer, the city offers outdoor activities for every season, be it hunting, camping, fishing, or snowboarding. The city is a blend between a bustling urban centre and a getaway close to nature. While outdoor enthusiasts can engage in lots of exciting activities here, art lovers are also in for a treat. Craterian Theater at The Collier Center for the Performing Arts offers musical shows, plays, and more. History buffs can visit Crater Rock Museum to witness gems and fossils. Rest assured that you’ll have a full itinerary when you visit this city. To find out more, read on for the top things to do in Medford, Oregon.
1. Ride on a miniature train at Medford Railroad Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Happy Mother's Day.
Posted by Medford, Oregon Railroad Park on Sunday, May 10, 2020
Medford Railroad Park is a magnificent display of Medford’s history with trains and railroads. The museum preserves this piece of history with its collection of historical memorabilia such as full-size cars. You can let your kids take a ride on the miniature trains and have a great time learning about a significant part of Medford’s history. There are some model railroad tracks with trains that can be run by children, including a train based on Thomas from the popular kids’ show, “Thomas & Friends”.
Visitors also have access to Railroad Park Pavilion, which can be reserved in advance.
Medford Railroad Park
Address: 799 Berrydale Ave, Medford, OR 97501, United States
Website: Medford Railroad Park
Opening hours: Sun: 11am - 3pm (Closed Mon - Sat)
2. Treat your kids to an afternoon at The Children's Museum of Southern Oregon
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Our toddler area, "Lyn's Little Learners" is nearly done! So excited to have smiling faces in our new home...
Posted by Kid Time on Wednesday, May 18, 2022
Established in 1998, The Children’s Museum of Southern Oregon is a non-profit museum with tons of engaging exhibitions and educational activities for kids up to the age of 10 years. The exhibitions are designed to encourage free play, together with activities that involve trained instructors and family members.
Kids can engage in making art, building things, learning to dance and read, and more. Additionally, there are different labs such as Wind Lab and The Sound Lab, where little ones can be budding scientists for a day! There are other engaging activities, as well, including making play meals and rescuing (stuffed) animals.
The Children's Museum of Southern Oregon
Address: 413 W Main St, Medford, OR 97501, United States
Website: The Children’s Museum of Southern Oregon
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm (Closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: Children: 12 USD; Adults: 8 USD; Under 1 year: Free; Members: Free
3. Indulge in an exciting hike up Upper and Lower Table Rock
The Table Rocks, offering two exciting trails, are a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. The plateaus, formed millions of years ago by volcanic lava, are at an altitude of 2000 feet (609 metres) above sea level and boast spectacular views of the surrounding valley.
You will be able to find lovely vernal pools here featuring rare species of flora and fauna such as dwarf woolly meadowfoam and fairy shrimp. While the hike up Upper Table Rock stretches for 2.5 miles (4 kilometres), the Lower Table Rock is 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometres) long. It takes around five hours to cover both the trails. Make sure to carry water when you hike these trails, as none can be found at the sites.
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4. Immerse yourself in a performance in Craterian Theater at The Collier Center for the Performing Arts
Opened in 1924, The Craterian Theater at The Collier Center was designed magnificently by architect Frank C. Clark. George A. Hunt, the first director of the establishment, ran a naming contest for the theatre and chose the name ‘Craterian’.
Over the years, the theatres’ repertoire of performances has evolved with the rapid changes in cultural developments. Boasting the capacity to hold 750 visitors, the theatre is known for its stunning acoustics. It pulls back the curtain for local bands and acts as well as national concerts and is surely worth a visit to witness the vibrant arts scene in Medford.
Craterian Theater at The Collier Center
Address: 23 S Central Ave, Medford, OR 97501, United States
Website: Craterian Theater at The Collier Center
Opening Hours: Tue - Fri: 12pm - 4pm (Closed Sat - Mon)
5. Prescott Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Check out this view from the top of Prescott Park. Have a great weekend, Medford!
Posted by City of Medford, Local Government on Friday, May 20, 2022
A hike up Prescott Park, featuring 1740 acres (704 hectares), will reward you with an unmatched 360-degree view of the Rogue Valley. You can hike or ride your mountain bike over paved and unpaved trails to reach the best part of the park, Roxyann Peak, which offers a stunning view of the valley as well as Mount Shasta.
The hiking trails here are kid-friendly. Following a short hike, you will find a picnic area where you can take some rest and enjoy a good time with your hiking buddies. You may also share the fun hiking experience with your dog, thanks to the dog-friendly trails.
Prescott Park
Address: 3030 Roxy Ann Rd, Medford, OR 97504, United State
Website: Prescott Park
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
6. Admire the deep blue waters of Crater Lake
Crater Lake was formed nearly 8000 years ago followign a volcanic eruption. Nestled atop Cascade Mountain Range, the lake is considered to be the deepest in the US, with a depth of 1943 feet (592 metres).
The lake is known for its picturesque deep blue waters that photographers love to capture. Hiking, backpacking, camping and picnicking are some popular activities that can be enjoyed around the lake. Anglers will love to spend an afternoon fishing in the lake for salmon and trout.
Crater Lake
Address: Oregon 97604, United States
7. Sample some wine at RoxyAnn Winery
Since 1908, RoxyAnn Winery has been in operation under a single family. This family-owned establishment boasts acres of vineyards and orchards, with 70 acres (28 hectares) reserved for creating award-winning wines - Claret, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and more.
If your travel mates aren’t wine lovers - that’s okay. The winery offers a family-friendly environment that will make everyone feel at home instantly. You may explore the area and enjoy their beautifully crafted wines. You can opt for the Wine Club membership to have access to complimentary wine tasting and discounts on wine bottles. Additionally, you are free to hold weddings at the beautiful venue that comes with space for 300 guests.
RoxyAnn Winery
Address: 3283 Hillcrest Road Medford OR 97504
Website: RoxyAnn Winery
Opening hours: 12pm - 7pm (daily)
8. Have a family picnic at Holmes Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you're looking for a way to cool off this summer, Medford's splash pads are now open! You can enjoy the splash...
Posted by City of Medford, Local Government on Friday, May 27, 2022
Holmes Park is a popular neighbourhood park located within a peaceful residential area. You can take a stroll through the area lined with trees or have a picnic at the pavilions within the park. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon visit, the park comes with sports courts and a playground for children. You will also have access to restrooms and a parking lot for convenience.
If you’re travelling with a dog, this park, with its grassy spaces, will definitely be the perfect playground for your fur baby!
Holmes Park
Address: 185 S Modoc Ave, Medford, OR 97504, United States
Website: Holmes Park
Opening hours: 6am - 10.30pm (daily)
9. Munch on some gourmet burgers at Jaspers Café
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Come try Jaspers new burger of the month, the Octoberfest. A burger with house made beer cheese, grilled German sausage on top of burger patty with sauerkraut, grilled onions and honey mustard!
Posted by Jaspers Cafe on Thursday, October 1, 2020
Jaspers Café was founded in 1976 and initially, it sold only hot dogs and pies. Today, it has expanded its menu to offer over 40 gourmet and creative burgers that are served fresh to eager customers.
Feeling adventurous? Try the cafe’s burgers with wild game meats, from free-range bison to Australian Outback wild kangaroo. Vegetarian customers are also served well here, with lots of vegetarian meal options. You may enjoy a feast indoors in its cosy, friendly setting or have them alfresco at shaded picnic tables. Make sure to come here with your whole family, including your four-legged buddies!
Jaspers Café
Address: 2739 N Pacific Hwy, Medford, OR 97501, United States
Website: Jaspers Café
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 7pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 8pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm
10. Visit the super-sustainable Oregon Hills Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by City of Medford, Local Government on Friday, May 26, 2017
Oregon Hills Park is a truly eco-friendly park with a sustainable design. From being solar-powered to boasting a year-round stream, it surely contributes to the well-being of Mother Nature. Moreover, it has a facility for storm-water treatment and features native flora as a precaution for storms.
Visit the park for a fun and educational day out with the children as it also comes with a play area for kids and a basketball court.
Oregon Hills Park
Address: 6001 E McAndrews Rd, Medford, OR 97504, United States
Website: Oregon Hills Park
Opening hours: 6am - 10.30pm (daily)
A relaxing family-friendly destination for your next trip
With plenty of family-oriented activities, Medford is perfect for a short family getaway during your next trip. Plan your vacation using this list to enjoy the perfect balance of exciting outdoor activites and relaxing family experiences in the best places to visit in Medford.
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