The Ultimate Travel Guide To Medford, Oregon & Things To Do

Medford is one of the most visited cities in Southern Oregon and the fourth-largest metro area in the state. While Oregon has many charming small towns, Medford has more of an urban landscape; it is an all-season travel destination known for its laid-back and serene atmosphere. Medford is located in an ancient volcanic area with Crater Lake (an amazing place to explore) and Mt. McLaughlin, but history isn’t all it offers. If an outdoor adventure is the ultimate goal or a quick holiday with the family is on the cards, Medford might be the best vacation spot.

Experience paddle boarding, hiking, camping and so much more during summers. Zipline with the kids, taste some cheese, and enjoy the mysteries of underground caves and give everyone a holiday they’ll never forget. Enjoy an unforgettable and adventurous travel experience in Medford with picturesque lakes, eventful theaters, food and pub crawls, wine-tasting fishing, boating, camping and so much more. Medford has so much to offer the avid explorer.

Best Time To Go To Medford

Medford is Southern Oregon’s largest city and summer is the best season to visit Medford, Oregon. The Southern part of the state is the warmest and driest during this season.

Related: A Surprising Oregon Gem: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Eugene & Things To Do

That being said, the best months to travel to Medford, Oregon is between April and September. However, it does rain a little in May.

By September autumn starts kicking in which makes Medford a city for fall foliage. The bottom line is, no matter when someone decides to visit Medford, the city’s laid-back and serene atmosphere will be pleasing for every season.

Best Ways To Get Around Medford, Oregon

The Rogue Valley International Medford Airport is the closest to the city and has multiple commercial flights serving the airport. The airport is only three miles from Downtown.

To get to the city center, visitors can either book a taxi or rent a car at the airport. A taxi from the airport would approximately cost $17-$20.

The RVTD local city bus runs at regular intervals to the central area.

Related: 10 Best Waterfalls Near Portland You Shouldn’t Miss

Medford does not have rail service in the city. However, the easiest way to get in and around Medford is by renting a car. Medford is a short drive from the northern California border and the city’s location gives it easy access to major highways.

Another way to get exploring the city is the bus system in Medford. There are bus routes as far as Jacksonville and Phoenix.

Where To Stay In Medford, OR

SpringHill Suites Medford (Mid-range)

SpringHill Suites Medford is in proximity to the Medford Airport. It is mainly a business hotel with all business amenities. The hotel is relatively new, so it has smart TVs installed in each room with direct Netflix connections.

The complimentary breakfast is a delicious spread to start the day with and the in-hotel steam and sauna are the perfect way to unwind after a long day.

• Accommodation: SpringHill Suites Medford
• Address: 3519 Heathrow Way, Medford, Oregon, USA, 97504
• Price: $130 onwards
• Amenities: All suites, indoor pool, laundry, shuttle service, dry cleaning, and fitness center.

Best Western Horizon Inn (Budget)

This hotel is located on Interstate 5, making it easily accessible to all the outskirts of cities and towns. The rooms are spotless, and spacious, with modern furniture and a welcoming atmosphere.

Their in-house restaurant serves delicious and freshly cooked meals all day long. Nearby attractions include Crater Lake, the Community Park Sports Complex, and the South Oregon Speedway.

• Accommodation: Best Western Horizon Inn
• Address: 1154 E Barnett Road, Medford, Oregon
• Price: $90 onwards
• Amenities: Pool, Spa, Steam, Sauna, In-house restaurant, parking and shuttle service.

Where To Eat In Medford

Bambu (Pan-Asian)

Bambu has been named the best Pan-Asian restaurant in Southern Oregon. From authentic Japanese to Vietnamese, Thai, and Filipino, Bambu serves every dish with a classic twist.

They also have a stunning range of vegetarian dishes. Chef Adam Ward is known for brewing magic in the kitchen which is why this place is running full almost all the time.

• Price: $
• Address: 970 N Phoenix Rd #106, Medford, OR 97504, United States

Kaleidoscope Pizzeria & Pub

This is an award-winning, vibrant restaurant that serves gourmet pizzas that is stone baked. They also have a patio area open all through summer and offer salad platters, Thai and Chinese pizza options, and various vegan and gluten-free crust options.

• Price: $
• Address: 3084 Crater Lake Hwy, 1923 Delta Waters Rd, Medford, OR 97504, United States

Rosario’s (Italian)

Going back to 1975, Rosario has maintained quality over quantity and makes some of the most authentic Italian dishes in the city.

With a delicious menu and everything made from scratch, even their flakes, they serve a variety of wood-fired pizzas, mouthwatering ravioli, and pasta.

• Price: $$
• Address: 2221 W Main St, Medford, OR 97501, United States

Portal Brewing Company (Brewpub)

For a fan of house-made beer, this is one place not to be missed. Portal Brewing Company serves some delicious brews alongside fast-moving pub-grub food.

The restaurant has a rustic finish and an inviting vibe and their most interesting dish is the grilled sausage stuffed in a pretzel.

• Price: $
• Address: 100 E 6th St, Medford, OR 97501, United States

Top Things To Do In Medford

River Rafting on Rogue River

Bring out the adventure seeker from within and raft or kayak at one of the most beautiful rivers in Medford.

Rogue River is famous for its whitewater rafting experiences, and there are multiple companies offering to guide the visitor through it. The lower Rogue River is wild and scenic but the upper sections are not accessible to the public.

There are half-day and full-day river rafting trips to choose from.

• Price: $90 for half day trip

Ski at Mount Ashland

Only 45 minutes away from Medford, near the Oregon-California border, is the ski zone at Mount Ashland. This is one activity to look forward to for the ones who enjoy the sport of skiing.

The local mountain playground at Mt. Ashland is known for its majestic views and natural beauty. Mt.Ashland offers live passes per day and season passes. The ski season lasts between mid-December to mid-April.

• Price: $69- Adult, $59- for youth, and free for children and seniors.
• Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM

Learn about the Rogue Valley Native American Culture

The heart of Oregon overflows with diversity and cultural uniqueness. According to research, the indigenous people have lived here for over 15,000 years.

Set ashore on the Rogue River, Roxy Ann Peak, and the Table Rocks, get in touch with locals or guides who can take one around this rich land.

Medford Railroad Park

This 7-acre park is open on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month. It makes for a free, family outing. Grab a picnic and head to this park to enjoy a bright sunny day as the kids play and stroll around the park.

• Price: Free
• Open only on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month.

Applegate Lake

Medford’s summers are incomplete without visiting some of its pristine lakes. This picturesque and quaint lake is located 30 miles south of Medford.

It is the perfect summer spot as it offers several outdoor activities like fishing, boating, cycling, hiking, and more. Visitors can even camp at Hart-Tish Park adjacent to the lake.

Prescott Park

Sitting on the eastern part of the city, Prescott Park is spread over 1,700 acres of land. It has the Roxy Ann Peak seen from Medford. The Park is the closest hiking spot to Medford.

There are several trails in and around the park and the uphill climb to Roxy Ann Peak is slightly difficult, but totally worth the effort.

Applegate River Lavender Farm

This Applegate Lavender escape operates during peak lavender season that starts from June till Late September. This farm is family owned and operated and is located in Ruch near Jacksonville only 25 minutes from Medford.

Visitors can come and stroll through the beautiful lavender farms and shop for organic oils freshly produced and squeezed at their gift shop.

Augustino Estate and Vineyard

Medford is famous for its vineyards. The Augustino Estate and Vineyard is in the botanical region of Southern Oregon that has a wide range of vineyards. Augustino has two tasting rooms, and the Big Red Barn is located in Applegate Estate.

The entire estate is built with light wood and sits within a forest-like setting. The whole place feels extremely authentic and welcoming. Come by and indulge in a delicious wine-tasting experience and take home some varied memories, and their in-house wines.

They also have on-site rentals called the Winery Cabins, Farmhouse cottage, and the Cowboy Cabin.

• Open every day between 12 PM and 5 PM.

Crater Lake National Park

This is one of the best natural features in the West of America. An hour’s drive from Medford will take the visitor to the Crater Lake National Park which has the bluest water visitors will ever see.

This lake is a result of a volcanic eruption that occurred over 7000 years ago; Crater Lake is one of the three deepest in all of the United States.

The ice-blue waters are a result of rain and snow melt, and the area is best known for hiking and photography. The Rim Rail at the Rim village has the best views of the lake.

Related: 10 Best Places To Stay Around Crater Lake National Park

Oregon Caves National Monument And Preserve

A drive of 75 miles towards the West of Medford is this underground monument housed in the Siskiyou Mountains. Check out a guided tour to learn about these magnificent caves.

There are 90-minute excursions for kids and adults, or one can take a longer guided tour that lasts over three hours.

• Price: $10 – Adults, $7 – Youth, and $5 – For seniors

Valley of Rogue State Park

This campground sits by the picturesque Rogue River. Valley of Rogue State Park is a good excursion for people who wish to relax and unwind by the Lake by pitching a tent or hiking and bringing in a picnic.

This is also an incredible photography spot in the city. During Autumn, the park is filled with breathtaking fall foliage.

How To Spend A Perfect Day In Medford, OR

An ideal holiday in Medford will last at least a long weekend. However, with less time in hand, one can still cover the prime attractions of Medford.

Start off the day by heading to the rogue river and spend time exploring the spot for a few hours. There are several activities lined up by the river, like boating, fishing, swimming, and picnic spots to relax by.

For families with children, visitors can head to the Kid Time Children’s museum and spend over an hour or two exploring activities with their kids.

Related: 10 Sights To See In Oregon For Nature Lovers

For the second half of the day, grab a quick lunch or takeaway, and head to Applegate Lake which is 45 minutes outside the city. Try reaching there before sunset to enjoy the views across the aquamarine waters.

FAQ

Q: What is Medford Oregon known for?

Medford is known for nature, tranquility, delicious pears, and wines. Medford is central to many adventurous activities in and around the city. Applegate Lake, Crater Lake which is a volcanic monument, and Rogue Park are some of the most visited spots around the city.

Q: How much snow does Medford Oregon get a year?

Medford, OR gets most of its snow between December and February and accumulates an average of four inches per year. Oregon is home to some of the most scenic skiing trails in the US, but Medford proper doesn’t necessarily get enough for winter sports.