By Haley Sullivan | 08/11/2025 | Featured Articles, Outdoor Adventure, Things to Do, Wine

SPONTANEOUS SUMMER GETAWAY IN THE ROGUE VALLEY

Ready When You Are

The final days of summer are the perfect time to pack the car, gather the family, and set off on a spontaneous road trip. Whether you're craving nature, culture, or a relaxing sip of Southern Oregon sunshine, Medford is your ideal launchpad for a last-minute adventure that doesn't require weeks of planning. No reservations? No problem.

This itinerary is designed for flexibility, affordability, and fun—with family-friendly activities that welcome walk-ins and spontaneous explorers. Here’s your plan for one unforgettable Rogue Valley weekend.

Day 1: Arrive & Explore Medford

β˜• Fuel Up at a Local Café

Kickstart your getaway at Forage Coffee or GoodBean Coffee. These locally loved cafés offer artisan espresso, hearty breakfast bites, and an inviting space to get your bearings.

🎨 Medford Mural Tour

Stretch your legs and get a feel for downtown with a self-guided tour of Medford’s public murals and street art. It's an open-air gallery, perfect for snapping photos and letting kids marvel at the bold colors and local flair. Check out our list of Medford’s murals here.

🌳 Afternoon at Prescott Park or Bear Creek Park

Grab sandwiches to-go and enjoy a picnic at Prescott Park, offering sweeping views of the Rogue Valley and peaceful hiking trails. If you're traveling with kids, Bear Creek Park has a playground for endless enjoyment.

πŸ‡ Evening Wine & Relaxation

Parents can unwind at RoxyAnn Winery or Dunbar Farms, both of which offer casual evening tastings and expansive outdoor patios. Kids are welcome to roam the grassy lawns while adults sip on estate-grown wines under the setting sun. Explore wineries in the area.

Day 2: Day Trip Adventure

πŸš— Crater Lake or the Rogue River

Medford is just a short drive from Crater Lake National Parkno reservation required for day use. Bring your camera and hiking shoes for breathtaking views and family-friendly trails.

Prefer water play? Head to TouVelle State Park or Valley of the Rogue State Park for a day of splashing, tubing, and picnicking along the riverbanks.

πŸ₯ͺ Lunch in Nature

Pack a cooler or grab a sandwich from Cartwright’s Market to enjoy on-site or at a picnic bench. Southern Oregon summers were made for outdoor meals!

🍦 Sweet Treat Stop

On your way back to town, treat the family to ice cream at Violets & Cream in Medford or Rogue Creamery in Central Point for award-winning artisan cheese and snacks.

Day 3: One More Stroll & Send-Off

🌿 Stroll the Gardens at EdenVale

Start your afternoon at EdenVale Winery, where the gardens are open to the public and kids can explore while you enjoy one last glass of wine or cider on the grounds.

πŸ›οΈ Last-Minute Souvenirs Downtown

Before heading home, stroll through downtown Medford’s shops for locally made gifts, produce, and art. The Village at Medford Center also has casual spots for a farewell lunch.

Medford Awaits—Anytime, Every Time

Whether you have three days or just one, Medford makes it easy to unplug, unwind, and explore without overthinking the details. With natural beauty, laid-back wineries, and hidden gems around every corner, this is your invitation to say yes to one last summer memory.

Tag us in your spontaneous Rogue Valley adventures: @TravelMedford

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