A city located in the Rogue River Valley, one thing visitors definitely take note of in Grants Pass is the climate. In fact, the gigantic sign welcoming guests into the city proudly proclaims their motto: It’s the Climate. With summer highs fairly high (in the 90-degree range) and still drastic cool downs at night, it in some ways mimics a Mediterranean climate, right in Oregon’s Rogue Valley. Given their riverside location, many take to the outdoors as their principal form of recreation here. Fishing, canoeing and whitewater rafting are all extremely popular activities. While the lushness that comes with being a Rogue River Valley town affords the area some amazing homegrown fruits and vegetables—farmers markets are a Grants Pass staple.
The citizens of Grants Pass take particular pride in their downtown scene. A city with that undeniable small town charm, the streets are a mix of historic buildings, modern storefronts and even some fifties retro nostalgia thrown in for good effect. You can walk around and find just about anything and everything you could ever want.
A city known for its cultural heritage, you can find a wide array of artistic styles, musical influences and theatrical venues here. Spend the day at the Museum of Art and then enjoy dinner and some jazz at a trendy little nightclub.
Travel out of the city just a few minutes and visit some of the quaint shops and markets that dot the countryside. From antique shops that offer 19th century native-to-Oregon items, to ceramic and bead boutiques, there is certainly a lot to see.
Winter is a relative slow season. It is the wet season and daily highs only hit the mid-40s.
By April, daily highs are in the mid-60s. Late spring is fairly dry and a good time to start playing outside.
Summer is warm and very dry. The highs hit near 90 degrees during July and August. There is no shortage of outdoor activities during the summer months, and it is a peak time for visiting.
Fall is fairly warm and dry through October. One good reason to visit in the fall is for the wineries.