Grants Pass is located in southern Oregon about 60 miles north of the California border. It is a town filled with beauty, history and scenic attractions. Downtown Grants Pass recently earned the distinction of a National Historic District because of its historic buildings and homes.
 
Downtown is filled with antique and collectible shops, ice cream parlors, and sidewalk espresso stands. Be sure to stroll through downtown and enjoy the beautifully restored historical buildings.
 
The highlight of Grants Pass is the mighty Rogue River flowing through town. Riverside Park is located right on the Rogue River and is a wonderful place to picnic and walk along the Rogue. The city is often referred to the "whitewater rafting capital" of Oregon and over 25 outfitters offer rafting adventures in this area and Merlin.
     
There are jet boats that leave from Grants Pass and take visitors on a tour through Hellgate Canyon. Be sure to bring your cameras to catch the extensive wildlife on film. In 1968 the Rogue River was designated by Congress as a National Wild and Scenic river. This means that visitors have access to an unspoiled wilderness world.
 
Grants Pass abounds with modern campgrounds and RV facilities, many with boat ramps and riverside campsites. Josephine County has an extensive system of parks, and many of these are on the Rogue River. As far as overnight accommodations, you will find everything from motels to elegant bed and breakfast inns.
 
At the end of May in Grants Pass is the world famous Boatnik festival at Riverside Park. It lasts four days and the main event is a thrilling hydroboat race. Grants Pass is also host to southern Oregon's largest outdoor "Growers Market". In spring and fall, the Grants Pass is awash in color with the new blooms or the fall turning of the trees, but anytime of year at all, Grants Pass is an exceptionally beautiful town.
 
Southern Oregon, with its warm summers and mild climate is an excellent place to garden. The Rogue Valley is still known as "pear country," and you can see trees from the old orchards around town. The climate is also conducive to growing grapes, and there are local wineries. Southern Oregon is known for its mild climate. Average annual maximum temperature is 68.0, annual minimum 40.9. Average annual precipitation is 29.5 inches. Snowfall is minimal - 2.3 inches per year and in many years is non-existent. Ashland offers a ski resort in the winter, and there are three other distinctive seasons.