Wine Tasting
There are many amazing wineries in the Rogue Valley. You can find them all here, but these are our personal favorites:
DANCIN Vineyards
Just outside of Jacksonville, DANCIN pairs award-winning Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with wood-fired pizzas, garden terraces, and sweeping views of the Rogue Valley. It's a perfect blend of elegance and warmth—ideal for a leisurely afternoon of sipping and snacking. It is also next to one of the venues for wedding weekend!
Kriselle Cellars
Located in the picturesque Upper Rogue, Kriselle Cellars is known for bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and Malbec. Their modern tasting room offers panoramic vineyard views and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere that makes every visit memorable. Lauren loves their Chardonnay!
Irvine & Roberts Vineyards
Just minutes from Ashland, this family-owned estate produces high-elevation Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that beautifully express the terroir. With a sleek, scenic tasting room and a deep focus on sustainability, Irvine & Roberts offers both sophistication and soul. We celebrated our engagement here!
Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden
Tucked away near the Applegate River, Cowhorn is a biodynamic winery with a passion for Rhône-style wines. Their Grenache, Syrah, and Viognier are standouts, and the serene garden setting makes it feel like a true escape into nature.
Hiking
We are surrounded by stunning nature in Southern Oregon, and most of it is right in our backyard. All of these hikes are an easy drive from wherever you might be staying.
Table Rocks
These iconic volcanic plateaus—Upper and Lower Table Rock—offer moderate hikes with big payoffs. Wildflowers in spring, views of the Rogue River, and sweeping vistas of the valley make these trails a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Prescott Park & Roxyann Peak
Located above Medford, Prescott Park is home to Roxy Ann Peak, a popular trail system that winds through oak woodlands and up to panoramic views of the Rogue Valley. It's great for everything from a quick morning stroll to a full afternoon hike.
Jacksonville Woodlands Trails
These quiet, well-maintained trails loop around the historic town of Jacksonville and are perfect for a peaceful walk through nature. You'll pass through shaded forests, open meadows, and even catch glimpses of the town’s Gold Rush-era charm.
Takelma Gorge on the Upper Rogue River Trail
This hidden gem of a hike follows the rushing Upper Rogue River through mossy forests and past the dramatic Takelma Gorge. It’s a peaceful and less-traveled trail that captures the wild beauty of the region. A little farther afield but well worth it!
Grizzly Peak
Just outside of Ashland, the Grizzly Peak Trail offers a moderate climb through forests and wildflower meadows to a summit with incredible views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding wilderness. It’s a must-do for nature lovers, especially in spring and early summer.
Jacksonville
If you aren’t staying in Jacksonville, it’s definitely somewhere to explore for a few hours. Jacksonville is a historic old Gold rush town filled with historic homes, museums, boutiques, wineries, and restaurants. We love to grab a coffee from Cerberus, walk the Woodlands trails, and pop into some of the stores. Lauren especially loves Pickety Place Antiques & Artist & Gardener.
Ashland
Nestled at the base of the Siskiyou Mountains, Ashland is a vibrant, artsy town known for its world-class theater, eclectic dining, and natural beauty. We frequently come to grab dinner or spend a morning grabbing a coffee at Case and walking through Lithia Park. Ashland also has Lauren’s favorite gift shop in the world, Prize. Don’t skip it!
Day Trips
Southern Oregon is perfectly placed for beautiful day trips—whether you’re chasing natural wonders, thrills on the water, or peaceful riverside moments. Here are a few of our favorites.
Crater Lake
A visit to Crater Lake National Park is like stepping into a postcard. Formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, it’s the deepest lake in the U.S. and famous for its stunningly clear, deep blue water. The rim drive offers jaw-dropping views, and there are plenty of spots to hike and picnic. Make sure to stop at Beckie’s Cafe on the way home for a slice of pie!
Drive time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Hellgate Jet Boats
For a dose of adrenaline, hop on a jet boat adventure down the Rogue River. Departing from nearby Grants Pass, these tours are part thrill ride, part wildlife safari. You’ll speed through rapids, splash through canyons, and maybe even spot bald eagles or river otters along the way.
Drive time: 30 minutes
Southern Oregon Coast
Just a couple hours from the Rogue Valley, the Southern Oregon Coast offers dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and salty ocean air. Explore the stunning Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, with quick stops like Natural Bridges and Secret Beach, or wander the tide pools at Harris Beach near Brookings. If you have time post or pre-wedding festivities, we celebrated our engagement at Tu Tu’ Tun Lodge just outside of Gold Beach. Truly one of our favorite resorts in the world!
Drive time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Other Activities
Fly Fishing
The rivers in Southern Oregon are a fly-fisher’s dream. Cast for steelhead and salmon on the Rogue River, or try your luck with rainbow trout on the Applegate River. Guided trips and gear rentals are easy to find, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned anglers.
Whitewater Rafting
For an unforgettable day on the water, head out on a rafting trip down the Rogue River. Book a guided trip with outfitters in Grants Pass or Shady Cove—you can choose anything from a mellow float to splashy class III rapids. Either way, the scenery is stunning and the river vibes are unbeatable. It may be a little cold, but the season does start in May.
Rogue Creamery
A must-stop for cheese lovers, Rogue Creamery in Central Point is home to the world-famous Rogue River Blue. Frequently on the menu at some of our favorite NYC restaurants! Sample award-winning cheeses in their tasting room, grab a grilled cheese sandwich, and stock up on picnic-ready snacks from their farm stand.