Grants Pass is for Lovers
By: Cate Battles / Visit Grants Pass
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner— this year, skip the predictable Hallmark gifts and plan a romantic getaway that’s sure to stoke the fire. Nothing keeps the sparks flying like priceless memories that never go out of style. Whether your idea of a good time is cozying up next to a fire, having a thrilling outdoor adventure, or an afternoon of wine-tasting, whisk your other half away to the mountains and river valleys of Grants Pass.
Explore the Flavors and Scenery of Applegate Valley
Between its snow-capped peaks, rolling vineyards, and meandering river, Applegate Valley offers a stunning backdrop for a romantic retreat.
Kick off your weekend and cure your sweet tooth at one of Southern Oregon’s most beloved bakeries. Enjoy fresh baked cinnamon rolls, sweet and savory danishes, and berry scones for breakfast at Pennington Farms. This berry and fruit farm dishes out some of the best baked goods in the state and is not to be missed! Down the road, stop by Whistling Duck Farm Stand and pick up some fresh produce and fermented goods.
Afterwards, work up a sweat with a hike along the East Applegate Ridge Trail near Ruch. Follow the ridge line through oak savannah, mossy forest, and panoramic hillsides. Rated easy/moderate, the hike offers 360 views of the surrounding Siskiyou Mountains and valleys.
While taking a scenic drive in Applegate Valley, explore some of the historical points of interest, like the 1917 McKee Covered Bridge, Buncom Ghost Town, and the historic Williams General Store, built in 1897.
Uncork that loving feeling with an afternoon of wine tasting and take a self-guided tour to some local vineyards. Over the past several years, Applegate Valley has grown into a world-class wine destination gaining international attention. With its wide array of varietals and innovative wine making- Applegate Valley is home to some of the West’s premier wine.
Find Romance in the Illinois Valley
Follow Redwood Highway to the Illinois Valley for a day of fun and adventure. Grab breakfast and coffee at Trillium Bakery in Cave Junction, where you’ll find delicious donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and biscuits and gravy.
Book a guided trail ride at Out n’ About in Takelma, and explore the forest on horseback. Hike along the Wild and Scenic Illinois River near Selma by following the Jeffrey Pines/ Little Fall Loop. Afterwards, drop by the Eight Dollar Mountain Botanical Wayside that features the rare carnivererous Darlingtonia.
Sip wine at Illinois Valley wineries, including Foris Vineyards, Augustino’s Treehouse Tasting Room, and Bridgeview Vineyards Winery and taste varietals you won’t find in the Applegate.
Peruse the stunning collection of crystals and minerals at Crystal Kaleidoscope, and take home some beautiful jewelry. Grab some lunch or jerky to-go at Taylor’s Sausage, located in the heart of Cave Junction. On the way back to Grants Pass, drop by the Southern Oregon Guild and It’s a Burl Gallery on Redwood Highway and check out the art.
Enjoy a Couples Day in Downtown Grants Pass
Start your morning off with a relaxing couple’s massage at Club Northwest, the Pacific Northwest’s premier Health Club and Spa. Afterwards, head to Lulu’s for a decadent brunch featuring scratch-made food and mimosas.
While strolling around the historic district, drop by the dozens of locally-owned shops that line the streets, including a handful of antique shops. Take a self-guided architectural or public art tour and learn about downtown’s history and art scene. While exploring G St, take home something sweet from Sandie’s Candies and view the latest exhibit at the Grants Pass Museum of Art.
In the afternoon, get your heart pumping and hike the Dollar Mountain Trail that overlooks downtown or try your hand at glass blowing with a couple’s lesson at the Glass Forge Studio and Gallery. Enjoy some love potions at Steam Distillery, a steam-punk themed cocktail bar, and order specialty cocktails like their Smoked Old Fashioned, Lemongrass Collins, and Maple Bacon Manhattan.
For dinner, plan to dine at Musashi Sushi Bar and Japanese Restaurant, Cultured Palate’s Cuban Cuisine, or share small plates at Partake Shop and Lounge. Afterwards, try some mouth-watering dessert at House of Glory and enjoy locally-made gelato and house-made cakes and sweets.
Where to Stay
While planning a romantic getaway in Grants Pass, there’s no shortage of places to snuggle up with your sweetheart. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet riverside retreat, downtown hotel, cabin in the mountain, or rustic tree house, the area offers an abundance of romantic escapes.
Weasku Inn
The Weasku Inn along Rogue River Highway is a short drive from downtown and provides a rustic-chic atmosphere with their 1924 fishing lodge-turned guesthouse and cabins. While there, guests receive a full breakfast, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, and baked cookies and milk later in the evening. Cozy up around the fire and walk around their picturesque grounds where guests including Bing Crosby, Clarke Gable, and Walt Disney have stayed.
Redwood Hyperion Suites
For accommodations downtown, book a stay at the Redwood Hyperion Suites.Located within walking distance of restaurants and stores, the lodging is pet-friendly and includes access to their fitness center and outdoor hot tub, as well as a complimentary continental breakfast.
