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About Jacksonville Oregon

Where Wine, Culture, and Beauty Get Together!

Jacksonville is nestled in the Siskyou Mountain foothills along the Rogue River Valley and is easy to fall in love with. Our little town is an unexpected nexus for wine tasting, scenic recreating, world-class music and tasty eating. We are the Heart of Rogue Valley wine country which includes the Applegate Valley Wine Trail. Though sometimes busy the small town ambiance (population 2,860) gorgeous setting and beautifully preserved late 1800’s architecture combines to make a very attractive town.

We are also a springboard for trips to nearby Crater Lake and Oregon Caves, Britt Music & Art Festival, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and several regional theaters. Inspired by our incredibly beautiful surroundings, the cultural scene is on fire. Find live music performances nearly every day of the week and a broad array of visual art in many different media.

Small and sophisticated, Jacksonville radiates both romance and rugged adventure. With miles and miles of hiking, biking, and wilderness offset by amazing Victorian-era architecture, incredible history, as well as a firm belief that even historic places have to keep making history.

Our little gem of a town is highly walkable and has at least one of everything – except chain stores. Everything from wine to cheese to chocolate, art and fine dining.

We have become a desirable place for travelers in addition to retirees who still want to experience four seasons, but in a milder climate; it’s also a great place to raise a family. Residents and visitors alike appreciate the cultural scene that is far richer than a community this size normally expects. Some top activites and attractions include:

  • Applegate Wine Trail (18+ wineries within 25 miles)
  • Jacksonville Wineries (5 wineries within 1 mile)
  • Bear Creek Wineries (7 wineries within 9 miles)
  • Upper Rogue Wineries (5 wineries within 35 miles)
  • Miles and miles of hiking trails right in town
  • A summer long concert series (Britt Festival) including a world-class orchestral season
  • Artists of all types of media
  • Live music venues throughout the year
  • 13 places to dine out and 20+ boutiques
  • Ready access to the diverse wines of Southern Oregon

Jacksonville’s History

One of the oldest communities in Oregon, Jacksonville began with the discovery of gold in 1851. Originally called Table Rock City due to a view of two mesas that are a primary geological feature of the area, the town soon grew to become the agricultural and economic hub of Southern Oregon.

The railroad passed the town by for a more expedient and less costly route, which laid the groundwork for Jacksonville’s demise as the county seat and economic engine. It lapsed into a quiet, financially depressed period as Medford grew into the regional hub.

But that is also what eventually saved the town. With no economic reasons to “upgrade” the buildings they remain unchanged. And that lead to the town being designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966 in recognition of being an intact example of a late 1800’s Western Gold-boom town.

With the charming architecture and small-town appeal we attract a lot of visitors who seek an authentic experience. And that is what they get! There are no chains or franchises – all independently owned businesses. Visitors will definitely find the right fit within our broad range of lodging , shopping and dining options.