Welcome to an immersive and detailed exploration of downtown Medford, Oregon! If you're curious about what this vibrant city has to offer, from its bustling shopping centers to its historic downtown streets, this comprehensive guide is for you. As a local real estate expert deeply familiar with Southern Oregon, I’m excited to take you on a full tour of downtown Medford, sharing insights about its neighborhoods, amenities, and lifestyle. Whether you’re considering moving here, investing in real estate, or just want to learn more about this beautiful city, this article will give you a realistic and thorough perspective.

Throughout this tour, I’ll also address some common questions and perceptions about Medford, such as concerns about homelessness and drug use, while showcasing the positive growth and development happening in the area. So buckle up and let’s dive into “A FULL Tour of Downtown Medford Oregon”!

Table of Contents

• Highway 99 and the Gateway to Medford
• Court Street and McAndrews: Entering Downtown Medford
• The Heart of Downtown: Development and Landmarks
• Riverside Avenue and Main Street: Exploring Both Sides of Downtown
• Biddle Road and East Medford: Crossing I-5
• Jackson Street Shopping and Hawthorne Park
• Final Thoughts on Downtown Medford
• Frequently Asked Questions About Downtown Medford

Highway 99 and the Gateway to Medford

Our journey begins on Crater Lake Highway, just as it passes over Interstate 5—the major north-south artery running through Southern Oregon. This intersection is arguably the biggest and busiest in the region, serving as the main entry point for many visitors and locals entering Medford. From here, you can head west toward Highway 99, another major road that runs through the heart of downtown.

On the left side of the highway, you’ll spot a Target store and the entrance to the Rogue Valley Mall, a central shopping destination. The mall area is home to popular retail outlets like Macy's, Old Navy, and Bed Bath & Beyond, making it a convenient hub for shopping needs. Right by the mall’s entrance, you’ll also find an In-N-Out Burger, a favorite fast-food spot for many locals.

Just ahead, the Northgate Shopping Center sits near the intersection of Crater Lake Highway and Highway 99 (also known as Pacific Highway). This relatively new development has quickly become a popular shopping and dining area. Inside Northgate, you’ll find an impressive lineup of stores such as REI Public Lands, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Trader Joe’s, Petco, and a Vitamin Shoppe. The center also hosts a variety of restaurants including Subway, Five Guys, Chipotle, and Chick-fil-A, offering a wide range of dining options.

One standout restaurant in the area is "The Ram," known for its great food and inviting atmosphere. The shopping center continues to grow, with ongoing construction promising even more stores and eateries in the near future. For coffee lovers, Black Rock Coffee is another excellent spot nearby, adding to the vibrant, growing commercial scene.

If you take a right from this intersection, you’ll head toward Central Point, which has its own cluster of shopping including some health-focused grocery stores and vitamin shops. This connectivity between Medford and surrounding towns makes the area highly accessible and convenient.

Addressing Common Concerns: Homelessness and Drug Use

Before moving deeper into downtown, I want to address two important topics many people ask about: homelessness and drug use. There’s a perception that Southern Oregon, including Medford, is overrun with homelessness and visible drug activity. I encourage you to pay close attention as we explore the area—you’ll see that while homelessness exists, it’s not as pervasive as some might think, and you’re unlikely to witness overt drug use on the streets.

This honest observation is important because it helps paint a realistic picture of what life is like here without exaggeration. It’s always good to be informed and aware, but also to separate myths from reality.

Court Street and McAndrews: Entering Downtown Medford

As we head into downtown, we travel along Court Street, which eventually turns into Central Avenue—one of the two main streets running through downtown Medford. The other is Riverside Avenue, which we’ll explore shortly. Court and Central are vital corridors, connecting various parts of the city and offering a glimpse into Medford’s urban core.

Along the way, we cross McAndrews Street, a busy one-way street that heads toward West Medford. Turning right on McAndrews takes you toward the new Rogue X Convention Center, located off Rossanley Road near Sage Road. This convention center is a huge and impressive venue that has become a significant asset for Medford, hosting events and gatherings that bring people together from around the region.

The Heart of Downtown: Development and Landmarks

As we move deeper into downtown, you’ll notice a mix of historic and newer buildings. One of the most prominent structures is the Lithia Motors headquarters, easily the tallest building in downtown. Lithia Motors is a publicly traded automotive dealership company, and one of the largest in the nation. Having their headquarters right here in Medford is a point of pride and a testament to the city’s economic vitality.

The intersection at Jackson Street marks what many consider the official start of downtown Medford. Traffic here is generally manageable, even during peak hours. Unlike larger metropolitan areas, Medford doesn’t experience bumper-to-bumper congestion, making it easy to get around.

Downtown Medford offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. The Elks Lodge, an old and historic building, stands as a reminder of the city’s long-standing community traditions. Nearby, the Woolworth Building is another historic structure that anchors the downtown area.

Along Main Street, you’ll find the Criterion Theater, a local gem that hosts plays, performances, and community events. This theater is a cultural hub that adds artistic vibrancy to the city’s downtown atmosphere.

Adjacent to the theater are Rogue Community College and the Jackson County Library, both located on Central Avenue. These institutions contribute to the intellectual and educational landscape of Medford, providing resources and learning opportunities for residents of all ages.

Dining and Shopping in Downtown

Downtown Medford is home to a variety of eateries and small shops. One notable spot is a local pizza place that’s highly regarded for its quality and flavor. Scattered throughout the area are cannabis dispensaries, motels, and other small businesses that reflect the diversity of downtown’s commercial activity.

While some areas downtown retain their older charm and have yet to be extensively renovated, there are ongoing efforts to improve the infrastructure and appeal of the city center. These developments aim to create a more attractive environment for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.

Riverside Avenue and Main Street: Exploring Both Sides of Downtown

Riverside Avenue is a one-way street that runs opposite to Central Avenue. Traveling along Riverside gives you a different perspective of downtown, with a blend of shops, restaurants, and residential buildings. Taking a right on 12th Street from Riverside leads you under I-5 to an area near Hawthorne Park, a large city park with recreational facilities. Despite its proximity, this side of town feels distinct from downtown, offering a quieter neighborhood vibe.

Back on Main Street, you’ll find more dining options such as Beerworks, a popular craft beer establishment with a great atmosphere, and Jackson Creek Pizza, known for its delicious pies. Public parking is conveniently available nearby, including a parking garage just a half-block away, making it easy to explore downtown on foot.

Main Street has undergone some recent updates, including the addition of bike lanes on the left side of the road. While this change initially caused some confusion, residents have adapted well, and it adds to the city’s commitment to supporting alternative transportation.

Government and Civic Buildings

Downtown Medford also houses important government offices. Jackson County’s courthouse and city hall are located here, along with other county offices. These buildings are well-maintained and contribute to the city’s professional and administrative core.

Nearby, Oakdale Avenue features a newer playground that has been thoughtfully designed to provide a safe and enjoyable space for children and families. This playground is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance public spaces and community amenities.

Biddle Road and East Medford: Crossing I-5

Crossing over to the other side of I-5, we enter the Biddle Road corridor. Unlike some one-way streets downtown, Biddle Road is a two-way street that serves as a main thoroughfare with several side streets branching off toward East Medford. This area has seen more recent development and renovations, leading to a refreshed urban feel.

Among the notable buildings here is the People's Bank building, a newer brick structure that stands out for its design and upkeep. Nearby, you’ll find a Barnes & Noble bookstore and Market of Choice, a high-quality grocery store similar to Whole Foods but with its own local charm and offerings.

The Bear Creek Shopping Center is also located along Biddle, featuring stores like Boot Barn and Dollar Tree. For drivers navigating the traffic lights on Biddle, a helpful tip is to stay in the right-hand lane to avoid stopping at multiple lights, as they tend to stay green when approached from that lane.

Jackson Street Shopping and Hawthorne Park

To conclude our tour, we arrive back at Jackson Street, where a vibrant shopping center known as The Village offers a variety of entertainment and dining options. This area includes Tinseltown, a large movie theater complex, Red Robin for casual dining, Tap and Vine restaurant, and Cold Stone Creamery for sweet treats.

The Village recently underwent a significant facelift, improving its appearance and facilities. TJ Maxx and other retail stores add to the shopping variety here. Across the street lies Hawthorne Park, a spacious city park with a newly renovated playground that has been a major investment for the community. It’s a fantastic spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

If you take a right from this shopping center, it leads you back into downtown Medford, completing the loop of our tour.

Final Thoughts on Downtown Medford

Medford is truly a city of contrasts and opportunities. From historic buildings and cultural landmarks to new developments and expanding shopping centers, there’s something here for everyone. The city’s manageable traffic, growing economy, and commitment to community amenities make it an attractive place to live, work, and play.

Medford’s population growth is impressive, with a 3% growth rate placing it as the fastest-growing city in Oregon among those with over 15,000 residents. The greater Jackson County area, including Medford and Grants Pass, is home to around 300,000 people, with Medford itself comprising a significant portion of that population.

Whether you’re exploring downtown for the first time or considering planting roots here, Medford offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, with easy access to hiking trails and outdoor activities, including nearby Roxy Ann Peak—a favorite hiking spot overlooking the city.

Thanks for joining me on this full tour of downtown Medford, Oregon. I hope this guide has given you a clear, honest, and engaging look at what this city has to offer. If you want to dive deeper into Southern Oregon real estate or learn about other nearby towns like Grants Pass, stay tuned for more insights and tours. VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN SOUTHERN OREGON   VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN MEDFORD OREGON

If you have more questions or want to explore real estate opportunities in Southern Oregon, feel free to reach out. Call or Text 541-954-7758 . Medford is a city full of potential and charm, waiting to be discovered!

Frequently Asked Questions About Downtown Medford

What are the main shopping areas in downtown Medford?

The primary shopping areas include the Rogue Valley Mall near Highway 99, the Northgate Shopping Center with stores like REI and Trader Joe's, and The Village shopping center on Jackson Street. Downtown also has various small shops, restaurants, and cannabis dispensaries.

Is downtown Medford safe regarding homelessness and drug activity?

While homelessness is present in Medford, it’s not as widespread as some might believe. Visible drug use on the streets is rare, and the city maintains a community-focused approach to safety and support services.

What are some notable landmarks in downtown Medford?

Key landmarks include the Lithia Motors headquarters, the historic Elks Lodge, the Woolworth Building, the Criterion Theater, Rogue Community College, and the Jackson County Library.

How is traffic in downtown Medford?

Traffic in downtown Medford is generally light and manageable, with no significant congestion even during peak hours. Streets like Central Avenue and Riverside Avenue are easy to navigate, with recent improvements such as bike lanes enhancing mobility.

What outdoor activities are available near downtown Medford?

Medford is close to natural attractions like Roxy Ann Peak, which offers hiking trails and scenic views. Hawthorne Park, near The Village shopping center, provides playgrounds and recreational space within the city.

What public services are available downtown?

Downtown hosts important public services including Jackson County’s courthouse, city hall, the county offices, Rogue Community College, and the Jackson County Library, making it a civic center for the region.

Is Medford growing as a city?

Yes, Medford is the fastest-growing city in Oregon for populations over 15,000, with a 3% growth rate. The city continues to develop new shopping centers, restaurants, and community facilities to accommodate this growth.