Jacksonville, Oregon, offers a unique blend of preserved history and modern Southern Oregon culture. As a National Historic Landmark District, it provides far more than just a history lesson.
Here are some compelling reasons to visit this charming pioneer settlement.
1. Immerse Yourself in the Gold Rush Era
The town’s biggest draw is the nearly perfectly preserved streetscape from the mid-19th century. Walking down California Street feels like stepping onto a movie set from the 1850s, with architecture untouched by modern development.
Original brick facades, wooden sidewalks, and vintage storefronts line the streets just as they did during the height of the gold rush. Every corner reveals another piece of living history, from old saloons to pioneer-era hotels.
Photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike find endless inspiration here.
2. Explore the Historic Beekman Bank
Visit this incredibly preserved time capsule, where original fixtures, ledgers, and even gold scales are still in place, demonstrating the financial heart of the gold rush. Bank president Cornelius Beekman’s business records remain exactly where he left them over a century ago.
Touring the bank reveals fascinating insights into frontier commerce. You’ll see handwritten transaction records, original safes, and personal correspondence that paint a vivid picture of daily business during Oregon’s pioneer days.
It’s one of the most authentic historic sites in the American West.
3. Hike the Jacksonville Woodlands Trails
Immediately adjacent to the historic downtown, this extensive network offers over 16 miles of paths winding through forested hills. You can hike to former gold mining sites, an Oregon’s oldest Giant Sequoia, and get panoramic views of the city.
Trail difficulty ranges from easy strolls to challenging climbs, making it accessible for all fitness levels. Spring wildflowers blanket the hillsides, while autumn brings spectacular foliage.
Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon exploring nature just minutes from downtown shops and restaurants.
4. Experience the Britt Music & Arts Festival
This is Jacksonville’s premier modern attraction. Housed in a natural amphitheater on the hillside overlooking the town, this summer festival hosts dozens of world-class musicians, from classical to rock.
Since 1963, the Britt has brought legendary performers to Southern Oregon’s most magical outdoor venue. Bring blankets and wine to enjoy concerts under the stars surrounded by towering ponderosa pines.
The festival runs from June through September, offering something for every musical taste from jazz to indie rock to symphony orchestras.
5. Tour the Historic Jacksonville Cemetery
Established in 1860, this is the final resting place for many of the town’s founders, pioneers, and gold miners. Guided “Meet the Pioneers” tours bring the stories of the early residents to life.
Weathered headstones tell tales of triumph and tragedy from Oregon’s frontier days. You’ll discover stories of Chinese immigrants, famous madams, successful merchants, and families who crossed the Oregon Trail seeking fortune.
The cemetery sits on a peaceful hillside with beautiful views and provides a reflective connection to Jacksonville’s colorful past.
6. Indulge in Southern Oregon Wine Country
Jacksonville sits at the gateway to the Rogue Valley and Applegate Valley wine regions. The town is home to numerous tasting rooms, allowing you to sample some of Oregon’s most celebrated wines just steps from your hotel.
Southern Oregon’s climate produces exceptional Syrah, Tempranillo, and Viognier that rival California’s best. Many tasting rooms occupy historic buildings, blending wine culture with pioneer atmosphere.
Spend an afternoon hopping between downtown tasting rooms or venture into nearby valleys for full vineyard experiences and stunning mountain scenery.
7. Browse Unique Boutiques and Galleries
The historic buildings now house charming shops, antique stores, and local art galleries. It’s a perfect place for leisurely shopping and finding unique, locally-made souvenirs.
Discover handcrafted jewelry, regional artwork, vintage treasures, and specialty foods you won’t find anywhere else. Shop owners are friendly locals who love sharing stories about their buildings’ history and the town’s heritage.
Unlike generic tourist shops, these boutiques offer authentic items that reflect Southern Oregon’s character and craftsmanship, making every purchase meaningful.
8. Dine in Historic Elegance
Enjoy modern Pacific Northwest cuisine and fine dining in buildings that were once pioneer inns, saloons, or mercantile shops, such as the renowned Jacksonville Inn. Exposed brick walls, original woodwork, and period furnishings create unforgettable ambiance.
Local chefs emphasize regional ingredients like Rogue Valley pears, Oregon hazelnuts, and Pacific seafood prepared with contemporary techniques. Many restaurants feature extensive wine lists highlighting Southern Oregon vintages.
Whether you’re craving casual pub fare or gourmet tasting menus, Jacksonville’s dining scene delivers quality in atmospheric historic settings.
9. Visit the Old Courthouse and Museum
Housed in the former county courthouse, the Jacksonville Museum offers engaging exhibits on the gold rush, Chinese immigrant history, and the daily life of early settlers. Interactive displays make history accessible and interesting for visitors of all ages.
The museum’s collection includes mining equipment, period clothing, photographs, and artifacts recovered from archaeological digs around town. Special exhibits rotate throughout the year, highlighting different aspects of frontier life.
Admission is affordable, and knowledgeable docents are available to answer questions and share fascinating local legends.
10. A Charming, Small-Town Atmosphere
Unlike larger preserved cities, Jacksonville retains a quiet, friendly, and unhurried pace of life. The fact that the railroad bypassed the town is precisely why it remains so authentic and retains its peaceful, historic ambiance.
Locals greet visitors warmly and genuinely care about sharing their town’s story. There are no chain stores or fast-food restaurants disrupting the historic character.
Stroll the streets at sunset when golden light bathes the old buildings, and you’ll understand why Jacksonville feels less like a museum and more like a living community.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
