Experience Americas Most Treasured Roads
Full Video Tour: Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway
Play Video
DAY ONE
San Francisco
This “city by the bay” has had its finger on the pulse since it was founded over 200 years ago. It was the center of the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800’s, was the largest city on the West coast at the turn of the century, rebuilt itself after an earthquake and fire destroyed most of the city, was the birthplace of the United Nations in 1945, ushered in the countercultural revolution with the Summer of Love in 1967, and played a major role in the tech boom that still dominates much of Northern California to this day. Cool summers, steep hills, clanking cable cars, pastel-colored Victorian houses, world-class museums, and dramatic fog that rolls over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge make San Francisco one of the most exciting places in the world to visit.
Barbary Coast Trail
The Barbary Coast Trail® is the official San Francisco walking tour connecting the most important historic sites in the city. With three distinctive routes to follow, 180 Bronze medallions and arrows set in the sidewalk guide you along the trail, drawing you into a world of gold rushers and railroad barons, writers and visionaries, shanghaiers and silver kings. The trail consists of 20 historic sites, 5 history museums, historic sailing ships, lively pubs and cafes, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and exquisite panoramic views. The southern end of the Barbary Coast Trail begins downtown at the Old Mint at 5th and Mission streets; the northern end of the trail is located near Fisherman’s Wharf at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. Each end of the trail is connected by the Powell-Hyde cable car line. This allows you to begin anywhere along the trail and make your way back to where you started.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf, home to world-class dining, shopping, hotels and endless entertainment opportunities, got its name from Italian immigrant fishermen who came to the city to fish during the Gold Rush and remains the center of San Francisco’s fishing fleet. Visit the Aquarium of the Bay, PIER 39, the S.S. Jeremiah O’Brien, the historic World War II submarine, and the USS Pampanito. The Powell-Hyde cable car line runs to Aquatic Park, at the edge of Fisherman’s Wharf.
Palace of Fine Arts
Located just moments away from the Golden Gate Bridge, The Palace of Fine Arts in the Marina District was originally constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, the century’s first great world’s fair that honored the completion of the Panama Canal. Widely considered the Exposition’s most beautiful structure, its Bernard Maybeck design features Greco-Roman rotunda and colonnades, neatly planted grounds, and a lagoon, all bringing the wow factor to this treasure by the Bay. The Palace of Fine Arts is the only structure from the Exposition that survives on site.
3601 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123, 415-376-1704 Tu-Su 10AM-5PM.
Golden Gate Park
The third most visited park in the United States, this iconic urban park consists of 1,017 acres of public grounds. The Park, set on an expanse of windswept sand dunes known as the Outside Lands, was the location of the California Midwinter International Exposition of 1894, the first world’s fair held in the U.S. west of the Mississippi. Two million visitors got a glimpse of what the Park would eventually become. Highlights include the Music Concourse, the DeYoung Museum, Japanese Tea Garden, Conservatory of Flowers and the Golden Gate Carousel.
501 Stanyan St. San Francisco, CA 94117, 415-831-2700 The grounds are free, attractions charge admission.
California Academy of Sciences
Located in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the Academy is one of the largest natural history museums in the world, housing over 46 million specimens. Founded in 1853, the Academy features The Steinhart Aquarium, Morrison Planetarium, Rainforests of the World, and Kimball Natural History Museum and considers itself a powerful voice for biodiversity research and exploration, environmental education, and sustainability across the globe. Experience life changing moments all under one roof with a visit that allows you to see more than 38,000 animals, hundreds of flowers and plants, cutting edge views of virtual cosmos, and the bones of some of the planet’s largest inhabitants.
55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, 415-379-8000 Mo-Sa 9:30AM-5PM, Su 11AM-5PM, Thursday NightLife (21+) 6PM-10PM. Ticket prices vary by date, entry time, and age group. Reservations strongly recommended.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Inn San Francisco 943 South Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94110 415-641-0188 Enjoy an antique filled room in a Victorian hideaway in the city.
Destination Distinctive Dining
Tartine Bakery 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, CA 94110, 415-487-2600 Organic ingredients provide the makings for breakfast pastries, hot pressed sandwiches & coffee.
La Taqueria 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110 415-285-7117 This no-frills taqueria serves Mexican eats, including famed traditional-style, rice-free burritos.
Sotto Mare 552 Green St, San Francisco, CA 94133, 415-398-3181 Neighborhood spot with nautical decor & a menu of pasta, cioppino & other Italian-style seafood.
Sam Wo Restaurant 713 Clay St, San Francisco, CA 94108, 415-989-8898 Legendary Chinese restaurant that’s been serving casual eats since 1907, it is believed to be the oldest in San Francisco’s Chinatown, and one of the oldest Chinese restaurants in America.
Destination Distinctive Retail
General Store 4035 Judah St, San Francisco, CA 94122, 415-682-0600 Emporium with a carefully curated and eclectic mix of clothing, household items, books, jewelry and other small treasures from local California artisans.
The Perish Trust 728 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94117 Creative shop carrying rustic, vintage home goods & unique pieces made by local craftspeople.
City Lights Booksellers & Publishers Founded by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti in 1953, this independent bookstore-publisher combination specializes in world literature, the arts, and progressive politics.
March 3075 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94115, 415-931-7433 Gallery-like storefront stocking culinary supplies, tables, serving pieces & gourmet ingredients.
DAY TWO
Sacramento
With more than 230 days of sunshine each year, it’s no wonder Sacramento is known as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital. But there is more to the city than just an abundance of farm-fresh restaurants and farmers markets. When gold was discovered in the nearby foothills, Sam Brannan opened a store near the Sacramento River to take advantage of the convenient waterfront location that soon turned into California’s first thriving business district. Fueled by gold, agriculture, and the river, the City of Sacramento, originally called Sutter’s Embarcadero, rapidly grew into a trading center for miners outfitting themselves for the gold fields. Today the city is California’s political center and home to colorful street murals, Gold Rush-era family attractions, and a historic waterfront.
California State Capitol Museum
California had four capitals in other parts of the state until 1854, when Sacramento became the permanent site with its iconic Neoclassical building. Capitol Park, 10 undivided city blocks that surround the building, hosts numerous monuments and memorials, including the California Firefighters Memorial and El Soldado Monument.
1315 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-324-0333 Mo-Fr 9AM-5PM
Crocker Art Museum
Founded in 1885, the Crocker, the oldest art museum west of the Mississippi River, features the world’s foremost display of California art along with a renowned collection of European master drawings and international ceramics. Judge Edwin B. Crocker purchased the property in 1886, and commissioned Seth Babson to transform the home into a grand Italianate mansion and add an elaborate gallery building to display the family’s growing art collection. Along with gallery space, the addition included a bowling alley, skating rink, billiards room, library and natural history museum.
216 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-808-7000 Th-Su 10AM-5PM, Adults $12, Allow at least 3 hours.
Old Sacramento Waterfront State Historic Park
This site has witnessed fire and flood, saw the streets raised, the terminus of the Pony Express, and the founding of the Transcontinental Railroad. Today, more than 50 historic buildings in Old Sacramento State Historic Park, including the 1849 Eagle Theater; the 1853 B. F. Hastings Building, once home to the California Supreme Court; and the 1855 Big Four Building, tell the story of California’s early gold rush days, surrounded by a once again bustling waterfront of shops, restaurants and more. You can also enjoy an underground tour under the hollow sidewalks, to see firsthand how the city counteracted the forces of nature by building levees, rerouting the river, and physically raising the streets over 20 feet above the floodplain.
Front and I Streets, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-445-7387 M-Su 9:30AM-6:00PM Tours begin at the Sacramento History Museum, 101 I Street.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Delta King Paddlewheel Hotel, 1000 Front Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-444-5464 Moored at the waterfront, this authentic paddlewheel riverboat is now a boutique hotel featuring converted staterooms as comfortable accommodations with views of the Old Sacramento Historic District and the Sacramento River.
Destination Distinctive Dining
Solomon’s 730 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-857-8200 Breakfast all day, sandwiches with soul, and street food, this restaurant is a community gathering place celebrating culture, cocktails, and music.
Lalo’s Restaurant 5063 24th St, Sacramento, CA 95822, 916-736-2389 Unassuming, informal joint with many less common Mexican dishes & barbacoa specials on the weekend.
The Waterboy 2000 Capitol Ave, Sacramento, CA 95811, 916-498-9891 Breezy locale for Italian, French & Californian fare with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients.
Destination Distinctive Retail
Public Land Store 2598 21st St, Sacramento, CA 95818, 916-942-9720 Offers an eclectic assortment of unusual cacti succulents, and tropical house plants along with goods, collectables and original art from a wide range of artists.
Beers Books 915 S St, Sacramento, CA 95811, 916-442-9475 Selling new and used books in Sacramento since about 1936.
Kulture 2331 K St, Sacramento, CA 95816, 916-442-2728 Small independent gift shop stocking Mexican style artwork, ornaments & crafts.
DAY THREE
Redding
Named after former politician Benjamin Bernard Redding, this city in Northern California was originally called Poverty Flats during the Gold Rush years when thousands in search of fortune came up short, but all was not lost. Copper and iron mining in the early 20th century, along with construction of the Shasta Dam, did finally spur the town’s economic growth.
Sundial Bridge
This glass decked, cable-stayed cantilever suspension bridge, with one of the world’s largest working sundials, is a functional work of art and an architectural marvel at 217 feet tall and 710 feet wide. The bridge sits at the gateway to the Sacramento River Trail which connects the bridge to the Shasta Dam.
Sacramento River Trail, Redding, CA 96001, 530-243-8850.
Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Museum
A 300-acre campus on the banks of the Sacramento River interprets the relationship between man and nature and celebrates the story of far Northern California. Art, science, history, forestry, and horticulture meet at the Turtle Bay Museum. The McConnell Arboretum and Botanical Gardens feature over 200-acres of native and non-native trees and plants, and Paul Bunyan’s Forest Camp is modeled after an old-time forest camp similar to ones that were all over the region 100 years ago.
844 Sundial Bridge Dr., Redding, CA 96001, 530-243-8850 W-F 9AM-4PM, Sa-Su 10AM-4PM, Adults $18.
Shasta State Historic Park
Iron shutters and doors still swing from their hinges in grass-filled, roofless buildings that were once crowded with merchandise and miners during the gold rush era. In what was once the “Queen City” of California’s northern mining district, the County Courthouse, restored to its 1861 appearance, is filled with historic exhibits and an unparalleled collection of historic California art. It is surrounded by ruins, cottages and cemeteries, the remaining vestiges of life here in the 1860s.
15312 Highway 299 West, Shasta, CA 96087. Th-Su 10AM-5PM.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Hope Inn 19177 Hollow Lane, Redding, CA 96001, 530-605-0589
Relax in a beautifully designed room in a quiet garden setting.
Destination Distinctive Dining
C.R. Gibbs American Grill 2300 Hilltop Drive, Redding, CA 96002, 530-221-2335 Enjoy casual American Dining featuring a full Exhibition Kitchen where you can watch the action take place, plus a brick lined oven, full bar, large outdoor dining space with heaters and a fire pit. Appetizers, salads, burgers, steaks and of course Brick Oven pizzas.
Creekside Pub and Grill 2100 Redding Rancheria Road, Redding, CA 96001, 530-243-3377 A fast, friendly, casual eatery located in the casino, no matter what time of day you can enjoy burgers and other American food, coffee and beverages.
Destination Distinctive Retail
Enjoy the Store 1475 Placer St suite c&d, Redding, CA 96001, 530-298-9132 A collection of fine gifts and edibles made and produced throughout Northern California.
Salley’s Shasta Antique Mall 2680 Bechelli Ln, Redding, CA 96002, 530-223-2296 Over 40 dealers and vendors make this midtown antique mall an ideal stop for any vintage lover looking to browse or find something specific to complete their collection.
Sketch & Press 1244 California St, Redding, CA 96001, 530-945-1974 Gift shop featuring apparel, home decor, plants and pots, jewelry, and other gifts.
DAY FOUR
Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark
The 200 million year old caves feature a wide variety of formations: stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, columns, and flowstone, plus the Discovery Room, where you’ll find them all. Take a short catamaran ride across Shasta Lake, a scenic bus ride up a steep mountain grade, and a guided tour of the caverns.
20359 Shasta Caverns Road, Lakehead, CA 96051, 800-795-2283, Adults $32, Tour times are based on day and season. Allow 2 hours.
Castle Crags State Park
Even though sky-scraping spires of granite formed when glaciers eroded lighter rocks during the last Ice Age, soar 6,500+ feet above the upper Sacramento River Valley, they are dwarfed by Castle Dome, which many liken to Yosemite’s Half Dome. In addition to a scenic drive, 28 miles of hiking trails take you deeper into the landscape filled with steep sided canyons, alpine lakes, high brush fields, rocky outcrops, wet meadows, and mixed conifer forests.
Creek Road, Castella, CA 96017, 530-235-2684.
Weed
Abner Weed bought the Siskiyou Lumber and Mercantile Mill and 280 acres of land for $400 in 1897 to take advantage of the strong winds to dry green lumber in what is now the town of Weed. By 1905, the town was bustling and the lumber industry thrived until the 1980s.
Weed Historic Lumber Town Museum
Featuring a collection of artifacts from Weed’s logging past, the museum is housed in the former courthouse that included the judge’s chambers, court room, jury deliberation room, justice court clerk, police protection district office, and two jail cells.
303 Gilman Avenue, Weed, CA, 96094, 530-938-0550. Memorial Day-Labor Day, W-M 10AM-5PM
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Lake Shastina Resort 5925 Country Club Drive, Weed, CA 96094, 800-358-4653
Enjoy condo accommodations surrounding 27 holes of golf with Mt. Shasta looming overhead.
The Sunset Bar and Grill is available for dining
Destination Distinctive Dining
Mt. Shasta Brewing Co. 360 College Ave, Weed, CA 96094, 530-938-2394 Family friendly microbrewery with an antique bar built during the gold-rush era. Sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, beers on tap, and a kid’s menu.
Hi-Lo Cafe 88 S Weed Blvd #2607, Weed, CA 96094, 530-938-2904 Local joint with an old-school vibe serving all-day breakfasts & other diner classics since 1951.
Destination Distinctive Retail
The Weed Store 158 S Weed Blvd, Weed, CA 96094, 530-938-4678 The best souvenir and local art store in Weed with many gifts from local artist items and fun tee shirts to collectibles that play on the name of the town…Weed!
River Run Gallery 151 Main St, Weed, CA 96094, 530-938-9917 Fr-Sa 12PM-5PM (also by appointment) Founded by Sharon LoMonaco and David Gochenour in August of 2004, River Run Gallery features an eclectic mix of their artwork as well as many other local area artists. A working artist studio – when the artist is working the gallery is open.
DAY FIVE
Yreka
Abraham Thomson found flakes of gold near Black Gulch in 1851, which sparked a gold rush further north in California. In a matter of weeks, more than two thousand miners had set up camp on Yreka Flats, which would be dubbed “the richest square mile on earth.” The mine produced tons of gold worth millions of dollars, quickly making Yreka the commercial hub for the mining camps. Back in the day, Yreka was the most important city between San Francisco and Portland.
The West Miner Street Historic District
Today, 164 acres in downtown Yreka, named a California Historical Landmark, still harken from the gold rush. You’ll discover the Zephyr Cafe serving locally renowned Northbound Coffee, Bella Art Works Creative Cafe and other local artisan shops and eateries.
SW corner of Miner St and Broadway, Yreka, CA 96097, 541-210-1234
Destination Distinctive Dining
Miner Street Meat’s 200 West Miner Street, Yreka, CA 96097, 530-842-6328 Custom deli featuring all natural meats, fresh seafood, and sandwiches of all kinds.
Jefferson Road House 1281 South Main Street, Yreka, CA 96097, 530-842-9866, Full menu featuring steaks, pizza, pastas and breakfast.
Destination Distinctive Retail
The Miner St. Arthouse 327 W Miner St, Yreka, CA 96097, 530-598-7242 Showcasing handcrafted art by local artists who’ve found a unique niche in Siskiyou County and beyond.
Shoppe Serendipity 404 South Main Street, Yreka, CA 96097, 530-598-0075 Hosting local artisans, musicians and authors.
The Thoughtful Nest 331 W Miner St, Yreka, CA 96097, 530-643-9036 Home decor & gift store, offering a beautiful blend of new, found, and handcrafted goods.
Siskiyou County Museum
The Museum features displays highlighting the people, places, and events that shaped the region’s history from prehistoric times to pioneer settlement.
910 S Main St, Yreka, CA 96097, 530-842-3836 Tu-F 10AM-3PM, Adults $3.
Medford
Medford was created when railroad officials came looking for the best route for the Oregon and California Railroad through the Rouge Valley. The first buildings date from 1883, the post office from 1884, and incorporation of the town from 1885. Early in the new century a new steel bridge was constructed over Bear Creek and the first automobile arrived in 1903. The Carnegie Library was completed in 1912.
Southern Oregon Historical Society
The Southern Oregon Historical Society features a collection of Southern Oregon artifacts including baskets and tools from the earliest inhabitants, letters and journals from the first families who arrived in wagons and on foot, the tools they used to dig their gardens, and the clothing they wore.
106 N Central, Medford, OR 97501, 541-773-6536.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Lady Geneva Bed and Breakfast 15 Geneva St, Medford, OR 97504, 541-900-5239 Located in one of the most authentic houses in the Geneva-Minnesota Historic District, built in 1914, the Inn offers complimentary wine upon arrival, a full gourmet breakfast, complimentary afternoon tea, lattes or cappuccinos, a library and game table.
Destination Distinctive Dining
Over Easy 21 North Bartlett Street Medford, OR, 97501, 458-226-2659 Southern-inspired home cooked menu featuring brunch, cocktails, and a limited dinner menu in the evenings.
Common Block Brewing Company 315 E 5th St, Medford, OR 97501, 541-326-2277 Convivial, family-friendly taproom with outdoor seating & an upmarket menu of American bar eats.
Destination Distinctive Retail
Art du Jour Gallery 213 E Main St, Medford, OR 97501, 541-770-3190 A co-op exhibiting works by many talented artists living in the greater Rogue Valley region.
Rogue Gallery & Art Center 40 S Bartlett St., Medford, OR 97501, 541-772-8118 Founded in 1960 by artists, educators, and local leaders, this was the first non-profit visual art organization in the Rogue Valley. Offers three exhibition spaces with rotating exhibits.
DAY SIX
Chiloquin
Set on the banks of the Williamson River, Chiloquin, which got its name from a Klamath chief, soon became a boom town known as “Little Chicago” due to its rough reputation. In spite of the demise of lumbering, the Great Depression, and disastrous fires, Chiloquin retains its pioneer spirit and celebrates its logging history with a quaint downtown, set against two rivers and cascading mountains.
Collier Memorial State Park and Logging Museum
Nestled in towering Ponderosa pines near the confluence of the Williamson River, the outdoor logging museum includes some of the most interesting, rare, and representative logging artifacts in the world used to demonstrate the evolution of pine logging practices and the technology that played a major role in the development of this region.
46000 Highway 97 Chiloquin, OR 97624, 541-783-2471 Open 7 Days June-Sept 8AM-8PM, Oct-May 8AM-4PM
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Crater Lake Lodge 570 Rim Village Dr, Crater Lake, OR 97604, 866-292-6720 Crater Lake Lodge offers majestic views of the lake’s pristine blue waters and sheer cliff walls. The Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room is open seasonally from mid-May to mid- October.
Crater Lake Resort and Cabins 50711 Highway 62, Fort Klamath OR 97626, 541-381-2349 Creekside “glamping” sites combine the comforts of home with the experience of the outdoors. Full kitchen cabins also available
Aspen Inn 52250 Highway 62, Fort Klamath, OR 97626, 541-381-2321 Fully equipped A frame cabins.
Destination Distinctive Dining
The Potbelly Cafe 212 S 1st Ave Chiloquin, OR 97624, 541-783-0988 Breakfast and lunch favorites including smothered biscuits, breakfast burritos, and Belgian waffles.
DAY SEVEN
Crater Lake National Park
Native Americans witnessed the formation of Crater Lake 7,700 years ago when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of Mount Mazama, a tall peak that was half a million years old. On the east side of Crater Lake, rocks that are 430,000 years old form Mount Scott. Pristine waters fed by rain and snow filled the caldera (Spanish for “kettle” or “boiler”), the deepest lake in the United States. It was established as a national park in 1902. Spend the day exploring Crater Lake National Park. Start at Rim Village, where you can take a self-guided tour through the village, a walking tour of Kiser Studio, now the Rim Village Visitor Center and the Crater Lake Natural History Association Bookstore. See exhibits at the nearby Sinnott Memorial Overlook. From there, take the Scenic Rim Drive around the lake, which offers views of the park’s volcanic formations. If you prefer to ride rather than drive the 33-mile Rim Drive, take a trolley tour that makes stops at the significant overlooks. Rangers on board offer narration, trivia, and a dash of fun. Trolley tours start in front of the Rim Village Community House, 541-882-1896. Book ahead at www.craterlaketrolley.net Mazama Village is located just inside the south gate entrance. Here, you’ll find the Annie Creek Restaurant and Gift Shop, Mazama Village Camp Store, and Mazama Village Campground and Cabins. Eight daily boat tours on the lake to circumnavigate the caldera are on offer, plus two shuttles to Wizard Island. For a close up view, take the Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only legal access to the shore of Crater Lake. This steep and strenuous 2.2 mile round trip hike begins at the East Rim Drive.
Rim Village Visitor Center: Crater Lake National Park, Rim Dr, Oregon 97604, 541-594-3000
DAY EIGHT
Heading south on Highway 62, today the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway meanders through one of the most visually stunning parts of southwest Oregon and offers a variety of scenic overlooks and recreation areas along the way.
Annie Creek Sno-Park and Kiosk
The Sno-Park sits at an elevation of 4,400 feet, offering gorgeous views of the surrounding area. An interpretive kiosk, two vaulted toilets, and an attractive log-style warming shelter with wood stove is open year round for picnics.
Annie Creek Rd Fort Klamath, OR 97626
Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Area
A pristine site located at the headwaters of the Wood River, the park is a secluded place where you can relax among the whispering lodgepole pines.
SR 62, FS Rd 2300 Fort Klamath, OR 97626, 800-551-6949. Open April 15-Nov 15
Wood River Day Use Area
A serene recreation site on the Wood River, surrounded by aspen and cottonwood trees that turn a brilliant yellow in the autumn, the beautiful scenery is home to bald eagles, ospreys, red-tailed hawks and the peaceful flow of the river.
SR 62, Country Rd 623 Fort Klamath, OR 97626
Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge
Located on the shores of Upper Klamath Lake, 14,400 acres of freshwater marshes serve as nesting and brood rearing areas for waterfowl, American white pelicans, several heron species, bald eagles and osprey. Kayaks can be rented from Harriman Springs Resort to paddle the 9.5 mile canoe trail through the refuge.
Highway 140, Klamath Falls, OR 97601, 530-667-2231
Fort Klamath
Fort Klamath was established in 1863 as an Army post with more than 50 buildings, including a sawmill and post office. The original post now serves as the 8-acre Fort Klamath Museum, which includes the graves of four Modoc Indian warriors. The community of Fort Klamath is located nearby.
51400 Highway 62, Fort Klamath, OR 97626, 541-882-1000 Th-M 10AM-6PM, June-September. Donations accepted.
Pelican Guard Station and Kiosk
Constructed in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Pelican Guard Station served as the base-of-operations for the Forest Service seasonal fire guards. There is interpretive information, along with picnic tables, two charcoal barbecues, and a vaulted toilet.
Highway 140, Klamath Falls, OR 97601, 530-667-2231
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Rocky Point Resort 28121 Rocky Point Road, Klamath Falls, OR 97601, 541-356-2287 A relaxing environment for lodging, dining, fishing and boating on Upper Klamath Lake.
DAY NINE
Klamath Falls
Klamath Falls, originally named Linkville, was incorporated in 1905 when access was either by horse or stagecoach. When the railroad arrived in 1909, the town experienced its first building boom, giving rise to today’s turn of the 20th-century downtown. The original wooden buildings were replaced by brick and stone structures and ultimately Klamath Falls expanded into the surrounding hills towards the railroad tracks.
Downtown Walking Tour and Mural Trail
Experience the variety of early 1900’s Gothic Revival architecture and murals depicting the history of the Klamath Basin and surrounding area. In addition to the historic murals, you may notice that a new wave of urban public art is underfoot, perfect for Instagrammable moments. Highlights of the tour include the Fred Goeller House, built from a mail-order design and Pelicans on Parade, featuring over a dozen 7 foot high pelicans painted to celebrate the city’s centennial. There are also a half dozen birds at the Visitor Center. Colorfully painted featuring local birds and the Klamath Piano Project, donated pianos painted by local artists and placed in outdoor areas throughout downtown Klamath Falls, are also featured downtown.
The tour of downtown Klamath Falls can begin on either end of Main Street with the Discover Klamath Visitor Center, 205 Riverside Dr. Suite B on one end, and the Klamath County Museum, 1451 Main Street, on the other.
Favell Museum
Over 100,000 artifacts illustrate the lives of indigenous tribes from North and South America, including collections of arrowheads, obsidian knives, spear points, primitive ancient stone tools, native clothing, intricate beadwork, basketry, pottery and more, some more than 12,000 years old.
125 West Main Street, Klamath Falls, Oregon, 97601, 541-882-9996 Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM, Adults $10.
Klamath County Museum
The Klamath County Museum reveals the history of Klamath County and the surrounding area and features local artists in the Modoc Art Gallery and an exhibit covering World War II Balloon Bombers.
1451 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR, 97601, 541-8834-208 Tu-Sa 9AM-5PM, Adults $5.
Baldwin Hotel Museum
Constructed in 1905 as the centerpiece hotel of downtown Klamath Falls, the Baldwin Hotel Museum now features 40 rooms filled with antiques and artifacts.
Originally built as a hardware store, the building was converted into a hotel in 1911 that was to be located right across the street from the railroad, when George Baldwin sought to profit from the coming of the railroad. Unfortunately, the railroad was built at the other end of Main Street. Nonetheless, thanks to the hotel’s very unique characteristics of almost all rooms connected in order to create the ability to rent out either one room or an entire suite of rooms, the hotel thrived.
31 Main Street, Klamath Falls, 97601, 541-882-1000 W-Sa 10AM-4PM, 1-hour tour: Adults $5, 2-hour tour: Adults $10.
Destination Distinctive Accommodations
Running Y Ranch Golf and Spa Resort 5500 Running Y Road, Klamath Falls, OR 97601, 541-850-5500 Enjoy this 82 room lodge located in 3,600 pristine acres in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains.
Destination Distinctive Dining
A Leap of Taste 907 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601, 541-850-9414 Sandwiches, paninis, salads, smoothies, baked goods, and drinks, all organic and locally sourced as much as possible. Vegan and vegetarian options available. Outdoor seating when weather permits.
Nibbley’s Cafe 2424 Washburn Way, Klamath Falls, OR 97603, 541-883-2314 All the comforts of home cooking including sandwiches, wraps, burgers, salads, and amazing fresh bread and desserts. Outdoor seating when weather permits.
Rodeos Pizzeria and Saladeria 1215 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601, 541-205-3464 Gourmet style pizzas sold by the pie or slice. All ingredients are Non-GMO, locally sourced as much as possible. Large selection of beer and wine. Outdoor seating when weather permits.
The Falls Taphouse 2215 Shallock Avenue, Klamath Falls, OR 97601 Enjoy great views of the Upper Klamath Lake on the open upper rooftop patio, while sipping local beers. Two food trucks, Maria’s Taqueria and Wubba’s BBQ, are on site.
Mermaid Garden Cafe 501 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601, 541-882-3671 Great soups, salads, sandwiches, paninis, and wraps all with gluten free options. The Best Clam Chowder served only on Fridays. Outdoor seating when weather permits.
Destination Distinctive Retail
Keeper’s Corner 195 E Main St, Klamath Falls, OR 97601, 541-273-7553 Antiques, crafts, and collectables in over 20,000 square feet and 130+ vendors
Poppy 522 Main Street, Klamath Falls, OR, 97601, 541-884-4361 Unique gifts and home decor from stuffed animals to glass centerpieces.