The Favell Museum stands as a profound tribute to the rich heritage of Native cultures and the artistic expression of the American West. Boasting over 100,000 artifacts, some dating back an astonishing 12,000 years, the museum offers an unparalleled journey through the lives and artistry of indigenous cultures from both North and South America. Its diverse collection, one of the finest assemblages of Native American artifacts anywhere, includes not only arrowheads, obsidian knives, spear points, and primitive stone tools but also showcases native clothing, intricate beadwork, basketry, and pottery. Each artifact, including the extraordinary fire opal arrowhead found in the Black Rock Desert in 1910, tells a unique story of the past, offering visitors a rare and intimate glimpse into the lives of these ancient cultures.

Complementing these ancient treasures, the museum also proudly displays a significant collection of historical and contemporary Western art. This includes original paintings by renowned artists such as Charles M. Russell, John Clymer, and Frank McCarthy. Their works, including Russell’s iconic “The Scouts,” vividly weave the narrative of the West with an artistic flair that is both striking and evocative. The Favell Museum, a vision brought to life by Gene and Winifred Favell, is more than just a repository of artifacts and art; it is a living celebration of the spirit and beauty of the West. It honors not only the land's original inhabitants but also those artists who have skillfully captured its essence, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the rich tapestry of Western and Native American history and art.

In Downtown Klamath Falls, bronze sculptures by local artist Stephan Savides add a larger-than-life layer of storytelling to the city's landscape, intertwining tradition with the elegance of nature. Notable among these is the "Freedom" Bronze Tribal Elder with Eagle, a collaborative creation by Stefan Savides and Garland Weeks. This life-size sculpture, a tribute to the Klamath, Modoc, and Yahooskin tribes, is prominently displayed outside the Favell Museum. It features a tribal elder in full regalia, performing the sacred act of taking a feather from a bald eagle, with details like historically accurate beadwork on the elder's moccasins adding depth and authenticity to the piece.

The city's streets and parks are dotted with Savides' sculptures, each capturing the essence of local wildlife through simplistic yet profound design. From the graceful herons at Sugarman’s Corner to the dynamic "Western Union" dancing grebes at Putnam Park, these sculptures, along with historical plaques, transform Downtown Klamath Falls into an open-air gallery. This artistic journey extends to vibrant pieces like the "Pelican on Parade" near Veterans Park and the serene steelhead sculptures in Sugarman’s Corner, each a testament to the artist's ability to bring avian beauty to life in bronze. These sculptures not only celebrate the region's natural and cultural heritage but also invite visitors to explore and connect with the artistic spirit of Klamath Falls.

Downtown Klamath Falls offers a unique visual journey that intertwines the rich tapestry of local history and the beauty of nature. Historic murals within the city center vividly depict scenes from thousands of years of regional history, from Native American tribes along Lake Ewauna to the iconic landscapes of Crater Lake National Park. These artworks, along with the city's early 1900s Art Deco, Gothic Revival, and Chicago School architecture, narrate the evolution of Klamath County from a robust logging community to a cultural hub of theaters and performing arts. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the "Greetings from Klamath Falls" mural, which is a vibrant invitation for visitors to engage with the city's artistic spirit. And while you’re exploring downtown, make sure you check out the Alleyway Activation Project. These art panels lining alleyways showcase many of Klamath’s up-and-coming artists while beautifying traditionally forgotten spaces. These murals provide an immersive experience of the area's storied past, making the city a living canvas of history.

In addition to its historic murals, Klamath Falls showcases its commitment to art and environmental awareness through quirky and creatively painted utility boxes. These boxes, transformed by local artists and in collaboration with the Klamath Basin Audubon Society, feature a variety of bird species native to the Klamath Basin. This project, which has garnered accolades for downtown beautification, not only adds a splash of color to the urban landscape but also serves as an educational tool about the local avian population. With Klamath Falls' reputation as a birding paradise, supported by its numerous National Wildlife Refuges and celebrated birding festivals, these artistic installations resonate with the city's identity as the 'City of Birds,' blending art, history, and nature into a harmonious and enlightening experience for residents and visitors alike.

The Klamath Piano Project in downtown Klamath Falls is more than just a display of pianos; it's a creative canvas for local artists and a symbol of community engagement. These artistically adorned pianos are not just musical instruments but vibrant public art pieces. They offer a unique way for the community and visitors to interact, play, and connect in the heart of the city. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, these pianos, donated by locals and refurbished by artists, become focal points in public spaces, turning the streets of downtown Klamath Falls into an interactive art gallery.

Strategically placed in key locations like Sugarman’s Corner, Klamath Commons, and 9th Street Plaza, each piano is a testament to the creativity and spirit of Klamath Falls. This initiative enhances the city's aesthetic appeal and strengthens the community's bond, celebrating the unifying power of art and music.

The Ross Ragland Theater, a beautifully renovated 1940s movie theater, is a vibrant arts center in Klamath Falls, serving south-central Oregon and northern California. Since its refurbishment in 1989, this multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary venue has hosted various performances, from Grammy Award winners to local productions, offering near-perfect acoustics and sight lines. The theater’s transformation from the Art Deco-styled Esquire Theater into a state-of-the-art performing arts center in 1989 marked a significant milestone in revitalizing the downtown area and promoting the arts within the community.

Beyond entertainment, the Ross Ragland Theater is deeply committed to educational outreach, annually serving over 10,000 children through its Arts Education programs. These programs, including student matinees and workshops with renowned artists, aim to enrich the cultural experiences of young audiences. The theater’s sustainable energy initiatives, like using geothermal heating and solar power, underscore its commitment to environmental stewardship. The Ross Ragland Theater, supported by a dedicated guild of volunteers and community contributions, continues to be a testament to the aspirations and dedication of the Klamath Basin residents, playing a pivotal role in making Klamath Falls a unique and culturally rich place to live and work.

Downtown Klamath Falls comes alive with a series of annual events and entertainment that are not to be missed. During the summer months, the Third Thursdays street festivals transform the downtown area into a bustling hub of music, art, and community gatherings. Car enthusiasts will revel in the Kruise of Klamath auto show, an event that showcases a stunning array of classic and modern automobiles. The city's patriotic spirit shines bright during the 4th of July parade, while the Snowflake Parade offers a magical winter celebration. And don’t forget, Downtown is just one slice of the fun and entertaining events happening throughout Klamath annually; for a comprehensive guide to these events and more, be sure to read our "Top Events in Klamath Blog."

While Downtown Klamath Falls is a treasure trove of artistic experiences, the surrounding communities of Klamath, Merrill, Malin, Tulelake, and Chiloquin also boast impressive murals and art installations. These artworks reflect the rich cultural heritage and creative spirit of the region.

In addition to public art, several art galleries in and around Downtown Klamath Falls offer a glimpse into the local art scene. The Klamath Art Gallery, located in the heart of downtown, showcases a diverse range of artworks from regional artists. Two Rivers Art Gallery in Chiloquin is another notable destination, offering a unique collection of local art.

The Klamath County Museum, also in Downtown Klamath Falls, provides historical insights and features works by local artists. Rob Tillberg Studios, another downtown gem, is a must-visit for enthusiasts exploring contemporary art in a vibrant setting.