Adventure Guide

Top Things to Do In Downtown Klamath Falls

All Roads Lead to
2024 Klamath Basin Oktoberfest

All Roads Lead to Oktoberfest

Welcome to the heart and soul of Southern Oregon! Find your path to your Klam-cation! As all roads in Klamath County lead to the Klamath Basin.

Presents 

Oktoberfest Weekend September 19th-22nd

Servus!

Welcome to the heart and soul of Southern Oregon! Now, it’s time to adorn your best Dirndl or Lederhosen! Prost our beautify night skies! And find your path to the am besten Klam-cation! As all roads in Klamath County lead to the 2024 Klamath Basin Oktoberfest…

Newsflash

Ross Ragland is hosting “An Evening with Steven Curtis Chapman” at 7 PM on Thursday, September 19th!

Morn of Oktoberfest

Early on September 21st, 2024

Farmers Market

Grab a Turkish coffee and a fresh baked pastry to start your day at Klamath Falls Farmers Market ~ 25 years strong!

All Roads Lead to 2024 Klamath Basin Oktoberfest

How to Spend a Day in Downtown Klamath Falls

Welcome to the vibrant heart of Klamath Falls, a city where history, culture, and charm blend seamlessly. Proudly known as Oregon's City of Sunshine, Klamath Falls boasts one of the West's most picturesque Main Streets, echoing the prosperity of its 1920s timber and railroad era. Here, you'll discover a rich tapestry of history, local flavors, unique retail experiences, world-class museums, and an array of seasonal entertainment and unique arts.

ACTIVITIES
Cultural Attractions
Family Fun
History
SEASONS
Fall
Spring
Summer
Winter

Oregon’s City of Sunshine: Blend history with local flavors and unique retail

With its historic Main Street, Klamath Falls is a testament to the city's booming past as a 1920s timber and railroad town. Today, it is a hub of history, local flavors, unique retail, world-class museums, seasonal entertainment, and unique arts, inviting visitors to experience its unique charm and vibrant community spirit. As you wander through the heart of Klamath Falls, we invite you to explore the breadth of activities available. From delightful culinary experiences to intriguing shopping and cultural discoveries, Downtown Klamath Falls offers an enriching journey for every visitor.

Local Flavors

Discover familar and unique bites

Start your day at a cozy cafe, where the aroma of locally roasted beans and the warmth of daily-made bagels welcome you. Treat your taste buds to a world of diverse flavors as the day unfolds. Relish the award-winning Thai cuisine at Thai Orchid Café, or step into the nostalgic ambiance of Wong’s Café for classic Chinese dishes. Mexican eateries dot the landscape, offering a variety of dishes and drinks, with street-style tacos being a standout. For those seeking healthier options, Leap of Taste and Mermaid Garden offer a menu of healthy bites and local creations. Many of these local downtown eateries, including the popular Terra Veg, pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients procured directly from farms or through collaborations with organizations like Klamath Grown, ensuring a fresh and authentic dining experience.

The city's restaurants, many using these locally sourced ingredients, offer a range of dining experiences. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal to take home, Klamath Falls' takeout options are diverse and delicious.

History

A walk through time

Begin your historical exploration at the Oregon Bank Building, a testament to the city's past as a booming 1920s timber town. Here, you'll find one of the United States' last manually operated elevators, a unique relic meticulously maintained and operated by skilled attendants. These custodians of history transport visitors between floors and share fascinating anecdotes, weaving tales of the building's storied past. As you step out on Main Street, the architectural grandeur of the early 20th century surrounds you. Notably, the William’s Building stands out with its intricate glazed terra cotta façade, depicting scenes from the Western frontier, a vivid reminder of the city's vibrant history during the timber boom.

Further, enrich your historical journey with a visit to the Ross Ragland Theater. Once a bustling movie palace, this art-deco gem now shines as a performing arts center. Its towering neon-lit façade is a beacon of the city's cultural evolution. Take a self-guided Downtown walking tour to comprehensively view Klamath Falls' historical landscape. This journey takes you through the city's heart, past landmarks, and hidden gems alike, each narrating its own chapter of Klamath Falls' intriguing past. From the bustling days of the timber industry to the serene present, the city's history unfolds around every corner, offering a captivating glimpse into the tapestry of time that has shaped Klamath Falls.

Museums

A cultural and historical exploration

Embark on a cultural odyssey in Downtown Klamath Falls, where diverse museums await your exploration. The Favell Museum, open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., is a treasure trove of Native American artifacts and Western art and a testament to indigenous cultures' rich heritage and artistic expression. This immersive cultural gallery houses one of the world's most impressive collections of native artifacts from North and South America. Here, you can marvel at over 100,000 Native American artifacts, some dating back 12,000 years, including arrowheads, obsidian knives, and intricate beadwork. The museum also celebrates contemporary Western art, showcasing original paintings by renowned artists like Charles M. Russell, John Clymer, and Frank McCarthy, who vividly narrate the story of the West through their art.

Another historical gem is the Baldwin Hotel Museum, a remarkable four-story brick structure built in 1905 and the oldest public building in Klamath Falls. This hotel-turned-museum, operated by the Baldwin and Moore families for over 70 years, now stands as a delightful seasonal museum, offering a unique glimpse into old Oregon. Stepping into the Baldwin Hotel is like entering a time capsule, where most of its original furniture and local artwork remain intact. The museum features a local photography studio, a barber shop, a music display, and collections that chronicle the town's history and the logging industry's impact on the Western U.S. at the beginning of the 20th century. The second floor, preserving the original hotel rooms, showcases how they appeared in the building's prime, complete with stories about long-term guests, including one who lived there for over 30 years. The docents at the Baldwin Hotel Museum bring local history to life, making it an almost tangible walk back through time.

Meanwhile, the Klamath County Museum offers a comprehensive dive into the local history. Set in a historic armory building, this museum is a haven for history enthusiasts. Its extensive exhibits cover the Klamath Basin's past, featuring everything from Native American tribal artifacts to vintage photographs and classic cars. The museum serves as a historical archive and as the main office for all three county-owned museums. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, it's a must-visit for those looking to delve deep into the region's storied past. Additionally, while exploring downtown, don't miss the public art installations that further enrich Klamath Falls' cultural landscape, offering a visual narrative of the city's history.

For those eager to explore more of Klamath's rich cultural tapestry, be sure to read our "Best Museums Article." It's your guide to discovering even more fascinating museums and historical sites throughout Klamath, each with its unique story.

Shop Local

Unique finds and adventure gear

Dive into the charming local shopping scene in Klamath Falls, where unique and intriguing items await. For those looking for the perfect little something, locally owned shops like Blonde Pineapple, Woodsy Kitchen, and Poppy offer an eclectic mix of homewares and decor, perfect for adding a touch of personality to your space. Adventure enthusiasts will find their haven at The Ledge outdoor store, the go-to spot for gearing up for your next escapade. They offer a range of outdoor equipment for sale and rent to suit various adventures, including kayaking, snowshoeing, skiing, and hiking. Klamath Basin Sports caters to a wide array of sporting needs; they specialize in water sports gear for wakeboarding and boating, alongside snowboard sales and rentals, and skateboards to help you get out on the water, slopes, or skate park. Embrace the spirit of Klamath Falls by supporting local businesses and enriching your experiences with their unique offerings.

Arts and Entertainment

A vibrant scene in Downtown and beyond

Klamath Falls is a hub of arts and entertainment, where the region's rich cultural tapestry is vividly displayed through various artistic mediums. The city's public art scene is a highlight, featuring the remarkable bronze sculptures by Stephan Savides. These sculptures beautifully capture the essence of local wildlife and history and are strategically placed throughout the city, offering a unique perspective on the area's natural beauty. Complementing these sculptures are the numerous murals that adorn the city's walls, turning them into vibrant canvases that narrate the heritage and community spirit of Klamath Falls. These artworks, found in both unexpected corners and prominent locations, infuse the urban landscape with color and imagination.

The heart of live entertainment in Klamath Falls beats at the Ross Ragland Theater. This historic venue, known for its stunning art-deco architecture and neon lighting, is a cultural cornerstone, hosting diverse performances. From captivating local theater productions to concerts and national touring acts, the theater is a hub for artistic expression and community gatherings.

Complementing the Ross Ragland's grandeur is the Linkville Playhouse, a cherished local theater offering an intimate, "up close and personal" experience. Celebrating over 50 years of amateur theatrical productions, the Linkville Playhouse is recognized for its presentations' depth, variety, and quality. With only 118 seats, including an orchestra, loge, and balcony, audience members are just a few feet away from the actors, making for an immersive and engaging theatrical experience.

The city's arts scene is further enriched by seasonal events and parades, such as the Third Thursday street fairs and the enchanting Snowflake Parade. These events transform the streets into festive arenas where arts, crafts, music, and a sense of community come alive, showcasing Klamath Falls' vibrant cultural tapestry.

Arts and entertainment are woven into the fabric of Klamath Falls: the city offers a rich and varied palette of experiences for art connoisseurs, theater enthusiasts, and those seeking a vibrant cultural experience. Whether it's admiring public art, enjoying a live performance, or participating in seasonal celebrations, Klamath Falls provides a dynamic and engaging cultural landscape for residents and visitors alike. Be sure to learn more about how to explore culture in our guide to arts and entertainment in Klamath.

Parks and Open Spaces

Nature in the city

Klamath Falls is proud to host a variety of parks and open spaces that beautifully blend urban charm with natural serenity. The heart of this greenery is Klamath Commons Park, a family-friendly haven with a lively splash pad, offering a refreshing escape during sunny days. Nearby, Sugarman’s Corner stands as an urban park infused with culture, showcasing the artistic brilliance of Stephan Savides through his bronze sculptures and historical plaques. These urban spaces provide relaxation and play areas and enrich the cityscape with artistic and historical narratives.

On the tranquil shores of Lake Ewauna lies Veterans Park, a picturesque spot ideal for serene walks and enjoying panoramic lake views. In the summertime, this park becomes part of the Klamath Piano Project, transforming public spaces into interactive musical venues. The city offers easy access to several trails, including the Link River nature trail and the Moore Mountain trail system, for those drawn to nature. These paths invite residents and visitors alike to explore the local flora and fauna, watch birds, or enjoy a peaceful hike. Together, these parks and trails encapsulate the essence of Klamath Falls, intertwining urban life with the natural world.

Find the Falls

Discover the Link River Nature Trail

Embark on a scenic exploration along the Link River nature trail, a one-mile path easily accessible from Downtown Klamath Falls. This trail leads you to the heart of the city's namesake—the cascading waters of the Link River, where Klamath Lake gracefully flows into Lake Ewauna. Unlike traditional waterfalls, here you'll witness the river's energetic descent, creating a series of lively whitewater rapids. These rapids, with their dynamic flow and vibrant energy, are what inspired the name 'Klamath Falls.'

As you stroll along this trail, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local wildlife and birdlife. It's an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, offering a chance to spot various species in their natural habitat. Be sure to delve into our guide for first-time birders for insights into the avian wonders you might encounter. This trail offers a glimpse into the unique geological features that define the area and serves as a serene escape into nature right at the city's doorstep. Check out our  'Where are the Falls' article, which explores the fascinating story behind Klamath Falls' namesake.

Grab a Drink

Local brews and unique libations

Klamath Falls is home to a lively scene for beer lovers, food enthusiasts, and has a number of fun options for adult beverages. Common Block Brewing, nestled in the historic Crater Lake Creamery Building, offers Southern Oregon craft brews and delectable cuisine with a welcoming outdoor patio. The Falls Taphouse stands out for its extensive beer selection and food truck delicacies like the Smash Burger. Mia & Pia’s Brewhouse, known for its handcrafted pizza and rotating beers on tap, hosts live music and trivia nights on its charming patio. For a sophisticated dining experience, Basin Martini Bar serves inventive dishes and award-winning cocktails, or try out the tiki-inspired spirits menu at the Night Owl.

The local brewing culture is further enriched with the opening of the Garage Taphouse on 6th Street in Downtown Klamath Falls. This new establishment will offer a similar concept to The Falls Taphouse, featuring a variety of taps and a food truck court. This addition is set to become a new hotspot for both locals and visitors, adding to the diverse array of breweries and bars in Klamath Falls that cater to all preferences, from casual beers to upscale cocktails and gourmet meals.

Photo: Fairfield Inn

Stay the Night

Comfort and scenery

Klamath Falls, nestled amidst the natural splendor of Southern Oregon, offers exceptional accommodation choices for every traveler. The Running Y Resort stands out as a premier destination for those seeking a blend of luxury and outdoor adventure. This resort, set against the stunning backdrop of the Cascade Mountain Range, is not just a place to stay but an experience in itself. It boasts a rich heritage of hospitality since 1996 and promises an all-season retreat where serenity and discovery are at the forefront. The resort is renowned for its Arnold Palmer-designed "Sweet Sixteen" golf course, offering a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts. The on-site Ruddy Duck Restaurant at Running Y Resort elevates dining with its New American cuisine, served in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, offers breathtaking views and a menu that combines hearty home cooking with a modern twist.

Alternatively, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Klamath Falls presents a different charm. As the only lake-view hotel in the city, it offers stunning vistas of Lake Ewauna and is conveniently located within walking distance of historic downtown Klamath Falls. The hotel provides modern amenities with old-fashioned service and hospitality.

The Klamath Experience Partners Page offers diverse choices for those exploring further accommodation options to suit various preferences and needs. Whether you're looking for a luxurious resort experience or a comfortable hotel stay with scenic views, Klamath Falls caters to all, ensuring a memorable stay in Oregon's "City of Sunshine.”

Get Your Bearings

Plan your adventure at the Discover Klamath Welcome Center

Whether you’re beginning your journey or looking for a way to extend your adventure, pay a visit to the Discover Klamath Welcome Center, a perfect starting point to get acquainted with the area's diverse attractions. Here, you can delve into the world of birding, a popular activity in the region, and get updates on recent wildlife sightings, enhancing your chances of encountering the area's rich fauna. The center also provides essential passes for exploring nearby National Parks, ensuring you have seamless access to these natural wonders.

The Discover Klamath Welcome Center is also a trove of unique gifts and souvenirs, perfect for commemorating your visit or sharing a piece of Klamath with friends and family. From locally crafted items to innovative products, the selection is designed to capture the essence of Klamath's adventurous spirit. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, the Discover Klamath Welcome Center is your gateway to unforgettable experiences in this vibrant and scenic region.

Set off on your Klamath Adventures

To truly embrace the spirit of Klamath Falls and its surrounding natural wonders, don’t miss your opportunity to visit three National Parks, all accessible from Downtown Klamath Falls. Delve deeper into the region's majestic landscapes, including Crater Lake National Park, Lava Beds, and Tule Lake National Monument. Each park offers a unique encounter with nature and cultural history, from volcanic formations and ancient caves to the Nation’s deepest lake and diverse ecosystems. This bundled adventure invites you to expand your Klamath Falls experience, immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty and serenity of the region’s special places. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, these national parks provide an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the great outdoors and create lasting memories.

This is some text inside of a div block.
Experience this activity