Grants Pass OR​

Grants Pass – Nestled in the heart of Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley, Grants Pass is a charming riverside city where adventure meets relaxation. Known for its welcoming downtown, thriving arts scene, and easy access to outdoor recreation, it's the perfect destination for nature lovers, road trippers, and anyone craving a slower pace of life. Whether you're rafting down the Rogue River, exploring local wineries, or taking in a street fair under the sunny skies, Grants Pass invites you to enjoy the small-town vibe with big experiences.

• Population: ~39,000
• Weather: Mild, with warm summers (80-90°F) and cool, wet winters (30-50°F)
• Places To Visit: Rogue River, Hellgate Jetboat Excursions, Riverside Park, Schmidt House Museum, Wildlife Images Rehabilitation Center
• Top Activities: River rafting, wine tasting, hiking Cathedral Hills, exploring local shops and galleries, enjoying seasonal events like Boatnik
• Famous Food: Wild River Pizza, local farm-to-table dishes, craft brews, and fresh seasonal produce from regional farms

Grants Pass, Oregon is a vibrant community nestled in the Rogue Valley. Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation, this small city also offers diverse job opportunities in healthcare, education, retail, and skilled trades. Whether you're starting your career or seeking a fresh direction, the job market in Grants Pass has something to offer for professionals of many backgrounds.

Top 5 Jobs in Grants Pass, OR

Grants Pass might be a small town, but it's full of charm and some seriously fun, laid-back places for students to relax and hang out. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to recharge, an outdoor adventure, or somewhere to grab a bite with friends, this southern Oregon gem has you covered.

Riverside Park – Right by the Rogue River, this park is perfect for a lazy afternoon. You can bring a hammock, toss a Frisbee, or just watch the water roll by. It’s also a hotspot during local events, so there’s usually something going on.

Dutch Bros Coffee – Born in Grants Pass, Dutch Bros is more than just a coffee stop—it’s a culture. The energy here is contagious, the baristas are always friendly, and it’s a great place to refuel and find your focus or catch up with classmates.

The Haul – This trendy yet chill hangout in downtown Grants Pass is ideal for grabbing pizza, listening to live music, and soaking in the artsy, creative vibes. It’s student-friendly and often features events that make evenings extra fun.

Bear Hotel Artworks Museum – For a creative twist, check out this unique museum filled with larger-than-life sculptures and themed exhibits. It’s low-cost, visually awesome, and a great way to unwind while getting inspired.

Hellgate Jetboat Excursions – When the weather’s nice and you’re craving adventure, take a break from the books and hit the Rogue River. These jetboat tours mix stunning scenery with a bit of adrenaline. It’s a must-do with a group of friends.

Gallop ‘n Glitz – Looking for something quirky and unexpected? This combination horse store and boutique might not sound like a student hangout, but it’s the kind of place you explore “just to look” and end up hanging out for hours.

Taprock Northwest Grill – Overlooking the Rogue River, this is a go-to spot when you want to treat yourself. There’s patio seating with scenic views, good food, and a relaxing vibe that makes it a favorite for weekend dinners or casual celebrations.

Grants Pass Skatepark – Whether you skate or not, the skatepark is a cool place to watch local talent or hang with friends. There’s an open energy here that makes it easy to meet new people and just enjoy the day.

No matter your vibe—nature-lover, foodie, music fan, or just someone who needs a break—Grants Pass has spots where students can feel at ease, connect, and just have a good time. It’s the kind of town where fun finds you when you least expect it.

Grants Pass, nestled in the beautiful Rogue Valley of southern Oregon, offers students access to excellent higher education opportunities. While the city itself is small, its strategic location close to larger hubs means students benefit from both local colleges and nearby respected universities. Grants Pass is a supportive community for learners aiming for careers in healthcare, trades, liberal arts, and more.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Grants Pass, OR

Rogue Community College (RCC) – The leading public college in Grants Pass, RCC offers associate degrees, workforce training, and transfer programs. RCC is known for its nursing, business, and technical programs. It provides strong support services, making it an ideal choice for students starting their college journey.

Oregon Institute of Technology (Oregon Tech) - Klamath Falls Campus (Nearby) – Just over an hour from Grants Pass, Oregon Tech is acclaimed for its engineering, healthcare, and applied technology degrees. Many local students opt to transfer here for bachelor’s degrees.

Southern Oregon University (SOU) – Ashland Campus (Nearby) – Located about an hour away in Ashland, SOU is a top choice for students interested in liberal arts, education, and business. It’s well-known for its supportive faculty and vibrant campus life.

Southwestern Oregon Community College (Nearby – Coos Bay) – Although primarily serving the Oregon Coast, SWOCC's online and transfer options are popular among Grants Pass residents seeking flexibility in their studies.

Oregon State University – Extension Service (Josephine County) – While not a traditional university campus, the OSU Extension in Grants Pass provides research, community education, and limited coursework in agriculture, forestry, and youth development (4-H), supporting learners of all ages.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Grants Pass, OR

Pacific Bible College (Medford, Nearby) – About 35 minutes from Grants Pass, Pacific Bible College is a respected private institution offering Christian-centered associate and bachelor’s programs in ministry, counseling, and liberal arts.

Corban University (Salem, Online programs) – While Corban’s main campus is in Salem, their online programs are accessible to Grants Pass residents, with popular degrees in business, counseling, and theology rooted in Christian values.

University of Portland (Online programs) – The University of Portland is a renowned private Catholic university, and students in Grants Pass regularly enroll in their highly-regarded online business, nursing, and education programs.

George Fox University (Online, Regional campus options) – With its main campus in Newberg and regional campuses statewide, George Fox offers a welcoming Christian environment and a variety of degrees, including business, psychology, and education, accessible to Grants Pass residents online or through flexible learning formats.

Linfield University (Online and McMinnville Main Campus) – Linfield’s online and hybrid programs in areas like management, nursing, and the arts attract students from across southern Oregon, including those in Grants Pass looking for a private liberal arts education.

Grants Pass may be smaller than Oregon’s metro areas, but students here are just a step away from top colleges and universities—both public and private. With supportive faculty, diverse program offerings, and flexible learning options, Grants Pass is a great home base for higher education at any stage of life.

Grants Pass, OR, is home to several outstanding high schools that provide students with strong academic programs, diverse extracurricular opportunities, and a supportive community. Whether you're looking for a public school with excellent college prep pathways or a private institution with a tailored educational approach, Grants Pass has options that help students thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Top Public High Schools in Grants Pass, OR

• Grants Pass High School – As the largest public high school in the area, Grants Pass High School offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, career and technical education programs, and extracurricular activities. The school is known for its strong community involvement and dedicated staff who help students succeed at every level.
• Hidden Valley High School – Located in nearby Murphy, Hidden Valley is part of the Three Rivers School District and is a favorite among families in southern Josephine County. With high academic expectations, athletic excellence, and a commitment to developing leadership skills, it prepares students well for college and careers.
• North Valley High School – Known for its supportive faculty and strong focus on student achievement, North Valley offers comprehensive programs that encourage academic growth and personal development. Small class sizes and a tight-knit school community make it a standout choice for many families in the area.
• South Middle School (transitioning to GPHS feeder) – While technically not a high school, South Middle plays an important role in preparing students for a seamless transition to Grants Pass High School through focused academic advising and early career exploration programs.
• Illinois Valley High School – Located just outside of Grants Pass in Cave Junction, this school serves as a great public option for students in more rural areas. It features vocational training options, small classrooms, and a caring staff that supports individual student growth.

Top Private High Schools in Grants Pass, OR

• New Hope Christian School – Serving grades K-12, New Hope offers a Christ-centered education with a strong focus on academics, character development, and community values. The small student-to-teacher ratio allows for personalized attention and deeper relationships.
• Saint Anne Catholic School – While primarily known for its elementary and middle school programs, Saint Anne provides a smooth pathway into Catholic high schooling. Many families value the nurturing environment and faith-based education as a stepping stone to a solid high school experience.
• Pacific Bible Christian School – This small private high school emphasizes faith, academic integrity, and community service. Students benefit from a close-knit environment and curriculum grounded in Christian values.
• Rogue River Academy – Though located just outside Grants Pass, this Seventh-day Adventist school offers a private, holistic education centered on faith, academics, and service. Families appreciate the intimate learning environment and spiritual guidance.
• Waldorf School of Grants Pass – Serving various grade levels with a unique educational philosophy, this Waldorf-inspired school supports student creativity, critical thinking, and emotional well-being. It appeals to families seeking an alternative learning model that focuses on the whole child.

Choosing the right high school is a big step for any family, and in Grants Pass, parents have strong options that fit diverse needs. Whether prioritizing academic rigor, moral values, individualized learning, or community involvement, these public and private schools are committed to helping students achieve their full potential.

Grants Pass, Oregon, may not have the professional sports spotlight like bigger metropolitan areas, but it is a community that wholeheartedly embraces sports and athletic culture. While the city does not host major league teams from the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or MLS, residents are avid supporters of regional teams and enjoy a rich sports scene through minor league franchises, college athletics, and local sporting events.

Grants Pass fans often root for Oregon’s premier professional and collegiate teams just a few hours away, creating a strong bond between the local community and regional sports excellence.

Basketball – Portland Trail Blazers (NBA)

• Portland Trail Blazers – Oregon’s only NBA franchise, the Trail Blazers play their home games at the Moda Center in Portland, just over three hours from Grants Pass. The team won its only NBA Championship in 1977 and has featured legendary names such as Clyde Drexler, Bill Walton, Brandon Roy, and Damian Lillard. Many Grants Pass residents proudly wear red and black to support Rip City from afar.

College Sports – Oregon Ducks & Oregon State Beavers

• Oregon Ducks – Based in nearby Eugene, the University of Oregon Ducks are a powerhouse in college athletics. Their football program is nationally known, competing in the Pac-12 Conference and playing home games at the iconic Autzen Stadium. The Ducks have appeared in multiple College Football Playoff games and have produced NFL stars like Marcus Mariota and Justin Herbert. Their basketball, track & field, and baseball teams are also top-tier.
• Oregon State Beavers – Located in Corvallis, Oregon State University is another stronghold of collegiate sports. The Beavers have won three NCAA baseball national championships (2006, 2007, 2018), making them one of the most successful baseball programs in the country. They also compete strongly in football and basketball, with passionate fan support across the state, including in Grants Pass.

Minor League & Local Sports

• Medford Rogues – Just 30 minutes from Grants Pass, the city of Medford is home to the Medford Rogues, a collegiate wood-bat baseball team. They play at Harry & David Field and offer affordable, family-friendly entertainment all summer long. The Rogues are a local favorite and attract fans from the entire Rogue Valley.
• Grants Pass High School Cavemen – High school sports are a huge part of the city's community life. The Grants Pass Cavemen are celebrated for their strong programs in football, basketball, wrestling, and track. Game nights at Mel Ingram Field are packed with passionate fans who love cheering for local talent.

Popular Professional Teams Supported in Grants Pass

• In football, many locals support the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers, two NFL teams located within driving distance and offering vibrant fan experiences.
• When it comes to baseball, the San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners dominate the fan base, given their regional proximity.
• For hockey fans, the Seattle Kraken, the NHL’s newest expansion team, has stirred fresh excitement across the Pacific Northwest.

While Grants Pass may not have a major league stadium of its own, its location in Southern Oregon places it close to fantastic collegiate, minor league, and professional sports teams. The passion for the game runs deep here, whether it's Friday night lights, summer nights at the ballpark, or road trips to cheer on the Ducks, Beavers, or Trail Blazers. It’s a community that truly loves its teams—no matter the level.

Grants Pass, Oregon, is a charming town nestled in the heart of the beautiful Rogue Valley. With its mix of outdoor adventure, historical richness, and small-town friendliness, Grants Pass offers plenty of surprises. Here are 10 fun facts about this delightful Oregon city:

1. “It’s the Climate” – Grants Pass proudly displays the slogan “It’s the Climate” on an arch downtown. It’s a nod to the town’s mild weather and sunny days—yes, even in rainy Oregon!
2. Home of Hellgate Jetboat Excursions – The thrilling jetboat rides on the Rogue River began right here! These rides take guests through stunning river canyons and offer looks at Oregon’s wild beauty.
3. Birthplace of Dutch Bros Coffee – One of the most popular drive-thru coffee chains in the U.S., Dutch Bros was founded in Grants Pass in 1992. It started as a pushcart run by two brothers and became a national success.
4. Wild River Town – The Rogue River, which flows through Grants Pass, is one of only eight rivers in the U.S. protected under the original Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968.
5. A Hotspot for Antiques – Downtown Grants Pass is home to a variety of quirky and classic antique shops. It’s a treasure hunter’s dream!
6. Caveman City – Local high school sports teams are called the Cavemen, and you’ll even spot a huge caveman statue greeting visitors at the entrance to town.
7. Film-Friendly Location – Several movies and TV shows have been filmed in or around Grants Pass thanks to its scenic beauty, including parts of The River Wild and Night Moves.
8. Historic District – The Grants Pass Historic District features buildings that date back to the late 19th century, giving the downtown area its vintage charm and character.
9. Glass Art Scene – Grants Pass has a lively local art culture, including famous blown-glass studios. Tourists and locals alike love shopping for unique, handcrafted glass pieces.
10. Holiday Lights Trail – Every winter, local attractions like Riverside Park transform into a wonderland of lights, making Grants Pass a magical destination during the holidays.