Grants Pass promotes tourism beyond the river by highlighting local attractions

The City of Grants Pass City Council held a workshop on May 5, 2025, focusing on tourism and community perception. The meeting began with discussions on the evolving nature of tourism in Grants Pass, particularly the shift from river-based attractions to shopping, wineries, and new developments.

Council members and residents expressed the need to better highlight the diverse offerings of Grants Pass. One participant emphasized the importance of controlling the narrative surrounding the city, noting that many misconceptions exist about what Grants Pass has to offer. The speaker pointed out that while the river has historically drawn visitors, there are numerous other activities and events that residents and tourists may not be aware of.

The conversation also touched on the potential for Grants Pass to serve as a base for visitors heading to nearby attractions, such as Crater Lake and the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland. It was noted that promoting Grants Pass as a central location for these activities could enhance tourism.

Questions arose regarding tourism metrics, specifically the data for 2024. A council member inquired about the current statistics and when the updated figures would be available. It was confirmed that the Dean Runyon report, which provides these metrics, would be shared later in the month.

Overall, the workshop highlighted the city's commitment to enhancing its tourism strategy and addressing community misconceptions, with plans to provide updated data to inform future discussions.