Grant County, Oregon Travel Guide
Explore the natural wonders, rich history, and outdoor adventures of Grant County, Oregon, where pristine wilderness and small-town charm await.
Nestled in the heart of Eastern Oregon, Grant County is a treasure trove of natural beauty, historical sites, and outdoor adventures. Known for its vast landscapes and pristine wilderness areas, it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Visitors can explore the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, which showcases millions of years of geological history through its colorful rock formations and well-preserved fossils. The charming small towns of Grant County, such as John Day and Canyon City, provide a glimpse into the region's rich pioneer heritage. Here, you can visit the Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum, a preserved 19th-century Chinese apothecary and general store that tells the story of Chinese immigrants in the American West. For a taste of local culture, don't miss the annual Grant County Fair and Rodeo, a celebration of rural life and community spirit. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Grant County, from hiking and fishing in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness to birdwatching at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. The county's clear skies also make it a prime destination for stargazing, with several designated dark sky locations offering breathtaking views of the night sky. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Grant County has something to offer every traveler.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Grant County.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks when exploring outdoor areas, as amenities can be sparse.
- Visit in late spring or early fall for the best weather and fewer crowds.
- Check the John Day Fossil Beds visitor center for guided tours and educational programs.
- Make sure to carry cash, as some local businesses may not accept credit cards.
- Pack layers, as temperatures can vary widely during the day.
Destinations in Grant County
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore Grant County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Grant County
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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Crater Lake National Park
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Crater Lake National Park, a stunning natural wonder in Oregon with deep blue waters and diverse outdoor adventures.
High Desert Museum
Explore the High Desert Museum, a captivating blend of art, history, and nature in Bend, Oregon, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.
Blue Lake Regional Park
Explore Blue Lake Regional Park: A serene escape in Fairview, Oregon, perfect for outdoor adventures, relaxation, and family fun.
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
Experience the stunning geology and rich paleontological history of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, a must-visit for nature and history enthusiasts.
Best landmarks in Grant County
Top-rated picks
Best Landmarks
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Vista House at Crown Point
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Vista House, a stunning landmark in the Columbia River Gorge, perfect for tourists seeking beauty and culture.
High Desert Museum
Discover the rich culture, art, and history of the High Desert at the High Desert Museum in Bend, Oregon, a captivating destination for all ages.
Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site, a perfect getaway for nature lovers in Oregon.
Baker Heritage Museum
Explore the captivating history of Baker City, Oregon at the Baker Heritage Museum, where past meets present in a vibrant cultural experience.
Best restaurants in Grant County
Top-rated picks
Best Restaurants
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Solstice Wood Fire Pizza - Cafe & Bar
Discover delicious wood-fired pizzas and local flavors at Solstice Wood Fire Pizza - your perfect dining destination in Hood River.
Texas Roadhouse
Experience hearty American dining at Texas Roadhouse in Marion, Indiana—where quality meets flavor in every dish.
Riverside
Experience exquisite dining at Riverside in Hood River with stunning river views and a diverse menu featuring local flavors.
pFriem Family Brewers
Experience the essence of Hood River at pFriem Family Brewers with craft beers brewed to perfection amidst stunning river views.
Best bars in Grant County
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
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McMenamins Pub at Old St. Francis School
Experience the unique blend of history and hospitality at McMenamins Pub at Old St. Francis School in Bend, Oregon.
Outpost Pizza Pub & Grill
Experience the best of pizza and breakfast at Outpost Pizza Pub & Grill, where delicious flavors meet a friendly atmosphere in John Day, Oregon.
Timbers
Discover Timbers, Bend's cozy bar featuring unique wood carvings and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after an adventurous day.
Timber's Bar & Grill Redmond
Discover Timber's Bar & Grill in Redmond, Oregon: a local favorite for delicious food, craft drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Explore Grant County on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Grant County, mapped for you.
Grant County Essentials
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Grant County is located in the eastern part of Oregon. The nearest major airport is Roberts Field (RDM) in Redmond, approximately 150 miles west of John Day, the county seat. From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to Grant County, which takes around 3 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Portland International Airport (PDX) and drive approximately 5 hours to reach Grant County.
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Within Grant County, the best way to get around is by car. There are no public transportation options available, so renting a vehicle is highly recommended. Roads are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for some remote and rugged terrain, especially if you plan to explore the more rural areas. Biking and hiking are also popular ways to explore the scenic landscapes.
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The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas where card transactions might not be possible. ATMs are available in John Day and other larger towns within the county.
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Grant County is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard safety precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in your car and be mindful when exploring remote areas. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists, but it's always a good idea to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Blue Mountain Hospital in John Day provides medical services and emergency care. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in John Day and other larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do wear comfortable and practical clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Layers are recommended due to variable weather conditions. Religion: Do show respect for local traditions and religious sites, although there are no specific dress codes. Public Transport: There is no public transport, so this is not applicable. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or a handshake. Residents are generally welcoming and polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.
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To experience Grant County like a local, visit the local farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce and homemade goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, which offers stunning geological formations and fossil discoveries. For a unique experience, take a drive along the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, which provides breathtaking views of the region's diverse landscapes.
When is the best time to visit Grant County?
Useful Local Phrases for Grant County
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Grant County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHowdy
[Ha-dee] - GoodbyeSee ya
[See yah] - YesYep
[Yep] - NoNope
[Nope] - Please/You're welcomePlease / No problem
[Pleez / No prob-lem] - Thank youThanks
[Thangs] - Excuse me/SorryPardon me / Sorry
[Par-don mee / Sor-ree] - How are you?How's it going?
[How's it go-ing?] - Fine. And you?Good, and you?
[Good, and you?] - Do you speak English?You speak English?
[You speak English?] - I don't understandI don’t get it
[I don’t get it]
- HelloHowdy
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
[Can I see the men-u, pleez?] - I don't eat meatI’m a vegetarian
[I’m a vege-tar-i-an] - Cheers!Cheers!
[Cheers] - I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check, please?
[Can I get the check, pleez?]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
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- Help!Help!
[Help!] - Go away!Leave me alone!
[Leave me a-lone!] - Call the Police!Call the cops!
[Call the cops!] - Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
[Get a doc-tor!] - I'm lostI'm turned around
[I'm turned a-round] - I'm illI'm not feeling well
[I'm not feel-ing well]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
[I want to buy...] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[Just brows-ing] - How much is it?What’s the price?
[What’s the price?] - That's too expensiveThat’s a bit pricey
[That’s a bit pricy] - Can you lower the price?Can you give me a better price?
[Can you give me a bet-ter price?]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
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- What time is it?What time ya got?
[What time ya got?] - It's one o'clockIt's one
[It's one] - Half past (10)Half past ten
[Half past ten] - MorningMorning
[Morn-ing] - AfternoonAfternoon
[Af-ter-noon] - EveningEvening
[Eve-ning] - YesterdayYesterday
[Yes-ter-day] - TodayToday
[To-day] - TomorrowTomorrow
[To-mor-row] - 1One
[One] - 2Two
[Two] - 3Three
[Three] - 4Four
[Four] - 5Five
[Five] - 6Six
[Six] - 7Seven
[Seven] - 8Eight
[Eight] - 9Nine
[Nine] - 10Ten
[Ten]
- What time is it?What time ya got?
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- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
[Where’s the...?] - What's the address?What’s the address?
[What’s the address?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
[Can you point it out?] - When's the next (bus)?When’s the next bus?
[When’s the next bus?] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
[A tick-et to...]
- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
History of Grant County
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Grant County is home to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, a testament to over 40 million years of natural history. These fossil beds are renowned for their well-preserved plant and animal remains, providing invaluable insight into prehistoric ecosystems. The area is divided into three units: Painted Hills, Sheep Rock, and Clarno, each showcasing unique geological features and fossil records. The Painted Hills are particularly famous for their vibrant, multicolored layers, representing different climatic periods and sediment deposits.
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Before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by the Northern Paiute, Cayuse, and Umatilla tribes. These Native American groups thrived in the area for thousands of years, relying on its rivers, forests, and valleys for hunting, fishing, and gathering. They left behind a rich cultural legacy, including petroglyphs and artifacts that provide glimpses into their daily lives, spiritual practices, and interactions with the land.
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The discovery of gold in Canyon City in 1862 sparked a rush of prospectors and settlers to Grant County. This period saw rapid population growth and the establishment of towns like Canyon City and John Day. The booming gold mining industry led to the construction of infrastructure, including roads and railways, to support the influx of miners and supplies. The remnants of old mines and ghost towns still dot the landscape, offering a window into the county's rugged past.
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Following the gold rush, many settlers turned to ranching and agriculture, which became the backbone of Grant County's economy. The wide-open spaces and fertile valleys were ideal for raising cattle and growing crops. Ranching culture remains a strong part of the county's identity, with annual events such as the Grant County Fair and Rodeo celebrating this heritage. Visitors can experience the rural lifestyle firsthand by touring working ranches and participating in local agricultural activities.
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In the early 20th century, the timber industry emerged as a significant economic driver in Grant County. The vast forests of the Blue Mountains provided an abundant supply of timber, leading to the establishment of sawmills and logging camps. This industry not only shaped the local economy but also influenced the social and cultural fabric of the community. Today, while timber harvesting has declined, logging history is preserved through museums and historical sites.
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Located in John Day, the Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum is a preserved building that served as a general store, herbal medicine shop, and social center for the Chinese community during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was operated by Ing 'Doc' Hay and Lung On, who provided essential services to both Chinese and non-Chinese residents. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Chinese immigrants and their contributions to the local community during a time of widespread discrimination and exclusion.
Neighbouring Regions of Grant County
The closest regions to Grant County, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore OregonGrant County in Photos
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Discover the Hidden Gems of Grant County, Oregon
Nestled in the heart of Eastern Oregon, Grant County is a treasure trove of natural beauty, historical sites, and outdoor adventures. Known for its vast landscapes and pristine wilderness areas, it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Visitors can explore the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, which showcases millions of years of geological history through its colorful rock formations and well-preserved fossils. The charming small towns of Grant County, such as John Day and Canyon City, provide a glimpse into the region's rich pioneer heritage. Here, you can visit the Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum, a preserved 19th-century Chinese apothecary and general store that tells the story of Chinese immigrants in the American West. For a taste of local culture, don't miss the annual Grant County Fair and Rodeo, a celebration of rural life and community spirit. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Grant County, from hiking and fishing in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness to birdwatching at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. The county's clear skies also make it a prime destination for stargazing, with several designated dark sky locations offering breathtaking views of the night sky. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Grant County has something to offer every traveler.