If you’re craving a getaway but don’t want the hassle of airports, delayed flights, or endless TSA lines, consider this: a staycation that takes you from the heart of Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley to the charm-drenched streets of Oregon wine country. The destination? The Atticus Hotel in McMinnville—a boutique gem nestled in one of the most vibrant small towns in the state.
The drive from Grants Pass to McMinnville clocks in at around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on how often you stop to admire the view—or grab snacks. Hop on I-5 North and cruise through the lush, ever-changing landscape of the Willamette Valley. Whether you’re rolling solo or riding with friends or family, this drive is full of opportunities to make the journey just as memorable as the destination.
Need a break along the way? Pull off in Eugene for coffee, vintage shopping, or a stroll through the University of Oregon’s beautiful campus. Or stop in Salem, Oregon’s capital, for a quick tour of the capitol building and a relaxing walk at Riverfront Park. But don’t linger too long—wine country is calling.
As you arrive in McMinnville, the first thing you’ll notice is its Main Street—formally known as Third Street. It’s a slice of Americana with a gourmet twist. Think brick buildings, hanging flower baskets, and sidewalk cafés where locals sip Pinot Noir with their breakfast burritos.
The Atticus Hotel sits right in the heart of this scene. This isn’t your cookie-cutter chain hotel—it’s locally owned and full of personality. Each suite is unique, featuring custom furnishings, regional art, and thoughtful amenities. From cozy fireplaces to clawfoot tubs, Atticus is all about creature comforts with Oregon flair.
They even offer complimentary cruiser bikes, which is perfect, because McMinnville is one of the most bike-friendly towns in Oregon. If pedaling isn’t your thing, everything in downtown is walkable—from wine tasting rooms to bookstores to breweries.
Wine is the name of the game here. McMinnville is surrounded by more than 250 wineries, many of which are within a 15- to 20-minute drive. But if you don’t feel like venturing far, downtown has plenty of tasting rooms where you can sample world-class Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines without leaving the city limits.
Hungry? From wood-fired pizza at Community Plate to fine dining at Thistle, McMinnville is a foodie’s dream. Local chefs pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and it shows. Don’t skip dessert either—Red Fox Bakery has pastries that will haunt your dreams.
After dinner, catch a show at the historic Mack Theater or simply wander the quiet streets under the soft glow of the streetlamps. It’s the kind of place where you actually want to slow down.
McMinnville is more than just food and wine. It’s home to the world-famous Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, where you can see the legendary Spruce Goose up close. For a lighter experience, check out the many public art installations scattered throughout town or time your visit with one of the seasonal events like the UFO Festival or Sip! McMinnville Wine & Food Classic.
Nature lovers can hike nearby parks or head to Erratic Rock State Natural Site for a short, quirky trek to a massive glacial boulder. And if relaxation is the mission, simply return to the Atticus and enjoy a laid-back evening with a bottle of local wine, a warm bath, and maybe even some room service.
A staycation from Grants Pass to McMinnville’s Atticus Hotel proves that you don’t need to hop on a plane to have a real adventure. It’s the perfect mix of comfort, culture, and a touch of indulgence—without the stress of long-distance travel.
The next time you need to reset, recharge, or just escape the day-to-day grind, pack an overnight bag, fill up the tank, and head north. Wine country is waiting.
