< Previous 30 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 PLAY ARTS & CULTURE AN ARTIST’S PLAYGROUND Corvallis Murals Scavenger Hunt A colorful adventure awaits! Take off on a scavenger hunt with the help of a map to discover all of the hand- painted murals adorning buildings around Corvallis. With 40 beautiful murals throughout the city, many courtesy of the Corvallis Mural Project, the town serves as a vibrant canvas for local artists. Pick up the scavenger hunt map at the Visitor Center, solve clues and claim your prize at the end of the hunt. Downtown’s Dynamic Art Scene Discover more than a dozen art installations on Madison Avenue, the artistic heart of downtown Corvallis stretching from one end at Eighth Street to the other end at First Street. Begin your exploration at The Arts Center and enjoy visual art exhibitions, learning opportunities and cultural events. Strolling by Central Park, take a leisurely, self-guided tour along Madison Avenue to the picturesque Riverfront Park, encountering more than 25 sculptures, enamel-on-metal poem reproductions, photographs and silkscreen prints along the way. The Alley Art Project, a creation of the Howland Fund in The Arts Center Endowment, has helped transform Madison Avenue during the past 12 years. As you meander down the avenue, spot pieces such as “Cassie” by Sue McNiel Jacobsen, a life-sized bronze cast of a beloved dog, and the must-see “Giant Purple Trillium, Cobra Lily, Mountain Lady‘s Slipper,” by local artist Bonnie Hall. Corvallis Arts Walk Explore galleries, shops and venues during the Corvallis Arts Walk, held downtown every third Thursday of the month from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Navigate through a maze of paintings, pottery, sculptures and more by obtaining the printable map at participating galleries. Corvallis Arts Walk (CAW) maps and info can also be found online and at theartscenter.net. Mural by artists Dan and Mae Hitchcock PHOTOS REED LANE PHOTOGRAPHYFind fascinating and colorful murals around town on the Corvallis mural scavenger hunt. You can pick up a mural map and clues at the Corvallis Visitor Center (113 SW 3 rd Street, Suite 101). Undiscovered Art visitcorvallis.com Real deal with a local feel. 32 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 PLAY ARTS & CULTURE Historic Theaters Step into a bygone era at The Majestic Theatre , built in 1913 by Johnson Porter, grandson of a Corvallis founding settler. A designated local landmark and the oldest intact theater house in Corvallis, the Majestic Theatre was originally adorned in stunning Louis XV frescoes and hosted international and local musicians and singers, vaudeville acts, opera stars and college plays. The tradition was reborn with a 1990 community-led renovation project making the Majestic a lively cultural hub and performing arts center with a diverse array of enchanting performances throughout the year. Immerse yourself in its storied past and stay updated on upcoming events by visiting majestic.org. With its Italian Renaissance architecture, The Whiteside Theatre was erected in 1922 by the Whiteside brothers, pioneers of the movie industry in Corvallis. Considered one of the grandest theaters in Oregon at the time, the Whiteside has continued its legacy in the region. Currently undergoing renovations, the Theatre is still offering limited showings of classic films, concerts and special events. For a delightful touch of nostalgia, the marquee of the former Midway Drive-In Theater is worth seeing. The sign, now at 134 SW First Street, is adorned with poetry, providing a twist on traditional movie listings. The Arts Center Housed in a charming 1889 Episcopal Church with Carpenter Gothic architecture, The Arts Center itself is a masterpiece. Featured in The New York Times, the center offers art classes for all ages, captivating exhibits and a well-stocked gift shop showcasing works from local and regional artists. Every third Thursday of the month, embrace the arts by kicking off your exploration of the Corvallis Arts Walk (CAW) from The Arts Center. For current exhibits and classes, visit theartscenter.net and delve into the history and future of this cultural gem. PHOTO LEFT REED LANE PHOTOGRAPHY; TOP RIGHT POEM BY JENNIFER RICHTER | BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO RICH BERGEMAN FOR THE ARTS CENTER The Majestic TheatreThe Arts Center Midway Drive-In Theatre MarqueeONE ORGANIZATION, TWO MUSEUMS bentoncountymuseums.org PHILOMATH MUSEUM CORVALLIS MUSEUM © Jeremy Bitterman / JSBA Check our website or sign up for our e-newsletter to find out about upcoming exhibitions and programs. MAJESTIC.ORG Learn More at UPCOMING EVENTS THE MAJESTIC THEATRE SINGU-HILARITY @ 7:30 PM APR 3-19 MAY 19 COMEDY 8-17 THE REVOLUTIONISTS MAR March 8, 9, 15, 16 @ 7:30 PM March 10, 17 @ 2:30 PM MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT May 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18 @ 7:30 PM May 5 ,12, 19 @ 2:30 PM MAY 18-19 LOVE AND INFORMATION CORVALLIS COMEDY NIGHT WITH BETH STELLING MR. BURNS: A POST ELECTRIC PLAY May 19 @ 7:30 PM | May 18 @ 2:30 PM June 1 @ 7:30 PM September 22, 29 @ 2:30 PM September 20, 21, 27, 28 @ 7:30 PM MAJESTIC LAB THEATRE JUNE SEP 1 20-29 KALOS April 19 @ 7:30 PM LIVE MUSIC 34 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 PLAY ARTS & CULTURE PHOTO LEFT COURTESY JEREMY BITTERMAN/JBSA Enriching Museums Explore history, culture and art at the Corvallis Museum in the heart of downtown Corvallis. With grand windows to highlight the featured artifacts and an aesthetic design to complement the historic downtown core, the LEED certified contemporary building provides a captivating and playful space to explore the varied and dynamic exhibits. Welcoming visitors in the lobby is the iconic “Bruce the Moose” from Oregon State University’s Horner Museum. Venture farther to discover four engaging galleries which vividly portray a lens into the region’s fascinating history. Permanent exhibits, such as “Hats & Chairs” and “A College Town,” offer unique and human perspectives on history while the ever-changing exhibits promise a fresh experience on every visit. Don’t miss the museum store, where you can explore local art, regional history books, and delightful moose and beaver souvenirs. The Benton County Historical Society ’s original museum in Philomath, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is an integral part of the historical narrative and continues to stand as a celebration of the region’s colorful past. The museum offers free admission and a bookstore boasting a dynamic collection of books on local history to peruse. Immerse yourself in a captivating historical experience—where you will discover, explore and be a part of living history. Learn more at bentoncountymuseums.org. PRAx A bold addition to the southeastern quadrant of Oregon State University’s picturesque campus, the eagerly awaited Patricia Valian Reser Center for the Creative Arts (PRAx) is gearing up for its grand unveiling on April 6, 2024. Representing a remarkable $70 million investment, PRAx stands as a cultural beacon, offering a vibrant blend of arts education, performance and exhibition spaces. Within its expansive 49,000 square feet, visitors can explore four indoor venues, an outdoor performing arts area, a rehearsal building and a beautiful demonstration garden. With its official 2024 launch, this state-of-the-art center not only enriches the campus’s cultural landscape, but also invites both university and community members to attend various arts and cultural events. Explore prax.oregonstate.edu to find current events and schedules. “Bruce the Moose” Corvallis Museum Rendering of the PRAx exterior Corvallis MuseumPHOTO LEFT JOEY HAMILTON; RIGHT HONEYSUCKLE PHOTOGRAPHY Seoul Sisters BoutiqueCorazón GIRLS’ WEEKEND PLAY THREE-DAY GIRLS’ GETAWAY IN CORVALLIS Grab your gals and prepare for a fun-filled three-day escape to Corvallis! From the charming, tree-lined downtown to delicious local food and thrilling biking, a getaway to Corvallis promises to be a trip full of good vibes and quality time. Day One: Downtown Delights Kickstart the weekend by exploring downtown, where locally owned boutiques, art galleries and delightful dining options are abundant. Stay at the stylish riverfront Courtyard by Marriott or the retro boutique Hotel Corvallis for easy access to downtown attractions. Explore Restyle’ s curated store for everything from trendy décor and clothing to kitchen supplies and sweet gifts. Seoul Sisters Boutique offers eclectic fashion and Re•volve is a treasure trove of hand-selected resale items. Energize at Tried & True Coffee Co. or Coffee Culture Corvallis . After retail therapy, rejuvenate at Epic Day Spa , then add festive flair to your itinerary with a leisurely lunch at The Brass Monkey on the riverfront. As the evening draws near, choose from Corvallis’ myriad dining offerings. Discover Magenta Restaurant & SNUGbar , a welcoming place where Asian fusion comes to life with global inspiration and the allure of a speakeasy lounge awaits below. Del Alma , translated as “of the soul,” is the spot to go for a downtown urban vibe paired with an elegant, soulful atmosphere. Finish the evening with a show at The Majestic Theatre or a nightcap at Corazón wine bar. Day Two: Taste the Valley Grab your baskets and get ready to savor the local bounty of Corvallis’ beautiful surrounding countryside. Plan your trip around a Wednesday or Saturday and spend the morning strolling through the Corvallis Farmers’ Market for fresh, regional produce. Or, hit the road and explore farm stands such as Peoria Road Farm Market right outside of Corvallis and Lilliputopia’s Farm Stand, a short 24-minute drive through the scenic Willamette Valley. Stop for brunch at The Dizzy Hen in Philomath, then unwind with a stroll at Fitton Green Natural Area. A visit to the Willamette Valley is not complete without tasting the world-famous local wines. So, grab a Heart of Willamette Wine Passport and take off to explore the region’s plentiful wineries. For some mid-afternoon fun off-the-beaten path, attend a Goat Happy Hour at No Regrets Flower Farm & Animal Sanctuary in Monroe. For a special conclusion to your day, savor a seasonal farm- to-table dining experience at Gathering Together Farm, an organic farm with an on-site restaurant. Day Three: Biking Bliss Fuel up at WiseCrack Cafe or New Morning Bakery before rolling into a day of biking adventures. Rent bikes at Peak Sports or opt for electric-assist bikes at Corvallis Electric Bicycles or Electric Avenue Sports. Cruise through forested streets in and around Corvallis; explore the varied trails at William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge; or challenge yourself at Alsea Falls Recreation Site’s mountain biking trails. Recharge with some delicious baked goods at Hiatt Farm in Corvallis or at Eats & Treats Cafe in Philomath. Cap off your getaway at downtown’s Caves Corvallis for elevated tavern fare inspired by the culinary flavors of Northwestern Europe. Choose festive, hand-crafted cocktails and relish the open-air atmosphere as you toast to a memorable girls’ weekend in Corvallis. VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 35 36 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 PLAY DOWNTOWN CORVALLIS Benton County CourthouseRiverfront Commemorative Park PHOTO LEFT ISABELLA MEDINA; RIGHT REED LANE PHOTOGRAPHY URBAN PULSE Welcome to the heart of Corvallis—a downtown that promises much more than meets the eye. The dynamic center is ideal for a leisurely afternoon, offering a diverse array of outdoor spaces, mouthwatering eateries and trendy boutiques which cater to every taste. Begin your afternoon with a serene stroll through the Riverfront Commemorative Park, where the tree- lined Willamette River provides a compelling backdrop. Enhance the experience with a cup of coffee from one of the many downtown cafes, adding a touch of locally crafted warmth to your exploration. As you venture into the main streets, discover a vibrant scene where shops, eateries, bars and more await your arrival. Outdoor enthusiasts can gear up for their next adventure at specialized retailers, while fitness enthusiasts can opt for a quick workout at the downtown rock- climbing gym. For those with a penchant for shopping, every downtown street is lined with beautifully curated shops featuring locally sourced items. Book lovers can explore several independent bookstores, and local gift shops offer adorable trinkets and memorabilia for the perfect souvenir. Fuel up with a wide array of culinary delights, from Mediterranean, Australian or Mexican, to Belgian, Syrian or Asian. Opt for a local favorite at Baguette Vietnamese Sandwiches where you can indulge in scrumptious banh mi or salad rolls. And if you prefer to enjoy your meal outdoors, Central Park provides a charming setting surrounded by blooming flower beds and dynamic sculptures for a delightful picnic. On your way back from your picnic, delve into the town’s rich history by seeking out landmarks such as the J.C. Avery Building, which stands as the oldest commercial building in town, the Benton County Courthouse erected in 1889 and the former Hotel Julian built in 1911. Before the sun sets, immerse yourself in the artistic spirit of Corvallis by exploring galleries featuring local and regional works of art. Conclude your day with a show or film at one of the local theaters, adding a dash of entertainment to your cultural escapade. Despite its size, downtown Corvallis is remarkably walkable, inviting you to lace up your walking shoes and embark on an afternoon of joyful strolling. Free Downtown Parking Lots: • Between Monroe and Madison on Second Street • Between Madison and Jefferson on Second Street • Between Jefferson and Adams on Third Streetlocallygrown.org Wednesdays & Saturdays April 20 - November 27 9 am - 1 pm 1st & Jackson * S N A P a cc e p t e d & matched to $20 T RAVEL S TORYS GPS Download the App: Marys Peak to Pacific Scenic Byway Free Self-Guided Audio Tour Discover the highest point in the Coast Range to the broad sandy beaches of the central coast. Go Where the Stories Are Travelstorys.com Believe Your Ears You Won’t 38 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 PLAY SHOPPING Inkwell Home Store Restyle SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP IN DOWNTOWN CORVALLIS Nestled within downtown’s historic buildings, find beautiful independent retailers that promise a curated selection of everything from jewelry, books, clothing and more. Wander through the traditional shopping district, extending from First to Fifth and between Jackson and Washington streets, where the Corvallis’ retail scene thrives. Corvallis boasts an abundance of unique jewelry stores showcasing exquisite stones and top-notch metals. Discover the allure of River Jewelry on Second Street, presenting a gallery filled with bespoke jewelry crafted entirely from recycled gold. Explore the shelves of The Corvallis Book Bin and the Grass Roots Books & Music, both havens for book enthusiasts found on Madison Avenue. For a dynamic collection of fashion, venture to the corner of Second and Madison, where the Clothes Tree beckons with beautiful clothes in a historic bank building. Nearby, the delightfully different 1972 Vintage Homebody curates on- trend vintage clothing and antique housewares, intentionally sourced from minority-owned and small businesses. TSA Vintage promises hip trends, and Second Glance raises the bar for consignment finds. You could spend a whole afternoon at Restyle on Third Street, exploring its impressive selection of home goods, fashionable clothing and thoughtful gifts. Seeking a distinctive souvenir for your home? The Inkwell Home Store offers everything from décor to inspired furniture items, ready for delivery across Oregon. Head to Happy Trails and PreAtomic Records for authentic vinyls and Kraken , Gamma Gora and Guardian Games for all things gaming. After a day of retail therapy, downtown Corvallis has plentiful options for dinner and drinks for you to celebrate your hard-earned haul.Display Gardens Rare Plants Nursery & Events Nursery Hours April 15 - June 1 • 11am to 4pm Daily June 2 - Aug. 15 • 11am to 4pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday 541-487-8671 www.thymegarden.com Experience our summer luncheon & garden tour! Offered by reservationJune-August SEEK ADVENTURE WILLAMETTE TIDES RIVER FLOAT RENTALS & SHUTTLE SERVICE WWW.WILLAMETTETIDES.COM • (541) 250-0430 • FLOAT@WILLAMETTETIDES.COM SEEK ADVENTURENext >