Located in the heart of Medford, Oregon, Alba Park is a beautiful and historic park that has been a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike for over a century. With its lush greenery, charming gazebo, and numerous amenities, Alba Park offers a peaceful oasis in the middle of a bustling city.
The park’s history dates back to 1909 when the Medford Women’s Club, one of the city’s oldest civic organizations, purchased the land and donated it to the city for use as a public park. The park was named after the club’s founder, Alba B. Johnson, and quickly became a popular spot for community gatherings, picnics, and concerts.
Today, Alba Park continues to be a popular destination for events and recreation. The park features a large grassy area that is perfect for picnics, frisbee, or just relaxing in the sun. The park’s centerpiece is a charming gazebo that provides shade and serves as a picturesque backdrop for weddings, concerts, and other events.
Alba Park also features several amenities for visitors, including picnic tables, benches, and a children’s playground. The park is also home to a beautiful rose garden, which was added in the 1950s and is maintained by volunteers from the Rogue Valley Rose Society.
One of the park’s most unique features is its historic fountain. Built in 1913, the fountain was a gift to the city from the Medford Women’s Club and was originally located in another park. In 1985, the fountain was moved to Alba Park and underwent a major restoration to bring it back to its original glory. Today, the fountain serves as a focal point for the park and provides a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
In addition to its natural beauty and historic charm, Alba Park is also a popular destination for community events. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of concerts, festivals, and other events, including the popular Art in Bloom festival in the spring and the Shakespeare in the Park festival in the summer. The park’s gazebo is a popular spot for weddings and other private events, and the park is also available for public use by reservation.
Despite its long history and popularity, Alba Park has faced some challenges in recent years. In 2016, the park was damaged by a severe windstorm that caused significant damage to the park’s trees and infrastructure. In response, the Medford Parks and Recreation Department launched a fundraising campaign to restore the park, which raised over $30,000 from the community.
Today, the park has been fully restored and continues to be a beloved destination for Medford residents and visitors alike. With its beautiful gardens, historic fountain, and charming gazebo, Alba Park is a true gem in the heart of the city. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax or a venue for your next event, Alba Park is definitely worth a visit.
