Actor River Phoenix had a short career and a far too short life due to his untimely and tragic death at age 23 from an accidental drug overdose. He started working as an actor at age 10 and over the next 13 years really made a name for himself in Hollywood; he starred in films such as Stand By Me, My Own Private Idaho, The Mosquito Coast, and Running on Empty, to name a few.
Before all of that, though, he was born in small town Oregon in the Jefferson County, high desert town of Madras. Today, Madras only has a population of a little over 6,000 people, but it’s a great place to visit. The people are friendly and welcoming and there are things to do, but you’ll also feel like you got away from it all. Read on to learn more.
If you just pass through the town of Madras, Oregon, you may not feel like it has much to offer. However, the 6,000 people who live here love it, and with good reason.
Harish Mukundan/Google Local
Madras is a typical small town. There’s a main street and all the small businesses that people need to survive.
Harish Mukundan/Google Local
It’s also the county seat of Jefferson County, so you’ll find government buildings there like the Jefferson County Courthouse.
Nolan Randall/Google Local
There are also a number of city parks for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Harish Mukundan/Google Local
One especially notable thing about Madras is that the views of Mount Hood are spectacular.
Robert Bremmer/Google Local
If you’re looking for something educational to do while you’re in town, then you will love the Erickson Aircraft Collection. There, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with a large collection of restored WWII aircraft.
Harish Mukundan/Google Local
If you’re in town during the Jefferson County Fair, you should check it out, too. Visiting local fairs is a great way to get a feel for any area.
Le Hoang Long/Google Local
For those who want to spend time in the great outdoors, Lake Billy Chinook is a lovely place to go.
Erin B/Trip Advisor
There are also lots of hiking trails in the area.
Harish Mukundan/Google Local
As you can see, the area around Madras is beautiful. If you time it right, you may be able to get a shot like this!
Monty Walker/Google Local
River Phoenix only lived in Madras for a short time before his family moved away, so even if he was alive today, it’s likely that he wouldn’t remember much about this Oregon small town. However, it’s a great place to visit and you’ll love your time there. If you’re a fan of River Phoenix, it’s fun to think about the fact that his life began in this rural location in Oregon!
Harish Mukundan/Google Local
Nolan Randall/Google Local
Robert Bremmer/Google Local
Le Hoang Long/Google Local
Erin B/Trip Advisor
Monty Walker/Google Local
Are you looking for more small towns in Oregon to explore? Check out this post: Here Are The 21 Coolest Small Towns In Oregon You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
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Address: Madras, OR 97741, USA
