Explore Polk County 2021

Welcome to Monmouth MORE THAN A COLLEGE TOWN The city comes alive with an eclectic mix of rock, bluegrass and other genres during the summer Music in the Park series, sponsored by the Monmouth Business Association.

24 Explore Polk County 2021

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onmouth retains its small-town charm, though it is home to a university and several new commercial and residential developments.

The city is known for its 162-year bond with Western Oregon University, and has much in the way of community events for all residents and visitors.

Among the benefits Western Oregon University offers Monmouth residents and visitors is access to cultural activities, when COVID-19 protocols allow.

“It’s a small-town lifestyle but the Smith Fine Arts (at WOU) is pretty amazing,” said Suzanne Dufner, community development director. “You get this intimate concert environment, yet there are world-class musicians.”

And the historic downtown is definitely something people should explore, she said.

There are fun shops and a number of really good restaurants.

Its park system also is a source of pride.

It features 10 pristinely manicured large and “pocket” parks. An amphitheater was recently completed in Main Street Park, along with new facilities and a recycling system for the splash fountain, which is a draw for kids — and their guardians — on hot summer days.

The city comes alive with an eclectic mix of rock, bluegrass and other genres during the summer Music in the Park series, sponsored by the Monmouth Business Association.

And Monmouth is growing. Development is well underway on the long-vacant property on the S-curves, in the 1500 block of Monmouth Avenue, said Community Development Director Suzanne Dufner.

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A Special Publication of the Polk County Itemizer-Observer