Destinations › North America › United States › Oregon

Ashland

Population: 21.000 Since: Founded in 1852 Price: Mid-range

Introduction

Ashland, Oregon, is a small town known for its arts scene and outdoor activities. The annual Oregon Shakespeare Festival draws visitors from all over, while the surrounding mountains offer hiking and skiing opportunities.

The downtown area features charming shops and cafes, making it easy to spend a leisurely afternoon. The local community is friendly, and you might find yourself chatting with residents about their favorite spots in town.

Sightseeing

Oregon Shakespeare Festival: a renowned theater festival with performances from February to October

Lithia Park: a large park with walking trails, duck ponds, and picnic areas

Ashland Museum: showcases local history and culture

ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum: interactive exhibits for families

Mount Ashland: a ski area with winter sports and summer hiking trails

Things to do

Attend a play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival: experience classic and contemporary performances

Explore Lithia Park: enjoy nature walks and scenic views

Visit local art galleries: discover works by regional artists

Take a wine tour: sample wines from nearby vineyards

Top attractions

Ashland Museum

Learn about local history and culture.

11 AM - 4 PM Since 2000

Lithia Park

Great for picnics and outdoor play.

Open year-round Since 1908

Mount Ashland

Skiing in winter, hiking in summer.

9 AM - 4 PM (winter) Since 1964

ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum

Interactive exhibits make learning fun.

10 AM - 5 PM Since 2001

Local food and drinks

Larks: offers farm-to-table dishes with local ingredients

Caldera Brewing Company: known for its craft beers

The Brickroom: a popular spot for burgers and cocktails

Ashland Food Co-op: a great place for organic groceries and prepared foods

Local traditions

Oregon Shakespeare Festival: a major cultural event running for several months each year

Ashland Independent Film Festival: showcases independent films every spring

First Friday Art Walk: monthly event where galleries open their doors to the public

History

Ashland was founded in the 1850s during the gold rush, originally serving as a supply center for miners. The town's name comes from the Ashland estate of a local landowner, which was named after the estate of Henry Clay in Kentucky.

In the early 20th century, Ashland became known for its mineral springs, attracting visitors seeking health benefits. The establishment of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in 1935 marked a significant cultural shift, transforming Ashland into a hub for the arts.

Things to know

Parking can be limited during festival seasons, so arrive early.

Some restaurants may have long wait times during peak hours.

Be cautious of wildlife while hiking in nearby areas.

Public transportation options are limited; a car is recommended.

Do's and don'ts

Visit the local farmers market on Saturdays.

Take a stroll through Lithia Park.

Check the schedule for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

Explore the nearby hiking trails.

Don't miss out on trying local wines.

Don't expect a large urban nightlife scene.

Don't overlook the smaller art galleries.

Don't forget to bring layers for changing weather.

Good to know

Accessibility: Most areas are accessible, but some trails may be steep.

Price level: mid-range

Popular routes here

22 nights · 7 stops Oregon Nature & City Escape Portland → Portland

Photo: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons

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