Things To Do
in Ashland
Ashland is a charming town located in southern Oregon, nestled at the base of the Siskiyou Mountains. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, it is home to the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, attracting theater enthusiasts from around the world. The town also boasts a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and fishing along the nearby Rogue River.
With a mix of historic buildings, art galleries, and quaint shops, Ashland offers a picturesque and welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Lithia Park, enjoying its trails and beautiful landscapes. Pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy amid nature.
Visit the Ashland Creek for some relaxation or fishing after lunch. Don’t forget to explore the historic downtown area with its local shops.
Catch a show at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival to experience world-class theater. Wrap up your day with dinner at one of Ashland's charming restaurants.
Visit the Schneider Museum of Art to enjoy contemporary art exhibitions. Engage with local artists and learn about various art forms.
Take a leisurely stroll through the downtown area, stopping at local galleries and boutiques. Grab a bite at a café to refuel for the afternoon.
Enjoy a performance at one of Ashland's intimate theaters. Savor a late dinner at a cozy spot featuring regional cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, including access to parks and trails.
- Rich cultural scene with events like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly residents.
- Mild climate, ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
- Growing local economy with a mix of small businesses and artisanal shops.
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas.
- Limited job market, which can make employment opportunities competitive.
- Tourist influx can lead to crowded conditions during peak seasons.
- Public transportation options are limited, requiring a vehicle for commuting.
- Potential for wildfires in the surrounding areas, especially during dry seasons.
Best Activities in Ashland
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Lithia Park offers over 100 acres of trails for hiking and exploring, with beautiful scenery and easy access from downtown Ashland.
The Rogue River is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking, offering both calm sections for beginners and more challenging rapids for experienced paddlers.
The Ashland Watershed has a variety of mountain biking trails for all skill levels, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ashland with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ashland
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Rogue Valley and surrounding mountains, perfect for capturing photos of the scenic landscape.
A picturesque park with beautiful gardens, tranquil ponds, and scenic trails, providing numerous photo opportunities throughout the year.
Boasts panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding natural beauty, ideal for capturing sunset photos and serene landscape shots.
Food in Ashland
Ashland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in the delightful huckleberry pie, a local specialty in Ashland known for its sweet and tart flavors. Don't miss trying this dessert at the Ashland Farmers Market or the Farm-to-Table Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Explore the renowned Rogue Valley wine, which offers a rich and diverse selection of locally-produced wines. Visit the local wineries such as Paschal Winery or Dana Campbell Vineyards to savor the exquisite flavors of the region.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with the unique lavender honey ice cream, a delightful treat that combines floral notes with creamy sweetness. Find this delectable dessert at Zoey's Cafe or the Ashland Food Co-op.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ashland better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant Ashland Farmers Market, where you can sample and purchase fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats. Don't miss the opportunity to try diverse street food offerings while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Explore the Lithia Artisan Market, a hub for street food delights and artisanal crafts. Indulge in a variety of global cuisines as you stroll through this bustling market, offering an eclectic mix of flavors and cultural experiences.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ashland, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when engaging in conversations or queuing in line.
It is customary to be polite and courteous in public spaces, such as holding doors open for others and saying 'please' and 'thank you' when interacting with service staff or strangers.
Respecting local customs and traditions is key to showing consideration for the residents of Ashland. This may include being mindful of appropriate attire and behavior at cultural events or religious sites.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ashland with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ashland
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, including Ashland, tipping is customary in many service industries such as restaurants, hotels, and taxis. The standard tipping rate at restaurants is around 15-20% of the total bill. In Ashland, tipping practices are in line with the general customs of the United States.
Payment in Ashland, United States, is predominantly done using credit or debit cards, but cash is also widely accepted. Mobile payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly becoming popular. It is important to note that gratuity or tips are generally not included in the final bill and are typically paid separately at the customer's discretion.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ashland.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Ashland, with mild temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. This is the time for outdoor activities and events such as the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
Summer in Ashland brings warm and dry weather, making it perfect for enjoying outdoor concerts, hiking, and exploring the nearby lakes and rivers. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival also continues during the summer months.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Ashland, as the leaves change color and create a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival also offers performances during the fall season.
Winter in Ashland can be cold and occasionally snowy, but it also brings a quiet and cozy atmosphere to the town. Visitors can enjoy holiday events, cozy cafes, and the occasional snowy landscape.
Ashland at Night
Hiking in Ashland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is about 3.5 miles long and is moderately challenging.
A scenic hike that leads to the summit of Mount Ashland, providing panoramic views of the Siskiyou Mountains. The trail is approximately 5 miles round trip.
A beautiful park located in Ashland with several hiking trails and scenic views. It offers easy trails suitable for all skill levels.
A challenging hike that takes you to the top of Table Rock with breathtaking views of the Rogue Valley. The round trip distance is around 4 miles.
A moderately challenging hike approximately 3.5 miles round trip, known for its stunning views and unique rock formations.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ashland through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ashland by plane.
Located in Medford, approximately 25 miles from Ashland, this is the closest major airport serving the region with both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated about 115 miles from Ashland, this airport provides a range of domestic flights and serves as a hub for regional airlines.
Located approximately 130 miles from Ashland, this major airport offers numerous domestic and international flights.
About 180 miles from Ashland, SFO is one of the largest airports in the country, serving a diverse range of international destinations.
Located approximately 280 miles from Ashland, PDX serves as a major gateway to the Pacific Northwest with a wide array of international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly identifies as White, making up a significant portion of Ashland's population.
Represents a growing demographic within Ashland, contributing to cultural diversity.
A smaller yet important demographic group that contributes to the community's diversity.
Includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, adding to the multicultural fabric of Ashland.
Reflects individuals who identify with more than one racial category, indicating a trend towards diversity.
Represents the indigenous population and their historical significance in the region.
Covers smaller demographic groups not specifically categorized, contributing to the overall diversity.
The Soul of Ashland
Discover the essence of Ashland through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in Ashland, soccer is popular among youth and adults, with various leagues and clubs available for different skill levels.
Basketball is favored throughout Ashland, with many schools and community centers offering programs and recreational leagues.
Baseball enjoys a strong following in Ashland, with youth leagues and summer teams playing in local parks.
Track and field events are popular in Ashland schools, and the community often participates in local competitions.
American football has a dedicated fan base in Ashland, with high school teams and community events drawing large crowds.
Volleyball, both indoors and beach, has gained popularity in Ashland, with many clubs and recreational leagues available.
Tennis is a popular individual and doubles sport in Ashland, with several public courts and organized tournaments.
Golf is a popular leisure activity in Ashland, with several courses available for both casual players and serious golfers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ashland prides itself on catering to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many eateries offering dedicated menus featuring plant-based dishes. The Ashland Food Co-op, Taj Indian Cuisine, and Greenleaf Restaurant are among the venues known for their diverse vegetarian and vegan offerings.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs will find accommodating options throughout Ashland. Restaurants like Standing Stone Brewing Company and Peerless Restaurant & Bar are noted for their gluten-free menus, ensuring that individuals with such restrictions can enjoy a wide range of delicious meals.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ashland with these cultural adventures.
