Ashland is a lovely city located in the Rogue Valley. It combines art with outdoor adventure making it a great family-friendly holiday destination that may turn out to be both a relaxed vacation and an adventurous one as well.
No matter what you are looking for, Ashland will never disappoint you. The entire city is full of a variety of attractions to explore. Starting from natural beauty to unique shops and galleries there are a lot of things you should not miss.
So, if you are planning a trip, here is the list of 20 things to do in Ashland Oregon.
1. Explore The ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum
The ScienceWorks is a fun place located two miles away from downtown Ashland. It is a perfect spot for exploring and learning about science. With various hands-on activities, this place is an excellent choice for kids and families.
The museum offers an exciting way of learning science through interactive exhibits. You can touch, play, and learn about different science topics. While exploring the museum you will find various exhibits explaining how things work.
Meanwhile, the ScienceWorks Hands On-Museum also hosts special events and programs. These events are suitable for those interested in diving deep into the world of science. Overall, it is a knowledgeable site that brings curiosity and fun together.
2. Catch A Show Of Oregon Shakespeare Festival
If you're going to Ashland, then this is one of the Ashland attractions that simply has to be visited. It's a very well-known theatre established in 1935, starring for its rich variety of performances throughout the year.
The theater features productions like Shakespeare's classic plays, modern dramas, and comedies. Starting from late April through December, these festival offers 800 to 850 matinee and evening performances.
The main stage for these performances is the Allen Elizabethan Theatre along with Angus Bowmer Theatre. Featuring talented actors, these performances bring each play to life making your visit worthwhile.
3. Visit The Lithia Park
Lilith Park is one of the most accessible places in the farthest end of downtown Ashland. Spreading over 90 acres, it is one of the largest parks in the city filled with sceneries.
It is home to lovely gardens, tall trees, and duck ponds. Featuring various well-maintained trails, this park is a great place to enjoy fresh along with some physical work. While strolling around, you can rest on the benches and take in the stunning views.
Along with that, Lilith Park also has playgrounds for kids and picnic areas for a fun family day. The atmosphere of the park becomes more pleasing during the spring and summer with blooming flowers and trees all across the area.
4. Visit The Gathering Glass Studio
While exiting from the Bluebird Park, the Gathering Glass Studio is just a short walk away. Visiting this place offers a unique opportunity to explore the local art and handmade glass items. The inside of the studio showcases stunning glass sculptures, vases, and jewelry.
The live demonstrations are the major attraction of the museum where skilled artists work in front of the visitors to create a unique piece. These demonstrations not only entertain you but also provide insight into the art of glassblowing.
While exploring the Gathering Glass Studio, you can also purchase a unique piece to bring back home from your visit. Making this purchase is a great way to support the talented local artists in exchange for artwork.
5. Explore The Siskiyou Mountain Park
Offering some of the best things to do in Ashland, OR, the Siskiyou Mountai Park is a beautiful place. The park offers stunning views of the surroundings along with fresh air away from the city pollution.
Inside the park you will find various trails for hiking and biking. These trails takes you on a journety of exploration through forest filled with greenery and wild animals. The park also features clear water streams where you can swim or fish.
Adding more adventure to the environmetn, the park also has few camping spots. These open areas are suitable to set up a tent and spend the night under the stars.
6. Visit the Lithia Artisans Market
Visiting the Lithia Artisans market is a wonderful way to experience the local shopping atmosphere. This market is a vibrant spot where you can explore a wide range of handmade crafts. Held in the outdoors, the market features various small shops.
Stroll down along these shops, and you will see local productions in the form of jewelry, colorful paintings, and creative potteries. You would also get a chance to meet local artists and learn about their work.
Liver performances and musical events, add excitement to the vibrant shopping environment. The Lithia Artisans Market is not just a place to purchase and sell but also a place to support local artists and praise their work.
7. Go Skiing At Mt. Ashland Ski Area
Located in the beautiful Mt. Ashland, Ski Area is a great location to make your winter more fun. There are varieties of runs in this ski area that range from least difficult to most. Therefore, whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, these runs have got everyone covered.
The slopes are well-maintained and are perfect for experiencing the snow. For beginners, the Mt. Ashland Ski Area also provides skiing lessons. Alongside these runs is the beautiful view of the snowy landscape and clear blue skies.
After a tiring fun day, you can stop by the lodge and enjoy hot drinks while warming up by the fire. The views seen from this lodge are breathtaking. With a blend of adventure and fun, the Mt. Ashland Ski Area is a must-visit place.
8. Visit The Emigrant Lake County Park
One of the major Ashland, Oregon tourist attractions is obviously the Emigrant Lake County Park. The park provides a variety of fun activities for visitors of all ages. The lake located at the center of the Emigrant Lake Park is its major highlight.
At the lake, you can swim, fish, or boat. The park maintains a large open space with picnic tables in one corner, which is designed to keep everyone entertained.
Moreover, adding a sense of adventure to the visit, the Emigrant Lake County Park also has a few hiking trails around the lake. You can also opt for your afternoon visit for a camping night inside the park.
9. Explore Local Art At Schneider Museum Of Art
If you are visiting Southern Oregon University, a wonderful location nested within is the Schneider Museum of Art. Any art lover or other type of visitor should consider exploring this place. The museum showcases a diverse range of artworks from national as well as regional artists.
Offering a look at contemporary paintings, sculptures, and traditional pieces, the place features rotating exhibitions. Likewise, the Schneider Museum often hosts events, lectures, and workshops.
Accessible to everyone, these occasional events offer a pathway to dive deep into the art world. Without any admission charges, the museum provides a unique experience for visitors.
10. Hike The Grizzly Peak Trail
If you have come this far in the article, then you are most likely looking for a place filled with adventure. The Grizzly Peak Trail is the perfect destination for you. Located 20 miles southeast of downtown Ashland, this place is filled with thrilling outdoor adventures.
The entire trail is built on a challenging terrain. As you start to hike, the first thing you will see is dense forests and vibrant wildflowers. Then follows the gradual ascend with an occasional steep climb.
With every step closer to the summit, the trees begin to thin and you will see spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Although the Grizzly Peak trail is a bit physically demanding the end view is surely worthwhile
11. Discover The Bluebird Park
This is a beautiful park centrally located in downtown Ashland. Bluebird Park is a lovely way to spend the day in nature. The park offers calm shelter from the hectic rush of ordinary life. The well-maintained grounds invite you to explore as soon as you enter into the facility.
With every step inside, the park begins to present you with its green spaces suitable for picnicking, playing sports, and relaxing. For kids, the park has a safe playground with activities that can keep them engaged throughout the day.
Along with that, the park's natural beauty itself is an attraction with lovely flower beds and shaded areas. Bluebird Park is also a gathering place for community events and activities that add more colors to the environment.
12. Spend A Peaceful Day At Ashland Public Library
If you are looking for someplace quiet to relax, the Ashland Public Library is surely a great place. The library is a calm place where you can find books to read or simply sit along with your thoughts.
While spending time here, you can look out for some books on various topics. Along with that, the computers inside the library are also free to use where you can check your email or brows the internet.
Other than that, the Ashland Public Library also has a quiet study area to avoid any form of distractions if you are planning a day filled with knowledge. It is just the kind of place where a day can be totally spent away from noise and stress.
13. Spend A Day At Northern Mountain Park
Spending a day at Northern Mountain Park is a perfect way to enjoy outdoor activities. The park has a series of hiking trails that snake through lush forests, including some with beautiful mountain vistas.
Hike one of the several marked trails to begin your day. You can choose from the easy ones and the more challenging ones. After your hike, sit down at the pack's picnic areas and enjoy a moment of peace.
While in the picnic spots, have a meal along with those around you and nature. If you are interested in wildlife, you might prefer keeping an eye on the surroundings. As the day ends, head back home while appreciating the park's tranquil environment.
14. Explore The Travel Oregon Welcome Center
The Travel Oregon Welcome Center is the starting place for your trip to Ashland. Here you will have access to information on the city. Located in an easily accessible spot, from the center you can collect maps, brochures, and tips on local attractions.
The staff of the center advice on the best things to do in Ashland Oregon. In addition to that, the Travel Oregon Welcome Center also features interactive displays and exhibits.
You can learn about the local festivals and outdoor activities along with dining options around the city. For a first-time visitor as well as returning travelers, this place can be really helpful in making your trip memorable.
15. Have Fun At Moonbow Archery
Moonbow Archery is a widely recognized spot located near Siskiyou Mountain Park in Ashland. It is a perfect place for everyone who wants to try archery. To have a fun day, you can take lessons and learn how to shoot arrows from the instructors.
With an entry cost of around $30 to $50 per person, the range is well-equipped with gear including bows and arrows. There are different targets to shoot at so you can have a challenging game with friends and family.
If you are looking for fun just visit the Moonbow Archery and enjoy the thrill of hitting your target. The Moonbow Archery is just about fun and challenges.
16. Play A Game At Escape Ashland
Escape Ashland is a thrilling place that offers fun and exciting adventure. This place is filled with various escape rooms where you can solve puzzles and work as a team. It is a great adventure to enjoy a day fun day with friends and family.
Each room you visit will have a different theme and challenges. To escape the room you will have to solve a mystery, find hidden treasure, or escape a tricky situation. The clicking timer makes the adventure more thrilling.
Escape Ashland awaits you to bring out your problem-solving skills and to have real fun. Get your team ready for the adventures where you might need to think on your feet.
17. Visit The Ashland Cemetery
This place has been a resting place for the gone ones since 1870. The cemetery is famous for its serene and reflective experience. This historic cemetery offers a peaceful setting.
As you stroll through the cemetery, you'll see old monuments and well-maintained gardens. Many notable figures are buried in this place. The cemetery is a quiet place where you can enjoy a short walk in nature.
It is also a nice spot for nature lovers and those who want to pay respect to their loved ones resting in the Ashland Cemetery.
18. Spend A Day At Ashland Creek Park
Established in 1992, a day at Ashland Creek Park is a delightful and relaxing experience. Here you can enjoy various activities like walking, hiking, and others. You can start your visit with a leisure walk on the scenic trails.
The gentle water flowing in the background makes the entire experience more soothing. Ashland Creek Park is also perfect for picnics with wide open spaces. During the visit, you will find playgrounds that can keep your kids engaged for an entire day.
For sports lovers, the park has soccer and frisbee fields and other areas for casual games. This park is also great for birdwatching in a relaxing atmosphere.
19. Hike The Hald/Strawberry Park
Upon reaching the Hald/Strawberry Park you will have multiple trails to enjoy outdoor adventure. This trail takes you through lush forests and open meadows. While on the trail you will have an opportunity to soot local wildlife and enjoy fresh air.
Each of these trails is well-marked and has varying degrees of difficulty. You can take a gentle walk or go for a more demanding hike at Hald/Strawberry Park. On the hike, you will be able to rest at the many lookout points that will give you a place to rest while enjoying the views.
Meanwhile, bringing a bottle of water and high-quality sunscreen is essential to stay hydrated and protect your skin from sun damage.
20. Shop For Souvenirs At Paddington Station
Shopping for souvenirs is a must no matter where you visit. For that same shopping experience, the Paddington Station in Ashland is without any doubt the best place. It is a perfect place to collect keepsakes from your visit.
Here you can find unique gifts and local handmade items. As you explore the store, items like jewelry, cozy apparel, and knick-knacks continue to attract you to them. Every step you take inside the store takes you towards a unique item.
You can also come across local products like artisan chocolates and other food items to bring back home for your kids or friends. Shopping at Paddington Station offers a memorable experience and an opportunity to find unique items.
