One of the biggest draws of Ashland is its vibrant arts and culture scene. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is one of the town’s most popular attractions, bringing in thousands of visitors annually. The festival features world-class productions of Shakespeare’s plays and contemporary and classic works. In addition to the festival, Ashland has a thriving downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. The First Friday Art Walk is a popular event that takes place on the first Friday of every month, where visitors can explore local galleries and meet local artists.
Ashland is also known for its natural beauty. Lithia Park, located in the heart of downtown, is a 93-acre park consistently ranked as one of the best parks in the country. The park features a playground, tennis courts, picnic areas, and miles of trails for hiking and biking. The town is also surrounded by forests, mountains, and rivers, offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as rafting, fishing, and skiing.
If you’re a foodie, Ashland won’t disappoint. The town has a thriving culinary scene with various restaurants serving everything from farm-to-table cuisine to classic pub fare. The Ashland Culinary Festival is held annually in November, showcasing the best local chefs and wineries.
In addition to the attractions within the city limits, Ashland is also close to several popular destinations. The Rogue River Valley, just a short drive from Ashland, is home to award-winning wineries and vineyards. The nearby Cascade Mountains offer world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and camping in the summer. The Oregon Caves National Monument, located about an hour’s drive from Ashland, is a stunning natural wonder not to be missed.