Ashland Travel Guide

Comprehensive travel guide for Ashland, including a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Ashland

Located in Southern Oregon, Ashland is a charming city that draws visitors from all around the world with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and plethora of outdoor activities. Known for its famous Shakespeare Festival, the town is home to a variety of historical landmarks, museums, and art galleries, as well as a thriving food and wine scene.

List of Places to Visit in Ashland

When it comes to places to visit in Ashland, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in the town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ashland Railroad Museum: Located in the historic Southern Pacific Railroad station, this museum offers a glimpse into the history of railroads in Southern Oregon.
  • Schneider Museum of Art: This museum features an extensive collection of contemporary art and exhibits the works of local artists.
  • Oregon Shakespeare Festival: The main attraction in Ashland, the festival offers a range of performances of Shakespeare plays and other classical works from June to October.
  • Historic Downtown Ashland: Home to a variety of historical buildings, unique shops, and delightful restaurants, this area of the city is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.

Natural Attractions of Ashland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lithia Park: Located in the heart of the city, this park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature with its miles of hiking trails, stunning gardens, and beautiful ponds.
  • Mount Ashland: With its snow-capped mountains and numerous hiking trails, Mount Ashland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Oregon Caves National Monument: Just a short drive from Ashland, this park features stunning caves, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ashland

Ashland offers several hiking and biking routes that take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pacific Northwest. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Lithia Park Trail: This 2.5-mile trail takes visitors through Lithia Park, which features gardens, ponds, and plenty of wildlife.
  • Mount Ashland Trail: This challenging trail takes hikers to the top of Mount Ashland, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Pacific Crest Trail: Starting in Ashland, the famous Pacific Crest Trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pacific Northwest.

Best Things to Do in Ashland: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, there are tons of other activities and tours to enjoy in Ashland. Some of the best include:

  • Rogue River Rafting: Take a guided tour of the Rogue River and experience some of the best white water rafting in the Pacific Northwest.
  • Wine Tours: Ashland is known for its fantastic vineyards, so take a guided wine tour and sample some of the best local wines.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take in the scenery from a whole new perspective with a hot air balloon ride over Ashland and the surrounding area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ashland

If you’re planning on spending a week in Ashland, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your time in the town:

Day Activity
Day 1 Oregon Shakespeare Festival
Day 2 Lithia Park hike and Rogue River Rafting
Day 3 Mount Ashland hike and wine tour
Day 4 Ashland Railroad Museum and Schneider Museum of Art
Day 5 Oregon Caves National Monument
Day 6 Hot air balloon ride and explore downtown Ashland
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local food and wine scene

Food and Drink Scene of Ashland

Ashland has a fantastic food and drink scene that offers visitors a chance to experience the local flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheddar Ale Soup: Made with local cheddar and ale, this soup is a staple of the Ashland food scene.
  • Grilled Elk Steak: Sourced from local farms, the elk steak is a must-try for any meat lover.
  • Wild Mushroom Risotto: Made with locally-sourced mushrooms, this risotto is a vegetarian delight.

Local Beverages

  • Rogue Valley wine: Ashland is known for its fantastic wines, so be sure to try some of the local wines when you visit.
  • Rogue Ale beer: This locally-produced beer is a must-try for anyone who loves a good brew.

Where to Stay in Ashland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ashland has a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Ashland Creek Inn: Located in the heart of downtown Ashland, this cozy inn offers a range of comfortable rooms and suites.
  • Ashland Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is perfect for backpackers and offers plenty of communal spaces to interact with other travelers.
  • Chanticleer Inn: This beautiful guesthouse is housed in a historic building and offers luxurious rooms and amenities.

What to Buy in Ashland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home a souvenir from your trip to Ashland, here are some of the best options:

  • Local Art: Ashland is home to a thriving art scene, so be sure to pick up some unique artwork to take home.
  • Artisan Foods: From locally-made jam to handmade chocolate, Ashland has plenty of delicious artisan foods to bring home.
  • Oregon Shakespeare Festival Merchandise: Show your love for the festival with a t-shirt or souvenir program.

Local Culture and Customs of Ashland

Ashland is known for its friendly and welcoming culture. Here are a few local customs to keep in mind:

  • Small talk: Striking up a conversation with locals is a common practice in Ashland, so don’t be afraid to connect with the people you meet.
  • Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants, cafes, and bars in Ashland, so be sure to factor this into your budget.

Best Time to Visit Ashland

The best time to visit Ashland is from May to September when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ashland

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Ashland:

Do:

  • Do attend the Oregon Shakespeare Festival: This is the main draw of Ashland and is a must-see for any visitor to the town.
  • Do try local wines and foods: Ashland has a fantastic food and wine scene that is not to be missed.
  • Do take a hike or bike ride in the beautiful natural surroundings: The natural beauty of the area is what draws many visitors to Ashland, so be sure to take advantage of this during your stay.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Like most places, Ashland takes pride in their environment, so make sure to dispose of your trash properly.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and culture: Be respectful of the local culture and customs during your stay.

Safety and Health

Ashland is a relatively safe town, but it’s always good to take necessary precautions when traveling. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Ashland

  • Crime rates: Ashland has a relatively low crime rate, but like any town, visitors should be cautious when out at night.
  • Natural hazards: Southern Oregon is prone to wildfires, so be sure to obey all fire-related regulations in the area.

Health in Ashland

  • Medical facilities: Ashland has several medical facilities, including the Ashland Community Hospital and the Providence Medford Medical Center.

Getting to Ashland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ashland is easily accessible via a variety of transportation options. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Ashland

  • Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport: Located just 15 miles from Ashland, this airport offers flights to several destinations throughout the United States.

Bus Stations Near Ashland

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Ashland, the bus station offers connections to several destinations throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Other Options

  • Private Car: Driving to Ashland is a popular option for those coming from nearby towns and cities.
  • Rideshare Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available in Ashland.

How to Get Around in Ashland

There are several transportation options for getting around in Ashland, including:

  • Walking: Most attractions in Ashland are located within walking distance of each other.
  • Biking: The town has several bike rental shops where you can rent a bike for the day to explore the town and surrounding area.
  • Public Transportation: The Rogue Valley Transportation District operates several bus routes throughout the town.

Where to Go Next from Ashland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time after exploring Ashland, there are several nearby destinations worth visiting, including:

  • Crater Lake National Park: A two-hour drive from Ashland, this stunning park features the deepest lake in the United States and stunning views.
  • Mount Shasta: Located just over an hour drive from Ashland, Mount Shasta is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
  • Klamath Falls: Located approximately an hour and a half from Ashland, Klamath Falls features museums, parks, and a charming downtown area.

Conclusion

Ashland is a must-visit destination in the Pacific Northwest. With its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and plethora of outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. Plan your visit today and experience the many delights of Ashland for yourself.

The Plaza The Plaza Ashland Creek and Winburn Way in Lithia Park Ashland Creek and Winburn Way in Lithia Park