Best Things To Do in Ashland, Oregon
Best things to do in Ashland, Oregon, include visiting the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and exploring Lithia Park. Ashland, Oregon, offers a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty.
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a must-see, featuring top-notch theater performances. Lithia Park, with its scenic trails and serene ponds, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s vibrant arts scene, charming boutiques, and gourmet restaurants add to its appeal. Wine lovers can explore local vineyards and enjoy tastings.
Ashland’s welcoming community and diverse attractions make it a great destination for a weekend getaway or a longer stay. Whether you’re a culture buff, nature lover, or foodie, Ashland has something to offer.
Explore Lithia Park
Lithia Park is a must-see in Ashland, Oregon. This park offers a variety of activities for everyone. From scenic trails to peaceful ponds, Lithia Park has it all. Families, couples, and solo adventurers will enjoy a visit here.
Scenic Trails
One of the best things to do in Lithia Park is to explore the scenic trails. These trails offer stunning views of nature. You can walk, jog, or bike along these paths. The trails are well-maintained and easy to navigate.
- Easy Trails: Great for families with young kids.
- Moderate Trails: Ideal for casual hikers.
- Challenging Trails: Perfect for adventure seekers.
You will see beautiful trees, flowers, and wildlife along the way. The trails are a great way to connect with nature. Don’t forget to bring your camera for some amazing shots!
Duck Pond
The Duck Pond is another highlight of Lithia Park. This peaceful spot is perfect for relaxing. You can sit by the pond and watch the ducks swim. Kids love feeding the ducks here. The pond area has benches and picnic spots.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Feeding Ducks | Bring some bread or duck food. |
| Picnicking | Enjoy a meal by the water. |
| Photography | Capture the beauty of the pond. |
The Duck Pond is a favorite spot for photographers. The calm water and happy ducks make for great pictures. It’s a lovely place to unwind and enjoy nature.
Visit The Oregon Shakespeare Festival
Visiting Ashland, Oregon? Don’t miss the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. This iconic festival offers a rich cultural experience for all ages. Dive into the world of Shakespeare and more with engaging performances and insightful tours.
Play Performances
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival features a variety of play performances. You can watch classic Shakespeare plays like Hamlet and Macbeth. The festival also showcases modern plays and musicals. Each performance is carefully produced with stunning sets and costumes. The acting is top-notch, bringing each story to life. Whether you love drama, comedy, or musicals, there’s something for everyone.
Backstage Tours
Take a backstage tour to see the magic behind the scenes. These tours offer a glimpse into the hard work and creativity involved. Learn about the set design, costume creation, and more. Meet the talented people who make each show possible. The tours are informative and fun, perfect for curious minds. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the art of theater.
Stroll Through Downtown Ashland
Strolling through Downtown Ashland is a delightful experience. The vibrant streets are full of charm and character. You will find an array of local shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. This lively area is perfect for a leisurely walk. Let’s explore some of the best spots in Downtown Ashland.
Local Shops
Downtown Ashland boasts a variety of unique local shops. Each store offers something different. You can find handmade crafts, trendy clothing, and unique gifts. Here are a few must-visit shops:
- Paddington Station: A treasure trove of gifts and home décor.
- Tree House Books: A magical bookstore for children and adults.
- Prize: A chic boutique with stylish apparel and accessories.
Art Galleries
Art lovers will be thrilled by the art galleries in Downtown Ashland. These galleries feature works from local artists. You can admire paintings, sculptures, and photography. Here are a few popular galleries:
- Schneider Museum of Art: Showcasing contemporary art and exhibitions.
- Hanson Howard Gallery: Featuring fine art from regional artists.
- Illahe Studios and Gallery: A mix of visual arts and crafts.
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Relax At Ashland Hot Springs
Ashland Hot Springs is a hidden gem in Ashland, Oregon. This place is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. With soothing thermal pools and an array of spa services, you will leave feeling refreshed and renewed.
Thermal Pools
The thermal pools at Ashland Hot Springs are naturally heated. The waters are rich in minerals and offer numerous health benefits. Soaking in these pools can help relieve stress, muscle tension, and improve overall well-being.
The facility offers multiple pools with varying temperatures. You can choose a pool that suits your comfort level. The tranquil environment enhances the relaxation experience. The pools are surrounded by lush greenery, adding to the peaceful ambiance.
| Pool | Temperature | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Warm Pool | 98°F | Relieves stress, soothes muscles |
| Hot Pool | 104°F | Detoxifies, improves circulation |
| Cold Plunge | 60°F | Boosts energy, reduces inflammation |
Spa Services
Ashland Hot Springs also offers a variety of spa services. From massages to facials, there is something for everyone. The expert therapists use high-quality, natural products to ensure the best results.
Popular treatments include:
- Swedish Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Aromatherapy
- Hydrating Facials
- Body Scrubs
Each service is designed to enhance your relaxation experience. The serene spa environment adds to the feeling of total escape. Whether you are looking to unwind or treat a specific issue, the spa services at Ashland Hot Springs will meet your needs.
Discover Scienceworks Hands-on Museum
Discover the ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum in Ashland, Oregon. This museum is an exciting destination for all ages. It offers interactive exhibits and family workshops that spark curiosity and learning.
Interactive Exhibits
The museum features many interactive exhibits. These exhibits allow visitors to explore science in a fun way. Here are some of the must-see exhibits:
- Bubble Room – Create giant bubbles and learn about surface tension.
- Illusion Room – Experience optical illusions and understand how our eyes work.
- Flight Zone – Experiment with aerodynamics and build paper airplanes.
Each exhibit is designed to be engaging and educational. Kids and adults alike will enjoy hands-on activities.
Family Workshops
The museum offers a variety of family workshops. These workshops provide opportunities to learn together. Topics include:
- Robotics – Build and program simple robots.
- Physics Fun – Explore the principles of physics through experiments.
- Nature and Ecology – Learn about local wildlife and ecosystems.
Workshops are led by knowledgeable instructors. They ensure a fun and informative experience for everyone. Families leave with new skills and a deeper appreciation for science.
Plan your visit to the ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum today. It’s a perfect spot for family fun and learning.
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Enjoy Wine Tasting
One of the best things to do in Ashland, Oregon, is to enjoy wine tasting. Ashland is home to many wonderful vineyards and wineries. It’s a paradise for wine lovers.
Local Vineyards
Local vineyards in Ashland offer a variety of wines. You can taste wines made from different grape varieties.
Here are some popular vineyards:
- Weisinger Family Winery: Known for its delicious Pinot Noir.
- Paschal Winery: Offers stunning views and great Chardonnay.
- Grizzly Peak Winery: Famous for its Syrah and Rosé.
Wine Tours
Wine tours are a great way to explore Ashland’s wine culture. They offer guided tours and wine tastings.
Some popular wine tour options:
- Southern Oregon Wine Tours: They provide a full-day wine tour experience.
- Wine Hopper Tours: Offers customized tours to local wineries.
- Bravo Outings: Known for their educational wine tours.
Below is a table summarizing the top wine tour options:
| Tour Company | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Southern Oregon Wine Tours | Full-day wine tour |
| Wine Hopper Tours | Customized tours |
| Bravo Outings | Educational tours |
Hike Mount Ashland
Exploring Mount Ashland is one of the best things to do in Ashland, Oregon. This majestic peak offers a variety of hiking trails, stunning views, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, Mount Ashland has something for everyone.
Trails Overview
Mount Ashland features numerous hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Here are some popular options:
- Pacific Crest Trail: This iconic trail offers breathtaking views.
- Mount Ashland Summit Trail: This trail leads you to the summit.
- Wagner Butte Trail: A scenic route with diverse landscapes.
Each trail offers unique experiences, from lush forests to alpine meadows.
Wildlife Spotting
Hiking Mount Ashland provides a great opportunity for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for:
| Animal | Where to Spot |
|---|---|
| Deer | Near forested areas |
| Birds | Throughout the trails |
| Butterflies | In meadows |
Bring binoculars for a closer look at the diverse wildlife.
Remember to respect nature and maintain a safe distance from animals.
Attend The Ashland Independent Film Festival
The Ashland Independent Film Festival is a must-see event in Oregon. The festival showcases many amazing films and documentaries. Visitors enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and unique film experiences.
Film Screenings
The festival offers diverse film screenings from all over the world. You can watch independent films, short films, and documentaries. The screenings take place in historic theaters and modern venues. Each film provides a unique and engaging story.
Meet The Filmmakers
After the screenings, you can meet the filmmakers. This is a rare opportunity to ask questions and learn more about their work. Many filmmakers enjoy discussing their creative process. You can gain insights and inspiration from their experiences.
Overall, attending the Ashland Independent Film Festival is a unique experience. It combines great films, engaging discussions, and a wonderful atmosphere.
Explore Emigrant Lake
Emigrant Lake is a beautiful destination in Ashland, Oregon. It offers various activities for all ages. This scenic spot is perfect for a family day out. Let’s dive into the best things to do at Emigrant Lake.
Boating Activities
Emigrant Lake is a haven for boating enthusiasts. You can rent boats at the lake. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are available. The calm waters are great for beginners.
Many people enjoy kayaking and canoeing here. The lake’s serene environment is ideal for paddleboarding. Remember to wear a life jacket for safety.
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Paddleboarding
- Motor boating
Picnic Spots
Emigrant Lake has many picnic areas for families. These spots offer stunning views of the lake. You can find tables and benches under shady trees. There are also barbecue grills available.
Here are some top picnic spots:
| Picnic Spot | Facilities |
|---|---|
| North Shore | Tables, Benches, Grills |
| South Shore | Tables, Benches, Restrooms |
| East Beach | Tables, Benches, Shade Trees |
Bring a basket full of your favorite snacks. Enjoy a peaceful meal by the water. Kids can play on the grassy areas. Emigrant Lake offers a relaxing picnic experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Top Attractions In Ashland?
Ashland is known for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Lithia Park, and local wineries. The city offers diverse cultural and outdoor activities.
Is Ashland, Oregon Worth Visiting?
Yes, Ashland offers a mix of arts, culture, and nature. It’s famous for its theater scene and beautiful parks.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Ashland?
The best time to visit Ashland is spring and fall. These seasons offer mild weather and vibrant scenery.
Are There Any Outdoor Activities In Ashland?
Yes, Ashland offers hiking, biking, and rafting. Lithia Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Conclusion
Ashland, Oregon, offers diverse activities for all visitors. Explore its vibrant arts scene, scenic outdoors, and delicious dining. Make sure to visit the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Whether you’re hiking, shopping, or enjoying local cuisine, Ashland guarantees a memorable experience.
Plan your trip today and discover the best of Ashland!