Ashland is a must-visit spot in Southern Oregon. This comprehensive travel guide features some of my favorite things to do in Ashland, Oregon – including places to eat, drink, stay, and play!
Nestled on the western border of Oregon and California lies the captivating town of Ashland, Oregon. This gem of Southern Oregon offers a blend of culture, outdoor recreation, and culinary delights that make it a perfect destination for travelers of all kinds.
Nearly two decades ago, my husband and I had the pleasure of working at the NBC station serving Southern Oregon. While we resided and worked in Medford, Oregon, our leisure time was often spent just 15 minutes south in Ashland. Known worldwide for its prestigious Shakespeare Festival, vibrant Southern Oregon University, a plethora of restaurants, breweries, and art galleries, and a recreational haven featuring Mount Ashland, Lithia Park, and an array of nearby lakes and rivers, Ashland has solidified its reputation as a popular travel destination.
Discover the Best Things to Do in Ashland, Oregon
I recently had the opportunity to revisit Ashland, Oregon, twice within the past six months. My first trip was last fall as part of a press tour organized by Travel Oregon. The second visit occurred earlier this month when I was honored to serve as a judge at the renowned Oregon Chocolate Festival. Experiencing Ashland during both the fall and spring seasons was truly delightful. It served as a vivid reminder that Ashland is a fantastic town to visit, regardless of the time of year!
Ashland offers a wide range of activities and attractions to suit every interest. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, a foodie, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Ashland has something special to offer.
A Culinary Journey: Where to Eat and Drink in Ashland
The food and beverage scene in Ashland continues to flourish. The surrounding area boasts numerous farms, creameries, wineries, and breweries, and local restaurants are taking full advantage of this bounty by incorporating fresh, local ingredients into their menus. Here are a few of my favorite restaurants in Ashland, all conveniently located around Main Street in the heart of the town.
The Black Sheet Restaurant and Pub: A British Pub Experience
The Black Sheet has been a beloved Ashland institution for over two decades. My husband and I used to frequent this spacious, second-story pub and restaurant when we worked in Southern Oregon. We recently returned with our children during my visit to judge the Oregon Chocolate Festival, and it has retained its original British charm and fun atmosphere. The menu features classic British pub fare, accompanied by a diverse selection of beers.
Lark Restaurant: Fine Dining with a Farm-to-Table Focus
Located within the Ashland Springs Hotel on Main Street, Lark’s offers an elegant farm-to-table fine dining experience. I am a huge fan of this restaurant; their dishes are beautifully presented and consistently delicious. The restaurant focuses on using fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farms and producers. Be sure to check out their rotating menu for the latest culinary creations.
Mix Bakeshop: A Coffee Lover’s Paradise
Mix Bakeshop is my go-to coffee shop in Ashland. This charming eatery offers delicious artisan coffees, teas, ice cream, pastries, and sandwiches. It’s the perfect spot for a quick breakfast, a midday snack, or a sweet treat.
Other notable restaurants in Ashland, Oregon, that are worth exploring include:
- Standing Stone Brewery – This brewery is a local favorite, known for its delicious craft beers and family-friendly atmosphere. The menu features a variety of pub-style fare, with options for both adults and children.
- Thai Pepper – This restaurant consistently serves delicious and approachable Thai cuisine. It’s a great option for those seeking flavorful and authentic Thai dishes.
Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in Ashland
My personal favorite place to stay in Ashland is the Ashland Hills Hotel and Suites.
Conveniently located off I-5 at Exit 14, this large hotel is modern, playful, and fun. It offers a variety of room options to suit different travel needs, whether you are traveling solo for business or with the whole family. The hotel features a large outdoor pool and hot tub, as well as an on-site restaurant, Luna Cafe, which also houses a merchant store filled with local artisan gifts, food, and wine.
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival: A World-Class Theater Experience
Ashland is a laid-back, relaxing, arts-centric community, and at the heart of its famous arts scene is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. The company produces plays throughout the year, ranging from Shakespearean classics to contemporary works. Every play I have ever seen performed here over the years has been fantastic.
The Elizabethan Theatre (pictured above) is my favorite theater. If you have the opportunity to see a show in this theater, definitely do it! It’s an absolutely stunning outdoor theater that enhances every production with its magical ambiance. We had the opportunity to watch a modern production of Beauty and The Beast in this theater in the fall, and I was absolutely captivated by the entire experience.
Lithia Park: A Natural Oasis in the Heart of Ashland
If you love the great outdoors, then you will love Ashland, Oregon! My favorite is Lithia Park, located in the heart of the city and easily accessible from Main Street. Here, you’ll find miles of foot trails that follow the creek, an outdoor amphitheater, a Japanese Garden, and plenty of forest nooks & crannies for solitary nature bathing. It’s a peaceful and beautifully maintained park that offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Ashland is also a runner’s paradise, with a lengthy and beautiful trail system that connects Ashland Watershed, Lithia Park, and Oredson-Todd Woods. It’s perfect for runners, hikers, and mountain bikers of all skill levels.
Other outdoor adventures include fishing, swimming, or canoeing/kayaking in Sky Lakes Wilderness and Mountain Lakes, both located a short drive from Ashland.
Shopping in Ashland: Discover Unique Treasures
Most of the charming shops and restaurants can be found on Main Street in Ashland.
My favorite shops include:
- Papaya Living – a women’s boutique with gorgeous clothing, home goods, jewelry, gifts, and paper products. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir or a special gift for a loved one.
- Paddington Station – this large two-story shop holds a wide variety of gifts and home goods, from toys and electronics to paper goods and gifts, to clothing and luggage. You can easily spend hours browsing the extensive selection.
A Few More Things to Know About Ashland, Oregon
Ashland, like most Oregon towns, is very casual. Jeans and sweaters, boots, and rain gear are perfectly acceptable attire in most places. It’s a liberal hub in the middle of a conservative section of the state, with prominent activism thanks to the students of Southern Oregon University. People are friendly here, and health-conscious and earth-conscious. It’s also a dog-friendly town, with many hotels offering dog-friendly accommodations and lots of restaurants with outdoor seating where your four-legged friend can join you.
This is a great town for a girls’ weekend, for foodies and beer-lovers, for outdoor enthusiasts, and for lovers of the arts. Ashland truly offers something for everyone.
Have you been to Ashland before? If so, what other hot spots would you add to this Ashland, Oregon Travel Guide? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
