If you’re looking for a fun, energetic, cultural experience, Ashland, OR is one of the best cities to visit in Southern Oregon. If you’ve never been to this unique town, or you’re a regular visitor looking for things to do in Ashland, OR, we’ve got you covered.
5 Things to Do in Ashland, OR
Visit any time of year to discover the hundreds of things to do in Ashland OR. Here are 5 of the best ways to get a great Ashland experience.
#1 Stroll Through Lithia Park in Ashland, OR
As Central Park is to New York City, so is Lithia Park to Ashland, Oregon. Just south of the center of town, Lithia Park is a beautiful escape from the city and has miles of walking trails to explore with gorgeous trees and flowers, reflecting ponds, benches and picnic spots.
Lithia Park is a central gathering place for Ashland locals and features seasonal attractions like a musical bandshell, ice skating rink, and even a Japanese garden. One of the best ways to get a taste of Ashland is drinking the water from the Lithia fountains. They are located right next to the park and named for the lithium minerals present in the natural water supply. The water is thought to have natural healing abilities.
#2 Hike to Grizzly Peak Near Ashland, OR
The climb up to Grizzly Peak is a popular hike and one of the best things to do in Ashland, OR for outdoorsy visitors. This trail is best enjoyed in the late spring or early summer, when wildflowers are in full bloom in the Southern Oregon hills.
Round-trip, the trail is just under 5 miles, and the viewpoint at the top is worth the effort. From Grizzly Peak you can take in spectacular panoramic views of the snow-capped Mount Shasta, and the towns of Ashland, Phoenix, and Talent, OR.
#3 Catch a Local Performance in Ashland, OR
If you plan your trip between February and November, there’s a good chance you can catch one of the amazing performances that happen around town as part of the award-winning Ashland Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
Renowned for its high quality productions, dynamic and talented cast members, and expansive list of shows, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a must-see. Whether you’re a fan of theater or new to the experience, there are shows for everyone to enjoy, from traditional Shakespeare to modern musicals, comedies, dramas, and more.
#4 Relax by Ashland Creek
The area around Ashland Creek is a pleasant place to explore the cute shops, cafes, and restaurants that overlook the tumbling waters. Be sure to stop into Jupiter Row for curated home goods and furniture, wander through Prize to see their stunning glassware and stationary, and spend some time in the shade on the outdoor patio at Standing Stone Brewery.
After a long day of walking and exploring, kicking back to enjoy a refreshing craft brew and listen to the tumbling waters of Ashland Creek is one of the most relaxing things to do in Ashland, OR. Try the crisp Still Standing IPA — a dollar for every pint goes towards the ACCESS fire relief program, which provides support to local communities in need after the devastation of wildfires.
#5 Explore the Scenic Countryside around Ashland, OR
Ashland OR is located in surrounded by scenic views in all directions. If you have some time, travel around Ashland to take in the refined Southern Oregon beauty. Take back roads through wine country, framed in by the Cascades and Siskiyou mountain ranges, visit neighboring towns like historic Jacksonville or Medford, or plan a trip to nearby natural wonders like Crater Lake National Park or the Southern Oregon Coast.
In Ashland, OR, there’s no limit to the things you can do and the diverse experiences you can enjoy. From outdoor excursions to relaxing creekside with a glass of Oregon wine, plan the perfect trip to Ashland and choose your own adventure.
Ashland Oregon is a cultural hub of Southern Oregon and a close neighbor to the Vineyards at Stage Pass. We love having all the things to do in Ashland just around the corner and think you will, too. To learn more about what amenities Stage Pass could offer you, reach out to our team to schedule a tour today.
