Looking for a charming, artsy escape in Southern Oregon? Head to Ashland! Nestled in the Rogue Valley, Ashland blends Shakespearean flair, beautiful parks, wineries, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're here for theater, hiking, or fine dining, Ashland offers small-town sophistication with nature right outside your door.
Ashland, OR Highlights:
- For Theater Fans: Experience the Oregon Shakespeare Festival – Catch world-class productions in indoor and outdoor theaters from spring through fall.
- For Nature Lovers: Stroll or hike through Lithia Park – Explore 100 acres of wooded trails, duck ponds, and tranquil gardens right in town.
- For Wine Enthusiasts: Tour the Rogue Valley Wine Country – Sip bold reds and crisp whites at scenic wineries near Ashland.
- For Families: Visit ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum – Interactive exhibits and STEM fun for kids and curious adults.
- For Art Lovers: Explore the galleries on Main Street – Discover local art, sculpture, and handcrafted goods in a walkable downtown.
Best Time to Visit Ashland, OR
The best time to visit Ashland is in the spring through fall (March to October). These months offer the full Oregon Shakespeare Festival season, warm weather for outdoor exploration, and beautiful fall foliage in the valley and foothills.
How to Get to Ashland, OR
- If you are traveling by car: Ashland is located along I-5 in Southern Oregon, about 15 minutes from Medford and 5 hours from Portland or San Francisco.
- By Air: Fly into Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport (MFR), then drive or shuttle 20 minutes to Ashland.
- By Bus: Greyhound and regional buses serve Ashland and nearby Medford with connections across Oregon and California.
Where to Stay in Ashland, OR
- Recommended for Families: Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites – Spacious, retro-modern hotel with a pool, tennis courts, and onsite restaurant.
- For Couples: Winchester Inn – Romantic boutique inn downtown with gourmet breakfast and elegant rooms.
- For a Historic Stay: Ashland Springs Hotel – Restored 1925 hotel with vintage charm and walking distance to theaters and restaurants.
Best Things to Do in Ashland, OR
⮕ Oregon Shakespeare Festival
See world-class theater and explore downtown during an exciting cultural getaway.
© Jasmin/stock.adobe.com
-
What is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival?
-
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a renowned repertory theatre that has been performing since 1935, originally founded by Angus Bowmer.
-
Where is the festival located?
-
The festival is set in the glorious pine forests of the mountainous region in Ashland, Oregon.
-
How many people attend the festival each year?
-
The festival attracts an annual audience of 400,000, making it one of the largest and most celebrated Shakespeare festivals in the world.
-
When does the Oregon Shakespeare Festival season run?
-
The festival season runs from February through the end of October, offering an extensive lineup of performances.
-
How many plays are performed each season?
-
Each season features five to eleven plays that are rotated on stage six days a week.
-
Are there activities beyond the stage performances?
-
Yes! The festival offers interactive learning experiences, including classes and workshops to engage audiences beyond the stage.
-
Is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival well-known?
-
Absolutely! It is considered a major festival and is featured in the book Shakespeare Festivals Around the World.
15 S. Pioneer St. Ashland, OR 97520, Phone: 800-219-8161
⮕ Lithia Park
Walk along scenic trails and admire nature’s beauty in this romantic downtown oasis.
© Michael Rene Zuzel/stock.adobe.com
-
What is Lithia Park?
-
Lithia Park is the largest park in Ashland and has been recognized as one of the best Great American Spaces by the American Planning Association.
-
How big is Lithia Park?
-
The park spans 100 acres of lush, vibrant green landscapes, making it a prime outdoor destination for visitors.
-
What activities are available at Lithia Park?
-
The park offers family-friendly activities, including tennis and pickleball courts, sand volleyball, playgrounds, and picnic spots.
-
What are some of the park's notable features?
-
Guests can admire ornate fountains, duck ponds, a Japanese garden, and the beautiful Ashland Creek running through the park.
-
Are there any guided tours of the park?
-
Yes! Visitors can follow the Lithia Park Trail guide for a self-guided tour that highlights the park’s historic landmarks and natural beauty.
-
What makes Lithia Park special?
-
The park is a precious jewel in the middle of a forested canyonland, featuring century-old landmarks, sycamore groves, and a formal rose garden.
Ashland, OR 97520
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum
Explore interactive exhibits and spark curiosity on a kids-friendly science day.
© ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum
-
What is ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum?
-
ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum is an interactive science museum designed for science enthusiasts of all ages, offering a fun and educational experience.
-
How big is the museum?
-
The museum spans 26,000 square feet and features a wide range of hands-on exhibits, both indoors and outdoors.
-
What kinds of exhibits and activities does ScienceWorks offer?
-
Visitors can explore exhibits covering anatomy, physics, space, and many other sciences through engaging hands-on activities and programs.
-
Is there a special area for young children?
-
Yes! Discovery Island is an area exclusively designed for children 5 years old and under, featuring attractions like Crawlers Cove and the Thatched Hut Reading Nook.
-
Does the museum offer educational programs?
-
Absolutely! ScienceWorks is a popular field trip destination and offers a variety of camps and classes throughout the year.
-
Why should I visit ScienceWorks?
-
ScienceWorks brings science to life through its interactive exhibits, making learning fun and engaging for both kids and adults.
1500 E. Main St, Ashland, OR 97520, Phone: 541-482-6767
⮕ Belle Fiore Estate & Winery
Savor fine wines and admire vineyard views during a relaxing couples outing.
© Belle Fiore Estate & Winery
-
What is Belle Fiore Estate & Winery?
-
Belle Fiore Estate & Winery is an enchanting Mediterranean chateau and Pavilion where guests can enjoy exquisite wine and food pairings in a stunning setting.
-
What are the different tasting rooms at Belle Fiore?
-
The Pavilion Tasting Room: Built in a classic Italianate architectural style, it offers breathtaking mountain views.
-
The Chateau Tasting Room: A beautifully graceful French-style building with a picturesque landscape.
-
Does Belle Fiore offer live entertainment?
-
Yes! Guests will be swept away by the sounds of live music performed nightly while enjoying fine dining and a rich selection of wines.
-
What kind of cuisine does Belle Fiore offer?
-
Belle Fiore serves elegant cuisine that pairs perfectly with their selection of refined wines.
-
Does Belle Fiore have an art gallery?
-
Yes! Inspired by a love of art, Belle Fiore features an art gallery that supports the local community by showcasing a different artist each month.
-
Why visit Belle Fiore Winery?
-
Belle Fiore offers a unique blend of fine wine, gourmet cuisine, live music, and stunning architecture, creating an unforgettable experience.
100 Belle Fiore Lane, Ashland, OR 97520, Phone: 541-552-4900
⮕ Irvine & Roberts Vineyards
Enjoy wine flights and look at rolling hills on a scenic weekend visit.
© Irvine & Roberts Vineyards
-
What is Irvine & Roberts Vineyards?
-
Irvine & Roberts Vineyards was established in 2007 on an 80-acre highland ranch when Doug and Dionne Irvine discovered an ideal terroir for producing ultra-premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
-
Who founded Irvine & Roberts Vineyards?
-
The vineyard was founded by Doug and Dionne Irvine, along with Doug’s sister Kelly and her husband Duane Roberts, creating a passionate, family-owned winery.
-
What makes the vineyard’s location special?
-
Their high-altitude vineyard in the Cascade Mountains offers extraordinary soil, ideal weather conditions, and eastward-facing slopes, which contribute to the intensity, balance, and exquisite flavor of their wines.
-
What types of wine does Irvine & Roberts produce?
-
The vineyard specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, both crafted with care and a commitment to quality.
-
Does Irvine & Roberts practice sustainable farming?
-
Yes! The vineyard is committed to environmentally-friendly growing techniques to ensure the longevity of the land and maintain the remarkable quality of their wines.
-
Why visit Irvine & Roberts Vineyards?
-
Visitors can experience exceptional wines, breathtaking landscapes, and a commitment to sustainable winemaking, all within the heart of Oregon’s scenic wine country.
1614 Emigrant Creek Road, Ashland, OR 97520, Phone: 541-482-9383
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Emigrant Lake
Go kayaking or swim the shores on a classic summer adventure.
© Jesse/stock.adobe.com
-
What is Emigrant Lake?
-
Emigrant Lake is a reservoir located at the southern point of Rogue Valley, just outside of Ashland. It was created in 1924 with an arch dam to regulate water for irrigation and flood prevention.
-
What camping options are available at Emigrant Lake?
-
Year-round camping is available with 32 RV hook-ups and 40 basic campsites for a more rugged summer experience.
-
The Group Campground accommodates up to 100 people and includes picnic tables, an oversized campfire ring, and a horseshoe pit.
-
What recreational activities are available at Emigrant Lake?
-
The lake offers boating with year-round boat ramps for fishing and water sports.
-
Visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at the lake’s beaches.
-
Why should you visit Emigrant Lake?
-
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or relaxation, Emigrant Lake offers a scenic getaway with activities for campers, boaters, fishermen, and swimmers alike.
5505 Highway 66, Ashland, OR 97520 Phone: 541-774-8183
⮕ Dana Campbell Vineyards
Savor local wines and enjoy quiet views in a retirement-friendly setting.
© Dana Campbell Vineyards
-
What is Dana Campbell Vineyards?
-
Dana Campbell Vineyards is a vineyard and winery located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains near Ashland, Oregon. The vineyard was established in 2006 and is known for producing a fine selection of unique wines.
-
How does Dana Campbell Vineyards ensure the quality of its wines?
-
The vineyard maximizes the fertile slopes of the region and carefully prepares for the effects of weather.
-
Meticulous land preparation is performed before planting new vines to ensure the highest-quality grapes.
-
When did the tasting room open?
-
The tasting room at Dana Campbell Vineyards opened in February 2013.
-
Since then, the vineyard has continued to make improvements to create a warm and welcoming experience for patrons and wine connoisseurs.
-
Why visit Dana Campbell Vineyards?
-
Visitors can enjoy stunning mountain views while sipping on exceptional wines crafted with care and expertise.
1320 N Mountain Ave, Ashland, OR 97520, Phone: 541-482-3798
If you are interested in local events:
- For Theater Fans: Oregon Shakespeare Festival (March–October) – World-renowned repertory theater with drama, comedy, and musicals.
- For Food & Wine Lovers: Oregon Chocolate Festival (March) – Sample artisan chocolates, wine pairings, and cooking demos at Ashland Hills Hotel.
- For Music Fans: Ashland World Music Festival (May) – Celebrate global cultures with live performances, dance, and workshops in Lithia Park.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Ashland, Oregon:
- For Wine Lovers: Talent, OR (15–20 min) – Visit wineries like Trium and Paschal Winery in this small Rogue Valley town.
- For Nature Fans: Emigrant Lake (10–15 min) – Swim, kayak, or picnic at this scenic reservoir just outside of Ashland.
- For Families: Medford (20–30 min) – Explore the Rogue Air Trampoline Park or visit Kid Time Children’s Museum.
- For Garden Lovers: North Mountain Park (5–10 min) – Visit nature trails, butterfly gardens, and environmental learning center.
- For History Buffs: Jacksonville (30 min) – A Gold Rush-era town with historic buildings, shops, and the Britt Music Festival in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Where is Ashland, Oregon located?
-
Ashland is situated at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in the Rogue Valley, just north of the California border.
-
What is the historical significance of Ashland?
-
Ashland has a rich history tied to the indigenous Shasta people, early hunters and trappers, as well as pioneers and prospectors who traveled through the region.
-
What is Ashland known for?
-
The city is renowned for its thriving arts and culture scene, blending sophistication with simplicity in a way that makes it a unique destination.
-
What makes Ashland’s landscape unique?
-
The area is known for its painted landscapes and breathtaking scenery, making it a treasured destination for visitors and locals alike.
-
What is the community like in Ashland?
-
Ashland is known for its warm and welcoming community, offering a rich cultural experience alongside its natural beauty.
Plan Your Trip