Southern Oregon doesn’t get much love on the blogosphere, but that should change. Why? Because it is so much a part of the state. More than the beautiful coastline – more than the city of Portland. There is much to explore in Oregon’s gorgeous landscape and small towns in the southern area of the state. Culture and imagination flourish in Ashland.
Most people who have heard of Ashland only think of the world-renowned Shakespeare festival that takes place from March through October every year. But like everything else, there is more to this laid-back town than that, as well. And it is easy to get to; it’s right off of Interstate 5, about 30 minutes north of the northern Californian border. Here are ten things to do in Ashland that don’t involve high-level theatre.
Lithia Park
Carve out a few hours and drive the entire loop around Lithia Park, making stops at your leisure. There are hiking trails, creeks and plenty of places to have a picnic lunch. Along the way, you will be rewarded with great views of lush forests and golden hills. Be sure to stop at Lithia waterfall and reflective pond to commune with the ducks. Lithia is named for the mineral springs found nearby. Check out the fountains next to the visitor’s center – you can have your own taste of natural mineral water in these drinking fountains – an experience for the taste buds. Pro Tip: To pick up picnic supplies, go to Ashland Food Co-op.
Beer Lovers will Enjoy Ashland
While not exactly comparable to the craft beer scene in Portland or Bend, Ashland is fast making a mark for itself in the beer industry. Choose from a good number of great breweries and brewpubs around town. A couple that spring to mind is Caldera Brewery and Taphouse, the Growler Guys and Standing Stone Brewery. Create your own little craft beer crawl and make a night of it! Or if you want to stay in one place, most brewpubs will offer a flight of different beers you can try. Either way, beer lovers cannot go wrong, as the Cascade hops are among the finest in the world.
Explore Downtown Ashland
Near Lithia Park is the downtown area, full of eclectic shops, coffee shops, and cafes. This is a shopper’s paradise, especially if you are looking for that unique gift or souvenir. Here you can also find art galleries and a great bookstore cafe called Bloomsbury Coffee House. They have a cozy, intimate coffee place in the back, and when the weather is nice you can sit outside in their garden area while you enjoy your coffee and a good book!
The Ashland Springs Hotel is a shining, art deco beacon in the heart of downtown. Whether or not you choose to stay here, do try and have lunch, dinner or weekend brunch in the iconic Larks Restaurant. They serve Pacific Northwest-inspired farm-to-table goodness with a luxurious flare.
Coffee Lovers will also Enjoy Ashland
The coffee scene is alive and well, all over the west coast, and Ashland is no exception. While I wouldn’t necessarily recommend a “coffee crawl” (too much caffeine, no?) I do recommend trying a different coffee shop for each day you stay in Ashland. But if you really…REALLY want that crawl, who am I to stop you? Just pace yourself, for goodness sake! A really good coffee shop here is Case Coffee. They make an incredible Americano (among others) and have fantastic service. Also try Boulevard Coffee, ReMix Coffee Bar, Noble and Café 116.
Explore Bear Creek Greenway
If you want a change of scenery and love a good bike ride, check out Bear Creek Greenway. It is an 18-mile paved, multi-use trail that starts at Ashland Dog Park and stretches northwest, parallel to I-5, all the way to the endpoint of Dean Creek Road in Central Point, Oregon. Along the way, it runs through the tiny towns of Talent, Phoenix, and the larger town of Medford. This is a great day trip for anyone who wants to get their exercise in! Having said that, the trail is mostly flat with some short hills. There is plenty of opportunities along the route for a restroom break, getting water, and enjoying recreation areas. Rent a bike in Ashland have fun! You can rent them at Piccadilly Cycles
Take a Self-Guided Public Art Tour
I’m a big proponent of public art…because its FREE and you are outside. Sculptures, street art, anything that was done with creative hands for the good of the public is right up my alley. Ashland has a pretty good selection of public art, and you can find them all on this handy dandy map.
Get Out in the Water
Ashland is Rouge River territory. There are so many water-filled recreational opportunities to explore. My personal favorite is whitewater rafting. There is kayaking, jet boat excursions, fishing, stand up paddleboarding…just typing this makes me want to go back there and do it again! Here are some great folks who will help you with your Ashland water adventure.
Get Your Science On at ScienceWorks
This is a great hands-on science museum for kids and adults alike. Just a few of the exhibits you will encounter are Da Vinci’s Garage (to tinker around and invent), The Bubbleology room, a pedal-powered railroad, and for the wee ones, there is Discovery Island (for those 5 and under). There is even an outdoor climbing wall! Yes, your kiddos will tire themselves out here!
Take A Destination Day Trip
And here is where I give some love to fellow travel bloggers who have seen this beautiful area of the Pacific Northwest and have shared their experiences. I have taken most of these day trips and I can tell you that what they say is spot on! Have a look-see:
I invite you to explore Southern Oregon and all it has to offer. For beautiful scenery of the Rogue Valley to the high-culture that is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, there is truly something for everyone in Ashland, Oregon.
