22 TOP Things to Do in Ashland, Oregon

Welcome to Ashland—one of the best cities in Oregon for art lovers. There are so many things to do in Ashland, from theatres and galleries to endless outdoor recreation options.

This small town lies in Oregon’s southern region, just 16 miles north of the California border. Ashland is known as a cultural hot spot, so naturally, there are a few theatre and gallery destinations to check out.

But, Ashland is also located near the Siskiyou and Cascade Mountain ranges, not to mention the Rogue Valley, so there are a lot of fun outdoor activities to take part in as well.

Ashland is a great year-round destination, with plenty of opportunities for adventure, so make sure you add it to your list when visiting Oregon!

GET THE ULTIMATE PNW MAP

Get our curated list of the best adventures, things to do, and places to grab a brew loaded onto your maps with just two clicks!

GET THE MAP!

1. Attend the Oregon Shakespeare Festival

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is one of the most famous attractions in Ashland. Held annually in the summer/fall, the festival offers over 800 different performances at multiple locations for theatre-goers to enjoy.

An aerial view down into Shakespeare's Theater surrounded by buildings and trees in Ashland. — The grand looking Shakespeare Theater!

Contrary to the name, the festival does not exclusively show Shakespeare plays, but also offers a variety of contemporary plays as well.

So, whatever kind of theatre you enjoy, attending the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival is one of the best things to do in Ashland.

2. Wander Around Downtown Ashland

Taking some time to explore the downtown area of Ashland is a great way to get a pulse of the town. Make sure to hit some of the hot spots, including the Carnegie Library (a historic building from 1911) and the downtown plaza.

There is a lot of cool architecture around the downtown plaza, plus plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore, too.

An aerial view over a portion of Ashland with trees dotted around everywhere. — The downtown area of Ashland.

You can also visit the famed Lithia water fountain—it might look like a simple public fountain, but apparently, the mineral water has serious health benefits! Or, at least, that has been an urban legend since it opened in the 1880s.

3. Catch a Show at the Oregon Cabaret Theater

When you have an evening free, one of the best nights out in Ashland is at the Oregon Cabaret Theater.

This destination is popular with locals and tourists alike and is located in an old Baptist Church that was built back in 1911. The Cabaret opened up in 1986 and has steadily grown over the years.

Today, the Oregon Cabaret Theatre creates original shows, classics, drag shows, and so much more. They put on multiple shows a week year-round, so you can catch a new show each time you’re in town.

TIP: Buy your tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot.

4. Go Shopping at Lithia Artisans Market

Located in downtown Ashland, the Lithia Artisans Market is the perfect destination for tracking down some unique hand-crafted goods.

A collection of artworks found inside the Lithia Artisan Market in Ashland. — Different wares at the artisan market.

The outdoor venue hosts artists of all kinds, including glasswork, jewelry, leather, fine art, clothing and accessories, photography, and more. It is a perfect spot to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir or gift.

There are also live music and dining opportunities on-site, so you can easily spend a few hours enjoying the Lithia Artisans Market.

5. Check Out the Exhibitions at the Oregon Center for the Arts

The Oregon Center for the Arts is part of Southern Oregon University and educates up-and-coming artists and scholars. Its academic programs include creative writing, visual arts, digital media, music, and Shakespeare studies.

But beyond their academic program, the Oregon Centre for the Arts is a community space in Ashland, presenting high-quality art exhibitions and musical performances for the community to enjoy.

6. Visit the Museums in Town

One of the best things to do in Ashland on a rainy day is to visit one of the museums.

Families love the Scienceworks Museum, which has a number of events, exhibitions, and camps for children and adults alike.

The Schneider Museum of Art is another must-see Ashland attraction. It’s a place to celebrate the arts and enjoy diverse, unique art exhibitions. The museum is open year-round and is free to the public (a $5 suggested donation).

7. Have a Picnic at Lithia Park

Lithia Park is the largest park (nearly 100 acres!) in the city and is located in the heart of Ashland. This public space is considered the “crown jewel” of the city, similar to Central Park in New York.

Stairs leading up to an ornate fountain in the middle of Ashland's Lithia Park. — A pretty fountain in Lithia Park!

There are picnic tables throughout the park, as well as plenty of places to lay out a blanket and have a relaxing picnic lunch. If you’re up for something more active, there are pickleball and volleyball courts.

The Lithia Park trails are also worth a wander. After your picnic, spend some time getting lost in this beautiful park. Make sure you also check out the rose garden, the Japenese Garden, and duck ponds in Lithia Park, too!

NOTE: Dogs are NOT allowed inside Lithia Park.

8. Watch Some Movies at the Ashland Independent Film Festival

If you have a free night, make sure you go to the Ashland Independent Film Festival. For 20 years, the film festival has hosted over 100 different documentaries, short films, and feature-length films.

An old, blue van parked outside of the retro looking Varsity Theater in Ashland. — Such a retro looking theater!

The festival runs during the month of October, so mark your calendars and plan a trip around this time if you love independent films!

9. Bum on the Beach at Emigrant Lake

Who doesn’t love a day at the lake? Emigrant Lake is a reservoir located about 5 miles outside of the city and has a large recreation area with a campground and picnic spots.

Visiting the lake is one of the best things to do in Ashland if you want to experience the stunning nature that surrounds the city without going too far.

A view over Emigrant Lake Country Park towards tree covered mountains on a cloudy day. — How beautiful is Emigrant Lake?

Whether you’re bumming on the beach, going for a paddle, or tackling one of the trails, you’ll be treated to stunning mountain views.

NOTE: There is a small $4-day use fee at the lake, and dogs are not allowed.

10. Shop For Unique Souvenirs at the Ashland Artisan Emporium

The Ashland Artisan Emporium is a fun and quirky place to pick up some souvenirs or gifts in Ashland. It has been open for the last ten years and has gained popularity as a marketplace with over 80 local vendors.

It’s over 10,000 square feet, so you can spend a lot of time exploring… think of it as a treasure hunt! You’ll find all sorts of one-of-a-kind gems, from Pokemon cards and other collectibles to vintage vinyl, books, soaps, and more.

11. Relax at the Spa

Incredible outdoor areas surround Ashland, but after a few days of indulging in adrenaline-pumping activities, you might need some R&R!

The Lithia Spri ngs Resort is a gorgeous environment in which to relax and experience the healing properties of mineral spring water. It is also a wine garden, if you need another compelling reason to go!

The front exterior of the 8-storey Ashland Springs Hotel in Ashaland. — The Ashland Springs Resort.

Ashland Springs has farm-to-table dining and a spa to chill in.

12. Have a Wine Tasting

Ashland is a premier wine destination, and going on a tasting is certainly a must-do when in the city! Whether you are a fine wine connoisseur or just like trying something new at the local wineries, there is something for everyone.

Overlooking rows and rows of grape vines inside vineyards near Ashland on a sunny day. — There are vineyards everywhere!

Here are a few of the top recommendations to check out:

Belle Fiore Estate and Winery: Sip on some wine at this elegant winery with French architecture and sweeping views.
Irvine & Roberts Vineyards: The views out over the vineyards and Cascade and Siskiyou Mountain ranges are absolutely epic. The wine is pretty amazing, too!
Dana Campbell Vineyards: This small winery has a relaxing, friendly environment.
Weisinger Family Winery: This award-winning, family-run winery is a must-visit when in Ashland.

13. Go Out for a Few Beers

Some people love wine, others love beer, and some just love it all! Luckily, Ashland is a place with something for everyone. If you love craft beer, head over to one of the many tasting rooms in the city and try something new.

Caldera Brewing Company is a popular craft beer spot in Ashland and offers both classic and seasonal beers.

A slightly drunk pint of beer on top of a napkin inside a brewery. — Nothing like a great beer!

There’s also the brand-new Noble Fox Restaurant and Brewery, which is located in the historic building that once housed Standing Stone Brewery. Come for the beer, stay for the outdoor patio and its impressive views!

14. Get Outside and Go Hiking

Ashland has so much natural beauty in and around the city, so it’s a nature lovers paradise.

There are a number of options to go hiking near Ashland, Oregon, whether you’re looking to summit epic mountain peaks, chase waterfalls, or wander around enchanting lakes.

An aerial view over the forests and path of the Acid Boulders Trail beside Ashland in Oregon. — The Acid Boulder Trail.

Here are some of our favorites:

Pacific Crest Trail: This famous trail was made popular by the book and movie, “Wild,” and a section of it is very close to Ashland. You can pick up the trail along the Lake of the Woods Highway near Fish Lake or start further north inside Crater Lake National Park.
Grizzly Peak: This 4.9-mile loop offers epic views over Ashland and the nearby mountains!
Acid Castle Rocks: This is a quick hike (one mile) above Lithia Park with some really interesting, large boulders that offer a unique view and landscape to explore.
Hobart Bluff: This trail is 2.5 miles long and is a great trail to see the wildflowers! It also has some excellent views of Ashland.

15. Go River Rafting

One of the best things to do in Ashland is to get outside. Turn up the action a notch and experience the natural beauty of Ashland by going river rafting.

Indigo Creek Outfitters operates out of Phoenix (a bit north of Ashland) and offers some pretty awesome adventures, including river rafting, multi-day excursions, and even rafting the Tilomikh waterfall.

Five people in a yellow raft about to plunge down some white water rapids between trees along the Rogue River. — Bracing for that drop!

They have adventures for beginners or more seasoned rafters, with guides making sure that you are safe and secure the whole time.

RELATED: 7 of The Most Legendary Rivers For White Water Rafting in Oregon

16. Visit Medford

If you have time for a day trip while visiting Ashland, make your way to the city of Medford. This is one of the larger cities in southern Oregon, so you can bet that it has a lot to offer visitors.

Obviously, you’ll want to spend some time exploring the downtown area—there are some nice theaters, cute cafes, and historical buildings to check out. But like Ashland, the real draw to Medford is its natural surroundings.

An aerial view looking down over the edge of Table Rock in the middle of the Oregon countryside near Medford. — The crazy looking Table Rock near Medford!

There are tons of great outdoor attractions on the outskirts of Medford. Tackle the trails at Table Rock, spend a day exploring Agate Lake, or camp at Valley of the Rogue State Park. Your options are endless.

17. Take a Class at LightGarden Art

After taking in all the cool art around Ashland, you may be inspired to create something of your own. While you’re in Medford, check out the LightGarden Art Studio.

This much-loved studio focuses on glass art, with stained glass, fused glass, and sandblasted glass on display. They also offer classes and workshops for the public.

You can make 3D glass flowers, paint glass, and more inside the studio, with local artists leading you through each step of the process. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Ashland, and it’s a blast whether you’re an “artist” or not.

18. Go Horseback Riding

Get outside and enjoy the scenery of Ashland by going horseback riding. Jacksonville Forest Park sits about 20 miles outside of Ashland and offers over 30+ miles of trails, so it’s a good place to go as a beginner or expert.

Another place to go horseback riding is in the Rogue Valley. There are multiple stables in the area that offer horseback riding lessons and tours including Rogue Valley Equestrian Center or Majestic Stables.

19. Hit the Slopes at Mt. Ashland Ski Area

One of the best things to do in Ashland in the winter is to hit the slopes. Whether you enjoy downhill skiing and snowboarding or other activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the Mt. Ashland Ski Area has it all.

The sun beaming down over a winter landscape on Mt. Ashland as trees are covered in snow and ice. — Winter over Mt. Ashland.

With amazing views of Mt. Shasta and other mountain ranges and dozens of groomed runs, it’s a fun place to get outdoors and spend the day.

Mt. Ashland is actually a nonprofit organization that was founded back in 1964. It has a full-service rental shop and classes for beginners as well.

RELATED: 13 Ski Areas & Ski Resorts in Oregon For Winter Fun

20. Go on a Day Trip to Klamath Falls

Klamath Falls is a charming little city located about 1.5 hours east of Ashland, with plenty to offer to adventurous souls.

This is the perfect place for a day trip—you can explore the downtown area in an hour or two, then head out into the natural areas that surround the city.

A seagull flying over rows of boats that are moored up in Klamath Falls harbor on a sunny day. — Overlooking Klamath Falls harbor.

Spend the rest of your day canoeing, hiking, or hanging out at the lovely Lake of the Woods.

READ MORE: 7 Awesome Things To Do in Klamath Falls, Oregon

21. Chase Waterfalls

While you’re in the Klamath Falls area, don’t miss your opportunity to check out some of the awesome waterfalls that call this region home.

Despite the name, there aren’t actually any waterfalls in Klamath Falls itself (disappointing, I know). Luckily, there are several falls nearby that are pretty easy to get to.

A long exposure of Crowfoot Falls beneath fall-colored trees on a sunny day near Klamath Falls. — Crowfoot Falls.

Whether you have a full day to chase waterfalls or just enough time to squeeze one in on your day trip from Ashland, you definitely won’t be disappointed if you seek out these falls.

READ MORE: 10 Waterfalls Near Klamath Falls You’ve Got to See!

22. Visit Crater Lake

While not in the city, Crater Lake is a must-see. It’s a popular destination in the state and one of the best things to do near Ashland, Oregon.

A huge panoramic view of the entirety of Crater Lake with Wizard's Island sitting right in the middle on a sunny day. — Wizard Island at Crater Lake.

Crater Lake National Park is located about 100 miles away from Ashland, or just a 2-hour ish drive. The area is famed for its beautiful and unique landscape—it’s a dormant volcano, whose collapse created a large, deep crater.

The lake sitting within the crater is over 2,000 feet deep. It has crystal clear water and is one of the most picturesque places you can visit. Go for a swim, take a hike, or take a scenic drive through this magnificent park.

RELATED: Crater Lake Rim Drive: Everything You Need to Know!

When is The Best Time to Visit Ashland, Oregon?

Because of its location in southern Oregon near the border with California, Ashland generally has good year-round weather.

The climate is fairly mild, with summer months never getting higher than around 83 degrees. The winter months are also fairly mild and make sightseeing possible even in the coldest months.

An aerial view over downtown Ashland in Oregon. — Ashland, Oregon.

The ideal time to visit Ashland might be April-June, as it’s before many of the summer tourists arrive, but the weather is still warm and pleasant.

If you want to attend a specific festival like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, make sure your dates align with the festival dates. Plan ahead to get accommodations, since it can be busier in the city during this time.

Ashland is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with options for hiking, horseback riding, skiing, river rafting, and more!

If you are outdoorsy and want to take part in these activities, make sure you plan your trip during a time of the year when the weather makes it possible!

We hope this helped you plan you trip to Ashland!