The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Ashland, Oregon Now

Nestled in scenic Rogue Valley—Ashland, Oregon is a place of unique beauty surrounded by hills of green within the picturesque Siskiyou Mountains. In addition to its natural beauty, Ashland offers an exhilarating mix of culture and cuisine from wineries and farmer’s markets to hiking and skiing. You’ll find something to pique your interest whether you’re adventuring for a week or just an afternoon.

1. THE HIKING

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Voted one of the "Top Trail Towns" by Trail Runner Magazine, Ashland has a long commitment to providing unique recreational opportunities for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians with a trail system of 50 miles—extending from the paved streets of Ashland to the alpine forest scenery at Mount Ashland.

2. THE ART

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The Schneider Museum, on the Southern Oregon University campus, presents major exhibits from around the country with exhibits focusing on contemporary visual arts. In addition, you can enjoy the First Friday Art Walk each month sponsored by the Ashland Gallery Association.

3. THE COCKTAILS

Tucked away in the historic Ashland Springs Hotel—Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine is an ideal spot for an afternoon or evening pick me up. Specializing in herb-infused cocktails, we can't help but to recommend the Oregon Mule— concocted with Wild Roots pear vodka, Cock'n Bull ginger beer and fresh lime juice.

Celebrating Oregon’s bounty by creating innovative cuisine from scratch, Executive Chef Franco Console is a master in showcasing opulent seasonal ingredients delivered daily from local farms. While you're at it, try one of their many signature dishes—such as Local Rabbit Cacciatore or House Capellini.

4. THE THEATRE

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Since 1935, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival has been the cornerstone of Ashland’s culture, while having won both its first Tony Award for outstanding achievement in regional theatre and the National Governors' Association Award for distinguished service to the arts. A season consists of a wide range of classic and contemporary plays produced staged in the outdoor Allen Elizabethan Theatre, Thomas Theatre and Angus Bowmer Theatre.

5. THE SKIING

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With a 7,533 foot summit elevation (the highest point in the Siskiyou Mountain range) Mount Ashland Ski Area offers 5 lifts across 220 acres. Just minutes from downtown Ashland, you'll discover exciting terrain and amazing views!