Nestled into the rolling green foothills of the Cascade and Siskiyou mountains, Ashland is a beautiful city in southwest Oregon that’s unlike any other in the world. Full of lovely parks, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, and home to the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, this artsy town will sweep you off your feet.
Located in Jackson County, just north of the California-Oregon border, Ashland is home to just over 20,000 residents as well as countless wonderful attractions.
flickr/ Al Case
Downtown, you’ll find historic buildings and tons of amazing galleries, shops, restaurants, hotels, and other attractions like the Varsity Theater (home to the annual Ashland Independent Film Festival).
flickr/ Joe Mabel
You will definitely want to check out the acclaimed Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which runs from February through November each year. They show classic and contemporary plays, and have three lovely theaters, including the stunning outdoor Elizabethan theater pictured below.
flickr/ Clyde Adams III
Another of Ashland’s unique attractions is the jaw-dropping Lithia Garden. Take a tranquil stroll through this 93-acre park, complete with glittering ponds, scenic walkways, a Japanese garden, and more.
flickr/ Ian Sane
There are plenty of gorgeous natural areas to explore outside the city as well. You can hike through woods or along sunny hillsides, bike along the Bear Creek Greenway, ski on Mount Ashland, and so much more.
flickr/ Al Case
For an unforgettable getaway, book a room at one of the town’s lovely bed and breakfasts or hotels.
flickr/ Carissa Rogers
As you explore the town, you’ll find all kinds of amazing restaurants, from romantic date night restaurants…
yelp/ lchemy Restaurant & Bar
…. to cozy, delicious brunch spots.
yelp/ Alan O.
This unique, artsy town in southern Oregon is positively enchanting.
flickr/ Chris Yunker
Find out about the coolest towns in Oregon here.
flickr/ Al Case
flickr/ Joe Mabel
flickr/ Clyde Adams III
flickr/ Ian Sane
flickr/ Carissa Rogers
yelp/ lchemy Restaurant & Bar
yelp/ Alan O.
flickr/ Chris Yunker
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