Welcome to Ashland, Oregon—a gem tucked into the Pacific Northwest that offers a delightful blend of art, nature, and cozy small-town charm. Whether you’re here for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, dropping your kid off at Southern Oregon University, or just passing through on an adventure, you’re in for a treat. With so much to do, where do you start? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!
Let’s dig into the 10 top things to do in Ashland so you can make the most of your visit.
Disclaimer
This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here
- Emigrant Lake Recreation Area: Ashland’s Outdoor Escape
Just a short drive from downtown Ashland, Emigrant Lake is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a scenic picnic spot, a place to launch your boat, or even a fun day with the kids on the water slides (yes, they have slides!), Emigrant Lake has it all.
Pro tip: If you’re an early bird, you might even catch a glimpse of local wildlife. Hawks, deer, and even the occasional crane love to make an appearance. And, if you’re lucky, you might witness the high school or university crew teams practicing on the water. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills—ideal for your Instagram story!
Emigrant Lake—where nature meets tranquility.
- Oak Knoll Golf Course: Swing Away
Ashland’s only golf course, Oak Knoll, offers nine holes of challenging fun. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just getting started, Oak Knoll has something for everyone, including golf lessons for kids and adults.
They’ve also got Pickleball and FootGolf (yes, FootGolf!), so if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try something a bit different.
Pro tip: Oak Knoll is also a great place to hang out with friends, whether you’re playing a round or enjoying their clubhouse for a private BBQ.
Swinging into fun at Oak Knoll Golf Course—Ashland’s perfect spot for a round of golf
- Rogue Valley Symphony: Music That Moves You
If you love classical music, the Rogue Valley Symphony is a must-see. They perform throughout the Rogue Valley, including Ashland, Medford, and Grants Pass, with concerts happening from September through April.
A night at the symphony is the perfect way to add a little culture to your Ashland trip. Dress up, grab your tickets, and let the music sweep you off your feet.
A night at the Symphony—Ashland’s hidden gem for music lovers.
- Southern Oregon University: Campus Charm
You don’t have to enroll in classes to appreciate the beauty of Southern Oregon University (SOU). This campus is home to some unique architecture, stunning views, and local wildlife—don’t be surprised if you see deer lounging around on the grass.
Take a stroll through the Schneider Museum of Art, located right on campus. With rotating contemporary art exhibits, you’ll find bold, creative displays from both local and international artists. Free guided tours on Tuesdays will give you more insight into the art and artists on display.
The Oregon Center for the Arts at Southern Oregon University is a vibrant hub for creativity, offering a diverse schedule of artistic events throughout the year. From captivating theater performances and soul-stirring concerts to thought-provoking art exhibits, the center brings the best of the arts to campus. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just looking to explore something new, the Oregon Center for the Arts invites you to immerse yourself in a dynamic world of talent and inspiration. Keep an eye on their calendar—you won’t want to miss what’s coming next!
Pro tip: Swing by the Hannon Library for some peaceful vibes. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a quiet walk, and the deer think so too—just don’t feed them!
Art, nature, and quiet study spots—SOU has it all.
- Ashland Independent Film Festival: Lights, Camera, Action!
The Ashland Independent Film Festival (AIFF) is a major event, drawing movie buffs from around the country. Hosted in April and October, the festival showcases the best in independent cinema at the Varsity Theatre—a vintage venue that only adds to the charm.
Even when the festival isn’t in full swing, AIFF is active in the community, collaborating with local museums like ScienceWorks to teach filmmaking to kids and hosting year-round events. It’s a must-visit if you’re into indie films or just looking for something offbeat.
Catching a flick at the Ashland Independent Film Festival
- First Fridays and Ashland Art Works: Art Lover’s Paradise
Ashland is an art lover’s dream, and Ashland Art Works is one of the best spots to see local creativity in action. This artist collective features everything from sculpture and pottery to jewelry and paintings.
But if you really want to dive into the local art scene, make sure you’re here for First Fridays. On the first Friday of every month, Ashland’s galleries and shops stay open late, hosting receptions, art demonstrations, and, yes, sometimes free wine! It’s the perfect way to experience the town’s artistic side.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to stop by Ashland Art Works during your First Friday art stroll—you never know what hidden gem you’ll find to take home.
Exploring Ashland’s vibrant art scene at First Friday
- Oregon Cabaret Theatre: Dinner and a Show
For a memorable night out, head to the Oregon Cabaret Theatre for dinner and a show. Housed in a former 1911 Baptist Church, the Cabaret is the perfect spot for entertainment in a cozy, intimate setting. They offer a delicious dinner with the show, and their desserts are worth every bite!
From musicals to plays, the performances here are top-notch, making it a staple of Ashland’s arts scene.
Dinner and a show? Yes, please!
- Lithia Park: 100 Acres of Pure Beauty
Nestled right in downtown Ashland, Lithia Park is a natural gem. Whether you want to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or explore hiking trails, Lithia Park has you covered. The park is huge, spanning 100 acres, with something new to discover around every corner.
From duck ponds and fountains to the beautiful Japanese-style garden, Lithia Park is perfect for unwinding and soaking in nature.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more challenging, check out the Lithia Park Hillside Trail—a five-mile hike with breathtaking views. Be prepared for a bit of a climb, but it’s well worth the effort!
Nature at its finest in the heart of Ashland
- Oregon Shakespeare Festival: A Must-See
If there’s one thing Ashland is known for, it’s the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF). This world-renowned festival runs from February to October, offering everything from classic Shakespearean plays to contemporary works.
OSF’s three theaters, including the iconic outdoor Allen Elizabethan Theatre, are an experience in themselves. Whether you’re catching a matinee or an evening performance, the festival is a can’t-miss Ashland experience.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to catch the Green Show—a free outdoor performance before the main event during the summer months!
Experience the magic of Ashland’s Green Show—free outdoor performances that bring the Oregon Shakespeare Festival to life!
- Oregon Chocolate Festival: A Sweet Escape
Looking for a delicious reason to visit Ashland? The Oregon Chocolate Festival is a must-see for chocoholics and adventure seekers alike. Mark your calendars in March for this yearly event, and prepare for a weekend filled with chocolate creations crafted by artisan makers from across the West Coast.
Start the weekend with a decadent Chocolate Maker’s Wine Dinner, dive into educational presentations and demos, and don’t forget to treat yourself to the delightful Chocolate Brunch on Sunday.
Pro tip: Turn your visit into a chocolate-filled getaway by booking the Chocolate Escape Package at the Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites—the festival’s venue. Or, for a touch of luxury, opt for the Chocolate Dreams Package at the historic Ashland Springs Hotel, right in the heart of downtown Ashland.
Sweet indulgence at the Oregon Chocolate Festival—where every bite is an adventure.
Ashland Awaits!
Ashland is a hidden gem that offers far more than you might expect. From outdoor adventures at Emigrant Lake to world-class performances at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. If you’re looking for the perfect place to rest during your visit, be sure to check out my blog, Where to Stay in Ashland: Your Ultimate Cozy Corner, for some great recommendations.
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, these top experiences are a must-do and will make your time in Ashland truly unforgettable!
Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!
