Visitor's Guide to Ashland, Oregon and Greater Jackson County

Welcome to Ashland, Oregon, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Rogue Valley! Known for its vibrant arts scene, world-class theater, scenic beauty, and delicious wine, Ashland and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're a theater enthusiast, a wine connoisseur, a nature lover, or a foodie, there's something for everyone to explore in this picturesque region. Here's your comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit:

Theater:

1. Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF): Attend a performance at the renowned OSF, featuring a diverse repertoire of classic and contemporary plays performed by talented actors on multiple stages.
2. Cabaret Theatre: Enjoy intimate performances at the Cabaret Theatre, showcasing innovative works and musical productions in a cozy setting.
3. Camelot Theatre: Experience top-notch musical theater productions at the Camelot Theatre in nearby Talent, featuring talented local performers and Broadway hits.
4. Shakespearean Lectures and Workshops: Immerse yourself in the world of Shakespeare with lectures, workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours offered by the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
5. Ashland New Plays Festival: Generally scheduled in the Fall. Attend readings and workshops of new works by emerging playwrights at the Ashland New Plays Festival, fostering creativity and innovation in theater.

Wine Tasting:

1. Ashland Vineyards & Wineries: Explore the local wine scene by embarking on a wine tasting tour, starting with Ashland Vineyards, known for its award-winning wines and stunning vineyard views.
2. Schmidt Family Vineyards: Indulge in premium wines and artisanal cheeses at Schmidt Family Vineyards, nestled in the picturesque Applegate Valley just outside of Ashland.
3. Weisinger Family Winery: Savor handcrafted wines and panoramic views of the Rogue Valley at Weisinger Family Winery, known for its estate-grown varietals and inviting tasting room.
4. Dana Campbell Vineyards: Discover boutique wines with a Mediterranean flair at Dana Campbell Vineyards, offering tastings in a serene hilltop setting overlooking the valley.
5. Troon Vineyard: Experience biodynamic winemaking practices and unique varietals at Troon Vineyard, located in the Applegate Valley and committed to sustainable agriculture.
6. RoxyAnn Winery: Sample a diverse selection of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Viognier, at RoxyAnn Winery, situated on the slopes of Roxy Ann Peak in nearby Medford.
7. EdenVale Winery: Enjoy estate-grown wines and gourmet picnics at EdenVale Winery, housed in a historic barn amid the rolling hills of the Rogue Valley.
8. Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden: Experience biodynamic farming practices and exceptional Rhône-style wines at Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden, located in the Applegate Valley.
9. Valley View Winery: Taste award-winning wines crafted from estate-grown grapes at Valley View Winery, known for its elegant reds and refreshing whites.
10. Plaisance Ranch: Visit Plaisance Ranch in the Applegate Valley to taste handcrafted wines and explore the working ranch, home to vineyards, orchards, and grazing cattle.

Restaurant Recommendations:

1. Alchemy Restaurant & Bar: Delight in Pacific Northwest cuisine with global influences at Alchemy Restaurant & Bar, known for its seasonal menus and craft cocktails.
2. Chateaubriand 36: Our next-door neighbor! Indulge in innovative American cuisine and artisanal cocktails at Chateaubriand 36, offering a cozy atmosphere and attentive service.
3. Peerless Restaurant & Bar: Dine in elegance at Peerless Restaurant & Bar, housed in a historic Victorian home and renowned for its upscale cuisine and extensive wine list.
4. MÄS Restaurant: Embark on a culinary journey with modern American cuisine at MÄS Restaurant, where chefs showcase seasonal ingredients and creative techniques in a refined setting. One of our absolute favorites.
5. The Loft Brasserie & Bar: Enjoy French-inspired cuisine and panoramic views of Ashland at The Loft Brasserie & Bar, featuring a lively atmosphere and a diverse menu.
6. Morning Glory Restaurant: Start your day with a hearty breakfast or brunch at Morning Glory Restaurant, known for its delicious omelets, pancakes, and creative breakfast specials.
7. Hither: Hither is a charming cafe known for its fresh, seasonal fare and friendly service. Stop by for breakfast, brunch, or lunch and try their delicious pastries and sandwiches.

1. Brickroom: A lively gastropub known for its delicious food and vibrant atmosphere. Stop by for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch and try their creative burgers, sandwiches, and small plates.
2. Cucina Biazzi: A quaint spot which offers authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Enjoy their homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and classic Italian dishes, as well as an extensive wine list.

1. Bird & Rye: Unique dining experience with its focus on Southern-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails. Enjoy dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and house-made biscuits, as well as a selection of bourbons and whiskeys. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-visit spot in Ashland.

Hikes and Outdoor Activities:

1. Lithia Park: Escape into nature with a leisurely stroll or a scenic hike in Lithia Park, a 93-acre oasis featuring lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and beautiful gardens in downtown Ashland.
2. Mount Ashland: Explore the trails of Mount Ashland, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
3. Pilot Rock Trail: Embark on a challenging hike to the summit of Pilot Rock, a volcanic plug offering panoramic views of the Cascade Range and Siskiyou Mountains.
4. Upper and Lower Table Rock: Hike to the top of Upper and Lower Table Rock, ancient volcanic plateaus adorned with wildflowers and offering sweeping vistas of the Rogue Valley.
5. Cascade Siskiyou National Monument: Discover diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife at Cascade Siskiyou National Monument, where hiking trails lead through forests, meadows, and mountain slopes.
6. Rogue River Trail: Follow the Rogue River Trail along the scenic Rogue River, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and river rafting amid stunning wilderness scenery.
7. Grizzly Peak Trail: Summit Grizzly Peak for panoramic views of the Rogue Valley, Mount Shasta, and the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, accessible via a moderate hiking trail.
8. Emigrant Lake: Enjoy swimming, boating, and picnicking at Emigrant Lake, a popular recreational area located just a short drive from Ashland.
9. Oregon Caves National Monument: Explore the underground wonders of Oregon Caves National Monument on a guided cave tour, followed by hiking trails through old-growth forests and karst landscapes.
10. Applegate Lake: Relax and unwind at Applegate Lake, where you can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding amid the scenic beauty of the Applegate Valley.

Greater Jackson County:

1. Rogue River: Embark on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure down the Rogue River, known for its challenging rapids, pristine waters, and stunning canyon scenery.
2. Crater Lake National Park: Take a day trip to Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the United States, where you can marvel at the sapphire-blue waters and explore scenic viewpoints and hiking trails.
3. Oregon Vortex: Experience the mysterious gravitational anomaly known as the Oregon Vortex, where the laws of physics seem to be distorted, creating optical illusions and baffling phenomena.
4. Jacksonville Historic District: Step back in time in the charming town of Jacksonville, known for its beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, boutique shops, and historic landmarks.
5. Britt Music & Arts Festival: Attend a concert under the stars at the Britt Music & Arts Festival, held at the open-air amphitheater in Jacksonville and featuring performances by renowned musicians and artists.
6. Southern Oregon Lavender Festival: Visit local lavender farms during the Southern Oregon Lavender Festival, held annually in the Rogue Valley, and enjoy tours, workshops, and lavender-inspired products.
7. Oregon Caves Chateau: Stay overnight at the historic Oregon Caves Chateau, a rustic lodge nestled in the heart of the Siskiyou Mountains, offering cozy accommodations and access to nearby hiking trails.
8. Jacksonville Farmers Market: Explore the Jacksonville Farmers Market, held on Saturday mornings from May through October, and browse a diverse selection of locally grown produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts.
9. Ruch Country Store: Visit the historic Ruch Country Store, a beloved local landmark serving up homemade deli sandwiches, gourmet cheeses, and specialty foods in a quaint country setting.
10. Jacksonville Woodlands Trail System: Discover the natural beauty of the Jacksonville Woodlands Trail System, offering miles of scenic hiking and mountain biking trails through oak woodlands, meadows, and creekside landscapes.

From world-class theater productions to outdoor adventures, wine tasting, and culinary delights, Ashland and Greater Jackson County offer a wealth of experiences for every traveler. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, you're sure to fall in love with the charm and beauty of this enchanting region. Enjoy your visit!