Are you heading to southern Oregon? Nicely then, let me let you know about Ashland—a cute and artsy little city would possibly simply steal your coronary heart. Although it’s very well-known for its yearly Shakespeare competition, there’s so many extra enjoyable issues to try this I wish to let you know about! Let me present you ways I spent my excellent 12-hour itinerary there, and how one can too!
Ashland, Oregon 1-Day Itinerary
10:30 AM
Espresso & Brunch at Hither
We kicked off our day at Hither, a comfy little spot that seems like a heat hug in café type. I handled myself to an apricot and fig leaf scone that was oh so buttery and flaky, it virtually melted in my mouth. Pair that with an avocado tartine (as a result of who can resist avocado toast, proper?) and that was the epitome of a consolation brunch. Add in a number of bites of Peter’s biscuit sandwich and I used to be a contented camper.
If Hither’s buzzing and also you’re in want of a Plan B, Combine Bakeshop is simply across the nook. Their pastries? Equally as divine—promise!
11:45 AM
Stroll By Lithia Park
With my stomach comfortable and full, we wandered over to Lithia Park—a 93-acre slice of paradise that seems like your individual private retreat. The park is full of winding trails, towering bushes, and a duck pond straight out of a romance film. However the hidden gem? The Japanese Backyard. It’s tucked away like a secret, filled with Asian crops and koi ponds, and it’s so peaceable, you’ll wish to keep awhile.
TIP: The Japanese Backyard is totally free! If you happen to simply wish to go to it (and nowhere else in Lithia Park) then park a bit nearer to the pickleball courts. It’s a bit north of the middle of the park.
1:45 PM
Discover Downtown Ashland
After a reasonably chill morning, I used to be prepared for some (window) buying remedy in downtown Ashland. This isn’t simply any small city—it’s a treasure chest of quirky outlets, native artisans, and distinctive finds. My private favourite retailer? Jupiter Row, a spot that was born out of a love for all the pieces that makes Ashland particular. From handmade treasures to artisan items it’s a bit slice of visible life-style poetry—the place each merchandise tells a narrative.
TIP: Don’t fear about getting misplaced—Ashland’s downtown is tremendous walkable, so take your time and discover each nook and cranny!
4:00 PM
Wine Tasting at Weisinger Household Vineyard
No go to to Ashland is full with out a little wine tasting, proper? Only a quick drive from downtown, you’ll discover Weisinger Household Vineyard. The tasting room is cozy and welcoming, however the outside seating space is the place you wish to be (climate allowing, in fact) I sipped my method by way of six totally different wines, falling onerous for his or her daring Malbec whereas my hubby couldn’t get sufficient of the Tempranillo.
(If wine tasting sounds a bit intimidating, don’t sweat it! The employees at Weisinger’s are tremendous chill and can assist you discover your new favourite with none stress.)
5:45 PM
Dinner at Cocorico
After a day of exploring and sipping, it was time to dive into dinner—and the Southern European restaurant Cocorico was the right spot. We began with a watermelon feta salad that was the right mix of candy and savory, adopted by charred shishito peppers with simply the correct quantity of warmth. However the star of the present? A roasted rooster with peach chutney that was so tender, it virtually fell off the bone.
TIP: The within is cute and comfy, however do your self a favor and snag a seat on the plant-filled patio. That’s the taking place spot!
7:15 PM
Free Inexperienced Present on the Oregon Shakespeare Campus
With dinner wrapped up, we strolled over to the Oregon Shakespeare advanced for the Inexperienced Present. This stage gives free outside performances proper within the coronary heart of the Oregon Shakespeare Pageant campus. And also you by no means know what you would possibly get—stay music, dance, theater, and even cultural performances that provide you with a style of one thing new. That night, we had been handled to a efficiency by Hudost, a contemporary folks music duo.
It’s an excellent informal method to take in some tradition with no need a ticket (or breaking the financial institution). Plus, it’s tremendous family-friendly (together with your four-legged household), so it’s excellent whether or not you’re on a solo journey or with family members.
8:00 PM
See a Reside Theater Present
To prime off the right day, snag seats to one of many exhibits on the Oregon Shakespeare Pageant. Even if you happen to’re not a Shakespeare fan, that is the final bucket listing factor to do in Ashland! We caught the present Coriolanus on the Thomas Theatre and had been completely impressed with the appearing and manufacturing.
If you happen to’ve by no means been to a Shakespeare play earlier than, Ashland is the place to do it—the competition is world-renowned, and there’s one thing actually particular about experiencing it in such an intimate setting.
Make it an Overnighter
Ashland Springs Resort
If 12 hours simply ain’t sufficient (I completely perceive!), then make your go to an overnighter. Staying on the Ashland Springs Resort is like entering into a bit of dwelling historical past with a contact of luxurious. This beautiful lodge, only a fast five-minute stroll from downtown, has been an area landmark because it first opened its doorways in 1925. Initially the tallest constructing between Portland and San Francisco, it’s bought that traditional, classic appeal however with all the fashionable comforts you’d need. Think about enjoyable in a superbly restored room that seems like a step again in time, but with the comfort of being proper within the coronary heart of Ashland’s vibrant scene.
So there you’ve it—my excellent one-day bucket listing itinerary for Ashland, Oregon! It should hold you tremendous busy with consuming scrumptious meals, doing a bit buying and getting immersed in among the artsy tradition. Let me know the way your day went!