Ashland is a growing small town mostly known for its cultural attractions in Southern Oregon and the Rogue Valley. It also works as a weekend getaway for a lot of people from the neighbouring areas.
Another interesting thing that makes this town popular is the famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Most of the visitors to Ashland are here because of this festival that happens between February and October.
The city offers several other engaging activities like skiing, rafting, hiking, and other adventures. One can spend their time shopping or casually hanging out in the gorgeous natural spaces.
Here are the top 15 things to do in Ashland Ky.
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Ashland State Park
Ashland State Park is basically a reservoir that was established in the 19th century, it now serves as a recreation area. Visiting this park is one of the best things to do in Ashland, Kentucky, because there are so many interesting things to engage in.
Other than swimming in the reservoir, one can also go hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing in the surrounding area.
Downtown Ashland
With a multi-million-dollar revitalization plan, Downtown Ashland has been able to offer its visitors numerous fun things to indulge in.
From historic architecture to beautiful parks, downtown Ashland has a great food scene going on. For those who love outdoor events, this place hosts outdoor events all summer long. Even a simple walk around the town will leave you awestruck.
Boston Marathon
The Boston Marathon has to be one of the most interesting things to do in Ashland, Kentucky. The race had its origins in 1897, and it still hasn’t lost its relevance.
The Patriots’ Day is the perfect day to watch the early stages of the world’s oldest marathon unfold. This is an exciting and unique event to watch, so if you are in Ashland and want to do something different, try attending the Boston Marathon.
Ashland Farmers’ Market
Ashland is quite famous for its farmers’ market that sets up on Saturday mornings from mid-June to mid-October. The purpose of visiting this market is to be able to explore the weekly list of vendors.
For instance, you can witness Sustainability Day in July and attend the Tomato Fest in August, you can also attend Apple Day in September.
From seafood, meats, bakery stuff and gourmet cheese to talented artisans and beverage vendors, Ashland Farmers’ Market has it all for you.
Hopkinton State Park
Hopkinton State Park was also previously an active reservoir, which later became an outdoor recreation area. Visiting this park is undoubtedly one of the most fun things to do in Ashland, Kentucky, as you get to enjoy several outdoor activities here.
You can bring your kids to play on the two sandy beaches while you go swimming. Boating is another fun thing to do in Hopkinton State Park. There are also so many trails for biking, hiking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing adjoining the park.
Bay Circuit Trail
If you wish to see the true beauty of Eastern Massachusetts, the Bay Circuit Trail provides the perfect way to do it.
You can simply hike, bike, or ski through these beautiful leafy trails. All you have to do is cross the town forest and follow the trails that lead to several undeveloped yet beautiful spaces in Ashland. This sure is one of the best things to do in Ashland, Ky.
Stone’s Public House
The Stone’s Public House is basically a gastropub located in one of downtown Ashland’s most storied old buildings. This public house is also known as the Railroad House and was built in 1832.
Visiting this property is one of the must-do things in Ashland, Ky. Things that you can expect here are craft beers and a vast menu that involves many amazing food items like shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, roasted half chicken, etc.
Sri Lakshmi Temple
This Hindu goddess temple was built in 1990, and it is a perfect destination for those interested in great architecture.
This temple is also famous for being the first and largest place of worship of its kind in New England.
It is open to the public seven days a week and makes a wonderful destination for everyone wanting to do interesting things in Ashland, Ky.
Ashland Town Forest
Ashland Town Forest is a hilly natural landscape spreading over an area of 660 acres. This forest is a must-go if you really want to do something interesting in Ashland.
Apart from the tranquil landscape, you will find here a beautiful mixed hardwood forest, vernal pools, historic open pits, and many more things to keep yourself busy with. The flora and fauna in the Ashland Town Forest are something that you should never miss witnessing.
Warren Woods
Warren Woods once belonged to Henry Warren, who was mostly famous for being the inventor of the first synchronous electric clock. The land now belongs to the town.
Paying a visit to Warren Woods is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Ashland, Ky. The beautiful tangle of trails through the old-growth woods feels like heaven once you start going deeper. It is also the best way to stay close to nature.
Mill Pond Park
Mill Pond Park is a beautiful linear park situated downtown Ashland, somewhere next to the Sudbury River. If you are someone who enjoys being in quiet places, Mill Pond Park is the perfect place for you to visit.
It is just a few steps away from the town center and has secluded wooded shores to dive deep into. It also makes a perfect place for a family picnic. Mill Pond Park has to be on your list of must-do things in Ashland, Ky.
The Corner Spot
The corner spot is a beautiful public space that offers a variety of things to enjoy in Ashland. Along with the picnic tables, you will be able to enjoy things like outdoor music performances and a choice of yard games here.
The corner spot also happens to be a gathering place for businesses to open pop-ups. You cannot miss this place if you are in Ashland, as it is one of the most fun places to visit in Ashland, Ky.
Puzzle Escape Ashland
The Puzzle Escape Ashland is an escape room in the Ashland Veterans of Foreign Wars building. This is one of the most adventurous things to do in Ashland, Kentucky, and you can also expect a new challenge since there is a room that changes the theme every few months. Visiting this escape room can be a new, fun and unique experience for you.
Boston Paintball Ashland
This paintball facility is available all year and is mostly known for its Apocalypse City Arena. This can be a very fun experience for you while you are in Ashland.
This facility is built like a set for a blockbuster movie, where a few scenarios are created to give you a real feeling. You can visit this place with your friends to make the most of your time in Ashland.
Modelville Hobby
The Modelville Hobby provides a cavernous slot racing facility. There are some decades-old tracks here to see. You must visit this place if you want to have some real fun in Ashland.
Visiting Modelville Hobby is one of the most entertaining things to do in Ashland, Ky. For regularly scheduled races, you can check their website so that you save some time.
The Bottom Line
Situated along the beautiful Ohio River, Ashland, Kentucky, is a hidden heaven waiting to be explored. There are so many beautiful things to see and many interesting things to enjoy in this city.
From history to cultural attractions, everything here is worth exploring. The outdoor adventures and scenic beauty will leave you numb. This place is just another heaven that offers a variety of adventures and lots of fun.
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