15 Things to Do in Ashland, Ohio (OH)

Ashland, Ohio, nestled in the heart of the Midwest, offers a blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Whether you're an adventurer, history buff, or art enthusiast, Ashland has something for everyone. From its scenic parks to its rich historical landmarks and vibrant arts scene, this charming city provides an array of experiences for all types of travelers.

Unique Facts About Ashland, Ohio

Historical Significance

Established in 1815, Ashland has evolved from a small settlement into a vibrant city, playing a pivotal role in Ohio's development. The city’s growth can be attributed to its strategic location and the flourishing of industries in the 19th century. Today, Ashland retains its historical charm, with many buildings reflecting its rich past.

Cultural Hub

Ashland is home to the Ashland Symphony Orchestra, making it a cultural hub for those who appreciate music and the arts. The city’s commitment to cultural preservation and promotion is evident in its numerous arts programs, live performances, and festivals, contributing to a lively atmosphere throughout the year.

Natural Beauty

Ashland is located near Mohican State Park and the Clear Fork Gorge, both of which offer residents and visitors breathtaking landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the scenic views, the natural beauty surrounding Ashland is a must-see.

15 Things to Do in Ashland, Ohio (OH)

Ashland, Ohio, is a charming small town with a rich history and a variety of outdoor, cultural, and community activities to enjoy. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or someone who simply wants to relax, Ashland offers something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Ashland, Ohio.

1. Explore Mohican State Park

Short Description: Nestled in the rolling hills of Ohio, Mohican State Park offers a stunning landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features hiking trails, beautiful vistas, fishing, and camping opportunities.

Pros:

• Great for hiking, fishing, and camping.

• Scenic views and diverse wildlife.

• Offers both quiet spots and group camping areas.

Cons:

• Can get crowded on weekends, especially during peak seasons.

• Limited amenities for those looking for high-end comfort.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Hiking on the Buckeye Trail.

• Scenic overlook of the Mohican River.

2. Visit the Ashland County Historical Society

Short Description: This museum offers a deep dive into Ashland's rich history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that detail the area’s past, from its early settlements to modern-day developments.

Pros:

• Learn about Ashland’s history and local culture.

• Well-curated exhibits with informative displays.

Cons:

• Small space; can be visited quickly in a short amount of time.

• Limited hours of operation on some days.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Local history exhibits.

• Special community events.

3. Attend the Ashland Chautauqua

Short Description: The Ashland Chautauqua is a unique event that blends history, music, and culture in a festive outdoor setting. The event often features performances, storytelling, and musical acts.

Pros:

• Family-friendly and educational.

• A blend of different activities, from historical reenactments to live music.

Cons:

• Seasonal event – only happens once a year.

• Can get crowded, making it hard to find seating at times.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Historical reenactments.

• Live performances and concerts.

4. Stroll through the Center Street Historic District

Short Description: Take a leisurely walk through Ashland’s Center Street Historic District. This area is filled with charming Victorian-style buildings, antique shops, and quaint cafes.

Pros:

• Scenic walk with a touch of history.

• Plenty of local shops to explore.

Cons:

• Can be busy, especially on weekends.

• Limited parking in the immediate area.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Antique shops.

• Local art galleries.

5. Relax at Freer Field

Short Description: Freer Field is a well-maintained park offering open spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities. It’s a great spot for a family picnic or a relaxed day outdoors.

Pros:

• Ideal for picnics and casual family outings.

• Various sports facilities, including a baseball diamond.

Cons:

• Limited shaded areas on hot days.

• Can get busy with local sports teams during certain seasons.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Baseball and soccer games.

• Community picnics and gatherings.

6. Tour the Ashland University Campus

Short Description: Ashland University is known for its beautiful campus, which features stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can take self-guided tours or attend campus events.

Pros:

• Beautifully landscaped and rich in academic history.

• Ideal for potential students or alumni.

Cons:

• Limited visitor access during the academic year.

• Larger tours may need to be scheduled in advance.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Special university events and performances.

• Historic campus buildings and green spaces.

7. Enjoy a Show by the Ashland Symphony Orchestra

Short Description: The Ashland Symphony Orchestra offers a variety of performances throughout the year, featuring classical music and seasonal concerts.

Pros:

• High-quality performances with talented musicians.

• Family-friendly and enriching experience.

Cons:

• Tickets can be expensive for some events.

• Limited performance schedule.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Seasonal concert series.

• Special events and holiday performances.

8. Visit the Ashland Public Library

Short Description: A local gem, the Ashland Public Library is a great place to discover new books, attend events, and explore educational programs. It’s a hub for learning and community engagement.

Pros:

• Free access to books, movies, and digital resources.

• Hosts various community events like book clubs and educational workshops.

Cons:

• Limited hours during weekends.

• Smaller compared to larger regional libraries.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Local author readings.

• Educational workshops and classes.

9. Attend the Ashland BalloonFest

Short Description: The Ashland BalloonFest is a spectacular event that attracts thousands of visitors annually. The highlight of this festival is the hot air balloon rides, but there are also food vendors, music, and family activities.

Pros:

• Fun for the whole family with plenty of activities.

• Gorgeous hot air balloon displays and rides.

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable, affecting balloon launches.

• Crowded, especially during peak times.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Hot air balloon launches.

• Live music and food vendors.

10. Explore the Ashland County Fairgrounds

Short Description: Home to a variety of events, including agricultural shows, concerts, and the annual county fair, the Ashland County Fairgrounds is a hub for local culture and community celebrations.

Pros:

• Hosts diverse events throughout the year.

• Family-friendly with plenty of activities for kids.

Cons:

• Only active during certain seasons.

• Parking can be limited during large events.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Annual county fair.

• Agricultural shows and local events.

11. Visit Grandpa's Cheesebarn

Short Description: Grandpa's Cheesebarn is a delightful stop for food lovers, offering a wide variety of cheeses, meats, and other local delicacies. It’s the perfect spot for a unique shopping experience.

Pros:

• Great selection of local and artisanal cheeses.

• Friendly atmosphere and excellent customer service.

Cons:

• Limited seating for eating on-site.

• Can be pricey compared to regular grocery stores.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Cheese tastings.

• Local food products and unique gifts.

12. Hike in Mohican-Memorial State Forest

Short Description: Mohican-Memorial State Forest is a peaceful destination for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of Ohio. It’s perfect for outdoor adventurers.

Pros:

• Beautiful trails and serene forest environment.

• Great for birdwatching and photography.

Cons:

• Some trails can be challenging for beginners.

• Limited amenities in the forest itself.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Scenic forest trails.

• Wildlife viewing opportunities.

13. Explore Charles Mill Lake Park

Short Description: Charles Mill Lake Park offers fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities. It’s a fantastic place to spend a relaxing day by the water.

Pros:

• Ideal for fishing and water sports.

• Peaceful environment perfect for a day away from the hustle and bustle.

Cons:

• Limited availability of amenities.

• Can get crowded during peak summer months.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Fishing tournaments.

• Boating and kayaking.

14. Visit the Crittenden Farm

Short Description: Crittenden Farm offers a taste of rural life in Ashland, with opportunities to tour the farm, buy fresh produce, and learn about sustainable farming practices.

Pros:

• Great for fresh produce and farm-to-table experiences.

• Family-friendly with educational opportunities.

Cons:

• Limited hours of operation.

• Seasonal availability of produce.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Seasonal farm tours.

• Fresh produce sales and local crafts.

15. Attend Events Organized by Ashland Main Street

Short Description: Ashland Main Street organizes a variety of community events throughout the year, including farmers' markets, craft fairs, and holiday celebrations.

Pros:

• Great for connecting with the local community.

• Wide range of events for all ages.

Cons:

• Events can be weather-dependent.

• Can be crowded during peak seasons.

Key Attractions & Events:

• Farmers' market.

• Holiday-themed events and street festivals.

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Ashland, Ohio, offers a wonderful mix of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Whether you're exploring the outdoors at Mohican State Park, enjoying a local event like the BalloonFest, or simply strolling through the historic district, there’s always something to see and do.

Best Time to Visit Ashland, Ohio

Ashland experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences. Here’s a look at the seasonal highlights:

Each season brings its own charm, making Ashland an attractive year-round destination.

Unique Gems of Ashland

Grandpa's Cheesebarn & Sweeties Chocolates

This family-owned store is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in local treats. Known for its variety of cheeses, homemade fudge, and other delectable delights, Grandpa’s Cheesebarn offers a taste of Ashland’s best. It’s a great spot to grab a souvenir or just satisfy your sweet tooth.

Anderson Schoolhouse

A restored one-room schoolhouse, the Anderson Schoolhouse serves as a museum that immerses visitors in the educational practices of the past. It's a fantastic spot for history enthusiasts to explore Ohio’s early schooling system in an interactive and engaging setting.

Ashland Theatre

This historic venue is perfect for those who love arts and entertainment. Showcasing a variety of films and live performances, the Ashland Theatre continues to serve as a cultural centerpiece in the community. Whether you're watching a classic film or enjoying a live performance, the theater offers an unforgettable experience.

Suggested Day Itinerary in Ashland

Morning:

Start your day with a visit to the Anderson Schoolhouse. This living history museum gives you a fascinating glimpse into Ashland’s educational past. You can take a self-guided tour or participate in one of the special events held throughout the year.

Afternoon:

After soaking up some history, head to a local café for a relaxed lunch. Brookside Park, a nearby green space, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy the natural beauty, perhaps catching sight of some local wildlife or simply relaxing by the pond.

Evening:

Wrap up your day by attending a performance at the Ashland Theatre. Whether it's a live play, a concert, or a movie screening, this historic venue offers entertainment for all tastes. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the evening in Ashland.

How to Reach Ashland, Ohio

By Car:

Ashland is conveniently located off Interstate 71, positioned approximately halfway between Cleveland and Columbus. Whether you're driving from the north or south, Ashland is easily accessible via this major highway.

By Air:

The nearest major airport to Ashland is Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), about an hour's drive from the city. This airport offers a wide range of domestic flights, making it a convenient option for those traveling to Ashland by air.

By Bus:

For those relying on public transportation, Greyhound and other bus services offer routes to nearby cities, with local transit options to Ashland. It’s an affordable and practical option for visitors coming from neighboring regions.

Conclusion

Ashland, Ohio, seamlessly combines historical charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking a diverse and enriching experience. Whether you’re exploring historical sites, attending cultural performances, or enjoying the outdoors, Ashland offers something for everyone. With its welcoming atmosphere and hidden gems, Ashland is a place where memories are made.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the operating hours of Grandpa's Cheesebarn?
A1: Grandpa's Cheesebarn is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Q2: Is there public transportation available within Ashland?
A2: Yes, Ashland Public Transit offers local bus services throughout the city, making it easy to get around.

Q3: Are there guided tours available in Mohican State Park?
A3: Yes, guided tours are available seasonally. It’s recommended to check the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website for current schedules.

Q4: Can I rent equipment for outdoor activities in Ashland?
A4: Yes, several local outfitters provide equipment rentals for activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.

Q5: What events are held during the Ashland BalloonFest?
A5: The BalloonFest features hot air balloon launches, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, making it a highlight of the summer season in Ashland.