Oregon’s Rising Star: This Underrated City Is Ideal for Any Traveler

I love Oregon. Some of my favorite towns and cities to visit are in the Beaver State. However, if you are like me, when you are searching for a getaway destination, you likely head to places like the Oregon Coast, Portland, or even Crater Lake National Park. But, there’s an underrated city in Oregon that I’ve discovered is ideal for any traveler — Ashland. For outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, theater lovers, and more, there is plenty to see and do in Ashland. Come along and let me tell you a little more about Oregon’s rising star.

Ashland is a city with approximately 21,000 people. It is located in southern Oregon, less than 15 miles from Medford, and nestled at the base of the Siskiyou and Cascade mountain ranges. Ashland is best known as the home to Southern Oregon University and it's the definition of a true college town.

However, Ashland is also making a name for itself as one of the most beautiful underrated cities in the world. Right in the heart of the city, you’ll fall in love with the charming buildings, local shops, and delicious places to eat (I recommend Sammich!). Adults and children alike will want to spend an entire day learning and exploring at ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum. If you have a love of art, you also won’t want to miss Schneider Museum of Art on Indiana Street.

Lithia Park is another family-friendly destination in Ashland that has something for every member of the family. This gorgeous 100-acre park is filled with trees and flowers, tennis, pickleball, and volleyball courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, a winter ice skating rink, and even trails for a little adventure and physical activity.

If you are searching for heart-racing, outdoor thrills, Ashland is an incredible rafting and kayaking destination as it is near both the Rogue and Klamath Rivers. There are companies in the city that offer guided adventures to best fit your party, adrenaline level, skill level, and more. And if you'd like to stay on land and out of the water, I recommend a delightful hike in the mountains.

For winter sport enthusiasts, there’s even more to love about Ashland, Oregon. Here, you’ll find Mount Ashland Ski Area, a seasonal ski and snowboarding resort that sits on top of Siskiyou Crest. This resort offers up to 200 acres of skiable terrain, multiple dining destinations, a ski school, and so much more.

Theater lovers in particular will love Ashland as this Oregon city is home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. This impressive festival takes place from March to October each year and includes everything from dinner theater to free outdoor green shows.

Ashland is one of the most underrated cities in Oregon. No matter what your interests may be, you’ll find something in this beautiful destination. If you’ve never visited and explored this area before, I suggest you place this city at the top of your bucket list. You won’t regret it.

What are some of your favorite things to do in Ashland, Oregon? Let me know. I’d love to check it out during my next getaway adventure. And, if you are searching for places to stay in Ashland, I recommend a vacation rental where you can feel like a true local.