Change of Scenery
Visiting Ashland, Oregon…
Travel is a special kind of reset, one for the mind, body and soul. A welcome change of scene and scenery, by way of a short road trip to a beautiful place, reminds us of the power that art, nature and creativity hold in our lives. Ashland, Ore., a community regaled for its annual Shakespeare Festival and so much more, fits the proverbial playbill.
As the curtain drops on summer and fall takes center stage, consider a weekend getaway to the stunning town with a diverse and enchanting range of shops, restaurants and experiences. Follow along to learn more about a few fan favorites.
1 Jupiter Row Mercantile
31 N. Main Street – Curated by the deft hand of an artist, this local mercantile boasts a stunning selection of indie-inspired apparel, jewelry, accessories, candles, gift items, plants and home décor. The good vibes are strong here, too, with a sweet mix of crystals, stones, feathers, wellness rituals and self-care items adorning the feast-for-the-eyes displays. jupiterrow.com
2 Prize
264 E. Main Street – Looking for an eclectic shop with everything from vintage furnishings and estate jewelry to chocolate and handmade gift cards? Keep your eye on Prize, the self-proclaimed “petite department store” treasured by locals and visitors alike since 2005. There truly is a little something for everyone – from people to pets – in this stunning shop with the striped awning, located in The Columbia Hotel. prizeshoppe.com
3 Market of Choice Ashland
475 Siskiyou Boulevard – It may seem like an ordinary grocery store, but the treasures inside Market of Choice Ashland tell a different story. This carefully curated market highlights an array of Oregon-grown-and-produced delicacies, from fresh produce and meats to the state’s famous Marionberry spread. The bakery creates edible works of art. Don’t leave without checking out their unique gift items, souvenirs and plants. marketofchoice.com
4 Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine
212 E. Main Street – Casual elegance reigns supreme in this quaint restaurant inside the historic Ashland Springs Hotel. You’ll be transported back in time with one glance at the art-deco-inspired bar, known for its unique approaches to classic cocktails and some unexpected surprises. The staff is top notch, and the comfort food is elevated to the next level as French influence meets new American tradition on a plate. larksashland.com
5 Brother’s Restaurant
95 N. Main Street – This vibrant, bustling community-centered favorite has been serving up delicious breakfast and lunch options, including signature omelets, scrambles, deli sandwiches, burgers and more, since 1976. Don’t forget to add a side of art to your order. The walls of the two-story building are adorned with local artwork available for purchase. Brothers’ Restaurant is conveniently located near The Bard’s Inn Hotel. brothersrestaurant.net
6 Brickroom Ashland
35 N. Main Street – From morning “brickfast” to late-night bites, this gathering house enchants patrons with a casually cool vibe in a stunning old brick building. Whether you pop in for lunch after a playdate in the park, need a sweet spot for date night, or you’re after a signature cocktail with friends and good vibes, Brickroom checks all the boxes. brickroomashland.com
7 Litha Park
Winburn Way – During lush, green summer months, in the fall, when the greens give way to reds, oranges and yellows, or any other time of year, Lithia Park is the perfect place to play or pose for pictures. Cascading trees, meandering waterways, trails, gardens and play structures create an outdoor paradise worthy of a visit. Bring your camera. This park is sure to inspire your inner photographer.
ashlandoregon.gov
8 The Oregon Cabaret Theater
241 Hargadine Street – This local gem, housed in an old church-turned-theater, takes a meal and a play to the next level. The Oregon Cabaret, in its 39th season, makes theater accessible all year long, even during the off-season for other venues. Whether you’re seated at the stage level or on the balcony, a fantastic performance by talented thespians – and brunch or dinner options – awaits you. oregoncabaret.com
9 Escape Ashland
40 N. Main Street & 509 Siskiyou Boulevard – Need an escape from the real world? Take a fun-filled adventure into another time and place through an escape room. The Ramblin’ Rogue Saloon or The Scottish Play – two distinct experiences at different locations in the city – have been curated by local artists to highlight Ashland’s cultural and historical heritage. Check out their outdoor hunts and other game options, too. escapeashland.com
