The Cultural Heart of Ashland: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Ashland , United States

The Cultural Heart of Ashland: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Creativity and natural splendor converge in Ashland, Oregon. On this 60-minute self-guided audio tour, discover the cultural heartbeat of this renowned community.

Starting at the historic Plaza, you'll be immersed in the enchanting Lithia Park—designed by the creator of Golden Gate Park. You’ll follow the bubbling Ashland Creek deeper into the landscape, strolling past serene ponds and winding trails under a lush canopy of trees to find a quiet spot by the water.

Emerging from the green, the route winds past Main Street’s historic landmarks to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. You’ll taste the notorious Lithia mineral water, admire the Italian Butler-Perozzi Fountain, and marvel at the 110-foot tower of the Ashland Springs Hotel.

Explore how the 1890s Chautauqua movement evolved into today’s world-class theater scene, highlighted by the Allen Elizabethan Theatre.

Whether you’re a theater enthusiast or nature lover, this tour offers an insider’s perspective on Ashland’s magic.

Available options

The Cultural Heart of Ashland: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

App for Android and iOS

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Walk through this enchanting 93-acre park designed by the same landscape architect who created San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Experience the joy of "getting lost" among winding trails, towering trees, and the bubbling sounds of Ashland Creek flowing through this natural oasis.

Marvel at this stunning outdoor theatre modelled after London's Fortune Theatre from 1599, complete with authentic Elizabethan architectural details. Experience the magic of open-air performances under the stars at this venue that captures the authentic spirit of Shakespeare's era.

Explore this charming local landmark that adds to Ashland's unique character and downtown atmosphere. Enjoy discovering how this distinctive spot contributes to the eclectic mix of businesses and attractions that make the town so memorable.

Stop 4 Pass by

Pass by this beloved local bakery that has become a cornerstone of Ashland's culinary scene with its artisan breads and pastries. Discover how this charming establishment reflects the town's commitment to quality local businesses and community gathering spaces.

Stop 5 Pass by

Admire the stunning 110-foot tower of this historic hotel, an elegant landmark that has graced Ashland's skyline since 1925. Experience the grandeur of this beautifully restored building that continues to serve as a symbol of the town's sophisticated hospitality.

Stroll past this historic venue that represents Ashland's deep connection to both community entertainment and theatrical excellence. Experience how this local theater contributes to the town's reputation as a place where professional and community arts thrive together.

Stop 7 Pass by

Pass by this flexible performance space that showcases the Oregon Shakespeare Festival's commitment to diverse theatrical experiences. Discover how this modern venue allows for innovative staging and intimate performances that complement the festival's traditional offerings.

Stop 8 Pass by

You'll stroll past the Allen Elizabethan Theatre on this tour around Ashland's cultural highlights.

Stop 9 Pass by

Explore this intimate indoor theater named after the Oregon Shakespeare Festival's founder, featuring modern amenities and excellent acoustics. Enjoy learning how this venue continues Bowmer's vision of bringing world-class theater to this small Oregon town.

Stop 10 Pass by

Stroll along this hidden walkway that runs alongside Ashland Creek, named to honor the town's sister city relationship with Guanajuato, Mexico. Explore this peaceful corridor where the sounds of flowing water create a serene escape from the bustle of downtown.

Stop 11 Pass by

Marvel at this serene garden oasis that showcases traditional Japanese landscaping principles within Lithia Park. Experience a moment of tranquility as you appreciate the carefully curated plants, stones, and water features that create this peaceful retreat.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Food and drink

Transportation

Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This tour starts at Ashland Plaza Flagpole. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Ashland

Ashland, Oregon, is a charming town nestled in the Rogue Valley, known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, and the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival. With a mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty, Ashland offers a unique blend of experiences for visitors.

Top Attractions

Oregon Shakespeare Festival

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is one of the oldest and most renowned Shakespeare festivals in the world. It features performances of Shakespeare's plays, as well as contemporary works, and runs from February to October.

Cultural 2-3 hours per performance Moderate to Expensive

Lithia Park

Lithia Park is a beautiful 93-acre park located in the heart of Ashland. It features walking trails, a duck pond, a rose garden, and the Ashland Creek. The park is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor recreation.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

ScienceWorks Hands-On Museum

ScienceWorks is an interactive science museum designed for children and families. It features over 150 exhibits that cover a wide range of scientific topics, from physics and chemistry to biology and astronomy.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate

Ashland Historic Railroad

The Ashland Historic Railroad offers scenic train rides through the beautiful Rogue Valley. The train travels along a former logging route and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery

The Oregon Vortex is a gravity hill and a popular roadside attraction. Visitors can experience the unusual effects of the vortex, where objects and people appear to defy gravity. The House of Mystery is a quirky museum filled with oddities and curiosities.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Farm-to-table dishes

Many restaurants in Ashland focus on farm-to-table dining, featuring locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce.

All Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are widely available.

Wine and craft beer

Ashland is known for its wine and craft beer scene, with numerous wineries and breweries in the area. Many restaurants offer local wines and beers on their menus.

All Alcoholic beverages.

Artisan chocolates and desserts

Ashland is home to several artisan chocolate shops and bakeries, offering a variety of sweet treats and desserts.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Rafting Picnicking in Lithia Park Wine tasting Spa treatments Oregon Shakespeare Festival Ashland Art Center

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Ashland, with warm weather and numerous outdoor activities. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is in full swing, and the town is bustling with visitors.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ashland is a generally safe and welcoming destination for visitors. The town has a low crime rate and a strong sense of community, making it an enjoyable place to visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid isolated areas at night

Getting there

By air

Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport • 15 miles (24 km)
Eugene Airport • 120 miles (193 km)

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station in Medford

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is reliable and affordable, with frequent service throughout the town and to nearby cities.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Ashland Siskiyou Boulevard East Ashland

Day trips

Crater Lake National Park

70 miles (113 km) • Full day

Crater Lake National Park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, known for its stunning blue waters and dramatic cliffs. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, scenic drives, and boat tours.

Redwood National and State Parks

100 miles (161 km) • Full day or overnight

Redwood National and State Parks are home to some of the tallest trees in the world, offering a unique and awe-inspiring natural experience. The parks feature a variety of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Jacksonville

25 miles (40 km) • Half day or full day

Jacksonville is a charming historic town known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and wine country. Visitors can explore the town's historic district, visit local wineries, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Rogue Valley.

Festivals

Oregon Shakespeare Festival • February to October Ashland Independent Film Festival • April Ashland Wine & Food Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit Lithia Park in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Book tickets for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in advance, especially during peak tourist season
Explore the town's boutique shops and specialty stores for unique and locally made products
Take a scenic drive or hike to enjoy the natural beauty of the Rogue Valley
Attend a local wine or beer festival to experience the region's craftsmanship and hospitality