Top Things to Do in Ashland, Wisconsin – A Tourist’s Guide
Ashland, Wisconsin, is located on Lake Superior’s south shore. With a population of just over 8,000 residents, Ashland is a small but vibrant community that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions to visitors. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene.
The Chequamegon Bay region’s beautiful forests, lakes, and streams surround Ashland. This area is famous for outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, and canoeing. The city is also home to several parks and nature preserves, including the iconic Copper Falls State Park and the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Ashland is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The city has a rich history dating back to the region’s early days of European settlement. Visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage through its museums, historical sites, and cultural events. Ashland is also home to a thriving arts scene, with several galleries, theaters, and performing arts venues showcasing the work of local and regional artists. Ashland is a great place to visit and explore if you are interested in history, nature, or the arts.
Why is Ashland, Wisconsin, a great place to visit?
Ashland boasts a rich history, beautiful scenery, and many recreational activities, making it an excellent destination for tourists and residents. Here are a few reasons why Ashland is a great place to visit:
- Scenic Beauty: Ashland is surrounded by natural beauty, including Lake Superior and Chequamegon Bay. The city has numerous parks and hiking trails, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Cultural Attractions: Ashland is home to several historical sites, including the historic downtown area and the Ashland Historical Museum. The city also has a thriving arts community, with several galleries, theaters, and music venues.
- Outdoor Activities: Ashland offers a range of outdoor activities, from fishing and boating on Lake Superior to skiing and snowboarding at nearby ski resorts. The city also has a well-maintained network of biking and hiking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Culinary Scene: Ashland is known for its delicious cuisine, with various restaurants serving local and international dishes. Whether you are in the mood for a gourmet meal or a casual bite, you will find something to satisfy your taste buds in Ashland.
Prentice Park
Prentice Park is a popular park located in Ashland, Wisconsin. This park offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature and enjoy various outdoor activities. The park covers a large area and has a diverse landscape, including forests, open fields, and rolling hills. The park has many trails and paths perfect for hiking, biking, and jogging.
The park is also a great place to relax and enjoy peaceful surroundings. There are many picnic areas and benches where visitors can sit and enjoy a meal or soak in the park’s beauty. In addition, the park has a large playground that is perfect for children to play on and explore.
Prentice Park is also a popular destination for birdwatching. The park is home to various bird species, including warblers, vireos, thrushes, and sparrows. There are many observation points in the park where visitors can watch the birds and learn more about their behavior and habitat. Prentice Park is a must-visit for a great outdoor experience in Ashland, Wisconsin.
Ashland Mural Walk
The Ashland Mural Walk is a popular tourist attraction in Ashland, Wisconsin. The walk features a collection of vibrant and colorful murals that have been painted on various buildings throughout the city. These murals were created by local artists and showcase the rich history, culture, and beauty of Ashland and its surrounding areas.
Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the city while admiring the breathtaking artwork. Each mural tells a unique story and showcases the talent of the artists who created them. Some famous murals include the “Historical Ellis Avenue Mural,” which features Northland College’s Wheeler Hall, The Knight Hotel, and the old Ashland High School.
The Ashland Mural Walk is a great activity for families, couples, and anyone who loves art and culture. It is a wonderful way to spend a sunny afternoon, take in the sights and sounds of Ashland, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage and history.
Bayview Park
Bayview Park is a beautiful park located in Ashland, Wisconsin. This park is a popular destination for residents and tourists, offering a range of recreational activities and breathtaking views of Lake Superior. The park is well-maintained and boasts a large, spacious lawn for picnicking and playing and a playground for children.
One of the main attractions at Bayview Park is its stunning location on the shores of Lake Superior. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings from the park’s many scenic overlooks. The park is also home to a long sandy beach, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Whether you want to relax and soak up the sun or get active and enjoy water activities, Bayview Park has something for everyone.
In addition to its stunning location and recreational opportunities, Bayview Park also offers a variety of amenities for visitors. There are picnic areas, grills for cooking a meal, restrooms, and changing facilities. The park also has a large parking lot, making it easy for visitors to access the park by car.
Chequamegon Bay
Chequamegon Bay is a stunning natural inlet located in Ashland, Wisconsin. This breathtaking area is home to various scenic landscapes, from rolling hills and pristine beaches to lush forests and sparkling waters. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the bay by hiking along its many trails, fishing or boating in its calm waters, or simply relaxing on its sandy shores.
Chequamegon Bay is also known for its diverse wildlife and marine life. The area is home to various birds and other animals, including bald eagles, ospreys, and river otters. Visitors can also spot fish species in the bay, including lake sturgeon, musky, and northern pike. The bay is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, with opportunities to catch various species throughout the year.
In addition to its natural beauty, Chequamegon Bay is also a cultural and historical hub, with a rich heritage deeply rooted in the area’s indigenous communities. Visitors can learn about the area’s history and culture by visiting the many museums and cultural centers in Ashland. With so much to see and do, Chequamegon Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and wonder of Ashland, Wisconsin.
Ashland Historical Society Museum
The Ashland Historical Society Museum is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in learning about the rich history of Ashland, Wisconsin. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian home, the museum features exhibits that tell the story of the city and its people from its early days to the present. From indigenous artifacts and early settler memorabilia to exhibits showcasing the city’s growth and development, there is something here for everyone.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Ashland Historical Society Museum is its collection of local artifacts and photographs. Visitors can explore the city’s past through vintage clothing, tools, household items, and photographs showing the city’s growth and development over the years. The museum also has a section dedicated to Ashland’s history as a logging town and its transition to a thriving tourist destination, with displays of old logging equipment and photos of the city’s bustling harbor.
The Ashland Historical Museum is not just a place to admire artifacts and learn about the city’s past. It is also a lively community center that hosts events and activities for all ages. The museum is a hub of cultural activity in Ashland, from talks and workshops to seasonal festivals and holiday celebrations.