Absolutely Ashland County!

What makes us Absolutely Ashland County? There’s something for everyone. We offer fun, inviting events and attractions to satisfy each member of the family…wrapped up in a warm and beautiful package that is Ashland County.

The city of Ashland has become a well-respected center for the arts, beginning with Ashland University. The Hugo Young Theatre on the Ashland University campus hosts world-renowned speakers, as well as top-notch musicians and plays. On campus, explore the museums, art galleries, and beautiful gardens.

Ashland is well known for its Parks and Recreation facilities - hosting many softball, golf, tennis, and soccer tournaments. In fact, there are seven parks in all, with activities for young and old - including the challenging Brookside Golf Course.

In June, Ashland hosts Chautauqua, where you'll encounter history through first person historical portrayals. Trained actor/scholars assume the character of historical figures and present living history performances in the open air surroundings of the Myers Memorial Bandshell.

BalloonFest, one of Ashland’s premier events, is held every year close to the 4th of July weekend. Balloonists come from all over the country to participate. The Balloon Glow, music, and stage performances, along with balloon races, make for a fun-filled weekend. Some other summer events include ice cream socials, motorcycle races, classic car shows, an antique tractor and engine show, farmers markets and a multitude of horse shows and sales.

The Myers Memorial Bandshell comes alive in the summer with a variety of musical acts, highlighted by the Ashland Symphony. Ashland is also home to the Ashland Regional Ballet and Opus II Dance Studio. There is no better way to enjoy the Fall than to pick your own pumpkin, make your way through a corn maze, or have a frightfully good time in a haunted corn maze – and you can do it all at Honey Haven Farms. Winter is festive in Ashland, with a holiday parade, Ashland County Historical Society’s Candlelight Open House, and Ashland University's Madrigal Feaste and Festival of Lights.

Shopping enthusiasts will love Ashland's stores, from nationally recognized chains to wonderful specialty shops scattered throughout the area. Take a stroll through downtown Ashland where you’ll find unique gourmet gifts, antiques, something sweet or salty, furniture and more. Outdoorsmen from across the Midwest flock to Fin, Feather, Fur Outfitters. This hunting and fishing superstore carries one of Ohio's largest selections of outdoor gear under one roof. Next door you’ll find Grandpa’s Cheesebarn and Village featuring Sweeties Jumbo Chocolates, home of delicious handmade chocolates. Shop at the Cheesebarn for Grandpa’s favorite summer sausage and over 70 varieties of cheese. You'll find plenty of dining options too. Ashland's restaurants satisfy a wide range of tastes from fast food, to ethnic, to family dining.

We invite you to take a walking tour of our Center Street Historical District and visit the Ashland County Historical Museum. Just a short drive from downtown Ashland, you’ll discover the turn-of-the-century Hayesville Opera House. The Lincoln Highway, America’s first coast-to-coast rock highway, runs through Ashland and has been designated a State Historic Byway. These are wonderful representations of our area heritage.

The Ashland County Park District conserves natural areas of forest, woodland, farm, and fields for the enjoyment of the people and to promote multiple uses for these areas, including: hiking, walking, biking, hunting, fishing, bird watching and other outdoor pursuits. Byers Woods, Crall Woods, and River Walk Natural Area are just a few of the parks that are under the care of the Park District.

Whether you're interested in exciting events, a relaxing family outing, or a day of shopping and dining, Ashland County is a great place to make your next trip memorable.