With renowned cultural amenities and year-round outdoor recreational opportunities, Ashland is bursting with activity. Interested in free things to do in Ashland this summer? The Rock the Knoll concert series offers music and dancing for all ages under the summer stars. Learn more things to do for free near Ashland to enjoy the best of our vibrant community.
From Mountain Hikes to Museum Strolls: Free Things to Do In Ashland
Thanks to our natural wonders, manicured parks, and carefully-cultivated museums, there’s no shortage of free things to do in Ashland this summer. Our list of activities and events includes something for every age and interest.
Lithia Park
What are some free things to do near me in Ashland? The answer always lies in Lithia Park. Known as the jewel of Ashland, Lithia Park’s 93+ acres offers a day’s worth of free activities. Sculpted green lawns offer dozens of picnic options, along with hiking trails, volleyball and pickleball courts, a playground and a Japanese garden. Guided nature walks are available throughout the summer to gain first-hand knowledge of the park’s many historical and natural landmarks.
- Hours: Dawn-11:30pm
- Price: Free
- Highlights: Japanese garden, sand-pit volleyball court, historical fountains, rose garden, playground, woodland hiking trails
- Address: 59 Winburn Way, Ashland, OR 97520
Rock the Knoll Concert Series
Concerts at Oak Knoll Golf Course are one of the best free things to do in Ashland when the sun goes down. From July-early September the golf course offers free musical performances by a variety of local bands in this 4-part concert series. Children and adults alike can enjoy music, dancing, and putting under the night sky while supporting the local music scene.
- Dates: July 16th, July 23rd, August 27th, September 10th
- Price: Free, food and drink available for purchase
- Highlights: live music, dancing, night putting, food and beverages
- Address: 3070 Highway 66, Ashland, OR 97520
Grizzly Peak Loop Trail
What can you do in Ashland for free with an active family? To fully enjoy the region’s natural wonders, hiking the Grizzly Peak Loop trail is a must. This moderate, 5.1 mile trail is easily accessible, with gentle grades and clear woodland paths. June-July is peak wildflower season, with over 300 species visible throughout the trail. Scenic views of the Rogue River Valley include Mount McLoughlin, Mount Shasta, and Pilot Rock and, on clear days, the Three Sisters.
- Hours: Sunrise-Sunset
- Price: Free
- Highlights: mountain and wildflower views, easily-accessible trails, mountain bikers, and equestrians welcome
- Address: 38-2e-9.2 Ashland, OR 97520
Schneider Museum of Art
What museums are free in Ashland? The Schneider Museum of Art on Southern Oregon University’s main campus can provide an afternoon of free art appreciation. Its permanent collection displays a variety of mediums from lithographs and Central American ceramics to Native American baskets and African artifacts. Rotating exhibitions include this summer’s collection of Cuban artists, on display through July 1st.
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10am-4pm
- Price: Free, $5 donation suggested
- Highlights: Free guided tours every Tuesday, Art Beyond Series with outdoor exhibits and artist info sessions
- Address: 555 Indiana Street, Southern Oregon University, Ashland, OR 97520
As a proud part of the local community, the team at Just-in Time Appliance is happy to highlight free things to do in Ashland. We hope you enjoy all the seasonal activities that summer offers!
