For Native Peoples Day (I think non-Bay Area residents call it "Columbus Day?") Weekend, Mr. Man & I took a lovely trip to Ashland, Oregon.
Obviously, it's a bit of a niche destination, appealing only to people who like theater, food, wine, outdoor activities, and day spas. You know, just a small segment of the population.
So, may I make a few suggestions for your trip there? May I be so bold as to plan your entire itinerary?
Here goes:
Thursday: Fly or Drive to Ashland, getting into town around 10pm. Have dinner at one of the few places open past 10, such as Standing Stone Brewery (if you feel like drinking a life changing IPA) or try Liquid Assets if you would prefer a nice glass of wine with your tapas. Check into your hotel. We stayed in Medford because it was free, but there are some lovely B&B's in the area that run about $100 a night.
Friday: Sleep in. Have a late breakfast at Morning Glory because it is less busy on weekdays. (If you can agree on a dish, split it. You will save money and your waistline, since they give you way too much food. Just remember to tip as though you ordered for two, as you will want to come back and you'll need to buy the waitress' attention.) Hop in the car and drive out to Crater Lake. Drive around it, hike down to the water, take a ride out to Wizard Island. Grab some punch and pie at Annie's on your way out of the park. Take the long way home and go on some hikes. Go back to the hotel, catch a quick dinner at Dragonfly (and notice the breakfast menu and consider it briefly before deciding to go back to Morning Glory.) If it's the first Friday of the month, head down to the railroad district for the Artwalk. Otherwise, go see a show. All the seats are great, as long as you are not in the balcony. Get the cheap ones so you can see more shows.
Saturday: Wake up in time for breakfast at the B&B or go out. (Dragonfly if you must, but have you tried the Smoked Tomato Chutney at Morning Glory yet?) If you're feeling healthy, rent a bike and ride the Bear Creek Greenway. Otherwise, jump in the car and head out Hwy 238 to Jacksonville. Window shop in the cute downtown. If you've got time and money, have lunch on the patio of the Jacksonville Inn, otherwise, top for a Reuben and Latkes (or a great salad) MacLevin's on California Street. Continue on Hwy 238 to the Applegate Valley Wineries. At John Michael Champagne Cellars the friendly vinter and his wife pour the wines and chat you up. Troon can be counted on for regular weekend activities, potable wine, and a Bocce Ball court. Head back to your hotel, catch dinner at any of these fine establishments and the head off for another show! Or, if you'd like to combine dinner and theater, try the Oregon Cabaret.
Sunday: Wake up in time for the 10am backstage tour of all three theaters. Then head down to the Railroad district for the walking tour or skip the tour and go straight to Chozu for tea, a massage, and the heated pools. If you have time, catch a matinee, or just stay longer at the spa. The only respectable Catholic Church around is Our Lady of the Mountain, with their cute, young, energetic pastor. Mass is at 5pm. If you are one of those people who like waking up early on vacation, there is also a 9am Mass. Arrive early to the morning Mass. It is generally packed. For your last meal, if you still have the cash, try the prix fixe at New Sammy's Cowboy Bistro. This is the place the locals covet. You'll still need to call for a reservation, but they've added on recently so it's easier to get in. Or see one last show. It's up to you!
Monday: If you are married to an insane person, drive from Oregon to California by way of the Oregon Caves and impossibly tiny back roads. Then go home and get back to work! You'll need to replenish your bank account for the next vacation.
Wow! This is great. We live about 40 minutes from Ashland, but have not been there yet. I jotted sown some info for future reference. Thanks.
Posted by: Alida | November 04, 2007 at 06:13 PM