Ashland VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ashland, Virginia.
1. Ashland/Hanover Visitor Center
GATEWAY TO ASHLAND
The Ashland/Hanover Visitor Center serves as the first stop for travelers exploring the charming town of Ashland. Staffed with friendly personnel, visitors can get answers to all their questions about local attractions, accommodations, and events. While Amtrak tickets cannot be purchased here, it remains an essential resource for tourists seeking to maximize their Ashland experience.
2. Center Of The Universe Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Center Of The Universe Brewing Company offers a cool atmosphere for beer enthusiasts in Ashland. Visitors can enjoy both indoor seating and outdoor spaces, making it accessible from nearby accommodations like the local campground. The brewery combines quality craft beverages with a welcoming environment that appeals to both locals and tourists.
3. Hickory Creek Antiques
VINTAGE TREASURE TROVE
Hickory Creek Antiques stands as one of Metro Richmond's largest and most popular destinations for antiques and collectibles. The mall was voted a 2015 Best of Hanover County establishment and has been featured by Richmond Magazine as a cute place to shop in Ashland. Open daily from 10 AM to closing, this antique mall offers a vast selection of vintage items for collectors and casual shoppers alike.
4. Hanover Vegetable Farm
FAMILY FUN FARM
Hanover Vegetable Farm provides a delightful agricultural experience for visitors of all ages. The farm features a petting area, animals on display, a bouncy house, and two different mazes for exploration. Guests also have the opportunity to feed the animals, making it an interactive and educational destination for families.
5. Ashland Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
Ashland Museum showcases exhibits on the town's rich history from 1836 to 1940, offering a glimpse into the past. Regular hours include Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM and Sundays from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM, with private viewings available by request through their website. Visitors can explore historical artifacts, a caboose, and a toy train among the museum's noteworthy attractions.
6. Slash Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Slash Church represents an important piece of Ashland's religious heritage and architectural history. The historic church building showcases period construction techniques and has been preserved as a testament to the area's past. Visitors interested in historical religious sites will find the church's design and surroundings worthy of exploration.
7. Secretariat Racing Into History Statue
LEGENDARY HORSE MEMORIAL
The Secretariat Racing Into History Statue commemorates the legendary Triple Crown winner with ties to the Ashland area. This impressive sculpture captures the power and grace of one of horse racing's greatest champions. The statue serves as both a tourist attraction and a point of local pride for Ashland residents.
8. Andy's Restaurant & Lounge
LOCAL DINING INSTITUTION
Andy's Restaurant & Lounge offers visitors a taste of authentic local cuisine in a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. The establishment serves as both a dining destination and a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Andy's menu features a variety of dishes that showcase regional flavors while providing a genuine Ashland dining experience.
9. Ashland Farmers Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Ashland Farmers Market brings together local farmers, artisans, and food producers offering fresh goods to the community. Visitors can browse stalls filled with seasonal produce, handcrafted items, and specialty foods while enjoying the small-town atmosphere. The market represents Ashland's commitment to supporting local agriculture and small businesses.
10. Ashland Theatre
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The historic Ashland Theatre stands as a cultural cornerstone in downtown Ashland. This beautifully restored venue hosts a variety of performances including films, live music, and community events throughout the year. The theatre's vintage charm combined with modern amenities makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking entertainment.
11. Randolph-Macon College
HISTORIC ACADEMIC CAMPUS
Randolph-Macon College occupies a beautiful campus in the heart of Ashland with impressive architecture and landscaped grounds. The liberal arts college, founded in 1830, contributes significantly to the cultural and intellectual life of the community. Visitors can explore the college grounds, admire the historic buildings, and potentially attend public events hosted by the institution.
12. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
PREMIER ART COLLECTION
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts houses a comprehensive collection spanning 5,000 years of world history in a stunning architectural setting. Located a short drive from Ashland in Richmond, this renowned institution offers free general admission to its permanent exhibitions. The museum's diverse holdings include American art, African art, European masterpieces, and one of the finest collections of Art Nouveau and Art Deco in the world.
13. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
FLORAL PARADISE NEARBY
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden encompasses over 50 acres of spectacular gardens just a short drive from Ashland. Visitors can explore numerous themed gardens, including a classical domed Conservatory housing exotic plants from around the world. The garden offers year-round beauty with seasonal displays, educational programs, and special events that make it one of the region's most beloved attractions.
14. Maymont
HISTORIC ESTATE GARDENS
Maymont is a 100-acre Victorian estate and public park featuring spectacular gardens, a historic mansion, and wildlife exhibits. Located in Richmond near Ashland, this cultural treasure offers visitors the opportunity to explore Japanese and Italian gardens, a nature center, and a historic house museum. The former home of James and Sallie Dooley, who lived there from 1893 to 1925, Maymont now serves as a beloved public space combining natural beauty with historical significance.
15. Gallery Flux
CONTEMPORARY ART SPACE
Gallery Flux showcases contemporary works from local and regional artists in a welcoming downtown Ashland space. The gallery features rotating exhibitions across various mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. Art enthusiasts can browse unique pieces, meet artists during special events, and even purchase original artwork to take home as a memento of their visit to Ashland.