Nestled on the South Shore of Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay, the City of Ashland boasts a unique mix of historic charm and modern convenience. Ashland is a great start point for both the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and southern Ashland County, home to Copper Falls State Park, Saint Peters Dome and Morgan Falls. This historic city spreads out along U.S. Hwy. 2, embracing the shore of Chequamegon Bay and the greatest of the Great Lakes; Lake Superior. Ashland offers endless waterfront activities; hiking & biking, boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing and camping. There are several beaches that offer a view of the pristine waters of the big blue lake. The Lake Superior Waterfront Trail is a continuous trail linking Maslowski Beach on the west to Bayview Park & Beach on the east. You’ll find an actual diving board on the newly renovated pier at Bayview Park & Beach. Maslowski Beach and Prentice Park on the west side of Ashland are known for their natural Spring Water from Artesian Wells. The Artesian wells are a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike. Ashland is home to a full-service 140 slip Marina, conveniently located in the center of Ashland.
The Ashland Oredock jets out nearly 1/8 of a mile located along the waterfront trail. Its easy access makes for a great spot to birdwatch, walk, bicycle ride, run, fish, or picnic. Attractions in Ashland include: Beautiful Murals that depict the history of this over 150-year-old city. Ashland is the “Historic Mural Capital of Wisconsin”, a title that brings tourists from all over to visit and see these life size murals painted by two artists on the sides of historic brownstone buildings in an 8-block historic downtown business district. Along with the historic murals are two community murals located at the Chequamegon Food Co-op and in the tunnel that runs under Highway 2 connecting the beautiful Ashland Lakefront trail to the Historic Downtown.
Ashland’s Restaurants are all locally owned and operated. Whitefish is the favorite fish found in the Chequamegon Bay and several fish to table restaurants such as the Chequamegon Grille, Deepwater Grille, and 2nd Street Bistro offer whitefish and other farm fresh entrées. Burger Barn is known for their excellent burgers, and also Cheese Curds from Wisconsin. Ashland has 5 pizza parlors and three of them originate from the same family. All with a little different twist! El Charro boasts authentic Mexican, and the New China Restaurant is an authentic Chinese restaurant with a lovely outdoor dining area. Family restaurants include the Breakwater Restaurant with beautiful views of the Ashland Lighthouse, and the Ashland Family Restaurant. If fresh bakery and fresh bread is on your list of favorites, the Ashland Baking Company is well known in the region for their fresh baked breads and exquisite desserts. Many gluten-free options. You’ll even find an authentic chocolatier at Gabriele’s German Cookies and Chocolates located on main street. River Rock Inn & Bait Shop has an incredible selection of freshly caught fish and smoked fish from Lake Superior. Southshore Brewery, attached to the Deepwater Grille, is our local micro-brewery specializing in American Pale Ale, and Nut Brown Ale along with seasonal favorites! The Tastes of Wisconsin bring all sorts of tastes from Wisconsin from wine, to homemade bratwurst and sausage to excellent choices of cheeses, spices, and fresh meat.
Ashland is a welcoming community with a diverse inventory of lodging options available from mom and pops to full-service luxury.
Ashland is a four-season destination with a plethora of day trips that can be taken including the Apostle Islands and Madeline Island to the North and Copper Falls State Park to the south and all sorts of beautiful scenery in between.
Please visit our website to order a visitor guide, mural brochure, waterfalls brochure, or any number of other free information pieces we have to offer.
Welcome to Ashland!! Where you’ll find yourself next to the water! www.visitashland.com
Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce ~ P.O. Box 746 ~ Ashland, WI 54806 ~ www.visitashland.com