Top 10 things to Do in Ashland

Top 10 Things to Do in Ashland, WI

1. Ashland Historic Mural Walk
   Explore the Historic Mural Capital of Wisconsin! Follow the “Mural Brick Road” and discover over 20 stunning murals that bring Ashland’s rich history to life.  Check out the Mosaic Mural in the “Tunnel” under highway 2.  The tunnel has a fun scavenger hunt for the kids.
   🚍 Don’t miss the Mural Trolley Tours offered June–September!
   🔗 www.muralbrickroad.com
2. Shop Ashland’s Historic Main Street & Hwy 2
   Discover charming shops, galleries, and specialty stores filled with unique treasures—from artisan bread and handmade German chocolates to vintage clothing and outdoor gear. Historic architecture and welcoming storefronts make every stroll a delight.
   🍽️ Hungry? Every restaurant in Ashland—aside from fast food—is independently owned and operated, offering a deliciously local experience. Savor everything from specialty whitefish dishes and classic Wisconsin cheese curds to giant pretzels and more.
   🎯 For a twist on fun, try axe throwing at The Local Bar & Grille, located at the Chequamegon Bay Golf Course!
3. Lake Superior & Chequamegon Bay Adventures
   Ashland is home to a 10 mile Waterfront trail that links to the city of Ashland via a tunnel under highway 2.  Check out our clean, beaches at Masloski Beach, and Kreher Park.  Stop off for an ice cream cone, available in 4 places along the trail and a cold micro-brew at South Shore Brewery Beer, located on historic Mainstreet.  Chequamegon Bay is a year-round fishing paradise and one of the top Smallmouth Bass fisheries in the U.S.! Catch walleye, pike, trout, salmon, and perch—or witness the spring smelt run. A must for anglers and nature lovers alike. Ashland has several places to fish without a boat.
4. Copper Falls State Park
   Just a short drive from Ashland, this breathtaking park features Copper Falls, Brownstone Falls, and Red Granite Falls. Hike, camp, fish, bike, or ski in one of Wisconsin’s most scenic natural areas.
5. Morgan Falls & St. Peter’s Dome
   A 3.6-mile round-trip hike rewards you with sweeping views from a 1,565-foot granite outcrop over the Penokee Range, Chequamegon Bay, and the Apostle Islands. Morgan Falls is a hidden gem flowing wild and free.
6. Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
   Spanning over a million acres, this natural wonderland offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, birding, biking, hunting, and swimming. Pure Northwoods adventure!
7. Unique Winter Fun – Ice Racing & Book Across the Bay
   Watch cars race on the frozen bay every Sunday in Jan–Feb. Then experience Book Across the Bay, one of the Midwest’s top XC ski events—skiing across Chequamegon Bay lit by thousands of luminaries. Unforgettable!
8. Festivals & Fairs Galore
   Celebrate the seasons at local favorites like Ashland Bay Days, the Ashland County Fair, Butternut Pioneer Days, the Glidden Fair, and Madeline Island Fall Festival. There’s always something to cheer for!
9. Tamarack Health WhistleStop Marathon Weekend
   Run a Boston-qualifying course through peak fall colors! Includes a Half Marathon, 5K/10K, Pasta Feed, and the Blues & Brews Festival. A true celebration of fitness and fun in October!
10. Apostle Islands & Madeline Island
    Hop on the Madeline Island Ferry for a day of biking, shopping, swimming, and exploring Big Bay State Park, “The Lagoon,” or renting a mo-ped for island adventures. Don’t miss the Apostle Islands Inline Skate Marathon in June