Things to do in Ashland
Welcome to the "Center of the Universe"—Ashland’s slogan reflects its location, right in the center of Virginia
Developed as a resort to accommodate railway passengers, today's Ashland is a small college town. You'll find a youthful vibe intertwined with Civil War heritage. Explore the North Anna Battlefield or the Ashland Museum to get a true sense of the place. If its thrills and spills you're looking for, King's Dominion amusement park is nearby.
Hiking and History at North Anna Battlefield Park
Immerse yourself in Civil War history at North Anna Battlefield Park. In May of 1864, over 150,000 soldiers faced off in the Battle of North Anna. Hike the more than 6 miles of trails at the 172-acre site, each with historic markers detailing trenches, rifle pits and more. Feeling energetic? Try the Blue Trail, with its steep hills and challenging terrain. The Gray Trail is more forgiving. Both wind through groves of oak and hickory trees, and you'll find bird- and wildlife-watching opportunities. Explore the park in the fall, and see the splendor of hardwood trees awash in red, orange and gold.
Civil War and Ponies at the Ashland Museum
Learn even more about the Civil War at the Ashland Museum. You'll find pictures of Camp Ashland, a cavalry training post set up at the local racetrack. Learn how the town's enthusiasm for horses extends into the present, even claiming links to Secretariat, the Triple Crown winner. Love trains? You'll find a 1926 C&O red caboose on site, as well as photos and artifacts dating back to when Ashland was first known as Slash Cottage, a railroad resort. The museum is a fascinating look back at a town that's been around since the 19th century.
Thrills, Spills and Dinosaurs at Kings Dominion
The exciting Kings Dominion amusement park is only 8 miles north of Ashland via Interstate 95. If you're into thrill rides, try the Anaconda, a looping roller coaster that goes through an underwater tunnel. The Drop Tower puts you into a 72 mile-per-hour free-fall, covering 305 feet in seconds. Check out Planet Snoopy and the cast of characters from the popular Charlie Brown comic strip. Are you ready to meet T-Rex? Head for Dinosaurs Alive, where you'll find 40 life-size animatronic dinosaurs in their primeval forest. Dine on everything from pizza to salads at food vendors throughout the park. This place is pure fun, and a great place for the kids to burn off that excess energy.
Fried Green Tomatoes and Deep-Fried Cheesecake
Have you ever tried fried green tomatoes? Yes, they do exist, and you'll find them at Jake's Place (511 Thompson St., Ashland). You'll also find such Southern comfort foods as hush-puppies with honey butter, barbecued pulled pork or chicken, fried catfish and grits. O'Bank's Cafe and Grill (10392 Leadbetter Rd., Ashland) may look like your typical Irish pub, but the food comes from many cultures. Choose from a veggie-laden Greek salad, the half-pound O'Bank's burger or ahi tuna. Pepicelli's (208 South Washington Hwy, Ashland) is the local go-to joint for pizza, subs and wings in a variety of sauces. Splurge on the OMG Cheesecake, a hunk of cheesecake wrapped in dough and then deep fried. Calories don't count when you’re on vacation!
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