By Jennifer R. Demuth
In north central Ohio, there are 427 square miles of natural beauty, history, and recreational opportunities that make up Ashland County. With numerous events and attractions to suit the interests of any tourist, the county truly offers something for everyone, which is why county residents proclaim that it's "Absolutely Ashland County."
Amy Daubenspeck, executive director of the Ashland Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, shared, "Ashland County is so diverse. We have something for everyone in the family to enjoy, from hiking, biking, canoeing and camping to theatre, ballet, symphony and bandshell performances. If you want to get out of the city, slow down and relax, come to Ashland County. Reconnect with your family and make some great memories at the same time."
There are many ways to explore Ashland County. By road, visitors will want to travel both of Ashland County's State Scenic Byways. The Lincoln Highway, America's first coast-to-coast rock highway, runs through Ashland and is a wonderful representation of the area's heritage. The 10.5 mile Wally Road Byway begins in Ashland County and holds the distinction of being the only State Scenic Byway to run exclusively on county roads.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy seeing Ashland County by water, as they paddle down the Mohican River in a canoe or kayak. With numerous campgrounds, canoe liveries and recreational businesses, the village of Loudonville offers many natural attractions for those who enjoy the great outdoors.
On foot, visitors to Ashland County can enjoy many areas of natural forests, including Byers Woods, Crall Woods and River Walk Natural Area. These areas are best enjoyed by hiking, biking, fishing, and bird watching. The beautiful Mohican State Park also offers several scenic hiking trails.
By air, balloonists from all over the country flock to Ashland County for Ashland's BalloonFest, held each year close to the 4th of July weekend. With many festival events planned for people of all ages, this premier event is not to be missed.
Those who appreciate fine arts will be glad to take in one of the many performances staged at Ashland University, which hosts world-renowned speakers, top-notch musicians and plays. Visitors can explore the museums, art galleries and beautiful gardens that make up the campus.
Whether traveling by road, water, foot or air, visitors to Ashland County are sure to enjoy the area's wide variety of unique shopping and dining experiences. In Ashland, Fin, Feather, Fur Outfitters carries one of Ohio's largest selections of outdoor gear under one roof. At Loudonville, find Native American gifts and jewelry at Creative Outlet. Also at Loudonville, cool off with a root beer float from Books, Baubles, and Brew, an old-fashioned soda fountain. At Ashland, be sure to visit Grandpa's Cheesebarn and Village to sample the more than 70 varieties of cheese available, and gourmet chocolates from Sweetie's Jumbo Chocolates.
When planning a trip to Ashland County in 2008, try to schedule a visit to one of the following events: Ashland Chautauqua, June 24-28; Ashland BalloonFest, July 3-6; Antique Tractor & Engine Show, July 11-13; Great Mohican Indian Pow-Wow, July 11-13 and Sept. 19-21; Ashland County Fair, Sept. 14-20; and the Loudonville Street Fair, Sept. 30-Oct. 4. For more information, visit www.visitashlandohio.com.
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