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Family Fun in Ashland: Uncovering the Magic of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival

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Audrey Rose
Audrey Rose

Exploring the Oregon Shakespeare Festival: A Family Adventure in Ashland

Oh, Oregon! Land of stunning landscapes, hipster coffee shops, and—wait for it—some of the best theater in the United States. Picture this: a picturesque town called Ashland, filled with art, culture, and the enchanting sounds of Shakespeare's sonnets floating through the breeze. Add in an energetic husband, two spirited little boys, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable family getaway at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF).

The Highlights: A Stage Beyond Our Dreams

Our trip kicked off with a warm welcome from Ashland's charming community, complete with colorful murals and the intoxicating smell of freshly baked pastries wafting from local cafés. A wide-angle landscape photograph capturing vibrant murals in Ashland, featuring colorful street art. In the foreground, charming cafés add to the scene. The murals are illuminated by soft daylight, creating an atmosphere of creativity and joy, with warm tones enhancing the inviting ambiance. Our first evening was spent under the stars at OSF's Allen Elizabethan Theatre, where we experienced Shakespeare's dynamic “Much Ado About Nothing.” Talk about a performance that made Shakespeare feel less like a dry textbook and more like a punchy comedy special! Max giggled when Benedick declared, “I will not be a man,” and Leo just enjoyed the people in funny clothing.

The (Not-So-Secret) Struggles of Traveling with Tiny Tyrants

Let's be real; traveling with young kids can sometimes feel like trying to herd cats. For example, on Day One, we lost Leo in the middle of a very serious discussion on the merits of Elizabethan-era décor versus modern minimalism. Spoiler alert: he was just making a beeline for the nearest ice cream stand. Pro tip: keeping their tummies full and their emotions in check can work wonders! Snacks are non-negotiable when traveling with toddlers, or you might find yourself negotiating with a pint-sized negotiator who insists on an entire chocolate fudge sundae. A close-up shot of a 5-year-old boy named Max, with a delighted expression, enjoying a chocolate fudge sundae in a bustling café. The bright café lighting enhances the scene, capturing pure happiness as Max takes a bite of the delicious dessert.

Culture and Culinary Delights

Now, let's dive into the gastronomic side of our adventure. Ashland's food scene is absolutely drool-worthy. We had some incredible meals at local spots like the Greenleaf Restaurant—if you're ever there, do NOT skip the house-made hummus. Max tried to convince us that he didn't like hummus. Spoiler: He took one bite and declared it “a party in my mouth!”

For many families on a budget, the Ashland Food Co-op is the perfect place to grab picnic supplies for a scenic outing in Lithia Park. Being outdoors with a cozy picnic always feels like a win (especially when the kids can run, jump, and shout to their hearts' content).

Must-Try Local Foods and Tips for Young Families

While in Ashland, be sure to taste the local wines (adults, of course!). While I can't wholly endorse wine tasting with toddlers in tow, a pleasant alternative is to grab a bottle to enjoy after the kiddos have gone to bed. For family-friendly dining, local diners often serve burgers, pizza, and unique macaroni and cheese variations. The Pizza Place is a local gem!

Also, regarding valuable traveling tips: scheduling downtime is critical. We allotted “free play” in our itinerary—an essential time for letting our kids simply explore and get energy out rather than packing our days like a tight suitcase.

Budget-Friendly Activities to Round Out Your Trip

The best part of our Oregon trip? The free activities! Night view of the Allen Elizabethan Theatre showcasing a vibrant performance, with a high-angle perspective that captures an enthusiastic audience and the impressive stage illuminated by dramatic lighting, emphasizing performers in elaborate costumes. Lithia Park is full of whimsical trails and beautiful spots for simply kicking back. We conquered the playground like true champions and found a picturesque little creek where the boys could splash around in their shoes—saving our sanity in the process. Just be sure to come equipped with an extra pair of clothing; trust me, it'll be worth it.

Final Thoughts

So, if you're considering a trip to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival with your family, I say go for it! Yeah, you might encounter moments where you question your life choices (is this tantrum really necessary?), but you'll also create memories sweeter than the finest Oregon wines. With every chuckle at Shakespearean wordplay and muddy shoe print left behind from an adventure in the park, your family will be knitting storytelling memories that will last a lifetime.

Now grab your bags, load up those snacks, and let the travel tales roll! Adventure awaits in Ashland, and trust me—the experience will be anything but dull. Happy travels! 🎭✈️🌲 Children are splashing water and laughing in a picturesque creek at Lithia Park, surrounded by lush greenery. The scene captures a joyful and carefree spirit, with dappled sunlight filtering through the trees and reflecting off the sparkling water.