Ashland AlabamaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ashland, Alabama.
1. Clay County Courthouse
HISTORIC ELEVATED ARCHITECTURE
The Clay County Courthouse, built in 1906 for $37,986.00, is the highest elevated courthouse in the state of Alabama. Located on the square in Ashland, it now houses the Hugo Black Museum. The courthouse serves as a centerpiece for the town and is a must-visit historical landmark.
2. Ashland City Park
NATURE AND WILDLIFE OASIS
Ashland City Park spans 27 acres with walking paths, a creek, and mixed hardwood and pine forests. The park offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, including Eastern meadowlarks, Northern bobwhites, and various woodpeckers year-round. Visitors can explore old-field habitats and possibly spot wild turkeys along the field edges, particularly at dawn and dusk.
3. TSALAGI Trails
CHEROKEE HERITAGE ROUTES
The TSALAGI Trails (pronounced Ja-la-gee, meaning Cherokee Trails) offer four unique road trips through the back roads of Clay County. These scenic routes take visitors through places of stunning natural beauty and cultural significance. Each trail provides a different experience, allowing travelers to discover hidden gems throughout the region.
4. Marble Gate Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Marble Gate Gallery in Ashland is a cultural hub showcasing works from local and regional artists. The gallery features rotating exhibits highlighting various art forms and mediums throughout the year. Visitors can appreciate the artistic talent of the area while gaining insight into the cultural heritage of this Alabama region.
5. Historic Ashland Theatre
ENTERTAINMENT AND COMMUNITY HUB
The Historic Ashland Theatre serves as a focal point for community entertainment in this small Alabama town. The venue hosts regular events including Karaoke Night on the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-8 p.m. with a modest $2 admission fee. This preserved historic building offers visitors a glimpse into the town's past while continuing to function as an active entertainment space.
6. Ashland's 2nd Saturday on the Square
MONTHLY COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
Ashland's 2nd Saturday on the Square is a recurring monthly event that transforms the town center into a vibrant community gathering. This all-day celebration typically features local vendors, food, music, and activities for visitors of all ages. The event showcases the community spirit of Ashland and provides a perfect opportunity for visitors to experience local culture.
7. Gana Trail
RUGGED OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
The Gana Trail is a 58-mile mostly dirt road trail that allows adventurers to ford two creeks with a third creek crossing optional. The trail passes through a Treasure Forest, features a waterfall, and showcases some of the prettiest mountain scenery in Alabama. This rugged path is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore the natural beauty of Clay County.
8. NO TSI Trail
SCENIC SPORTS CAR ROUTE
The NO TSI Trail is designed specifically for sports car enthusiasts who want to experience the thrilling roads around Ashland. The route features curves, hills, beautiful scenery, and passes by Ashland's Historic Court House and Antique Shops. This scenic drive allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area from the comfort of their vehicle with the top down.
9. Clay County Public Fishing Lakes
PREMIER ANGLING DESTINATION
Clay County Public Fishing Lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities near Ashland for both casual and serious anglers. These well-maintained lakes are stocked with various fish species and offer facilities for a comfortable day of fishing. The serene setting makes these lakes not only a great place to catch fish but also to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
10. Talladega National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The Talladega National Forest is easily accessible from Ashland and offers over 392,000 acres of protected wilderness for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and wildlife watching throughout this expansive forest. The diverse ecosystem includes mountains, forests, streams, and unique flora and fauna native to this region of Alabama.
11. Lake Harris
RECREATIONAL WATER PARADISE
Lake Harris is a popular recreational area located near Ashland that offers various water activities including boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by picturesque scenery and provides a refreshing escape during Alabama's warm months. Visitors can enjoy lakeside facilities while taking in views of the surrounding natural landscape.
12. Antique Shops on the Square
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNT
The Antique Shops on Ashland's Square offer visitors a chance to hunt for unique vintage treasures in a charming small-town setting. These shops feature collections of furniture, collectibles, and memorabilia that represent the rich history of the region. Browsing these establishments provides both a shopping opportunity and a glimpse into the cultural heritage of rural Alabama.
13. Hugo Black Museum
SUPREME COURT JUSTICE TRIBUTE
The Hugo Black Museum, housed in the Clay County Courthouse, celebrates the life and legacy of Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black who served from 1937 to 1971. The museum displays artifacts, photographs, and information about this influential figure who was born in Harlan, Clay County. Visitors can learn about Black's significant contributions to American jurisprudence and civil liberties while exploring this historic building.
14. Cheaha State Park
ALABAMA'S HIGHEST PEAK
Cheaha State Park, located near Ashland in Delta, features Alabama's highest point at 2,407 feet above sea level with breathtaking panoramic views. The park offers cabins, campsites, hiking trails, and recreational activities throughout its 2,799 acres of natural beauty. Visitors can experience the Appalachian foothills ecosystem while enjoying amenities such as a restaurant, lodge, and observation tower.
15. DeSoto Caverns
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
DeSoto Caverns, located a short drive from Ashland in Childersburg, features a massive onyx-marble cave with spectacular formations dating back millions of years. The family park offers guided cave tours along with above-ground attractions including a maze, gem mining, and various outdoor activities. This natural wonder has historical significance as both a Native American site and later as a Confederate gunpowder mining location during the Civil War.