Ashland Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ashland, Pennsylvania.
1. Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train
HISTORIC MINING EXPERIENCE
Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train offers visitors a chance to ride a genuine mine train and explore the depths of an actual anthracite coal mine. Located at 1900 Oak Street, this attraction provides an authentic glimpse into Pennsylvania's rich coal mining history. Visitors can experience what life was like for miners in the 19th century through this immersive underground tour.
2. Whistler's Mother Statue
ICONIC MEMORIAL ARTWORK
The Whistler's Mother Statue is a seven-foot high bronze sculpture in downtown Ashland, based on the famous 1871 painting. Known as the Ashland Mothers Memorial, it was erected in 1938 to honor mothers everywhere. The statue is located on top of a hill and is accessible by stone steps but remains visible from a distance.
3. Big Mine Run Geyser
MINING PHENOMENON
Big Mine Run Geyser is a popular attraction in Ashland that has become a social media sensation. Despite its name, it's actually not a natural geyser but water escaping from a flooded mine shaft. The geyser is somewhat hidden and located in a neighborhood area, making it an interesting geological phenomenon resulting from the region's mining history.
4. Museum of Anthracite Mining
COAL COUNTRY HERITAGE
The Museum of Anthracite Mining offers a deep dive into the anthracite coal history that shaped the Schuylkill County region and the country. Located at 401 South 18th Street, the museum provides an enlightening and moving experience for anyone interested in American industrial history. The museum showcases the rich heritage of Pennsylvania's coal mining industry through various exhibits and artifacts.
5. Jellybucket Cafe
COZY LOCAL EATERY
Jellybucket Cafe is a charming local cafe in Ashland that offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. The cafe serves a variety of coffee, beverages, and homemade food options in a comfortable setting. Visitors appreciate the friendly service and quality offerings that make it a popular spot in town.
6. Fabrizio's Italian Restaurant
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN DINING
Fabrizio's Italian Restaurant is a mid-range dining establishment specializing in Italian cuisine and pizza in Ashland. The restaurant offers traditional Italian dishes made with quality ingredients in a comfortable atmosphere. Diners can enjoy authentic flavors and recipes that reflect the Italian culinary tradition.
7. Mays Drive-In Restaurant
CLASSIC AMERICAN FARE
Mays Drive-In Restaurant is an affordable American eatery that provides a nostalgic dining experience in Ashland. The drive-in offers classic American comfort food in a casual, family-friendly environment. Its retro atmosphere and traditional menu make it a popular choice for locals and visitors seeking an authentic small-town dining experience.
8. Danny's Drive-In
QUICK ROADSIDE EATS
Danny's Drive-In is a budget-friendly fast-food establishment serving quick meals in Ashland. The drive-in specializes in convenient roadside fare for travelers and locals looking for a quick bite. Its casual atmosphere and straightforward menu make it a practical option for those on the go.
9. Ashland Pizzeria
LOCAL PIZZA FAVORITE
Ashland Pizzeria is a mid-range pizza restaurant offering delicious pies and Italian-inspired dishes. The pizzeria serves hand-crafted pizzas made with quality ingredients and traditional recipes. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite gathering spot for families and friends in the Ashland community.
10. Centralia
GHOST TOWN PHENOMENON
Centralia is a nearby ghost town that has become a major tourist spot due to its underground mine fire that has been burning since 1962. Once a thriving coal mining community, it's now largely abandoned with only a handful of residents remaining. Visitors come to see the cracked highways, steam rising from the ground, and the eerie abandoned landscape.
11. Loose Moose Lodge B&B
CHARMING LOCAL ACCOMMODATION
Loose Moose Lodge B&B is a cozy bed and breakfast accommodation option for visitors to Ashland. The lodge offers comfortable rooms and personalized service in a charming setting. Guests can enjoy a homey atmosphere while exploring the attractions and history of Ashland and the surrounding area.
12. Ashland Area Historic Properties
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE TOUR
Ashland Area Historic Properties showcase the town's rich architectural heritage from its coal mining heyday. Visitors can view well-preserved buildings that reflect the prosperity and architectural styles of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These historic structures offer a glimpse into the town's past and the influence of the coal industry on local development.
13. Schuylkill County Historical Society
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Schuylkill County Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich history of the entire county, including Ashland's coal mining legacy. Located in nearby Pottsville, the society maintains extensive collections of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the region's development. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the immigrant experience, industrial growth, and cultural evolution of Schuylkill County.
14. Yuengling Brewery Tour
AMERICA'S OLDEST BREWERY
The Yuengling Brewery Tour offers visitors a chance to explore America's oldest brewery, founded in 1829 and located in nearby Pottsville. Guests can tour the historic facility, learn about the beer-making process, and see the hand-dug caves where beer was stored before refrigeration. The tour concludes with a complimentary tasting for adults of legal drinking age.
15. Locust Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Locust Lake State Park is a scenic outdoor recreation area located near Ashland in Barnesville. The park features a 52-acre lake surrounded by forests, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and camping. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and abundant wildlife in this natural retreat from the nearby coal region towns.