The Town of Ashland, VA

Nestled just 15 miles north of Richmond, Ashland is the kind of place that makes you want to cancel your return ticket and stay forever. This gem of a town, affectionately dubbed the "Center of the Universe" by locals, is where Southern charm collides with a dash of cosmopolitan cool.

Railroad Avenue in Ashland VA

Step onto Railroad Avenue, and you'd be forgiven for thinking you’d wandered onto a Hallmark movie set (because actually it was the set for the hit Family Channel movie, Christmas Every Day). Trains rumble through the heart of town, while quirky shops and cozy cafes line the streets. It's Instagram gold! (Hint, hint: @ashlandvirginia).

History of Ashland VA

But Ashland isn't just a pretty face. This town's got serious history. Founded by a railroad in the 1840s as a resort town, it's now home to Randolph-Macon College, one of the oldest Methodist colleges in the U.S. The historic district is a time capsule of Victorian architecture that'll make architecture buffs swoon.

Now, let's talk fun. For the young and restless, Ashland's downtown scene is where it's at. Craft beer? (Center of the Universe) Check. Art galleries? (Gallery Flux , Crossmill ) You bet. Live music that'll make your Spotify playlists jealous? (Iron Horse) Absolutely.

Families, fear not! Ashland's got you covered too. Carter Park is a kid's paradise with its pool and playgrounds . And don't miss Train Day – the annual celebration for train enthusiasts of all ages.

For those who prefer a more... seasoned pace of life, Ashland offers historic (and haunted) walking tours that'll satisfy your curiosity without wearing out your walking shoes. And the antique shops? Let's just say you might need an extra suitcase for all your "must-have" finds.

Famous People Associated with Ashland VA

Ashland's not just about the past, though. It's got some serious star power. Music lovers, perk up your ears – Jason Mraz once was part of the Ashland Stage Company. And for a touch of hip-hop royalty, Kanye West's mother, Donda, lived here too. Talk about a town of hidden talents! Sports fans might recognize names like Erron Kinney, former NFL tight end, or Mickie James, the wrestling superstar. Both got their start right here in Ashland.

But the real stars of Ashland? The fruits and vegetables. Each summer, the Ashland Strawberry Faire takes over the streets with live music, arts and crafts vendors, and, of course, all things strawberry—from shortcakes to jams. It’s a sweet celebration that draws crowds from all over the region. For a taste of local life, the Ashland Farmers Market is the place to be on Saturday mornings (May-Oct), where you’ll find everything from fresh produce and homemade baked goods to artisan crafts. It’s a charming blend of farm-fresh finds and friendly faces that perfectly captures Ashland’s small-town spirit.

So pack your bags and hop on that train. In Ashland, the whistle of locomotives mingles with live music drifting from local venues. Victorian homes stand proud alongside bustling college quads. And somewhere between the strawberry-scented spring air and the warm glow of the Ashland Theatre marquee, you might just find yourself planning your next visit before the first one's even over.