Quality of Life

Ashland is situated on the banks of the Ohio River where Kentucky meets neighboring Ohio and West Virginia (known as the Tri-State area). Whether you want to engage business, outdoor recreational activities, attend a festival, take in a concert, travel the Country Music Highway, visit a museum or just enjoy the scenic beauty, Ashland offers many choices on how to spend your time. On the shore of the Ohio River, many outdoor activities in our area revolve around the water. In addition to the river, Carter Caves State Park, Greenbo Lake State Park, Yatesville Lake State Park and Ohio’s Lake Vesuvius are all only a short drive away. Whether your pleasure is boating, skiing, swimming, fishing, camping or hiking, you’re sure to find what you enjoy in the Ashland area. First-class golf and tennis are also options. The area has numerous 18-hole golf courses and one of the best tennis centers in Kentucky. After a full day, spend the evening dining at one of Ashland’s fine restaurants or attend a performance at the downtown Paramount Arts Center. The Paramount offers a vast performing arts venue. While you’re in the area, take a leisurely stroll through historic downtown. A map, available through the Ashland Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, will guide you through Ashland’s history and its development. Don’t miss this opportunity to stop by the Riverfront Park area.

Central Park in Downtown Ashland Area

Central Park is housed on 47-acres between Lexington and Central avenues and 17th and 22nd streets. Attractions at the park include a fountain area, playgrounds, baseball fields, tennis courts, volleyball courts, a bandstand, and more.

615 22nd St.

Ashland, KY 41101

(606) 385-3295

ashlandky.gov

The Highlands Museum & Discovery Center

The Highlands Museum & Discovery Center provides avenues of discovery for children and visitors of all ages. History and heritage along with energy and excitement come together on the Country Music Highway at the Highlands Museum & Discovery Center. From toddlers to adults, visitors find activity and information that puts the past in perspective and moves the present into the future.

1620 Winchester Avenue

Ashland, KY 41101

(606) 329-8888

https://highlandsmuseum.com

Jesse Stuart Foundation

The Jesse Stuart Foundation features the works of Northeastern Kentucky native Jesse Stuart and other regional authors. The foundation and library provide a place to reflect and learn more about the region.

4440 13th St

Ashland, KY 41102

(606) 326-1667

https://jsfbooks.com/

Paramount Arts Center

The Paramount Arts Center first opened on September 5, 1931. The theater has undergone several renovations since 1972, most recently in 2002 when a new stagehouse was added and new dressing rooms, rehearsal space and banquet facility were added in a nearby building that was purchased in 1998. In addition, this renovated space was connected to the main building. The theater now operates as a non-profit organization, showing symphonies, plays, ballets and other productions.

1300 Winchester Avenue

Ashland, KY 41101

(606) 324-3175

https://www.paramountartscenter.com/