While the artsy town of Ashland, OR with its breathtaking outdoors, beautiful Lithia park and renowned Shakespearean Festival was always on my must do list … Jacksonville, OR wasn’t even a speck on my radar. And little did I know that after visiting both towns this past fall, this small, former gold mining town would be the one to steal my heart away.

Life feels different in Jacksonville, simpler, slower. Deer roam freely on the highways, byways and city streets. Open markets, food co-ops, organic farms, cattle ranches and wine vineyards are in abundance. Exploratory hikes, leisurely walks, neighborly chats or naps in tree-hung hammocks are the order of the day. Historical buildings and Victorian cottages house quaint eateries and businesses, while a trolley tour shows visitors the sites. And every year the town plays host to the Britt festival (an outdoor music and art venue featuring world-class artists of all genres); as well as a city-wide three-day garage sale.

An eclectic population of approximately 3,000 shares space in this small town.  The ’60s are alive and well, with hippies seen along the streets chatting, playing music and sleeping. It is their presence that is part of the charm there.

Traffic is minimal and with Ashland just a short 20 minutes away and Medford right around the corner, there is much to keep one occupied and entertained. Add mildly changing seasons and an opportunity for an invigorating change of pace abounds.

All in all I found it a unique and interesting place, not only one to visit, but perhaps one to reside in one day.