There are nearly 30 retail galleries in Ashland. Check out www.ashlandgalleries.com for an online guide and map. Two favorites are the Hanson Howard Gallery (82 N. Main St., 541/488-2562, www.hansonhowardgallery.com), which features monthly exhibits of contemporary artists in a bright airy corner shop at the north end of downtown, and the Gallerie Karon (500 A St., 541/482-9008), which features the works of 21 artists in an eclectic collection of sculpture, paintings, fiber arts, printmaking, photography, and jewelry. It is located in a thriving commercial strip by the railroad tracks.

Schneider Museum of Art (Southern Oregon University campus, 1250 Siskiyou Blvd., 541/482-6245, www.sou.edu/sma, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Tues.–Sat.) features contemporary art by national and international artists.

Ashland is also home to the ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum (1500 Main St. near Walker St., 541/482-6767, www.scienceworksmuseum.org, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Wed.–Sat., noon–5 p.m. Sun., $7.50 adults, $5 seniors and ages 2–12, under age 2 free), a hands-on museum that offers interactive exhibits, live performances, and activities.