Seated amongst the rolling hills of the Platte River Valley is a small place whose heartbeat is amplified by its sense of history, spirited local businesses, and lively traditions. Ashland is home to about 3,000 people, according to recent statistics. It is known for its proximity to larger metro areas while maintaining a strong sense of rural character and community cohesion. Steeped in the past, it was originally established in 1870 and took its name from Henry Clay’s estate; long ago it served as a fording point for wagon trains crossing Salt Creek where limestone ledges eased passage.

Within the community one can discover more than just scenic views and winding roads. Local entrepreneurs have made a name for themselves by offering quality and character. Among the restaurants, Round the Bend Steakhouse stands out. Since 1995 it has been family-owned, and its meats—Certified Angus Beef, wet aged forty days, cut in house—are prized by locals and visitors alike. Steaks, prime rib, chicken fried steak, excellent sides, and a hospitable atmosphere bookend many memorable meals there. 

Another beloved place is Luna Azul Mexican Restaurant, where the menu bursts with color and flavors. The fajitas, chile colorado, quesabirria and beef and chicken tacos earn praise. Many say their guacamole rivals anywhere farther south, and the chips and salsa are served warm as a matter of course. It has become a go-to when craving Mexican cuisine done with care.

Beyond food one encounters businesses that define the daily life here. Specialty shops and galleries such as the Willow Point Gallery showcase local artists, offering paintings, sculptures, crafts that reflect the area’s agricultural roots and personal stories. Visitors often pause at the Ashland History Museum to walk through exhibits that document pioneer days, storylines of the trail-routes, and developments through time, all curated by folks who love placing the past into perspective.

The natural surroundings are generous. Parks for walking, spots along creeks, and farmlands that shift with the seasons offer outlets for outdoor activity. Close by are recreation areas for hiking, picnicking, and gentle exploration of Nebraska’s prairies and river valleys. Some take short drives to Platte River State Park or Louisville State Recreation Area, especially when warmth returns, seeking trails, views, and water.

Community life here pulses with festivals and customs that bring people together year after year. Stir-Up Days is one of the signature events, a community festival full of food, music, games, and family gatherings. The Fall Art Walk on Silver Street gives a chance for merchants, artists, and visitors to stroll through the downtown, viewing art and enjoying seasonal decorations. Hometown Christmas marks winter with lights, open houses, small concerts, and shared meals. The Silver Street Flea Market is another favorite, when vendors fill up booths and folks browse treasures from handmade crafts to vintage pieces.

Folklore, too, threads through conversations among long-time residents. It is often said that during severe weather, the limestone ledge under Salt Creek echoes the sound of those old wagon wheels that once crossed it. Whether literal or imagined, that story has stayed alive through generations and is sometimes recounted at local history talks or during guided walks.

For those considering a visit or thinking of staying longer, there are shopping options ranging from quaint specialty stores downtown to practical services. The Chamber of Commerce publishes a visitor guide and business directory, hosts art walks, flea markets, and helps with tourism programs that support both residents and newcomers.

At G&R Home Services we understand that maintaining homes is part of what keeps a community strong. One service especially important is dryer vent cleaning, a task often overlooked but essential for safety and efficiency in your home. We offer thorough inspection and cleaning of dryer vents and ducts to help reduce fire hazards, lower utility bills, and extend the life of your dryer. If you’re in or near Ashland and want reliable, professional service, we invite you contact us today. Let’s make the air in your dryer system cleaner and your home healthier.