Top Rated Attractions in Ashland

It was here that the Virginia Convention of 1775 met to discuss the question of taking arms against the British. One of the oldest wooden buildings in Virginia, delegates to the Convention - including Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and Patrick Henry - had convened in this very spot. And it was here where Patrick Henry gave his famous speech and said the following famous lines: "Give me liberty or give me death!" Visitors can reenact this experience by watching the live performances offered by professional actors and further enrich their knowledge of history by visiting the city's first public cemetery.

A music lover's passion for music would be incomplete without watching a show at the National. True to its name, this classic place is nationally renowned for the finest concerts held here. Wooden floors, brick walls, 1500-cushioned seats and seven full bars is what makes the patrons return for more. The stylish backdrops and the grand stage provides an unobstructed view of your favorite artists playing live. Add to it the ultra-modern V-DOSC sound system and you have a power-packed experience!

Hippodrome Theater is a big and spacious entertainment venue in Jackson Ward. The decor style of the 1930s and the palatial interiors make it a special place for events like weddings and receptions. This multi room theater also has a balcony that offers a better view of the event taking place. Heavyweights such as Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong have performed here in the past.

The canal that was built to favor the passengers who traveled through the water ways was the James River and Kanawha Canal. Although frequently destroyed by the floods, the canal stood still in its appearance and continues to serve the passengers. This canal is spread over 138 acres (56 hectares) and is a great visiting place for the tourists. If you are still debating whether or not to visit, keep in mind that it is listed on the register of National Historic Places in the year 1971. The public pathway is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

This dazzling movie palace was built in the early 20th century. Italian marble and elegantly painted murals fill the interior. A balcony and theater boxes overlook the auditorium below and on Saturday evenings, a Wurlitzer organ, which once accompanied silent movies, is played. The audience can sing along; the words are displayed on the screen. The staff dresses in 1920s clothing. Second-run movies are shown here daily. The Byrd also features Saturday midnight movies for really low prices. The Byrd also hosts special movie events like a Halloween screening of Nosferatu with a live band accompanying the silent film.

Firehouse Theatre is an artistic home, a thriving hub of creative activity, and a center for community engagement where new performance work is developed and produced. Founded in 1993 in Fire Department’s Station House #10, Firehouse has premiered new plays, created and encouraged new work, hosted emerging and established artists from many disciplines, and has earned a reputation as the place where new lives.