Ashland City Guide

Local food includes American, Italian, and Asian options. Regional dishes like clam chowder and lobster rolls are common nearby. Vegetarian and vegan choices exist. Most places close by 9 or 10 PM.

Nightlife is limited to a few bars and pubs. For more options, visit Framingham or Boston.

Ashland has local coffee shops and chains like Dunkin'. Specialty coffee is more common in Boston.

Tipping is expected in restaurants, taxis, barbers, and delivery. Usually 15-20% in restaurants and taxis, lower for other services.

SIM cards can be bought at AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile stores in nearby towns. An ID/passport is required. Coverage is good across Ashland.

Ashland is a clean town with regular waste and recycling services.

Limited 24/7 businesses. Some gas stations or convenience stores may be open late, but pharmacies and clinics are not usually 24/7.

Supermarkets like Market Basket and Stop & Shop offer a decent range of products including some international options. Stores usually open by 7-8 AM and close by 9-10 PM, open on Sundays with shorter hours.

Most shops, restaurants, and supermarkets accept cards. Cash is still used but less common.

ATMs are easy to find at banks like Bank of America, Citizens Bank, and Middlesex Savings Bank. Using out-of-network machines may cost $2.50 to $5 plus your bank’s fees.

Public schools teach mainly in English, including Ashland High School and Middle School. International schools are found closer to Boston.

Ashland has a small nomad community. Most remote workers connect through Boston-based groups or online.

Good green spaces including Ashland State Park and local parks for walking and running.

Running is popular on local trails and roads. The area is generally safe and has good air quality.

Several gyms and sports facilities available.

Public tennis courts are available at parks and schools. Bring your own equipment.

Padel courts are not common in this area.

Yoga studios and wellness centers are in Ashland and nearby towns, many with English-speaking instructors.

Martial arts schools for karate, taekwondo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are available with English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Wachusett Mountain and Blue Hills Ski Area are within 30-60 minutes, with beginner and advanced runs. Season runs from December to March.

Kayaking and paddleboarding can be done at Ashland State Park. Other water sports require travel to bigger lakes or coast.

No surfing in Ashland. Coastal beaches like Nantasket Beach are over an hour away and need wetsuits most of the year.

No diving or snorkeling nearby. Coastal options are farther away, such as Cape Cod.

Hospitals like MetroWest Medical Center and Milford Regional Medical Center are nearby. English-speaking staff are standard. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens have common medicines and standard hours.

Tap water is safe and regularly tested to meet safety standards.

Good for families with parks like Stone Park and Ashland State Park. Kid-friendly cafes are limited, but many eateries welcome families. Baby supplies are easy to find.

Massachusetts supports LGBTQ+ rights strongly. Ashland is generally accepting but has limited dedicated venues.

Pet-friendly with parks and veterinarians in town. Accommodations and restaurants may allow pets, but check first.