The Southern Oregon city of Ashland has no problem attracting tourists thanks to its famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival that’s drawn theater-goers from all over the country since 1935. However, the influx of visitors each season all have to stay somewhere, and there are many options including vacation rentals and hotels. However, one of your best choices is this unique and historically-significant home.
The McCall House is a boutique bed and breakfast that sits just one block from downtown Ashland so you’re within walking distance to the Shakespeare Festival, Lithia Park, and all the spectacular shops and restaurants the city has to offer. This Victorian Italianate house (more like a mansion) was built in 1883 and was meticulously restored and opened to the public as a bed and breakfast in 1981. Since then, it quickly became a favorite for tourists as well as locals looking for a relaxing staycation.
The house was originally built for Captain John McCall, a gold prospector who originally settled in the area in 1852. McCall went on to start several of the city’s most prominent establishments including the woolen mill, library, the Bank of Ashland, and the newspaper, the Ashland Daily Tidings. He was also mayor in 1886 and sat on the Oregon State Legislature. McCall has left a legacy that’s still in place nearly 150 years later, and his house is so important it’s on the National Register of Historic Places.
At this exquisite B&B, you can get a glimpse of what life was like back in this golden age by staying in one of the 10 beautifully-appointed suites where each room has a private entrance and en suite bathroom. There are also gorgeous gardens and a stately magnolia tree in front of the house was planted in 1890 as a memorial to McCall's daughter who tragically passed away.
Consider booking the “Sleeping Porch” that was converted into one of the most popular rooms that sits on the second floor surrounded by windows. The room comes complete with a fireplace, Sleep Number bed, sitting area, and private bathroom with both a clawfoot tub and separate shower. Or, check out the Lydia McCall room named after McCall’s daughter. This large suite features textured crimson wallpaper, two queen beds, and a fireplace. For a more private experience, you can book the Carriage House located behind the house while still enjoying access to all the amenities inside.
There are beautiful common rooms, a-la-carte beverage stations on each floor so you can enjoy coffee or tea at any hour, self-check-in so you can come at your convenience, and complimentary EV charging stations. To make you stay even more special you can upgrade your reservation to include the Romance Package that comes with a dozen roses, chocolate covered strawberries, and a bottle of wine. Or, you can arrange to have special treats waiting for you like milk and cookies or a fruit and cheese plate.
With the price of your room, you get a complimentary brunch that’s prepared each morning by the in-house chef. Breakfast is served at 8:30 or 9:30 and consists of a rotating menu of creative, mostly vegetarian dishes that include benedicts, quiches, french toast, and pastries with meat on the side, gluten-free and vegan options, and accommodations for any allergies. With your food, you can enjoy freshly brewed organic coffee and mimosas. The McCall House also hosts a High Noon Royal Tea on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays that’s available for an additional fee.
The friendly and welcoming staff will not only help you make the most of your stay in the B&B, but can also give recommendations for things to do in town. So, the next time you’re traveling to Southern Oregon, consider immersing yourself in a little piece of Ashland’s history by staying at the incomparable McCall House.
Address: 153 Oak Street, Ashland
Phone: 541-625-8876
