Eugene Travel Guide

No, you have not been transported back to the sixties. Tie-dyed shirts and creative crafts in the Saturday Market are hallmarks of Eugene, the third largest city in Oregon. The birthplace of Nike, Eugene boasts a plethora of parks and nature trails for running and hiking. It is also the home of the University of Oregon, whose active student population takes advantage of all that the area has to offer. All-in-all, there's much fun and culture to be had in Eugene. You just have to be fit enough to keep up.  

Sights

The 250-acre campus of the University of Oregon with its visually pleasing buildings and shaded footpaths is a tourist attraction in itself—some say life revolves around the U of O rather than Downtown Eugene. Art enthusiasts will certainly enjoy the Russian, Asian and African collections in its Museum of Art as well as the colorful exhibits in its Museum of Natural History. There are many parks, recreational areas, and walking and biking trails around Eugene. The West Eugene Wetlands Education Center, the Alton Baker Park and the Elijah Bristow State Park are just some of these. For those who would enjoy a picnic amidst a backdrop of rhododendron and azaleas, the Hendricks Park Rhododendron Garden is the perfect spot. Hike or bike up to Skinner Butte for a great view of Eugene. It also has a playground for the kids.

Dining

Whether you want waffles, pizza, barbecue, seafood or sandwiches, there are many restaurants and eateries along Williamette Street. For upscale dining, head to the 5th Street Public Market at 5th and Pearl. Bars and pubs for fun nights out are located in the Broadway and Olive Street. Also, don't leave Eugene without touring and sampling the many wineries around the area. Include Hinman Vineyards, King Estate and The Oregon Wine Warehouse on your wine-tasting itinerary.

Shopping

The Valley River Center is the largest shopping center in Eugene, carrying a wide variety of clothes, sporting goods, books and electronics. Upscale shopping can be had at Oakway Center and the 5th Street Public Market. REI Eugene on Lawrence Street has all your outdoor gear needs, while the more artistically inclined can find what they want in the shops around 13th street. Of course, since Nike was born here, don't miss the Nike Store in Eugene, which features museum-quality displays and a tribute to the heritage and roots of Eugene.

Where to Go in Eugene