Eugene OregonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Eugene, Oregon.
1. Studio West Glassblowing Studio and Gallery
HANDS-ON ART EXPERIENCE
Studio West Glassblowing Studio and Gallery offers visitors a unique opportunity to create glass art in a serene pine forest setting. Guests can participate in hands-on creation of paperweights, ornaments, and bowls while learning about the craft of glassblowing. The gallery showcases finished works and provides educational lessons in this fascinating traditional art form.
2. Cascades Raptor Center
BIRDS OF PREY SANCTUARY
Cascades Raptor Center is a nature center and wildlife hospital nestled on a wooded hillside in south Eugene that specializes in birds of prey. The center hosts approximately 40 resident birds representing 30 native species, including owls and falcons. Open year-round, visitors can explore the 30-acre area and learn through guided educational programs about raptor rehabilitation and conservation.
3. King Estate Winery & Tasting Room
SUSTAINABLE VINEYARD EXPERIENCE
King Estate Winery & Tasting Room, founded in 1991 by the King family, is North America's largest Biodynamic® certified vineyard. The estate features a uniquely integrated ecosystem committed to sustainable farming practices. Visitors can discover the winemaking process while enjoying tastings in the picturesque Willamette Valley setting.
4. Willamette River Bike Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
Willamette River Bike Trail offers miles of paved paths along Eugene's signature river corridor. The trail connects both sides of the river with bike bridges and extends through various parks including Alton Baker Park. Cyclists, runners, and walkers enjoy scenic views of the nationally noted water trail popular with kayakers.
5. Mount Pisgah Arboretum
NATURAL BOTANICAL GARDEN
Mount Pisgah Arboretum, established in 1973, provides visitors with a perfect natural escape just outside Eugene. The arboretum features diverse plant collections, walking trails, and seasonal wildflower displays across its expansive grounds. Visitors can explore the natural area while enjoying educational opportunities about native flora and fauna.
6. University of Oregon
HISTORIC CAMPUS GROUNDS
The University of Oregon campus serves as an excellent starting point for sightseeing in Eugene with its expansive, landscaped grounds. Throughout the campus, visitors can discover an excellent art museum, the historic track at Hayward Field, and a natural history museum. The university offers numerous photo opportunities and family-friendly activities throughout the year.
7. Eugene Saturday Market
LOCAL ARTS AND CRAFTS
Eugene Saturday Market is a bustling open-air marketplace established in 1974 that has become a local institution featuring over 200 vendors. Visitors can browse unique clothing, artwork, and crafts while enjoying live music, poetry, and dance performances. The market's food court offers diverse international cuisines, making it a creative hub and must-visit attraction in Eugene.
8. Owen Rose Garden
FLORAL RIVERSIDE PARK
Owen Rose Garden is an idyllic park in Eugene that blooms with seasonal flowers, creating picturesque backdrops adjacent to the Willamette River. This lush eight-and-a-half-acre site hosts over 4,000 rose bushes across 400 varieties, offering a sensory delight for visitors. Notable features include the Heritage cherry tree, pergola walkway, picnic spots, and a gazebo where visitors can relax amid natural beauty.
9. Alton Baker Park
CITY'S LARGEST PARK
Alton Baker Park is Eugene's largest park, situated along the banks of the meandering Willamette River that helps define the boundary with neighboring Springfield. The park is divided between two main areas, including the 237-acre Whilamut Natural Area with extensive recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy Pre's Trail, a popular four-mile running route named after hometown hero Steve Prefontaine, along with numerous biking paths and water activities on the river.
10. Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
UNIVERSITY'S CULTURAL GEM
The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art is an impressive cultural institution located on the University of Oregon campus. The museum houses diverse collections spanning various periods and cultures, providing visitors with a rich artistic experience. Its architectural design and curated exhibits make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.
11. Hayward Field
HISTORIC ATHLETIC VENUE
Hayward Field is a historic track and field stadium located on the University of Oregon campus with a storied athletic legacy. The venue has hosted numerous Olympic Trials and collegiate championships, earning Eugene the nickname 'Track Town USA.' Recently renovated, the stadium continues to be a pilgrimage site for running enthusiasts and sports fans alike.
12. Hult Center for the Performing Arts
CULTURAL ENTERTAINMENT HUB
The Hult Center for the Performing Arts serves as Eugene's premier venue for cultural performances and entertainment. The center features multiple performance spaces that host a variety of events including symphony concerts, Broadway shows, ballet performances, and contemporary music. Its distinctive architecture and diverse programming make it a cornerstone of Eugene's cultural landscape.
13. 5th Street Public Market
UPSCALE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
The 5th Street Public Market offers a distinctive shopping and dining destination in the heart of Eugene. Visitors can explore unique local boutiques, artisan shops, and diverse eateries in a charming atmosphere. The market's mix of indoor and outdoor spaces creates an inviting environment for both locals and tourists seeking quality goods and experiences.
14. Marché Restaurant
FINE FRENCH-INSPIRED DINING
Marché Restaurant provides Eugene diners with French-inspired cuisine crafted from locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant emphasizes seasonal menus that showcase the bounty of the Willamette Valley region. Its elegant atmosphere and commitment to quality make it a standout dining destination in Eugene's culinary scene.
15. McKenzie River Trail
VOLCANIC LANDSCAPE PATH
The McKenzie River Trail runs alongside the picturesque McKenzie River, offering 24.1 miles of natural beauty paved with volcanic lava and rich local history. The trail features stunning waterfalls, foot bridges, and lush forests that make it popular for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views and nature stations along this remarkable outdoor destination near Eugene.