Explore Eugene: 5 Must-do’s for First-Time Visitors
With all the talk surrounding cities like Portland and Seattle; there is a city that offers more…Eugene, Oregon. Along the Willamette River, Eugene…
With all the talk surrounding cities like Portland and Seattle; there is a city that offers more…Eugene, Oregon. Along the Willamette River, Eugene hardly leaves visitors unimpressed. This city has the perfect combination of local culture, captivating nature, and good eats. You can walk or bike a scenic hike (or neighborhood), stop at a local restaurant, admire inspiring art, and end by watching a sunset…all in one day. As I’ve explore; I’ve realized this city has a way to slow you down and make moments unforgettable.
- Must-Do: Experience the Enchanting Nature
Eugene has plenty of landscapes that are sure to take your breath away. A perfect city for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Friendly for everyone, Skinner Butte Park is the perfect place for city views. A place where the parking lot is enough to experience beauty or continue the short hike to observe the surrounding nature and mountains. For those looking for more of walk, the Willamette River trail is where you need to be. A paved path that leads you along the Willamette, perfect for a bike ride or afternoon stroll.
- Must-Do: The Main Thing; Food
Eugene’s food scene is a reflection of the diversity and culture that lives in this city. An emphasis on farm–to–table, sustainable and fresh food shines through this city. The Eugene Saturday Market (open on the weekends) is the spot to be to try local delights and fresh baked goods. For wood-fired pizza stop by Hey Neighbor, and go next door to the famous Prince Pucklers ice cream shop. If tacos are more your style, stop at Taco Vore.
As for coffee, there is a never-ending list for good espresso. Looking for drinks with a bit of a Eugene spin, try Vero Espresso House or Obsidian Coffee Company or both! Want a small local stand with the perfect aesthetic, try Glass House coffee.
- Must-Do: Shops and Boutiques
Eugene is filled with shops that have the best gifts, souvenirs, and personal buys. Fan-favorite 5th Street Public Market is a hub for small boutique shops, delicious food, and cafes that will comfort you. Like Provisions, it is a mixture of adorable souvenirs and house goods, a beautiful floral department, and a cafe serving top of the notch food. The store encapsulates the blended community of Eugene.
- Must-Do: The Art and The Culture
If creativity and welcoming immersive culture is for you…Eugene has space for you. The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art hosts many exhibits. From contemporary to historical collections, they host it. Events and daily browsing are a key aspect in Eugene. For the street art lovers or people who like cool things, take a wandering stroll downtown to find murals; an entrancing form of passion for the city’s story.
The music scene is alive and thriving in the city. Places such as the Cuthbert Amphitheater have touring acts and local artists performing. Candlelight which showcases a local orchestra, is the perfect date night or outing that anyone can enjoy. However, you experience and enjoy art; Eugene has the space for you.
- Must-Do: Seasonal Events Worth Traveling For
A visit to Eugene is never complete without experienceing a local event. In the summer, the Oregon Bach Festival is a hub for classical music and music lovers to thrive. 5th Street Public Market hosts many holiday outings such as tree lighting and kid-friendly events. Eugene is also the home of TrackTown. You can witness incredible athletes to achieve their lifelong dreams, break records, and write their names in history. No one does events like Eugene, a way to see the community, eat good food, and experience the locals.
It is time to make your trip a reality. Let Eugene’s beauty and culture take you on adventure or if planning is more in your style, pick one activity from each of the 5 Must-Dos. We would love to see what Eugene showed you. Share your photos and videos with us so that others see Eugene through you! A hidden gem for first timers tends to become a necessary visit. Even short visits are enough to leave a taste of wanting to return. The time is now, and we hope to see how Eugene surprises you.
