Best Things to Do in Eugene, Oregon

Visible from just about anywhere in the city, the nearly two-mile loop to the summit is a perfect day hike: short and steep. The trail culminates in a stone stairway leading to a boulder pile about 2,000 feet above sea level. There’s no better place to soak in views of the skyline.

An hour’s drive east of the city, these primitive hot springs are a warm, mossy oasis tucked among the pine trees. When all you want to do is lie back in a pool of hot mineral water, it helps to know it won’t cost you more than a $10 day fee. Be aware that clothing is optional at the springs.

Spencer Butte might have the better view, but Skinner has the advantage of being an easy walk from downtown. It’s perhaps best known as a prime rock climbing spot, due to the sheer wall of basalt on one side, a feature commonly known as The Columns. Even a modest gain in elevation feels like victory when you’ve had to scramble your way up.

Two rivers meet in Eugene, the Willamette and the McKenzie, but the general consensus among locals is that the McKenzie’s cleaner. Tie a couple inner tubes together with a friend, pack your cooler full of ice and prepare for a nice two-to-three hour float, depending on where you put in. In the hottest months, the water flowing fresh from the Cascades is a nice, cool pick-me-up.

Sure, lots of cities have rose gardens, but are they free? And are they eight-and-a-half acres of densely packed varietals? And are there over 4,000 flowers perfuming the open air? And are they mere blocks from the city center? I didn’t think so.

In recent years, the Willamette Valley has become a major producer of Pinot noir. There are literally dozens of wineries within a short drive of Eugene, but King Estate deserves a special mention as the largest certified biodynamic vineyard in the U.S. The palatial tasting patio, ringed with lavender fields, feels every bit the French provincial castle.

A more boutique competitor to King Estate, the Sweet Cheeks property is no less stunning, and the wine no less delicious. This is a popular wedding destination, so in the summer months the patio is often booked for private events. If you can snag a seat, though, you won’t regret it.

Legendary in the Pacific Northwest, Ninkasi’s flagship brews—Total Domination and Tricerahops—can be found in gas stations and liquor stores just about everywhere west of the Rockies. Ninkasi’s location in the colorful Whiteaker neighborhood makes it an easy walk to other shops and restaurants, too. If you get lost, just follow the sweet, malty smell of barley wafting from the brewery.

There’s no shortage of breweries to choose from in Eugene, but after Ninkasi, the city’s brewski behemoth award undoubtedly goes to Hop Valley. Owned by parent company MillerCoors, the brand has surged in popularity in recent years with their bright, hoppy flavors. If you’re more into dark beers, though, this might not be the place for you.

Despite having a duck for a mascot, the University of Oregon takes its football very seriously. Don’t plan on parking anywhere near campus on a game day, and don’t mention anything about Portland State. Instead, you can join the fun by throwing on some green and yellow and practicing your duck calls.

Like the name implies, Hideaway Bakery’s easy to miss, tucked as it is on the outskirts of town. A little exploration pays off, though. Their croissants are flaky mountains of buttered dough, and their wood-fired pizza is the best in town. Come early on a weekday if you want to miss the crowds.

Indoor markets are here to stay, but the 5th Street Public Market elevates the concept with a multi-level courtyard for a modern European look. Just don’t call it a mall—the market prides itself on hosting mostly small businesses that support the local economy. Highlights include the Made in Oregon store, Provisions Market Hall, and Heritage Distilling Company.

The Eugene Saturday Market takes the traditional farmer’s market, smashes it together with a handmade craft market and adds a smattering of live music to the mix. It’s a big, sprawling affair that lasts well into the afternoon, and the drum circle is usually the last thing to go. Bring a hand drum or ask to borrow one, everyone’s welcome to participate.

Ever wonder what happened to those old arcade games from the 80s? Turns out they all got stashed in the basement at Blairally, a darkened pinball arcade that doubles as a dance hall on the weekends. You’ll never guess what decade of music they like to play.

The name might sound inconspicuous, but like everything else in Oregon, the Country Fair is not afraid to get weird. An enchanted enclave in the forest springs to life with kooky costumes, butterfly wings and lots of face paint. There’s live electronic music, belly dancing workshops, food vendors and more, but the heart of the fair is just a space for people to gather in their most fanciful attire and play.