Exploring Eugene: Finding the Gems of Oregon's Emerald City

Visit Wine Country: Eugene is surrounded by some amazing local wineries. Spend the day exploring some of the best wine that the Willamette Valley has to offer, including the outstanding Oregon Pinot Noirs. Pro Tip: Hire a car and driver to take you so you can get the most out of your visit. The view from Sweet Cheeks is not to be missed.

Walk through Campus: Eugene is home to The University of Oregon, where you can find world-famous Hayward Field, which has hosted the Olympic Trials eight times, and for the 5th consecutive time in 2024. Tour the beautiful tree-lined paths and even take a Selfie in front of Johnson Hall, one of the locations filmed in the movie, “Animal House.”

Hike the McKenzie River Trail: A little over an hour outside of Eugene on the McKenzie River, you will find some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. Whether you embark on the 2-mile hike to Blue Pool, take a guided white-water rafting trip or make a quick stop off Hwy 126 to see Sahalie Falls, you won’t be disappointed.

Shop at Saturday Market: Located downtown, Saturday Market is a Eugene institution. As the oldest open-air crafts market in the US, it is filled with amazing handmade crafts, delicious food, and live music throughout the day. Open, rain or shine, from the first Saturday in April through mid-November.

See the Oregon Coast: Drive an hour West and spend the day in Florence. Walk through Old Town and shop for local art, then grab some local, fresh seafood at Bridgewater Fish House. Head to Heceta Beach to watch the waves, but save the swimming for the warmer (and calmer) waters in Cleawox Lake at Honeyman State Park. Pro tip: Grab some saltwater taffy and ice cream at BJs before you head back.

Tour the Shelton McMurphey Johnson House: When built in 1888, this house was often referred to as “The Castle on the Hill.” Built in the style of Queen Anne Architecture, this Victorian mansion houses a museum where you can learn about local history.

Hike Spencer Butte: The summit of Spencer Butte offers an unobstructed view of Eugene, the Cascade Mountains and the Coast Range. The gradual hike to the top takes you through a beautiful Douglas-Fir forest and finally up stone stairways as you make your way above the tree line. Pro tip: Pack a lunch and enjoy it with the views at the Summit. Recommend taking the main summit trail, as the West Trail is very challenging.

Catch a Comedy Show: Located downtown, Olsen Run Comedy Club & Lounge is the only dedicated comedy club in Eugene. With a variety of comedians scheduled throughout the week, as well as monthly dueling pianos, this club is the go-to evening hotspot.

Eating

Elizabeth’s Wine Lounge: Conveniently located in Oakway Center, choose from delicious salads, sandwiches and flatbreads. Grab a table outside on a sunny day and enjoy a bottle of wine while you enjoy the bustle of the plaza. Pro tip: If you are a Pinot Noir fan, their Morphos Pinot is absolutely incredible!

Bar Purlieu: This French bistro with a local flair brings delicious farm-fresh seasonal produce to their dishes. You can’t go wrong with their fresh oysters or exceptionally tender grilled octopus, but if you have the chance, the Chef’s Tasting Menu is a must-have. Add in the wine pairing for a truly memorable experience.

Lion & Owl: James Beard finalist, Lion & Owl, is devoted to using local, fresh ingredients. Their seasonal menus gives you options from seafood to pasta, always with some lighter options. If you are looking for a lighter meal, head next door to their cocktail bar, Lemon & Olive for small bites and tapas. Pro Tip: You won’t regret the crab cake!

Rye: If you are a fan of whiskey, this is the place for you. With a cocktail menu of eight unique Manhattans and over 75 different whiskeys, there is a cocktail option for everyone. Complete your meal with their smoked duck breast — it is out of this world!

Sushi Pure: Sushi that melts in your mouth with freshness, Sushi Pure is the go-to Sushi spot in Eugene. Using purple rice, their rolls are unique and pleasing to the eye and pallet.

Drinking

Capitello Wines: The Oregon & Australian roots of the owners are evident in the wines produced at Capitello. Enjoy a side-by-side tasting of their Oregon Sauvignon Blanc with their Australian counterpart. Grab a flight and a bite from the adjacent food truck, Beccofino.

Heritage Distilling: Located in the 5th Street Annex, Heritage offers spirit flights and cocktails, as well as to-go cocktails. Try their Fig Old-Fashioned or a cocktail made with their unique Ghost Pepper Vodka.

Oakshire: Want to see where the locals go? Grab one of the picnic tables at Oakshire. Choose from one of their many local brews to enjoy while listening to live music. Hungry? You have lots of options with a variety of food trucks located on the property.