Trip Ideas

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Author
Melanie Ryan Griffin

Melanie is a University of Oregon graduate who studied Cultural Anthropology. After finishing school, she worked as a touring photojournalist writing concert and album reviews for online publications. Melanie is now the Art Director for Travel Lane County. She has lived in Eugene for more than a decade and spends nearly every weekend searching for new favorite places in the county. She has also lived in California, New Mexico, Florida, Spain and Slovakia but loves Oregon the most.

Melanie enjoys exploring the vibrant arts and culture scene in Eugene.  She also loves painting, cooking for friends, dancing, hiking and learning new things.

Guide to Hot Springs in the Cascades

Oregon's Terwilliger Hot Springs may be a natural draw with its pristine beauty and maintained facilities, but there are several more nearby mountain hot springs to discover – each offering a unique experience that shouldn't be missed. If you are planning a dip into nature's warm waters just outside…

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A Runner's Guide to Eugene

If you are here to run — this is the right place! Eugene, Oregon is celebrated as TrackTown USA, and runners enjoy getting their miles in while exploring our running heritage. Festivals and events frequently have a 5K component, and on a daily basis —in all weather— you'll spot runners out on the…

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Best Spring Camping

As the days get longer and the nights get warmer, we start daydreaming a little more about sleeping under the stars and sharing stories around a campfire. Luckily, you don't need to wait for summer to relish getting cozy in a sleeping bag and enjoying the Oregon outdoors. Start your season of…

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Guide to Eugene's Irish Pubs

Whether it is Saint Patrick's Day or just another afternoon that calls for a pint of Guinness, these Irish pubs are the answer. Find your favorite place to grab a whiskey or take home some corned beef. McMenamins A regional craft brewery with three Eugene locations honors St. Patrick's day with…

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Guide to the Oregon Coast in Any Weather

The Oregon Coast is beautiful in all weather. Hike seaside cliff trails with far-reaching views on sunny days. Watch the light from the brightest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast penetrate banks of rolling fog. Experience the drama of a coastal storm from the comfort of a cozy restaurant. Historic Old…

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52 Adventures to Try This Year

A new year is a new opportunity to live life like you mean it. We've collected the 52 best adventures in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region — one for every week of the year. Many of these are low-cost and easy to access. 1. Snowshoe to an icy winter waterfall. 2. Soak in a mineral-rich hot spring…

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5 Places to Visit This Winter

Whether you're looking to get cozy beside a fire or brave the winter weather in search of stunning landscapes, this list of top places to visit has what you are looking for. Or maybe you check all five off of your winter list because you're not trying to hibernate…

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Best Brunches & Breakfasts in Eugene

Start your morning at one of these destination-worthy breakfast spots from sumptuous brunches to line-out-the-door diners. Whether you've just rolled out of bed in search of a quick bite or you want the perfect place to entertain guests or celebrate a big day, these top brunch and breakfast…

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Rainy Day Things to Do

Eugene doesn't slow down in the rain. That's what keeps our hiking trails green and our rivers flowing. We know all you really need is rain boots and a hood and you can do all the things you would do on a sunny day. But when you are ready to be inside and out of the weather, try this list of…

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Explore Our Communities

Whale Watching at Sea Lion Caves
: Melanie Ryan Griffin

Visit the Eugene, Cascades & Coast Visitor Center in downtown Eugene. Find information on things to do and see in Lane County, purchase park passes and locally-made gifts and souvenirs, and…