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 Downtown Eugene's Nightlife

Downtown Eugene and the nearby Whiteaker neighborhood's nightlife scene is a buzz of music venues, craft breweries and distilleries, great dining and excellent performing arts. Here's our starter guide for exploring a fun night out on the town! Live Music WOW Hall - A volunteer-powered music hall…

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October Beer Gardens

During crisp autumn months, sipping a local craft beer on a sunny patio with the smiling people of the community is a really special experience. Find the right beer and patio combo with this guide to the top beer gardens in Eugene. McMenamins North Bank The riverfront dining space at McMenamins…

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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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Instagram-worthy Spots in Eugene

There is much to love about Eugene, so capture these iconic destinations whether you are just visiting or living here. From beautiful wild places to exhilarating sports venues where you can take a selfie with Olympians, Eugene has a lot of great places to create content for your feed. Skinner…

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Best Sunset Spots in Eugene

When your perfect day in Eugene just can't end yet, head to one of these top sunset spots and watch the colors change and the stars come out. Bring a picnic and a flashlight and enjoy the show. Ferry Street Bridge This is a convenient spot to watch as the sun dips into the Willamette River. The…

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Spectacular Summer Waterfalls

Summer brings the promise of endless days spent in some of the most beautiful outdoor places in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region of Oregon. Waterfall hikes are one of our favorite ways to celebrate the return of summer! Here’s our list of the best waterfalls for road trippers, history enthusiasts…

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2024 Eugene Summer Concert Guide

Eugene may be a small city compared to Portland but it holds its own in the live music scene. Some of Oregon's favorite music venues are in Eugene and those concert halls host some pretty big headliners. Plenty of Eugene music lovers have stories of the time they saw an unexpected band play a cozy…

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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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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…