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.

A Florence Retreat

This is the perfect time to head to the Oregon Coast and breathe the fresh air. Here are a few places for an unforgettable vacation in Florence, — "Oregon's Coastal Playground". Driftwood Shores Resort The best escape is one with a view. Driftwood Shores Resort offers beachfront access and…

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Top Hotel Swimming Pools

Every trip, vacation and staycation is made better by a dip in a swimming pool! In fact, the pool is often central to your vacation plans. Get the kids splashing and squealing, or enjoy a relaxing float by yourself at one of these great hotel pools. From indoor facilities with heated water…

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Unique Lodging in Oregon

If you're looking to step outside of the ordinary and try something new, you need a getaway to one of these unique lodging options in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region. This list of unusual and wonderful places to stay is sure to make you rethink what a hotel can be. The Eugene Dome Eugene…

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2023 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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Top Eugene-Area Campgrounds

Camp close to Eugene and all its city amenities and enjoy the serenity of nature. There are three popular campgrounds (and one great "glamping" destination) that make it possible to combine the urban and rural experiences. Go into town for exciting culinary experiences, epic street art and great…

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Eugene Street Art

Eugene is a great place to experience the arts from our exceptional live music venues, museums and theaters to the street art found throughout the city. With almost 100 murals by local greats and some well-known international artists, Eugene is a must-visit for art lovers. Learn more about the…

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5 Favorite Restaurants in Downtown Eugene

The best way to get to know a place is through the food. Eating like a local is easy in Eugene with this guide to 5 favorite downtown restaurants. Discover new flavors and enjoy rich experiences in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Lion & Owl Lion & Owl offers a luxurious brunch and lunch that is…

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Shopping in Downtown Eugene

While you are out exploring downtown Eugene and falling in love with the unique people and culture, these top shopping destinations have the best finds to memorialize your favorite characteristics of the city. Take advantage of the tax-free shopping that makes souvenirs from Oregon even more…

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Top Places to Picnic

It's time for a sunny day picnic! Here is a list of the top places to picnic in peace in the Eugene - Springfield area and beyond. Hendricks Park Hendricks Park is a beautiful rhododendron and native plant garden located near the University of Oregon. After a lazy lunch among the flowers, hike the…

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Eugene - Springfield's Best Margaritas

The margarita is said to be the most-ordered cocktail in the United States. Eugene is no exception. We love dressing up a shot of tequila as much as the next city and our fine restaurants and cantinas do this with extra flair. Here’s a list of some of the best margaritas in Eugene. Tacovore Tacovore…

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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…