Trip Ideas

Melanie Ryan Griffin - Art Director
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.

Eugene's Best Special Occasion Restaurants

An important night out deserves a dining experience beyond the typical. The restaurants on this list, with their exceptional food and elevated atmosphere, are perfect for date night or a memorable celebration. What makes Eugene's food scene so wonderful is that you can feast on creations from…

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Hearing Looped Venues in Lane County

For people with hearing loss who wish to hear better, options are often limited to sitting closer or turning up volume. But the John G. Shedd Institute for the Arts, a Eugene performance venue, found another option. In 2017 it added technology to improve the listening experience, and now many…

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Guide to Eugene Food Truck Pods

From hand-stretched noodles to an Indian fusion crunch wrap,Eugene's food trucks and food carts offer casual culinary excellence. These small, mobile vendors are often homegrown start-ups that develop popular followings. Food cart owners tend to source local, fresh ingredients daily. Ordering from a food cart is a great way to enjoy Eugene's local food scene. Here is a list of a few of our favorite food truck pods…

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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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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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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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Top Celiac-Friendly Restaurants in Eugene

Living with celiac disease means you’re always on the hunt for spots that take gluten-free dining seriously and understand things like cross-contact. As a celiac, I know the struggle. Eugene, Oregon is a hidden gem for incredible, celiac-friendly eats. From killer cafes to inventive kitchens, these…

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Top Places to Picnic

When the sun is shining and the flowers are blooming, it's time for a picnic! Every ramble, road trip or afternoon adventure is brightened with a picnic basket spread. Here are some of the top places to picnic in the Eugene - Springfield area and beyond. Hendricks Park Hendricks Park is a beautiful…

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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. The Pint Pot The Pint Pot, known for having the best St. Patrick's Day Celebration in Eugene, is…

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Two people look out toward the ocean from a high point with railing.
: Melanie Ryan Griffin