Top Things to Do This Winter

Published: January 03, 2021

From the snowy Cascades to storm-swept coastal beaches, winter brings a new twist on fun things to do across Lane County—and with outdoor recreation as a natural, regional focal point; there are plenty of accessible adventures available within COVID-19 protocols.

Winter in Oregon is a fantastic time of year for watching whales along the dramatic Oregon coastline, cuddling up by the fireplace in a mountain retreat or exploring uncrowded trails and parks across the Willamette Valley.

While the climate is generally temperate, weather can vary greatly from the coast to the mountains, and from day to day. You may get beautiful, sunshine-filled coastal days while it pours in the valley, or vice versa. So no matter where you wander, be prepared for a range of weather conditions. Pack layers, check road conditions at TripCheck.com, and call ahead to confirm business hours.

Here are our picks for the best of the winter!

Snowy Winter Getaways

Spend a few days curled up in winter wonderland lodging, warming up with a steamy drink and a… More ›

Explore Outdoors in the Winter

The Old Ferry Dock on the Siuslaw River in Old Town Florence by Taj Morgan

Oregonians embrace the foggy, damp weather and hike, run and play outside year-round. Head to your favorite parks, trails and sledding slopes. From walking on a winter beach to playing in the snow, winter offers fresh, invigorating outdoor adventures.

Rainy Day Hikes

Hiking in the rain is an invigorating Oregon experience. All you need are some good hiking boots… More ›

Winter on the Oregon Coast

It's peak season for winter whale watching on the Oregon Coast, where spouting mammoth gray whales embark on their southern migration. It's also the season for storm watching, where huge thundering waves and dramatic skies are on display alongside the Oregon Coast's gusty winds and rolling fog banks. While beautiful, always practice beach safety by watching for sneaker waves and staying away from logs and driftwood. After a chilly ramble on the beach, enjoy a warm bowl of clam chowder at one of the many delicious seafood restaurants in Historic Old Town Florence.

Cozy Things to Do at Home

This year there is a lot more time spent at home. Pick up a new hobby, read a good book or bake a special treat.

Order In — Food & Drink

Rye Restaurant Cocktails by Melanie Griffin

Explore a world of tastes this winter: with artisan spirits or one of the Willamette Valley's farm-to-fork restaurants dishing up local specialties like Oregon truffles, Dungeness crab and an array of local artisan chocolates. Pair with regional wine or a craft brew for the ultimate local foodie experience. Many restaurants offer online ordering and pick-up or delivery services.

Stock Your Wine Cellar

Benton-Lane Winery in Snow

Help support Oregon Wine Country's boutique wineries by filling your cellar with exceptional wines. Many of the wineries are offering online ordering and some even have delivery deals right now.

More Adventure Planning

Let's Go There Soon: 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… More ›

Author: Taj Barnhart Morgan

Taj Barnhart Morgan is the Director of Content Strategy for Travel Lane County. A journalism graduate from the University of Oregon, Taj has two decades of special event management and hospitality marketing experience in San Diego, CA and Maui, HI. Passionate about mothering, and back to her Oregon roots, she is discovering the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region all over again through the eyes of her daughter.

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