From the snowy Cascades to storm-swept coastal beaches, winter brings a new twist on fun things to do across the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region — and with outdoor recreation as a natural, regional focal point; there are plenty of accessible adventures.

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 favorite winter adventures!

Seasonal & Local Eats

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 hand-crafted chocolates. Pair with regional wine or beer for the ultimate local foodie experience. 

Explore Outdoors in the Winter

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

Rainy Day Hikes Oct 27
Guides & Lists

Rainy Day Hikes

Hiking in the rain is an invigorating Oregon experience. All you need are some good hiking boots for puddles, a steady step (it can be slippery on the…

Play in the Snow

When flakes start to blanket the mountains, it is time for snow play! From snowmobiling around Waldo Lake to moonlit snowshoeing hikes, there are many wonderful ways to enjoy a white winter. Ski at Willamette Pass or soak in the Belknap Hot Springs' pool with snow drifts all around.

How To Get To The Snow

How To Get To The Snow

If you want to have a day or two to play in the snow this winter, the Cascade Mountains are calling! Just an hour from downtown Eugene, there are several options for making the most of a snowy adventure. Here are a few of our favorite ways to play in the snow. Take a Shuttle Bus to the Ski Resorts…

Winter on the Oregon Coast

It's peak season for winter whale watching on the Oregon Coast, where spouting 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 rolling fog banks. 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. 

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

The Old Ferry Dock on the Siuslaw River in Old Town Florence

Things to Do Indoors

Staying in? Cuddle up with a new book, a classic movie or an online program from your favorite performing arts group. Get theater tickets to a musical, jazz performance or poetry reading. Go shopping for gifts and handmade souvenirs. 

Party on the Plaza, Hult Center for the Performing Arts
: Melanie Ryan Griffin

Performing Arts & Theater

From international headliner concerts at the Cuthbert Amphitheater to excellent community theater in Cottage Grove, the Eugene, Cascades…

Cozy Lodging

Snuggle up in a mountain cabin near a thundering waterfall or in a beachfront hotel on the Oregon Coast. Enjoy a warm soak in hot spring-fed pools at Belknap Resort or a seven-course breakfast below the glow of a lighthouse at Heceta Head Lighthouse B&B.

Belknap Hot Springs & Resort

Belknap Hot Springs Resort

Cellar Season in Oregon Wine Country

Wine tasting in winter has unique appeal. Imagine uncorking a bottle in a cozy tasting room, soaking up the slow pace of a lazy winter afternoon. Perhaps the winemaker stops by your table to chat, or you take the opportunity to tour the barrel room or sample a yet-to-be-released vintage. Days are shorter and tasting room hours are fewer, but the tasting experience itself can often be more personable, slower-paced and special.

Cellar Season in Wine Country
: Melanie Ryan Griffin

Sweet Cheeks Winery in Cellar Season