Top Things to Do This Winter

Published: December 15, 2021

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 picks for the best of the winter!

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Winter Gourmands

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.

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 and sledding slopes. From walking on a winter beach to playing in the snow, winter offers fresh, invigorating outdoor adventures.

Rainy Day Hikes

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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.

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.

Cellar Season in Oregon Wine Country

Wine tasting in winter has its own 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.

Cozy 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.

Performing Arts & Theater

On stage performing arts include opera, musicals, comedy, dance, plays, music and more across the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region.… More ›

Love & Romance

For Valentine's Day plan a scrumptious dinner and shop for a sparkling gift — be it bubbles or baubles. Artisan jewelers offer beautiful, unique pieces. Browse downtown boutiques, the Saturday Market or the local shopping malls.

Snuggle up in a mountain cabin along the river or in a beachfront hotel on the Oregon Coast. From pampering bed and breakfasts to a cabin near a hot springs-fed pool, tucked in a forest glen; there are plenty of romantic getaways.

More Winter Adventure Planning

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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