The city of Eugene lies in the Oregon State of the United States. Home to the University of Oregon, Eugene is thus bustling with young talent and crowd and frequent visitors. The city of Waldport enjoys a summertime Mediterranean climate and it is home to various nature parks and attractions, offering a wide range of outdoor activities to indulge in. The city is full of life and thus a great place for family and friends to hang out. It’s a major tourist spot in the USA, full of places to try great seafood and enjoy the lively nightlife. Such is the vibrant life that you can enjoy so many things on your trip here. Tourists will find various accommodation options in Oregon, including amazing Airstream rentals that are great for adventures. If you’re traveling to the state for the first time, you can also opt to stay in a seaside hotel. For your ease, we have highlighted some of the best things to do in Eugene, Oregon, for a fun-filled trip.
1. Explore the Eugene Distillery trail (from USD 85.0)
Don’t know what to do in Eugene? The best way to start your journey is by probably sampling some wines. The city of Oregon is known for various distilleries like Deep Woods, Heritage, Thinking tree, and Wolf Spirits, which are a part of the Eugene Distillery trail. These places are where you can indulge in artisan spirits, freshly made and available in a variety. There are four unique tasting rooms each with a speciality which you sample and still not get enough of it. Such is the flavours of the wines. At some places, exquisite whisky, vodka, gin and liqueurs are also available. Most of these are sustainable distilleries so also thumbs up to the environment.
Eugene Distillery Trail
Duration: 4 hours
2. Enjoy a complete tour of Eugene City (from USD 85.0)
This tour takes you on a three- to four-hour ride to visit various important and interesting landmarks and attractions of the city. The tour will take you to Valley River Inn, Hyatt Place Hotel and 5th Street Public Market. You will see attractions like Skinners Butte Park and Summit, Whitaker Neighbourhood, Rose Garden, Shelton McMurphey Johnson house, Museum of Natural and Cultural History, University of Oregon and more. Don’t wait for a good time, get it by booking the tour online.
Eugene City Tour
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
3. Enjoy an urban street art tour (from USD 60.0)
Oregon is a hub of artists and that also reflects in the street art in Eugene. The art tour operates every Monday from 9 am to 12 pm and takes you to different streets with jaw-dropping mural works by artists like Ila Rose, Hua Tunan, Blek Le Rat and Steven Lopez. These contemporary artists have converted the plain walls into works of art and really deserve applause. The artists have used themes like earth, western graffiti, space invasion using stencil art and even hip hop culture. Book a tour now because these artworks are some of the best things to see in Oregon.
Urban Street Art Tour
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
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4. A mix of Eugene highlights combined with wine tasting (from USD 158.0)
What is Eugene known for, you ask? Wine! With this perfect combo tour that can easily be booked online, you can explore the city of Eugene and go wine tasting in the Willamette Valley. On this guided, small-group tour, you can visit Eugene’s most-popular attractions like Skinner’s Butte, the University of Oregon, Owen Rose Garden, and more. After sightseeing, you can go wine tasting at three local vineyards in the south valley. What more can you ask for with fun and wine combined? Your transportation from the central meeting point is also free, and you can choose between the full tour of 9 hours or small individual tours of 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Eugene Highlights and Wine Tasting Combo
Duration: 8 hours
5. Dive into the adventure world of Puzzling Adventures (from USD 34.0)
This is for smart, adventure seekers. Puzzling Adventures is a mix of a scavenger hunt, an adventure race, and an informative self-guided tour. Each adventure consists of a series of locations that you are guided to, from where you are required to answer questions or solve puzzles to receive your next instruction. All you need is your own mobile device and an Internet connection. Sounds like a treasure hunt and fun, right? Don’t miss this on your next visit to Eugene, whether you are with family or friends, as it is suitable for all ages. You can also go at your own pace!
Eugene Puzzling Adventure
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
The following content is contributed by Trip101 writer, Laarni
6. Take your kids to Eugene Science Center
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Eugene with your kids, Eugene Science Center should definitely be on your list of places to visit. It used to be called Science Factory but had its name changed in 2018. The venue is designed to make children aged 0 to 14 curious about science and technology. And should they decide to pursue learning science and technology later in life, the goal is that they might help their respective communities as well through scientific innovations. Some of the activities your family can look forward to are interactive displays, planetarium exhibits, and laser shows. There are also science camps wherein children and parents, teachers, or guardians can have fun science adventures. You can even organize your little one’s birthday party here! Just make sure to book in advance to secure your spot.
Eugene Science Center
Address: 2300 Leo Harris Pkwy, Eugene, OR
Website: Eugene Science Center
Opening hours: Tue - Thu, Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm; Fri: 10am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 0 - 8 USD
7. Join a basketball game at Amazon Park
If you prefer the outdoors over enclosed spaces, then you should head over to Amazon Park. Make no mistake, this is not your average park. In fact, the place covers nearly 100 acres (40.4 hectares)! This means there are a number of activities you can indulge in while here. You can play sports in the ball fields or even go for a game of basketball. There is also a dog park if you are a pet parent. If you simply want some quiet time with the family, you can whip up some snacks and bring them with you to the picnic area where tables are available for your convenience. Restrooms and drinking fountains can be found all over the venue, so you don’t have to worry about these basic necessities.
Amazon Park
Address: 22 Amazon Pkwy, Eugene, OR
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
Price: Free
8. Check out the exhibits at Oregon Air and Space Museum
At Oregon Air and Space Museum, you can expect to see exhibits showcasing various aircraft as well as displays that tell the history of aviation. You can also find objects and information about space technology here. These artefacts are suitable for people of all ages. In fact, aside from discounts offered to military personnel and students, children 5 years old and younger can enter free of charge. Some of the highlights you should check out are the MIG 17, A-4 Skyhawk, A-6 Intruder, and much more. No wonder this place is a favourite among locals and foreign tourists alike. Note that if you come as a group of 10 or more, you get discounts on tickets too.
Oregon Air and Space Museum
Address: 90377 Boeing Dr, Eugene, OR
Website: Oregon Air and Space Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 12pm - 4pm (closed from Sun - Tue)
Price: 0 - 7 USD
9. Visit Maude Kerns Art Center
Established in 1950, Maude Kerns Art Center is a group effort of Eugene’s local artists. Maude Irvine Kerns was an artist herself and part of this alliance of creatives. She was the head of University of Oregon’s Art Education Department during her time. You can find more than 75 of her artworks in Maude Kerns Art Center, along with works of various local and international artists. Aside from the fascinating exhibits, the venue also hosts art classes, performances, lectures, and various programs for visitors of all ages. If you are an aspiring artist yourself, you can apply for membership and join the annual membership show. Note that the galleries are open to the public free of charge, but donations are encouraged.
Maude Kerns Art Center
Address: 1910 E 15th Ave, Eugene, OR
Website: Maude Kerns Art Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5:30pm; Sat: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Sun)
Price: Free
10. 10. View the extensive collection at Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
Here’s another spot for artists and art lovers alike. Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art welcomes all - whether you are an art connoisseur or just someone looking to pass time while in Eugene. Being University of Oregon’s official art museum, it sets certain expectations among visitors, but with over 3,700 artworks on display, the place does not disappoint. Here you will find both historic and contemporary exhibits. There are also engaging shows - all to encourage patrons to continue looking to art as a means of understanding humanity deeper and better. With the extensive collections available for viewing at this art museum, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled to other nations too.
Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
Address: 1430 Johnson Lane, Eugene, OR
Website: Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
Opening hours: Wed: 11am - 8pm; Thur - Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 0 - 5 USD
11. Head to Lane County History Museum
If you’re a history buff who happens to be in Eugene, you will be happy to know that there’s a place in the city that preserves interesting old photographs and artefacts for your viewing pleasure. Lane County History Museum is managed by a non-profit organization that aims to protect archival collections that tell the fascinating story of Lane County, Oregon. The Society, as it is called, often hosts activities and programs - all to gather support from the local community. With more than 10,000 items on display, along with changing exhibits, LCHM should definitely be one of your stops while in town. Future plans for the museum include the addition of a cafe. Now that’s something to look forward to!
Lane County History Museum
Address: 740 W 13th Ave, Eugene, OR
Website: Lane County History Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: 0 - 5 USD
12. Dine at Party Downtown
Party Downtown boasts the best veggie burgers in town. If you’re a meat-eater, the place offers pasture-raised fried chicken and organic burgers. The menu always has seven courses but changes monthly. The owners, Tiffany and Mark, are both friendly and make sure every patron leaves satisfied with their orders. Party Downtown prepares a variety of comfort food presented in creative ways to ensure a one-of-a-kind dining experience every time. If you’re looking to wind down after a long day, this restaurant also serves classic and original cocktails to help you chill out with your friends. Aside from a la carte options, Party Downtown has barbecue kits that you can order for takeout and grill at home.
Party Downtown
Address: 55 W Broadway, Eugene, OR
Website: Party Downtown
Opening hours: Thu - Sun: 3pm - 9pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
13. Join a Eugene brewery tour (from USD 85.0)
Instead of distilleries, this tour takes you on a fun adventure through the many local breweries of Eugene. If liquor is not really your thing and you’d rather have a pint of beer, this activity is perfect for you. To make the most of your trip, set aside at least four hours for this excursion. A local guide will be taking you around Eugene to explore its thriving beer scene. You’ll get to learn some fascinating information about lagers, pilsners, ales, and much more. As you visit both small local companies and big national breweries, tasting the best they have to offer, you’ll also have a grand time hearing about beer history and how craft brewing has evolved through the years.
Eugene Brewery Tour
Duration: 4 hours
Fun tours in Eugene
There are so many things to do in Eugene since the city is filled with such fun tours that you can go on. Some of these also offer customization so you can book according to your requirement while there are others that offer private tours as well. What else can you ask for? If you want to book any of the above tours or liked any of them, please let us know by dropping a line below.
Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Eugene, Oregon
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