Eugene may not be as big as Portland, but this college town does not lack in terms of excitement. The city’s set in a perfect location, on the south end of the Willamette Valley in the heart of Oregon’s beautiful wine country. They’re proudly home to the U of O, some great microbreweries, wineries and a range of amazing food options. Next time you’re in the area, these are just eight of the local gems you won’t want to miss.
1. Willamette River Bike Trail
2. Off The Waffle

via Yelp/Eneri F.
3. Sweet Cheeks Winery
4. Ninkasi Brewery

via WikiWand
5. Hendricks Park

via Flickr/Rick Obst
What could be more relaxing than spending a few hours winding through Oregon forest? Hendricks Park is Eugene’s oldest city park and just a short drive up from the University of Oregon campus. It’s very well-maintained, and includes a beautiful rhododendron garden that blooms by spring and early summer.
6. Wandering Goat Coffee Co.
On a cold rainy day there’s nothing like a warm mocha in hand at Wandering Goat Coffee. The laid-back cafe is hidden away in an industrial area, serving not just espresso but also snacks, teas and house-made baked goods from their all-vegan bakery.
7. Mount Pisgah Arboretum
8. Owen Rose Garden

via Rick Obst/Flickr
Owen Rose Garden is about as picturesque as it gets. Like something from a fairy tale, the garden has a gazebo, an old giant cherry tree and a walking path to meander. It’s a lovely place to stroll and see colorful varieties of roses blooming in the spring, and take in the sweet floral fragrances.
Have you been to any of these places before? Where do you love visiting around Eugene?