Beautiful Eugene

The northern boundary between Oregon and Washington is taken up by the Columbia River while the eastern boundary with Idaho has the Snake River. The Willamette River separates Eugene from the neighboring town of Springfield.

Alton Baker Park is the city's largest park and is divided between two main areas, including the Whilamut Natural Area. Visitors can enjoy exploring the many paved paths along the banks of the Willamette River. Pre's Trail is a popular cross-country and running route that was named after hometown hero Steve Prefontaine. People enjoy kayaking on the Willamette.

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art at the University of Oregon offers visitors an extensive collection of American, European, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese art. The emphasis is on Asian art but also includes major Pacific Northwest including Oregonian and European artists. The museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Public tours are available.

Also on campus is the Museum of Natural and Cultural History with anthropological, zoological, and paleontological artifacts. There are fossils, preserved wildlife, and photos that tell the natural and cultural history of the area. A permanent exhibit tells of the last 14,000 years of Oregon history. The museum also hosts different events and workshops. Free First Fridays, and summer camps.

The Hult Center for the Performing Arts provides different kinds of entertainment from jazz to opera. You can enjoy the performances of resident companies like the Eugene Ballet Company, the Eugene Concert Choir, the Eugene Opera, and the Eugene Symphony. Here you can also enjoy permanent and temporary art collections. Sculptures can be seen in the mezzanine and lower balcony levels.

Both locals and visitors enjoy the Saturday Market in operation between April and mid-November. You can enjoy local artisan crafts, live music, and internationally inspired food.

Cascades Raptor Center is home to eagles, falcons, and hawks. It is a non-profit organization nursing injured birds back to health. Visitors can see the birds and see how the rehabilitation process works. The center also hosts educational programs including handler-led demonstrations, personal tours, and kid-friendly craft workshops.

Hendriks Park has a beautiful rhododendron garden. The park has old-growth Douglas firs, native plant varieties, and walking trails. Spring is the peak season for rhododendrons. There are picnic tables and shelters. The 80-year-old Francis M. Wilkins Shelter is a historic, structure that can be reserved for up to 60 people.

Mount Pisgah Arboretum has local and international tree species. There are walking trails that can take you to the summit of Mount Pisgah and trails along riverbanks. Even leashed canine companions are welcome. Each year the arboretum hosts the annual Mushroom Festival displaying over 300 species of local mushrooms.

The Shelton-McMurphey-Johnson House was built in 1888. It has become a landmark in Eugene as it sits perched on the slopes of Skinner Butte. The interior has historical artifacts, clothing, and furniture. Public tours, afternoon tea, and other events are hosted at the house. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Eugene Science Center is a science-themed museum providing educational and interactive displays. The Planetarium offers science films and laser shows. The center also hosts special events like “Meet a Scientist” demonstrations and Science Adventure Camps.

The Lane County Historical Museum in Eugene informs visitors about the history of Lane County and its early pioneers. You can find information about the famed Oregon Trail and the forestry history of the state. Permanent exhibits include the 1853 Lane Country Clerk's Building, a century-old staircase from the old courthouse, and an impressive collection of antique vehicles. Among the highlights is a series of portraits of Native Americans photographed between 1870 and 1950. The museum hosts quilt shows, professional speaker series, and pre-school programming for younger explorers.

The Owen Rose Garden stretches near the shores of the Willamette River and the Washington-Jefferson Street Bridge. It has over 4,000 different roses. The garden has walking trails, picnic tables, and shelters that can be reserved.

The Willamette River Bike Trail is a series of interconnected paved paths that stretch along the river. The trail connects Eugene and Springfield and is popular with strollers, bikers, and roller-skaters.