16 Fun & Best Things to Do in Eugene, Oregon

Move over, Portland! Eugene, the second largest city in Oregon, is the new place to be. This vibrant city is full of interesting people, great food, and plenty of things to do.

It has all the amenities of a big city but with a small-town feel. Eugene is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in Oregon. It’s known for its natural environment, numerous recreational activities, and keen eye for art, displaying local artists at its numerous galleries and museums.

But is Eugene worth visiting? Absolutely!

From the gorgeous Willamette River that flows through its center to the Cascade Mountains that provide a stunning backdrop, Eugene, Oregon, is a nature lover’s paradise. And with its charming downtown area and lively college town atmosphere, Eugene has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Eugene. Here are the best things to do in Eugene, Oregon. 

TLDR

• Most significant landmark – The Shelton McMurphey Johnson House
• Best park – Alton Baker Park
• Best free activity – Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
• Best activity for kids – Cascades Raptor Center
• Best activity for adults – Hayward Field
• Best food – Saturday Market
• Best nightlife – Hult Center for the Performing Arts
• Best all-around accommodation – Graduate Eugene Hotel

Fun & Best Things to Do in Eugene, Oregon

1. Alton Baker Park

Address: 100 Day Island Rd, Eugene, OR 97401

Thanks to the Willamette River, Eugene has no shortage of green space. And Alton Baker Park is one of the best places to enjoy the great outdoors. This massive park comprises 400 acres of hiking trails, plains, and a forest.

Locals have been biking, running, feeding their ducks, and walking their dogs in Alton Baker Park for over 50 years. The best thing about the park is that it has something for everyone. And if you’re looking for free things to do in Eugene, Oregon, this is a great place to start.

There are miles of biking trails to explore and plenty of open space to picnic or play games. And if you have kids, they’ll enjoy feeding and admiring the wildlife at the duck ponds.

You can also rent bikes, canoes, and kayaks to get out on the water. Or take a leisurely stroll around the looped path around the park’s perimeter.

While in Alton Baker Park, you can enjoy running on the Pre’s Trail. This running and cross-country route is named…