by Amelia Kennedy
Face it; there’s nothing like the spring in Eugene, OR. Whether it’s a lazy day at the Willamette River or a picnic with friends in the park, Eugene has so much to offer– especially when the weather is warm. However, I often have trouble finding new places to check out. So, after talking to various students at the University of Oregon, I came up with a list of the best spots from Eugene locals themselves. Here are some of the best sites Eugene has to offer!
The Willamette River
Nothing can beat a river day when it comes to spring term– the sun is out, and students are antsy to get outside. Being far from the coast, a trip to the river is the perfect way to curb those beach cravings. Isabella Morgan, UO junior, says, “[The Willamette River] is a great way for all of us students to come back together, enjoy the sunshine, float down the river, and have a good time.” So next time the sun is out, grab your friends, a floatie, and head over to the Willamette River for a Eugene beach day.
University Park
Eugene is full of great parks for students. You can lounge in the sun, picnic with friends, or even play on the playground. Mira Eagan, UO junior, says her favorite park in all of Eugene is University Park. Besides its close distance to her house south of campus, Eagan says, “I am able to go on the swings, hang out in the sun, and get outside.” Eagan also recommends checking out Hendricks Park or Washburne City Park, which are close to campus.
Fall Creek– Bedrock Swimming Hole
One of Eugene’s hidden spots is the Bedrock swimming hole. Located in Fall Creek right under a bridge, the Bedrock swimming hole is a gorgeous pool with a sand floor. Keslar Simpson, UO Sophomore and South Eugene High School graduate, says, “Bedrock is my favorite spot because it’s along Fall Creek, which is my favorite place to go.” Having been here myself, I highly recommend checking out this tranquil place full of greenery, formation rocks, and all types of beaches.
Autzen Stadium
Over the Autzen bridge and north of campus lies Autzen Stadium. A beautiful walk over the river and through the trees, Autzen Stadium, is the perfect place to walk to on a sunny day. During the spring, students can head to Autzen for the UO football team's spring game. Bella Lachman, UO junior, says, “The walk to Autzen Stadium really makes the best days, especially when I get to go to Autzen with all of my best friends.” The Spring is definitely the time to enjoy a leisurely walk to Autzen Stadium– and this time of year, it really never rains in Autzen.
Owen Rose Garden
My personal favorite spot to visit in the spring is Eugene’s botanical garden. The Owen Rose Garden is one of the most scenic places in Eugene. The garden has breathtaking flower arches that you can walk under, fields of flowers, and a cute gazebo. Just over eight acres, the Owen Rose Garden is the perfect place to walk around while the skies are clear. As the flowers bloom in the spring, you don’t want to miss checking out this gorgeous spot.
Eugene is full of beautiful places to go. Try checking out these spots on one of the many sunny days this spring term– you won’t be disappointed. If you’re like me and find it hard to navigate around Eugene from time to time, check out the map below with all of these local spots pinned!