Visit the 5th Street Public...
by lumberjack83
Visit the 5th Street Public Market where there is an abundance of shops and enticing odors wafting from the Metropol Bakery as well as a variety of excellent restaurants. The city was named after an early pioneer named Eugene Skinner and the butte that you see off in the distance, behind the white building is named after him. It is possible to climb the butte in order to afford the view shown in the following picture. While I like this view, Skinner Butte park, which is bordered by the Willamette River, is my favorite feature of Eugene. Miles of bike paths make it a great place to walk, roller blade or bicycle leisurely or for exercise.
Home of the American Running Gods
by caffeine_induced78
Hayward field was the original University of Oregon all purpose sports field. After the completion of Autzen Stadium for football Hayward Field was used exclusively for Track and Field events. Eugene is one of the few towns in America where Track and Field events are a major draw. You can also feel the spirit of numerous distance running legends coursing through the wooden bleachers where sap once ran. Check out a U of O track meet if in town during the spring or the largest event of them all - the Prefontaine Classic. A rain coat if in the forecast.
Sahalie Falls - on the beautiful McKenzie
by caffeine_induced78
This 140 ft. waterfall on the McKenzie River is about an 85 minute drive east from Eugene. Up towards the ridges of the Cascade Mountains this is close to the headwaters, making for cold, ice fed waters. This is an area that was covered by lava flows, burying parts of the river and providing the geology needed to make these waterfalls as they pour over basalt cliffs. The surrounding greenery is even more intense than western Oregon usually is, because of the spray from the Waterfall. Sahalie is the Chinook (Native American tribe) word for "high."
I remember hiking down from Clear Lake with the family when I was about 12. My brother asked how far it was down to the falls. "It's 1.2 miles down to the falls," I said.
"How far is it back?" he asked.
We died laughing. It was a one way trail.
Hanging out on 5th Street
by lareina about Steelhead Brewery
In the vicinity of the 5th Street Market are some great places to eat. The Steelhead Brewery has a casual atmosphere that includes highbacked, cozy chairs and a British telephone booth. I recommend heading there on a sunny day (if you can find one!) to enjoy the outdoor seating and people watching. At the Steelhead, try out the microbrews and dine on typical American brewery fare such as wings, pasta, burgers, or pizza.
Groceries, Natural Foods, and Deli
by birchy99 about Market of Choice
While this store cannot compete in any way with Harrod's Food Court in London, it does a pretty good job for our little city.
The Market of Choice combines the convenience of a standard super market, and has the added feature of stocking earth friendly, body friendly, natural and organic products. They also specialize in ready to take out meals, such as meats, salads, sushi, pizza, and sandwiches plus a full scale bakery and a large wine and beer selection.
Prices are higher here but it is a fun place to shop. Sort like there's a surprise around every corner. I like the pizza for take out. They have their own varieties which include traditional and exotic such as Thai, peanut chicken.
Their produce section is excellent with a wide choice of conventional and organic products. The take out salads and entres always offer plenty of choice at a reasonable price.