Willamette Valley
Running along Interstate 5 from Portland to Eugene, the Willamette Valley is made up of vineyards, small towns, big cities and fertile farms. The area’s mild climate, plentiful rain and abundant sunshine make it the ideal location for tulips, iris, strawberries, peppermint, grapes, hazelnuts and many other plants. Its lakes, rivers, and streams provide many opportunities for fishing and water sports—so be sure to come prepared.
The Towns of Willamette Valley
Eugene
This is a town of eclectic activities and attractions. You can enjoy arts, culture, and outdoor recreation. Eugene is the Valley’s largest town and has been called “The world’s greatest city of the arts and outdoors.”
Family Fun
Camp Putt Adventure Golf Park- An 18 hole course where you can take on holes like “Pond o’ Peril”, “Thunder Falls”, and “Earthquake”.
Willamette Science & Technology Center-For interactive exhibits where you can learn about physical, biological, earth sciences and related technologies, this is the place to go. There are also planetarium shows.
Outdoor Adventures
Fall Creek Dam & Lake- Have you can enjoy swimming, fishing and boating in Wineberry Creek Park, the North Shore Ramp is perfect for fishing and boating, and at the Cascara Campground you can go swimming, fishing, boating, and camping.
Lookout Point & Dexter Dams and Lakes—Here you will find the 14 mile long Lookout Point Lake and 3 mile Dexter Lake where you can enjoy a wide range of water sports. There are also several campsites available for an extended stay.
Willamette Pass Ski- With over 20 miles of Nordic trails, snowmobiling, and a vertical drop of 1,583 feet, this is offers fun for the whole family. There is a ski school, lodge, restaurant, rental shop and lounge as well.
Willamette National Forest-Here you can watch the wildlife, hike the mountainous trails, go skiing, snowmobiling and camping as you take pleasure in the beautiful backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
Cultural Arts
Hult Center-Be sure to get your tickets to see some of the shows performed here. Productions range from Broadway to concerts to ballet.
Lane Country Historical Museum- A great place to learn about the Valley’s culture and history through the exhibits, artifacts and displays
Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art- Located on the University of Oregon’s campus, here you can see Asian art, Russian icons, Persian artwork, photography and modern works of art.
Gardens
Hendricks Park Rhododendron Gardens-Do you love flowers? Then don’t miss the over 6,000 plants seen here. As you meander the paths and trails in the aromatic garden you will find rare species and hybrids.
Owen Municipal Rose Garden- From antiques to miniatures, unusual species and rare varieties, spend a day among these sweet smelling blooms.
Cottage Grove
Known especially for its old time covered bridges
Cottage Grove Lake & the Dorena Lake-Each of these lakes offer a variety of water sports, camping and picnicking.
Chateau Lorane Winery- A beautiful lakeside vineyard where you can taste traditional, rare and handmade wines
Cottage Grove Museum- Located in what was previously a Catholic church; this octagonal building has displays of North American artifacts and pioneer home life.
Springfield
Emerald Art Center- A great art venue where the whole family can see monthly art exhibits, member’s shows, or take a few art classes
Splash! Lively Swim Center- Here you will find a 144 foot waterslide, a wave machine, a water umbrella, a water basketball area, and many other wet and wild activities.
Dorris Ranch Living History Farm- A great place to stretch your legs as you learn about area history from period clad docents.
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