Life in Eugene
Eugene is a livable and inexpensive city with great outdoor activities, a thriving local food culture, and a lively arts scene. Located at the confluence of the McKenzie and Willamette Rivers, Eugene is part of Oregon’s second largest metropolitan area, with a total population of about 350,000 for Eugene and it’s sister city, Springfield. Portland, the state’s major metropolitan center, is a two-hour drive to the north.
Running, Biking, and Hiking
Eugene offers 150 miles of trails for running, hiking, and cycling, featuring scenic spots like Mount Pisgah Arboretum and Ridgeline Trail.
Music and Culture
Eugene hosts vibrant cultural events, including the Oregon Country Fair, the Willamette Valley Folk Festival, and the Oregon Bach Festival. The Hult Center features performances by local and international artists. The University of Oregon offers concerts, theater, films, and art shows.
The Oregon Coast
The Oregon coast is about one hour away. It is especially picturesque, offering rocky shoreline as well as the largest stretch of coastal dunes in the country.
Farm to Table
Our chefs craft fresh meals using ingredients from 25 local farms across 14 campus dining venues. Off-campus, Eugene offers a number of local restaurants, microbreweries, and nearby vineyards.
The Cascade Mountains
An hour east of Eugene, the Cascade Range offers skiing in winter and camping, fishing, and hiking in summer, while nearby lakes and rivers provide sailing, kayaking, and rafting.
Winter Sports
The nearby Cascade range boasts several downhill ski and snowbard resorts, backcountry trials, and nordic ski areas.