Be In The Know

Eugene and neighboring Springfield are decorated with dazzling scenes from the imaginations of talented muralists from around the world. Whether it’s the mastodon on West 2nd, the Pied Piper on East Broadway, or the “Discussion About the Red” on Willamette Street, murals in Eugene help tell the community’s story. And the story has only just begun; muralists from around the world were invited to paint twenty new murals in Eugene by the end of 2021. The 20x21 EUG Mural Project was designed to prepare for the World Athletics Championships scheduled to take place this month at Hayward Field. Take an eye-opening tour to discover all 21 and see more than 100 works of art in all. Self-guided, the tour along Springfield’s mural walk will reveal larger than life tributes to fly fishing, celebrations of national patriotism, and the pioneering history of the Oregon Trail. An interactive map on the website allows you to review the route before you hit the road. By clicking on a pin, you’ll reveal which mural is at a given location. Click once more on “more details” and you’ll be taken to a page where you can learn more about the artist, the mural itself, and in many cases, a video.
On the second Friday of each month, make plans to stop in Springfield's art galleries along the mural walk who host special exhibits with live music and artist receptions.

It’s impossible to choose a favorite; can you? Perhaps it’s worth traversing the mural trail in multiple visits— there’s a lot of information tied to each work— so that you can absorb the art and its messages of hardship, inspiration, equality, and conservancy a little bit at a time. We’ll be happy to host you at The Gordon Hotel during your stays. Contact our concierge desk for any questions and to help point you in the right direction. Don’t delay; make your reservations today, and wonder at the open-air art exposition that colors our great city.

Summer isn’t the only time to visit these waterfalls–they’re beautiful all year long, but with so much precipitation this spring, the greenery surrounding these falls and lining the trails that carve through the forests to meet them are as lush and inviting as can be. The list includes falls that are accessible to a variety of ages and abilities. Find one that suits you and go exploring!

Sweet Creek Falls - This is a series of small waterfalls along a 2.2 mile family-friendly hiking trail in the Coast range. Enjoy a shady path with enchanting bridges and metal walkways skirting the creek.

Kentucky Falls - All about adventure and accomplishment, this falls appears at the end of a challenging drive followed by a steep 4.4 mile out and back trek. The remote falls has an upper and lower observation deck, both with spectacular photo opportunities to make your effort worth the trouble.

Sahalie & Koosah Falls - Two easy-to-see roadside waterfalls make for a family-friendly stop any Cascade Mountian road trip. A 2.6 mile loop trail connects the two waterfalls and adjoining parking lots.

Trestle Creek Falls - This is an elegant fan waterfall at the end of a moderate hike near Cottage Grove. Experience a classic lush grotto at the base of the lower falls and a behind-the-falls perspective in front of the upper falls’ rocky backsplash.

Proxy Falls - Proxy Falls is a “summer only” falls before snow closes its only access road. Take a short, 1.5 mile hike along dirt trails off Highway 242 to see two distinct water fall views from above and below its crest.

Salt Creek Falls - Appearing straight our of Oakridge canyon, this is Oregon's second highest single drop waterfall, cascading 286 feet with an average yearly flow of 50,000 gallons of water per minute surging over the rocks. Climb a steep but short trail to the observation deck.

Diamond Creek Falls - A steep hiking trail is rewarded with an up-close-and-personal view of this two-part falls featuring both a 90 and 500 foot drop. The 3.2 mile loop trail skirts canyons and creeks to give the brave an opportunity to “get wet” as the water sprays down.

Pinot Grigios aren’t the only grapes worth drinking from the Willamette Valley. Sure, the Oregon coast is known for its fruit-forward dry white, but there are other enticing varietals to taste, too, from Sauvignon Blanc to the less familiar, Gamay. And some wineries choose Memorial Day weekend to offer special tastings or even release new vintages. The only way to find out, of course, is to be here when it happens! So plan a vineyard tour or simply walk in for a tasting in any one of nearly two dozen wineries’ tasting rooms. To enrich your experience, most wineries will host live entertainment during the long weekend, with everything from twangy country to sultry jazz bands laying intoxicating soundtracks while you sip and savour your delicious vintage.

Take it all in at Silvan Ridge Winery’s natural amphitheater or Sweet Cheeks Winery’s spacious outdoor patio. Pfeiffer Winery boasts outdoor water gardens while Bennett Vineyards covers its broad meadow with tents. Many of the smaller wineries will feature music, too. And no matter where you choose to go, panoramic views from the hilltop vineyards will leave you breathless. Don’t miss an opportunity to snap a photo with the vine-covered slopes behind you, and gaze across the picturesque valley to neighboring farms, lakes and snow-dusted mountain peaks. Not sure where to go? Find a winery trail map here. Book your stay today at The Gordon Hotel and wind your way to the Valley to taste the very best wine the region has to offer.

Always a treasure trove of greenery with views of Eugene’s attractive cityscape, Hendrick’s Park is an enchanting, year-round escape. The rhododendrons peak in May, making it perhaps the most colorful month, but even before the rhodos bloom their ebullience, visitors to the garden can enjoy the 6,000 practically fluorescent plants and native varieties tucked into the hedgerows. Hendrick’s Park features large open lawns and level paths that criss-cross steep and narrow hiking trails that etch the hillside. At 80 acres, Hendrick’s has enough space and experiences to appeal to every age and interest. If it’s a cool and damp spring day, consider stopping by for tea or kombucha at downtown favorite, Brew Dr. Tea Company. The cozy cafe offers more than 100 loose leaf teas that you can smell before ordering. Once in the park and feeling heady from the scent of rhododendron blooms, walk south to the forest hiking trails for longer hikes. The Wildflower Trail is sure to delight from the early days of spring straight into the heat of summer. Finally, before descending the hilltop, why not stop at Pre's Rock, a memorial to Eugene track star, Steve Prefontaine. We’re sure you’ll enjoy Hendrick’s Park; bring a picnic or a book, and plan to make an afternoon of it. Eugene is full of natural wonders, and as your hosts, the friendly staff at The Gordon Hotel will be happy to point the way toward our other favorite parks, hikes, walking trails, and gardens for you to enjoy during your stay.

The Ridgeline Trail is a series of trails, many beginning in neighborhoods in Southeast Eugene and wandering along the low hills and ridges that skirt the edge of town. Along the way, you’ll zigzag up wooded hillsides, plunge through expansive meadows, cross small creeks, and rise to offer sweeping panoramas. The Ridgeline system provides easy access for a range of hiking experiences. Plan short or long hikes depending on your mood and ability.

Spencer Butte is part of the Ridgeline Trail system but has earned a reputation of its own. A short but steep hike, it can be a muddy trail in rainy weather, with several streams and rivulets crossing the path. Steps near the top ease the final assent. If you’re lucky, you’ll pop out of the clouds for a view of the valley below. But don’t despair, staying fogged in isn’t such a bad thing–who doesn’t love a head in the clouds?

For our final rainy weather hike, we suggest touring Lane County's covered bridges. In Cottage Grove there are six covered bridges to span and you can cycle or hike between them. If you’re on foot, follow the Row River Trail. Beyond this, consider a set of wheels. Some do allow car traffic, but for those that don’t duck in from the rain and unpack your snacks–it’s a great place to watch the world go by and stay dry while you’re at it.

For more information about where to hike in Eugene and the surrounding area, just ask our friendly concierge. We live to share with our guests the places we love.

To take advantage of our Valentine’s Weekend Special, choose your perfect room and enjoy a bottle of chilled sparkling wine and handcrafted chocolates for two. Our Deluxe King bedrooms offer solid wood workstations, eclectic decor, and full tile walk-in showers. More than just a place to rest your head, you and your love can unpack in a custom wardrobe and soak-in the natural light. Our One Bedroom Suites feature a gas fireplace, extra-large flat-screen TVs, and a spacious bathroom with a standalone tub. Enjoy each other with a view of downtown Eugene from a corner suite with a separate bedroom.

Our boutique hotel is the doorstep to the 5th Street Public Market, making it easy for you to get out and explore one of our favorite parts of the city. But our own hip restaurant and rooftop bar are sure to dazzle you and yours for an easy and luxurious evening in for a quick bite, a lingering meal, a drink, and a kiss. We can’t wait to host you.

A mere thirty minutes from Eugene, just past Oakridge/Westfir, discover the region's state Sno-Parks. You’ll need a permit to enter so plan to purchase one in advance. One such park, easy to access off of Highway 58, is Salt Creek Sno-Park, a family-friendly place to play in the snow. Pack and launch snowballs, wave your arms through the powder to make snow angels, and sled, tube, or snowshoe to the magical Salt Creek Falls. If you don’t have snow gear, don’t worry! You can rent it from any number of local outfitters and then clip-in to cross-country ski on maintained trails around Gold Lake Sno-Park or rev up your snowmobile at Waldo Lake Sno-Park. Prefer to walk? Winter sightseeing is gorgeous! But don’t take our word for it; come “ski” it for yourself!

Have you ever seen a raptor in the wild? And no, we’re not talking about those screeching, long-beaked and taloned velociraptors from Jurassic Park. Still no? Well, come to Eugene and your answer will change once you visit the Cascades Raptor Center. It’s a thriving and inspiring wildlife hospital and rehabilitation center for eagles, owls, hawks, raptors, and other birds of prey. Dedicated, trained staff work tirelessly to help as many birds as possible regain enough strength to be released back to the wild. But for the hundreds of birds treated, about a quarter never return. Lucky for you, however, these are the birds available for public viewing. So come visit, and learn about them and their journey to healing in their new home. Then, after you’ve spent your day exploring the wonders of the feathered wild, soar back to your nest at The Gordon Hotel, just 15 minutes away.

We’re not concerned about how much is on your plate; we’re focused on generous portions of happy. Whether we’re arranging your seasonal crudo appetizer or Mary’s Free Range Organic Chicken Breast or Oregon Shrimp Bucatini, we serve only the best of what’s fresh and in season. For fall that means lots of wholesome root vegetables, roasted until they’re caramelized and sweet to pair with our tart apples and tender cuts of pork and grass fed beef. Try the charcuterie plate for two and with a selection of our favorite cheeses and cured and smoked meats while you peruse the menu. And please do us a favor; save room for dessert. We’ve got a sizzling tavern cookie with your name on it, just waiting in cast iron for its dollop of caramel ice cream. Make your reservation by calling our friendly host at Gordon Tavern today, and plan on staying the night. We can’t wait to serve you.

A hike up Spencer Butte takes you to an elevation of 2,058 feet where you can expect breathtaking views of Eugene, Springfield, the Coast Range, and several Cascade peaks. You’re guaranteed to experience peace and quiet amongst the rocky outcropping, something difficult to find in the Willamette Valley. 

Enjoy close to 15 miles of trails for walkers, runners, and bikers on the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Trail System. This well-maintained trail travels through lush wetlands with ample opportunities for wildlife sightings before and passing through Skinner’s Butte. You don’t have to take our word for it; these trails appeal to a range of skill levels and are easy to access so are perfect for the whole family. 

Any list would be remiss without Mount Pisgah. You’ll get an amazing workout by climbing to the top of this 1.5-mile trail. Discover your place amongst nature while acquainting yourself with the ecology of the Southern Willamette Valley.

Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, McDonald Theatre opened in 1925 and served as a community stage until the theatre was converted into a movie house in the year 2000. Its family owners are proud of the stint in the 50s when they offered free admission to Saturday morning cartoons with magic tricks performed during intermissions. It wasn’t until 2009 when Kesey Enterprises purchased the historic building and turned it into one of downtown Eugene’s downtown destinations. Today, the theatre hosts a variety of events from mainstream reggae to private weddings and high school proms, local children’s stage performances, and Billboard-topping bands. When the stage isn’t booked for paid performances, non-profit organizations are encouraged to share the space for their events, celebrations, lectures, and fundraisers. So check the theatre’s website for a calendar of upcoming events, and plan to visit during your stay at The Gordon Hotel.

Connect With Nature
Discover a shaded spot in Alton Baker Park and make a day of it. Between the biking trails and kayaking down the Willamette River, celebrate our beautiful locale by spending a day outside.

See Art
When it rains, head to the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. Designed without windows to protect the masterpieces inside, the museum features an impressive collection of American, European, and Asian art.

Make a Feathered Friend
Eugene is home to Cascades Raptor Center, a stand-out wildlife hospital and rehabilitation center for eagles, falcons, hawks, and other birds of prey. Learn about these awe-inspiring creatures on a sunny summer day.

Today, visitors can enjoy over 4,500 roses comprised of more than 400 unique varietals. Take a serene stroll along the paved walkway canopied by rose-bedecked arches. See the nationally acclaimed Oregon Heritage Cherry Tree. Enjoy an al fresco lunch date with friends or family at one of many picnic tables throughout the garden. If you’re interested in getting a little green on your thumb, you can join the volunteers who meet on the second Thursday of each month to tend to the garden. You’ll have the opportunity to learn techniques for planting, pruning, fertilizing, and other fundamental rose care.

Address: 300 N. Jefferson St., Eugene, Oregon 97402

Savor scenic views of the river while enjoying the paved and mostly shaded trails—bike enthusiasts of all skill levels love exploring this loop, as well as joggers, hikers, and skateboarders. There are many places to jump on and off, creating an environment of freedom and ease. Bring your furry best friends along. However, they must be kept on a leash. Some of the sights you’ll pass are Skinner Butte Park, Owen Rose Garden, and Maurie Jacob’s Park.

Mount Pisgah Arboretum has been educating nature lovers on the ecological wonders of the Southern Willamette Valley since 1973. With 209 acres of wild botanical gardens, it’s the perfect place to catch your breath and reset. Embark on one of their guided nature walks to gain a deeper understanding of the interconnected life of plants and animals. Or attend one of their annual events such as the Wildflower & Music Festival and The Mushroom Festival. Last year's events were virtual, but still wildly fun.

Visit their website for upcoming workshops and events.

To help ensure that the wild animals stay wild, the 200-some birds being treated for eventual release are not available for public viewing. However, around 60 birds that would not survive in the wild now call the center home, giving you the chance to observe and learn about these majestic creatures in their new habitat. After a day spent exploring the wonders of the wild, head back to your contemporary and cozy accommodations at The Gordon Hotel, just 15 minutes away.

Address: 32275 Fox Hollow Road, Eugene, OR 97405

Home to a lively blend of arts and culture, numerous parks and gardens, culinary offerings, and the country's top running and bicycling paths, we thought we'd share our love for the Eug with a few fun facts you probably didn't know.

1. Called "Emerald City" for its lush, dense greenery in the forests, the city is also often referred to as "Tracktown, USA", for its the only city to host three consecutive US Olympic Team Trials - Track & Field (1972, 1976, 1980) and has thus become an infamous training hub of some of the fastest athletes in the world.
2. Originally known as Blue Ribbon Sports, the first iteration of Nike was birthed right here in Eugene. The current owner, Phil Knight, originally founded the company in 1964 with his track coach at UO, Bill Bowerman. Ask anyone in town about Bowerman’s waffle iron shoemaking tactic, and they’ll be happy to tell you all about it.
3. Unbeknownst to most, Eugene is quite large. In fact, it's the second largest city in the entire state of Oregon, and the county seat of Lane County as well.
4. While Oregon's lush climate makes for great grape growth, Eugene has capitalized on its wealth of wine. In and around the city, you'll find over a dozen wineries and vineyards to sip your way around.
5. Lastly, although there is a nearby Oregon town that's named Springfield (and serves as the primary basis for the beloved cartoon city from the Simpsons), real fans of the show will pick up on the multiple landmarks and environments that were inspired by Eugene. Hint: Max's Tavern is almost a shot-for-shot copy of "Moe's" from the show.

Pendleton The sixth-generation family-owned Oregon business is well-known for its blankets and woolen fabric, which have been designed and woven in the Pacific Northwest for more than 150 years. Eugene is lucky to have its own store featuring a curated selection of home, men's and women's offerings, while the adjoining Inn at the 5th has a Pendleton-inspired suite with historical photographs from the Pendleton Woolen Mills adorning the walls, Pendleton fabrics, and of course Pendleton woolen blankets and throws. Grab a cozy Pendleton blanket for a picnic near a waterfall, and it’s about as Oregon as you can get.

Urban Lumber Co. Based in Eugene, this custom hardwood furnishings group (link to ) uses reclaimed lumber from the Pacific Northwest. At The Gordon Hotel all of the gorgeous bed headboards are made from sustainably salvaged/local city trees.

Will Leather Goods Family owned for 35 years, Will Leather Goods creates leather bags “inspired by the past, designed for the present, and built for the future.” Also originating in Eugene, their flagship store is a red railcar at the 5th Street Public Market, and it’s worth a visit for the overwhelming leather scents alone. The shop usually has cold brew or kombucha on tap, and they also offer a chance to personalize your purchase with leather stamping – something extra you won’t get from an online order.

Burley 40 years ago, Burley Founder Alan Scholz moved to Eugene in search of a cycling-friendly community. (The Burley name was inspired by his wife Beverly, a bicycle racer known as “Burley Bev.”) The couple sold handmade bike bags at Eugene’s Saturday Market, a 30-mile commute from their home. Determined to live a car-free life they needed a way to carry their bags and young daughter to the market by bike. Using parts from an old swing set, they built the first Burley trailer, and the rest is history. We love that these trailers are well-designed, local, and that they keep pups in mind too with their pet trailers and accessories.

Oregon Photographers Maybe it’s because the scenery is so diverse and majestic, but Oregon is home to some amazing photographers. Athena Delene is a full-time photographer who captures Eugene’s energy and life on her Instagram feed, highlighting the art scene in particular.

F&B Oregon is famous for its dairy (Tillamook Cheese, mmmm), but Eugene’s Coconut Bliss skips the cows in favor of dairy-free, plant-based ingredients for their pints, ice cream bars, and cookie sandwiches. If you prefer dairy, Eugene ALSO is the home of Alden’s Ice Cream, which uses strictly organic ingredients. With all the sweet, you need some salty, so there’s Cosmos Creations and their premium puffed corn with non-GMO corn and no trans fats.

Nike Eugene is obsessed with running... after all, it's where Nike took wings when former Olympian and University of Oregon Track Coach Bill Bowerman and then middle-distance runner Phil Knight forged a partnership that ignited what would become the largest sports and fitness company in the world. A new Nike flagship store will open in Eugene next door to The Gordon Hotel in the 5th Street Public Market in January of 2021. The store’s design is reminiscent of an early 20th-century warehouse building and harkens back to when the area was Eugene’s industrial center, home to manufacturers, and similar businesses. It feels very “full circle” to have the store open here, and we can’t wait to hit the trails with a new pair of locally purchased kicks.