explore
EUGENE
THE LIST
As a proudly self-proclaimed Eugene aficionado, I make it my business to get to know the best this city has to offer, whether that's the most decked out hardware store, the coolest local events, or the best damn rueben sandwich you've ever eaten. It's a big job, but someone's gotta do it. I catalog my findings here every quarter in a brand new version of THE LIST. Partly as a love letter to my city, but mostly to get you out experiencing it yourself.
A rotating exposé on the best local bites, brews, boutiques & more
THIS CITY IS IN MY BONES
No, seriously. As a born and raised Eugenian, a Sheldon High School and University of Oregon graduate (go Ducks!), and a diehard Yumm sauce fan, I know this city like the back of my hand! I'll always be the first one to pipe up when it comes to recommending local spots. So, let's indulge my geographical love affair and talk about some of the reasons Eugene is such an amazing place to live...
UNIQUE EUGENE NEIGHBORHOODS
Getting to know each of Eugene's unique little pockets of homes has been one of the things that's made my career in real estate so fun. Each area has its own character and personality. The truth is, we all like our own distinct "flavor" of home, which means where you choose to live matters depending on what matters to you. Here are a few of our city's most standout areas and what makes them special.
FRIENDLY ST NEIGHBORHOOD
This area is filled with gorgeous craftsman and bungalow homes with the kind of character you rarely see these days. It's also incredibly walkable, with lots of locally-owned businesses a pleasant stroll from your front door. This is an amazing area to live if you love getting to know your neighbors, like homes with a little personality, or love supporting local haunts.
NORTH GILHAM NEIGHBORHOOD
An established neighborhood that's experienced recent expansion and new development. Residents here get to enjoy mature trees, wide streets, and highly desirable schools. These homes have easy access to freeways, grocery stores, and shopping. This is a great area to live if you have children going through the school system or want a home that may not need too many repairs.
THE SANTA CLARA AREA
Formerly farm land, Santa Clara is along the River Rd stretch and offers both older farmhouse style homes and recently developed neighborhoods. Whatever your home aesthetic, all residents get to enjoy close proximity to the area’s parks, farmstands, schools, and shopping centers. A perfect choice for any open fields and fresh fruit and veggie lover!
THE SPYGLASS NEIGHBORHOOD
This neighborhood is a golfer’s dream! The spyglass neighborhood sits on the hill above the Oakway Golf Course and is ideally located for privacy, while still offering close proximity to everything you need. Most homes have more square footage with some very unique custom architecture, plus some townhomes at the base of the hill for those who don't need that much space.
THE FAIRMONT NEIGHBORHOOD
This neighborhood borders some of the most beloved parks in the area and offers a short commute to the University of Oregon. Most home are large and sprawling with lots of custom architecture. This is a great area to live if you're attending university or enjoy the beautiful natural areas that often accompany that college campus life.
THE CHURCHHILL NEIGHBORHOOD
This safe haven has become a favorite for growing families and offers an amazing environment for households with kids of all ages. Homes are spacious but most occupy small lots. This area has seen tremendous growth in recent years and a real boom in young family activity. A great area to meet other families and really embrace that tight-knit neighborhood feeling.
THE MALABON / FERN RIDGE AREA
On the outskirts of town, the Malabon / Fern ridge area offers a more "rural" look and feel for those looking for more land. This is an amazing place to settle if you want that farmland lifestyle but still want to stay close to the conveniences and amenities of a bustling town.
HISTORIC WASHBURNE DISTRICT
One of the most well-loved areas in the city, this neighborhood boasts charming bungalows and homes bursting with character and has a real fan following. Its older homes nestled in a quaint community give this area a distinct identity that's a perfect fit for those looking to buy something a little more unique with a cozy, "tucked away" feeling.
THE THURSTON NEIGHBORHOOD
On the east end of Springfield, buyers flock to the Thurston neighborhood for the desirable schools, nearby parks, and public pools. This area also enjoys convenient proximity to shopping centers and freeways. A fabulous community for those raising kids or fur babies who love the outdoors.
THE CAL YOUNG NEIGHBORHOOD
The Cal Young area is very central with a diverse selection of housing offerings, including condos, large homes on oversized lots, or midsize homes with low maintenance lots. The great schools and ideal location to the rest of the city mean this location is amazing for families and single homeowners alike.
MOST LOVED LOCAL PARKS
Alright, I'll admit it. I'm a total sucker for a sunny day in the park with a thrown-together picnic, my family, and my two pups. Here are the secret (or maybe not so secret) spots I go for a little Vitamin D.
OAKMONT PARK
This one is awesome for kids with basketball hoops, a great play structure, picnic tables, and a water feature they can play in during the summer to cool off.
EMERALD PARK
Stay entertained for hours with a huge playground, on-site skate park, picnic tables, and a recreation center on the grounds.
RIVERPLAY DISCOVERY
VILLAGE PLAYGROUND
On the Willamette River at the base of Skinner’s Butte, this is a beloved playground with tons of recent upgrades.
ARROW PARK
Springfield’s newest park! Includes a bicycle skills course, walking paths, basketball court, and two big playgrounds.
AMAZON PARK
This park has a huge play area with unique playground equipment, lots of open lawn to lounge on and a local pool next door.
ISLAND PARK
Near the river, this picturesque park is an amazing location for an adults-only stroll or a beautiful playground spot for kids.
WILLAMALANE PARK
This expansive park has great playground equipment, space for field sports, a skate park, basketball courts, and horseshoe pits.
HENDRICKS PARK
While there's not a major play structure here, this park does offer a great big swing set up in the trees and you can’t beat the walking trails through the Rhododendron Garden.
WALK-WORTHY HIKES & TRAILS
There's no better way to get your blood pumping, let the stresses of your day melt away, or soak in a little natural wonder than a hike (or a good old fashioned stroll!). And what better place to do that than in beautiful, lush, green Oregon cradled in the stunning Willamette Valley? Check out my favorite local walk-abouts and try them yourself next time you're craving a little outdoor splendor.
SKINNER BUTTE PARK
Right on the river, this one is a great adventure when you're looking for a gorgeous view. For those who want to take it easy, you can drive to the top and get out to take it all in or enjoy a short (but steep) jaunt up for some lovely panoramas of the city.
SPENCER'S BUTTE
For a more forested experience, try Spencer's Butte with its tree-covered hiking trails that offer many different paths to the top (it's a real "choose your own adventure" vibe). Enjoy amazing views from the butte once you reach your destination.
MOUNT PISGAH
This location gives you two options depending on your ability or mood. There's a rigorous hike to the top of the mount, or a peaceful and meandering walking trail around the arboretum. Both offer their own unique beauty that's unforgettable.
HENDRICKS PARK
By far one of the most beautiful parks in the Eugene area, Hendricks offers towering old growth trees and a stunning variety of Oregon native florals. This is one of my favorite places to escape the city without actually having to leave town.
ALTON BAKER PARK
If you're looking for a beautiful and level walking path that also gets you some views of the Willamette River, this is the park for you.
RIDGELINE TRAIL SYSTEM
This trail system running through Spencer Butte park is peaceful, wooded, and picturesque. More than a stroll but not strenuous enough to be considered a hardcore workout (aka: my favorite kind of trail).
AMAZON HEADWATERS TRAIL
A well kept gravel trail with many different paths to take, quaint bridges over creeks, and plenty of beautiful natural scenery.
WILD IRIS RIDGE PARK
This hike offers a moderate incline and ends with great views. A local favorite, this path is accessible both to the public and via neighborhood access points for nearby homeowners.
MOUNT BALDY
Located on the south end of town but it feels like you’re far from home! This spot has great parking and is an excellent hike with kids with a well-maintained trail and plenty of diverse natural landscapes to enjoy.
THIS QUARTER PRESENTS:
EUGENE'S BEST
Cup of Tea
Perugino
Vero Espresso
Jazzy Ladies Cafe
Meraki Coffee Co.
Provisions Market Hall
(at the Fifth Street Market)
Equiano Coffee
Southpine Bakery
Magpie Coffeeshop
J - Tea (on Friendly St)
Palace Coffee
& Bakery
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
Super cozy, fantastic atmosphere, pastries, people watching, and as a bonus - there’s a Persian rug dealer who works out of the back so the brick walls are lined with gorgeous woven art! Win, win, win.
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
Converted home with funky chairs, lots of food and drink options, and a great outdoor patio.
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
Serving up a great selection of teas alongside some of the best scratch-made homestyle cooking you'll ever eat.
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
I might be biased because this place is a local rendezvous for my husband and I, but they have a very impressive tea menu and friendly service you just can't beat.
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
Enjoy the atmosphere inside, do a little shopping, or sit outside by the iconic fountain. A great place to grab a hot beverage and stroll.
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
Not many tea options but worth a visit for the atmosphere alone! Funky, quaint, and bursting with character.
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
With these fantastic teas and pastries, I always grab a quick cup to go when I'm in the neighborhood.
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
Lively upscale coffeeshop with amazing soups and sandwiches (which just so happens to be a holy combo in my book).
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
If you're a real tea fan, this is a must visit for their unrivaled loose leaf tea collection.
HERE'S WHY I LOVE IT:
Quaint local shop with great tea and heavenly pastries. Need I say more?
ADD YOUR NAME TO THE ROSTER AND GET TO KNOW EUGENE'S HIDDEN GEMS FOR YOURSELF
Want the next list when it drops?
