You’ve done that… but have you done this?
Local Adventures in Lane County
You’ve been to Oregon’s beautiful sandy beaches… but have you sandboarded?
Sand Master Park is the world’s first sandboarding park, and it’s in Florence! Rent sandboards and sign up for lessons, and discover the thrill of year-round boarding on slopes of sand – no need to wait for snow.You’ve fed the goats at local farms… but have you done goat yoga?
No Regrets Flower Farm & Animal Sanctuary hosts yoga classes with these funny and sociable animals – imagine balancing in tree pose or downward dog with a bunch of happy goats milling around! Children must be 8 years old and up to participate.
You’ve shopped for snacks at dozens of convenience stores… but have you visited Eugene’s Yamada Vending Co.?
Yamada Vending Co. is a Japanese vending machine market featuring snacks, toys and other useful sundry items. Automated vending is a popular trend in Japan, offering a convenient, cashless and contactless shopping experience. Scan the QR code on the door for entry and then visit the variety of machines to purchase plush toys, gluten-free snacks, Japanese candy and more!
You’ve roared with the crowd at the local speedway… but have you felt the thrill of driving a race car yourself?
The Braking Zone in Eugene’s Whiteaker neighborhood offers six race car simulators so you can have the experience without the risk! Choose a Porsche, Lotus or other esteemed race car and then select a legendary race track! Youth just need to be able to reach the pedals comfortably.You’ve visited adoptable cats at shelters… but have you chilled with cats while sipping cocoa?
The Eugene-Springfield Cat Lounge is a unique coffee-shop-like space for quiet activities in the company of many cats. They serve beverages and snacks, and offer occasional crafts or game nights. Children must be 8 years old and up to participate and advance reservations are recommended.
You’ve watched the trains roll by… but have you hopped on the train to Albany?
If you have train-loving children, then a day trip on Amtrak is a thrill! From Eugene to Albany, the train ride is just forty minutes. Explore the Dave Clark Trail along the river, eat lunch in town and visit the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum. Then take the train home!You’ve got a tie dyed shirt in your closet… but did you tie dye it yourself?
Well, a lot of Oregonians have, but The Color Lab at the Hippie Closet takes DIY tie dye to a new level. Pick your apparel, choose from over 25 colors and get expert instruction on how to create designs and patterns. Take home a unique piece that you made yourself!You watch dancing at local festivals every year… but have you joined in?
The Junction City Scandinavian Festival invites youth to learn the dances for free on Monday evenings starting in mid-June. And during the festival, stay late for the community dances, where all ages are welcome and encouraged to dance.You’ve hiked to the top of Eugene’s buttes… but have you climbed Bohemia Mountain (and had breakfast at the top)?
Take the short, steep hike from Bohemia Saddle past the ghost town and abandoned mines to the top for breathtaking views. As part of the Bohemia Mining Days festival in summer, the Cottage Grove community hosts an early morning miner’s breakfast on the mountain every year, for an extra memorable experience.You’ve attended shows at the Hult Center from Broadway to ballet… but have you been backstage?
The Hult Center offers free monthly tours (tickets required) that showcase the unique building’s architecture, public art, historical stories and even gives you a peek behind the scenes.You’ve explored the forests in all seasons mushrooming, birding and admiring wildflowers or fall foliage…but have you seen Sasquatch?
Well, there is no guarantee you will, but you can talk to believers, researchers and trackers at the Sasquatch Summer Fest held in Oakridge. Children 12 and under are free!You’ve picked apples and pumpkins from the patch, and cut down your own Christmas trees… but have you filled your arms with lavender?
Farm visits are not just for fall harvest! In early summer visit the McKenzie River Lavender Bloom for armloads of fresh cut lavender, dried lavender bundles, lavender foods and bath products.You’ve visited Historic Old Town Florence… but have you hopped on the bus for journey?
The Link Lane Connector is an easy, inexpensive way to visit Florence for the day. Just check the schedule, hop on the bus, and enjoy an afternoon strolling the riverfront boardwalk before taking the bus back.
Have fun rediscovering this beautiful place we call home!
By Taj Barnhart Morgan