The boxes are in, the bags are unpacked and the kids are all settled in. But before mom and dead head off on the road, why not enjoy a parents’ night out? From wine tasting and boutique shopping, to simply taking the time to smell the roses, there’s more to Eugene than just Starbucks and hippie shops. So while the kids are in class and you’re stuck organizing the dorm room, here are some fun things for to do instead of having to make awkward conversation with the roommate.
FIFTH STREET PUBLIC MARKET 296 E. 5th Ave. Market Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday International Cafes: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday Located in the heart of downtown Eugene, Fifth Street Public Market is a favorite among locals and visitors for its one-of-a-kind shopping and gourmet dining. Whether you’re shopping for Uncle Fred or Fido, the market offers a colorful collection of shops and specialty boutiques including an art gallery and a full-service salon and spa. Hungry? Grab a quick bite at one of the five international cafes or enjoy a few courses at Marché Restaurant or the brand new Sushi Pure. For those just looking to kill some time, take a break in the open-air courtyard and balconies overlooking the central fountain.
GEORGE E. OWEN MEMORIAL ROSE GARDEN 300 N. Jefferson St. Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. More than 4,000 roses bloom from June through September on this 8 1/2-acre garden nestled next to the Willamette River, near the Washington-Jefferson Street Bridge. Dedicated to George E. Owen, a former Eugene City Councilor and lumberman who donated the property, the garden showcases more than 400 varieties of roses. More than 100,000 visitors pass through the beautifully landscaped garden every year.
SILVAN RIDGE-HINMAN VINEYARDS 27012 Briggs Hill Road (866) 574-5826 Hours: Noon to 5 p.m. Located just 15 minutes southwest of downtown, Silvan Ridge-Hinman Vineyards, established in 1979, remains one of Oregon’s top 20 producing wineries. Maintained in the tradition of a small European winery, the scenic vista is a perfect backdrop for an afternoon picnic or a private formal gathering in their popular fireside and banquet rooms. The gift shop and tasting rooms are open daily, offering complimentary wine tasting of the Hinman Vineyards’ label.
DAVID MINOR THEATER AND PUB 180 E. 5th Ave. (541) 762-1700 Visit davidminortheater.com for show times Ever wished they sold beer at the movies? Well, wait no longer! David Minor Theater and Pub, Eugene’s newest luxury movie house, offers a great variety of finger food and local brews in a private theater setting. However, don’t expect the usual “pub grub” and watery beer. The menu, provided by nearby Cafe Lucky Noodle and Cornucopia restaurants, ranges from fries and Philly cheesesteaks to assorted salads and vegetable tempura. It also carries a nice selection of wine. So for four bucks a flick and a few more for eats, enjoy a beer with your dinner at the movies!
SATURDAY MARKET Between 8th Avenue & Oak Street Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Saturday, April through mid-November Since 1970, Eugene’s Saturday Market has showcased the best of local food and craft every Saturday starting the first week of April to mid-November. With nearly 300 members selling every week, you’ll get a good sense of the local people and culture from the crowd the market attracts. But don’t expect to find the usual tie-dye and “hippie wear.” From original artwork to fresh produce, the market only offers the best of Eugene.
[email protected]