Historic 5th Street Public Market is a cluster of shops, restaurants and cute things to look at. It’s located, unsurprisingly, on 5th Street in downtown Eugene, just six blocks from Franklin Boulevard. Walking to the market from the campus area is especially perfect when the weather is nice, and finding it is easy thanks to the Inn at the 5th building logo standing high above it all. The shops are situated in permanent buildings and remain open all year long.
One of the most important things to clarify about 5th Street Market is that it isn’t the Saturday Market. Both are equally fun but fun in entirely different ways.
5th Street couldn’t be considered an indoor shopping area or an outdoor one; it sits somewhere between the two categories. Generally speaking, the environment at 5th Street is more sophisticated; it caters to people looking for a fine artisan meal and a rich latte. Visitors are often decorating enthusiasts, art collectors and wine tasters; most are well out of college, and they can afford to spend money on beautiful paintings and sculptures. Stores sell wedding registry-type gifts and boutique-pretty clothing. However, there is a store for everyone, a gorgeous array of blooming flowers and large fountains on each level. No matter what, it’s worth going.
Hartwicks Home, Gift and Specialty Store sells every kitchen gadget you didn’t realize you needed before entering. Amazing coffee makers and chocolate milk stirrers and seasonal kitchen towels flood the shelves. Prices range drastically, so considering the size of the store, there’s a gift or a “necessity” for every person. Just shy of 5,000 sq. ft., Hartwicks is the largest gourmet kitchen store south of Portland.
Newtwist is an art boutique with a homey feel. Jewelry, lamps, pottery, hand blown glass, tabletop art and items from their exclusive furniture line are sold there among cute trinkets and colorful wall decor.
Swahili is another art boutique with a more cultured twist: Everything sold in Swahili has rich, African roots. The figurines, miniature instruments, statues, jewelry, notebooks, chess sets and more — all exude the deep rustic colors of Africa.
Outdoor Elements sells garden supplies as well as outdoor ornaments and accessories. The store offers customers live plants, patio art and even benches.@@store names all checked@@
No matter your niche, Historic 5th Street Public Market has something to offer every visitor. Roam, shop and enjoy the market that adds permanent class to Eugene.