Families looking for things to do in Eugene, Oregon, with kids have plenty of great options. Eugene offers hands-on museums, animal encounters, beautiful parks, and fun outdoor activities that can keep kids of all ages entertained.
Whether the weather is sunny or rainy, there’s always something to explore.
Visitors can check out local favorites like adventure playgrounds and hiking trails at Mount Pisgah. Indoor spots such as the Eugene Science Center are also popular.
Creative kids might enjoy art classes around town. Nature lovers can visit attractions like the Cascades Raptor Center or hike along the Willamette River bike trail.
Parents searching for ideas will find Eugene to be a welcoming city with lots of family-friendly adventures. For more inspiration, check out these fun family activities in Eugene that will make any trip special.
Top Outdoor Family Adventures
Eugene, Oregon has many fun places where families can enjoy nature together. At these spots, kids and adults can see animals, hike trails, and play outside in the heart of the Willamette Valley.
Exploring Alton Baker Park
Alton Baker Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in Eugene. It stretches along the Willamette River and has wide, open fields for running, flying kites, and playing frisbee.
Families often use the paved bike paths, which are smooth and safe for kids who want to try biking or rollerblading. There’s a fun playground, picnic tables, restrooms, and even a duck pond.
Alton Baker Park connects to the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System, so visitors can stroll by the river and look for geese and turtles. The park’s Discovery Village Playground is designed for kids of all ages and abilities.
In spring and summer, you can sometimes catch free outdoor concerts and family events. For families interested in boating, the park has a canoe canal where people can rent kayaks.
The green space and river views highlight the beautiful scenery of the Willamette Valley. Learn more about outdoor activities at Alton Baker Park.
Hiking at Spencer Butte
Spencer Butte is a classic outdoor adventure in Eugene. Its wide trails climb through forests and up a rocky summit that overlooks the whole city and the Willamette Valley.
The hike is not too hard, so many families with school-aged kids can reach the top. The main trail to the summit is about 1.7 miles round trip.
The path is well marked and has both shaded areas and open spots with beautiful scenery. On clear days, hikers can see mountain peaks far in the distance.
At the top, there’s space to spread out, have a snack, and take photos. The butte is also a great spot to see wildflowers in spring and sweeping city views all year.
Parents recommend sturdy shoes, water, and jackets for cooler days. For more family hiking ideas, including hikes near Mount Pisgah Arboretum, check out local lists of family-friendly attractions.
Garden Walk at Owen Rose Garden
Owen Rose Garden is right by the Willamette River and is perfect for a relaxing outdoor walk. The garden is famous for its collection of over 4,500 rose bushes, which bloom in many colors from May through September.
Wide, flat paths make it easy for strollers and young children. Kids enjoy smelling the flowers, spotting butterflies, and watching boats go by on the river.
In the middle of the garden, families can find the historic Owen Cherry Tree, thought to be one of the oldest in Oregon. There are shaded picnic tables and grassy fields for a quiet snack or rest.
The garden is a great spot for taking family pictures with beautiful scenery in the background. It’s also free to enter, making it a budget-friendly outing as part of your Eugene outdoor day.
Wildlife Encounters at Cascades Raptor Center
The Cascades Raptor Center is a wildlife hospital and learning center located on the south edge of Eugene. Families can visit to see hawks, owls, eagles, and other birds of prey up close.
There are more than 40 resident raptors, each in their own outdoor aviaries. Friendly staff and volunteers teach visitors about Oregon wildlife and how the center rescues and cares for injured animals.
The center has easy walking paths through wooded areas, with signs and hands-on displays at each stop. Children like watching birds eat and hearing some of them call.
Special programs and animal talks are sometimes offered, which make visits even more interesting. The Cascades Raptor Center gives families a chance to support local wildlife and to learn in an outdoor, educational setting.
For more details and tips for visiting, see this guide to Cascades Raptor Center.
Educational Museums and Activities
Eugene, Oregon offers several science and history museums that welcome families. Kids can enjoy hands-on exhibits, fascinating displays, and interactive programs for a fun and educational day.
Hands-On Fun at Eugene Science Center
Eugene Science Center is Lane County’s only hands-on science museum. Visitors can explore themed exhibits about physics, biology, technology, and more.
Each zone is made for active learning, with touchable displays, simple experiments, and problem-solving games. The planetarium is a major highlight.
The dome theater shows space and astronomy presentations that appeal to all ages. Live events and star tours teach children about the solar system and distant galaxies.
Special workshops, like Sunday Science Adventures, give kids the chance to join projects and science challenges. For families with younger children, the museum’s “Discovery Room” features interactive activities built for smaller hands.
Membership is available and includes free entry to dozens of science museums nationwide. For more information about activities and hours, visit the Eugene Science Center in Alton Baker Park.
Natural Wonders at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History
The Museum of Natural and Cultural History, located in Eugene, brings the science of Oregon and the Pacific Northwest to life. Kids can view fossils, ancient animal skeletons, and full-size diorama scenes.
Exhibits show the region’s volcanic history, Ice Age mammals, and early human cultures. Interactive displays teach about Oregon geology, Native American ingenuity, and local wildlife.
Hands-on programs, such as fossil digs and science activities, help children learn by doing. The museum also runs family science days, craft workshops, and seasonal programming.
Exhibit themes rotate throughout the year. Many displays include objects that can be seen up close or touched, giving a personal connection to history and science.
Staff and volunteers are on hand to answer questions and host special events for families.
Discovery at Southwest Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
The Southwest Oregon Museum of Science and Industry focuses on science, technology, and industry in the region. While smaller than some science centers, it offers interactive exhibits about energy, engineering, and environmental conservation.
Kids can participate in guided activities, use basic tools for science experiments, and explore the basics of physics and chemistry. The museum puts on demonstration days, allowing visitors to watch simple experiments or try them out.
This hands-on approach helps young visitors understand how science affects daily life. Special community science nights encourage family learning, with museum educators hosting themed events.
The museum also has rotating exhibits which highlight local scientific discoveries and inventions from southwest Oregon. It’s a great stop for curious minds interested in how science fits into local history.
Art, Culture, and Performances
Kids and families in Eugene have many ways to enjoy art, music, and live performances. From world-class museums to lively dance shows and kid-friendly plays, arts and culture come alive across the city.
Inspiration at Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art offers hands-on activities and galleries filled with paintings, sculptures, and objects from around the world. Kids can explore bright, colorful exhibits and learn how artists use different materials and styles.
There are often family days and special workshops where children can make their own art and take home a project. The museum is located on the University of Oregon campus, making it easy to visit if you are exploring other attractions in the area.
Staff and volunteers help guide families through interactive displays and offer simple explanations for complex ideas. The gift shop has art kits and creative souvenirs.
Interactive events may include scavenger hunts, storytelling, and guided tours designed just for younger visitors. It’s a welcoming place to spark creativity and learn about art from many cultures.
Shows at Hult Center for the Performing Arts
At the Hult Center for the Performing Arts, families can watch plays, concerts, and musicals throughout the year. The center hosts a variety of performances, including children’s theater, orchestras, and dance troupes.
The building’s unique design and downtown location make it a landmark in Eugene, Oregon. Many shows are age-appropriate, and some events encourage audience participation.
The Hult Center also holds free or low-cost community events, so families can experience the arts without spending a lot. With more than 700 events every year, there’s often something new to see.
Check the schedule online to find performances that fit your family’s interests. The large halls have comfortable seating, and concessions with snacks and drinks are available.
Dance with Eugene Ballet Company
The Eugene Ballet Company performs classic and modern ballets at the Hult Center and other local venues. Their shows are known for vibrant costumes, creative sets, and talented dancers.
Family-friendly productions, such as “The Nutcracker,” introduce kids to the world of ballet in an inviting way. Before some shows, children can meet dancers or see costumes up close.
For those interested in learning to dance, the ballet company offers classes and summer camps for kids of different ages and skill levels. These experiences give children a chance to move, stretch, and have fun while learning from professional instructors.
Parents can check for sensory-friendly or shorter performances, which are great for young viewers. The Eugene Ballet Company helps make dance accessible and enjoyable for families in Eugene, Oregon.
Kid-Friendly Indoor Play Spaces
When it’s raining or too hot outside in Eugene, indoor play areas keep kids active and entertained. These spots offer safe equipment and activities designed for different ages.
Playtime at The Tot Spot
The Tot Spot is a favorite indoor playground for families in Eugene, Oregon. The facility is designed for young children and features a clean, safe environment to play and explore.
Parents can relax while their kids climb, slide, and use imagination in themed play zones. There are soft play areas for toddlers, reducing the chance of injury and making it perfect for little ones.
The equipment is sized for kids, and age-appropriate toys are everywhere. Families will find plenty of seating and a relaxing atmosphere.
These features help children build confidence while they play and socialize.
Exciting Sporting Venues and Experiences
Eugene, Oregon is a great place for families who enjoy sports. The city offers exciting stadiums filled with local history and unique opportunities for kids to experience athletics up close.
Stadium Tours at Autzen Stadium
Autzen Stadium is home to the University of Oregon Ducks football team. Families can take guided tours to see the field, stands, and behind-the-scenes areas.
The tour often includes the locker rooms and the chance to walk onto the famous turf. Kids who love football or want to experience a big stadium atmosphere will enjoy seeing where the action happens on game days.
Even on non-game days, the stadium feels lively. The bright yellow and green seats make a colorful backdrop for family photos.
Special events sometimes let guests throw a football or run on the field, making it even more exciting. Visitor tips: Check the University of Oregon Athletics website for tour schedules and ticket information.
Tours may require advance booking, especially during football season or summer camps.
Track and Field at Hayward Field
Hayward Field is famous in the track and field world. It has hosted historic events like the U.S. Olympic trials and major college championships.
Families can often watch meets or attend community events at this legendary venue. Even if there isn’t a big competition, walking around the stadium gives kids a sense of the rich history and energy of Eugene’s “TrackTown USA” reputation.
Displays with photos, records, and medals help tell the story of champions who have competed here. Some events welcome kids to try activities on the track, such as short races or fun games, making the visit more interactive.
Use the University of Oregon’s event calendar and visitor guides to check for upcoming meets or special family days at Hayward Field.
Exploring Local Food With Kids
Eugene, Oregon is a great place for families to try new foods together. The city’s local food scene offers many options that are both fun and easy for kids.
Family-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes
Families can find a variety of kid-friendly restaurants across Eugene. Many places offer casual dining with menus tailored for children, including smaller portions, classic favorites, and even some healthy options.
Breweries and cafes often have play areas or outdoor seating where kids can move around, making meals more relaxed for everyone. Parents will appreciate that many local restaurants use fresh ingredients from the Willamette Valley.
Popular spots include local pizza shops, burger places, sandwich cafes, and even some places with gluten-free or vegetarian choices. For more ideas, families can explore this list of kid-friendly restaurants in Eugene, Oregon.
Some places even have special activities or coloring menus for kids. Finding a place to eat that balances good food and a welcoming atmosphere is easy in Eugene.
Farmers Markets and Fresh Treats
Eugene is known for its lively farmers markets. At these markets, families can walk among stalls selling fruit, vegetables, and baked treats grown in the Willamette Valley.
Kids can taste samples or pick out their own snacks, such as fresh berries, honey sticks, or handmade cookies. Visiting a farmers market is also a chance for kids to meet local growers and learn where their food comes from.
Performers, live music, and craft booths add to the fun and make it more than just a shopping trip. Some markets even offer kids’ activities and spaces to play.
Local food trucks often park nearby, giving families more options for lunch or dessert. These markets are a great way to encourage healthy eating and support Eugene’s local food community.
Learn more about family fun in Eugene, Cascades & Oregon Coast.
Day Trips and Nature Excursions Nearby
Eugene is surrounded by beautiful scenery, outdoor trails, and easy drives through the Willamette Valley. Families can enjoy active adventures, scenic spots, and learning about local plants and wildlife.
Visiting Mount Pisgah Arboretum
Mount Pisgah Arboretum sits along the Coast Fork of the Willamette River, just a short drive from Eugene. This 209-acre nature area has miles of well-marked, family-friendly trails that wind through forests, meadows, and riverbanks.
Children can spot birds, frogs, and wildflowers throughout the year. The Discovery Room and interpretive signs along the trail help everyone learn about Oregon’s plants and animals.
A visit to the Arboretum is a way to enjoy rocks, water, and plants up close. There are picnic tables for snacks, and in spring and fall, the Arboretum hosts special events like wildflower and mushroom festivals.
Kids who have lots of energy will enjoy the easy, flat trails. Adults will appreciate the peaceful views of the valley and surrounding hills.
Parking is available for a small fee.
Family Drives Through the Willamette Valley
Families in Eugene can take a short drive into the Willamette Valley for unforgettable views and fun stops. The valley is known for its rolling hills, farmland, and rivers.
This makes the drive relaxing and visually interesting. A popular route is Highway 99.
Along the way, you can explore small towns. You can also visit farm stands or pick-your-own fruit in season.
In spring and summer, fields bloom with flowers. In the fall, trees change with the season.
Favorite stops include:
- Local orchards with apples and berries
- Outdoor markets selling snacks and crafts
- Scenic parks by the river
Kids can see farm animals and run in open spaces. Parents enjoy the fresh air and peaceful surroundings.
For more ideas, visit this guide to day trips near Eugene with families.
