Those born in raised in Oregon know all about the magic of Eugene, aka Track Town, USA. To newcomers, the nickname refers to the rich history here that starts with track icon Steve Prefontaine, who was born on the Oregon Coast and then trained and became world-famous at the University of Oregon before his tragic death in 1975.
At Eugene’s Hayward Hall (a must-visit for all sports lovers) you can learn all about Pre’s legacy as well as how Oregon footwear giant Nike got its start in Eugene, and how the legacy has extended over the decades to world-class events, trails, paths, visitor activities and more in Eugene.
Here’s your guide to top spots that should be on anyone’s list when visiting Track Town, USA.
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Where to Experience Eugene’s Track History
- Visit Pre’s Rock, the site of the tragic accident that killed the legendary runner Steve Prefontaine in 1975. (Note: Parking is limited at this site and you should use caution when walking on the narrow road.)
- Go for a run or walk on Pre’s Trail, which winds through Alton Baker Park and past Autzen Stadium. Pre was inspired to create this trail before his death; his former coach and Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman and the community later fulfilled his dream by completing Eugene’s first soft-chip trail.
- Visit the Eugene Nike Store and neighboring Eugene Running Company; both have collections of Track Town memorabilia on display.
- Have you seen the movies “Tracktown” (a 2016 distance-running drama)) or “Without Limits” (the 1998 Steve Prefontaine story), both filmed in Eugene? If not, get out that DVD player and check them out, or just read up on the context at the real-life locations marked by Oregon Film Trail signs when you visit.
- Plan your trip around the annual Prefontaine Classic (July) and other exciting Track Town events including championships, Olympic trials and more. Every seat at Hayward Field is a great one for spectating.
Where to Find Trails, Parks and River Paths in Eugene
- Run one of Eugene’s popular running trails. The Ridgeline Trail also makes a great hike and connects to great stops like Spencer Butte and Cascades Raptor Center (check hours due to temporary closure in fall 2026).
- If you don’t feel like running alone, check out some of the weekly running groups at Tap and Growler, Eugene Running Company, and Nike Run Club.
- Bike, run or stroll the 12-mileRuth Bascom Riverbank Path along both sides of the Willamette River. The route connects several parks and scenic stops, including the Delta Ponds and Island Park.
- Take a look at Eugene from the top of Spencer and Skinner Butte. Every year on the 4th of July, Eugene hosts a 10k road race between the pair of buttes that frame our skyline. You can easily drive to the top of Skinner Butte, but you’ll need to take the short but steep trek up to get the best view of Eugene from atop Spencer Butte.
Where to Eat and Drink in Eugene
- Walk up the street from Hayward Field for an ice cream cone at Prince Puckler’s; it’s a popular spot for families in between meets. For dinner, Beppe & Gianni’s Trattoria is right across the street and their housemade ravioli is beloved.
- Grab your morning coffee and a pastry at Noisette Pastry Kitchen downtown and take a walk to Kesey Square, a brick plaza featuring a statue of famous author Ken Kesey. See the Kesey mural, too.
- No trip to Eugene is complete without a trip to the Whiteaker neighborhood. Sample the ever-changing menu of tacos and margaritas at Tacovore, or head to Izakaya Meiji, a whiskey bar and tapas-style Japanese restaurant all in one. Don’t miss the duo of Eugene Ale Trail stops in this neighborhood: Ninkasi and Oakshire.
- For some indulgence, Voodoo Doughnut is a famous uniquely Oregon spot, just like the one in Portland (with its iconic pink boxes) but without the long lines. Off the Waffle is a local favorite for hearty breakfast or lunch; their authentic Belgian Liège waffles come both savory and sweet.
- If you’re in town on a Saturday, don’t miss Eugene Saturday Market in the heart of downtown, with more than 250 local artisans, international food vendors and live music. It’s America’s longest-running outdoor arts & crafts market.
