Turn Your Trip to Eugene Into a Spectacular Pacific Coast Adventure

If you’re traveling all the way from Harrisonburg, Virginia, to watch James Madison University take on the University of Oregon at legendary Autzen Stadium, you’re already in for an unforgettable football atmosphere. But here’s a game-changing tip for Dukes faithful making the cross-country trip (and hey, congrats on that Sunbelt Conference Championship and finding a new coach so quickly):

The mighty Pacific Ocean is only about 75 minutes from Autzen Stadium — and it will absolutely blow your mind.

Just west of Eugene sits Florence, Oregon, a rustic yet stunning coastal town filled with fall and winter adventures, off-season hotel deals, world-class seafood, hiking, golfing, wildlife, shopping, and some of the most dramatic scenery in the country.

It’s the perfect way to extend your JMU playoff weekend into a true West Coast mini-vacation.

Contact us at 541-997-3128 or info@FlorenceChamber.com and we’ll help you plan your Florence getaway and experience firsthand why Florence is Oregon’s Coastal Playground!

Why JMU Fans Will Love Florence

The Pacific Ocean Is Closer Than You Think!

If you're flying in from Virginia, you’re used to the Atlantic — calm waves, warm water, gentle dunes. But the Pacific is a whole different experience: massive surf, towering dunes and cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and endless beaches—a bucket list experience.

And uniquely in Oregon, you can go from stadium to seashore in about 70 to 75 minutes.
That’s rare, and absolutely worth it.

Affordable Off-Season Hotel Rates

Fall and winter bring:

  • Lower nightly rates
  • More availability
  • Fewer crowds
  • Cozy, relaxed vibes

Whether you want oceanfront views or a central Old Town location on the river, Florence lodging is very budget-friendly during football season.

Uncrowded Beaches & Peaceful Coastal Spaces

The Oregon Coast in the cooler months is moody, dramatic, and deeply relaxing.

Locals swear by a classic saying:
“There is no bad weather, only poor clothing choices.”

Bring a jacket, and the beach becomes yours. It rains far less in Florence than our reputation conveys.

Top Things JMU Fans Can Do in Florence (Fall & Winter)

1. Explore the Oregon Dunes — Unlike Anything in Virginia

Florence borders the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, home to the largest coastal dunes in North America.

You can spend the day:

Exploring quiet, otherworldly terrain (yes, these Dunes inspired the books and movies.

There’s nothing even remotely like it on the East Coast. Come see for yourself!

2. Experience Uncrowded Beaches and Spectacular Storm Watching

With more than 20 miles of shoreline, Florence is perfect for:

Fall and winter add misty mornings, roaring surf, and sunsets painted in deep colors

 that light up the whole horizon.

3. 3. Wildlife Encounters You Won’t Forget

Florence offers unforgettable coastal wildlife opportunities, including:

  • Tide pooling at Heceta Head Lighthouse Beach and nearby coves like Strawberry Hill and Neptune State Parks. Don’t miss the Cape Perpetua area, with the highest drivable point on the Oregon Coast (20+ mile views), its visitor center, tide pools, and the world famous “drainpipe of the Pacific,” Thor’s Well!
  • The Sea Lion Caves, home to wild Steller sea lions
  • Whale watching during their southbound migration
  • Harbor seals, seabirds, and otters around river estuaries

If wildlife is rare where you're from, this may become a highlight of your entire trip. The truly adventurous can find black bear, mountain lion, bobcat, coyote, giant elk, and bald eagle. Late December includes whale watching (when thousands of gray whales migrate past our shores), but they can be seen year-round, too.

Seeing this kind of wildlife so close to town (and sometimes IN town) surprises many visitors.

4. Visit Heceta Head Lighthouse — One of the Most Photographed in the U.S.

Just north of Florence, the Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most photographed in the United States. This silent sentinel sits on a cliff above pounding surf and windswept headlands. The trails, the bridge, and the overlook views are unreal. The photo ops are incredible.

5. Golf That Stays Open When Other Courses Freeze or Flood

Back in Virginia, winter often means frozen greens or swampy fairways. In Florence, our golf courses sit on sand dunes — which means:

  • Incredibly fast drainage, quickly ready for play
  • Excellent winter playability
  • No swampy fairways
  • Very few delays

Bring your clubs. You’ll be glad you did.

6. Go Crabbing or Fishing (Yes, Even in Winter)

Florence shines in fall/winter fishing:

  • Dungeness crab
  • Salmon
  • Lake and river angling
  • Charter trips

You can even buy a license and crab right from the docks downtown.

7. Warm Up With Ocean-to-Table Dining

Expect some of the West Coast’s best:

  • Dungeness crab
  • Halibut
  • Salmon
  • Clam or crab (and other) chowders
  • Oysters
  • Fresh-catch specials

Pair with a lake, river, or ocean view and you’ll understand why Florence is known for culinary coastal comfort.   Perfection.

8. Try Your Luck at Three Rivers Casino Resort

The Three Rivers Casino Resort offers gaming, dining, shows, and a warm indoor escape after outdoor adventures.

9. Add History & Culture to Your Trip

Florence brings small-town charm and rich history:

The Siuslaw Pioneer Museum and Historic Old Town Florence add depth, charm, and context to your visit. Enjoy quaint shops, stunning galleries, riverfront boardwalks, and small-town friendliness. The Oregon Coast Military Museum is also worth a stop. If there’s an internationally touring performer in town, they’re probably at the fabulous Florence Events Center.

A Three-Day Itinerary for JMU Fans

Fly Into Eugene → Relax in Florence → Cheer On the Dukes at Autzen

Day 1 — Fly Into Eugene and Head Straight to the Coast

  • Land at Eugene Airport (EUG)
  • Grab your rental car and drive an incredibly scenic 60 minutes west to Florence
  • Check into your hotel (great off-season rates!)
  • Explore Old Town Florence and enjoy local shops and galleries
  • Dine on ocean-to-table seafood
  • Optional: Sunset walk or casino fun at Three Rivers Casino Resort

Day 2 — Discover the Best of the Oregon Coast

Morning:

Afternoon:

  • Visit the highest drivable scenic point on the Oregon Coast and the amazing Thor’s Well at Cape Perpetua, and then the historic Heceta Head Lighthouse on your way back. The former light station keeper’s home is now a bed and breakfast.
  • Tide pooling at nearby beaches along the way. You may even spot a migrating whale from the vista points!
  • Stop in to visit raucous wild sea lions in their natural environment at the Sea Lion Caves

Evening:

Day 3 — Autzen Stadium Game Day

Morning:

  • Have breakfast in Florence overlooking the ocean or the river
  • Drive back to Eugene (60 to 75 minutes with beautiful scenery)

Afternoon:

Evening:

  • Experience one of college football’s loudest, most exciting venues at Autzen Stadium
  • Cheer on your team (or ours) under the lights
  • Fly out the next morning — or stay one more night back in Florence

Why This Trip Is Worth It

This trip blends:

  • A high-stakes college football matchup
  • A bucket-list Pacific Coast & ocean experience
  • Off-season coastal comfort and beauty
  • Unique adventures you simply can’t find back home

For many fans, it becomes one of the most memorable football road trips of their lives.

Ready to plan your Florence adventure?
Call us at 541-997-3128 or email info@FlorenceChamber.com — we’d love to help you make your JMU playoff trip even more spectacular.