Turn Your Game Weekend in Eugene Into a Spectacular Pacific Coast Adventure
If you're asking yourself, “What else is there to do around Eugene, Oregon, when I travel to watch my favorite college football team play the Ducks,” here’s some insider information from your friends an hour west of Eugene…
It doesn’t matter what team you’re coming to support this season; we’d love you to come visit us out here on the edge of the continent. If you’re a Boise State Bronco, Portland State Viking, a Michigan Wolverine, a Nebraska Cornhusker, a Northwestern Wildcat, a UCLA Bruin, and yes, even if you’re a Washington Husky, you’re welcome in Florence.
When you come to watch your team get beat by take on the University of Oregon at legendary Autzen Stadium, you’re already gearing up for an electric atmosphere. But before you head back home, here’s a secret shared by seasoned travelers:
The mighty Pacific Ocean is only about 75 minutes from the stadium — and it’s life-changing.
Just west of Eugene lies 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.
This is the perfect destination to extend your football weekend visit and turn your trip into a true West Coast vacation.
Contact us at either 541-997-3128 or info@FlorenceChamber.com and we can help you plan your Florence getaway and discover why Florence is Oregon’s Coastal Playground!
Why Visiting Football Fans Love Florence
The Pacific Ocean Is Closer Than You Think!
For visitors from states without an ocean —or other hardcore college football fans from Nebraska, Iowa, Tennessee, Kentucky, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Illinois, Indiana, and much of the East Coast — seeing the Pacific Ocean is a bucket-list experience.
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 prices
- More room choice
- Fewer crowds
- Cozy coastal 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 Visiting Fans Can Do in Florence (Fall & Winter)
1. Explore the Oregon Dunes — Unlike Anything Back Home
Florence borders the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, home to the largest coastal dunes in North America.
- Hiking wind-sculpted dune trails
- Sandboarding (think snowboarding, only easier and more forgiving if you fall)
- Riding ATVs and dune buggies
- Kayaking rivers and lakes
- Exploring quiet, otherworldly terrain (yes, these Dunes inspired the books and movies)
There’s nothing comparable east of the Rockies. Come see for yourself!
2. Experience Uncrowded Beaches and Spectacular Storm Watching
With more than 20 miles of shoreline, Florence is perfect for:
- Long scenic walks
- Beachcombing and shell hunting
- Dramatic winter storm watching
- Photography heaven
- Playing on beautiful, wide-open beaches
Fall and winter add misty mornings, roaring surf, and sunsets painted in deep colors.
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 (late December through January), plus sightings year-round.
- 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.
4. Heceta Head Lighthouse & Scenic Viewpoints
Just north of Florence, the Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most photographed in the United States.
The surrounding cliffs, bridges, and forested trails create incredible photo opportunities—and unforgettable memories.
5. Golf That Stays Open When Other Courses Freeze or Flood
Florence’s golf courses sit on natural sand dunes, which means:
- Fast drainage
- Excellent winter playability
- No swampy fairways
- Very few delays
Compared to frozen Midwest or East Coast courses, it’s paradise. Bring your clubs. You’ll be glad you did.
Fall and winter in Florence are excellent for:
- Dungeness crab
- Salmon fishing
- Lake and river fishing
- Charter excursions
You can even buy a license and crab right from the docks downtown.
7. Enjoy Ocean-to-Table Dining
Expect Pacific Northwest favorites like:
- Dungeness crab
- Halibut
- Salmon
- Clam and crab chowders
- Oyster dishes
- Fresh-caught specials
Pair your meal with views of the Siuslaw River or the Pacific, and you’ll understand why Florence is known for culinary coastal comfort.
8. Try Your Luck at the Casino
The Three Rivers Casino Resort offers gaming, dining, shows, and a warm indoor escape after outdoor adventures.
9. Add Culture & History to Your Coastal Trip
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.
Suggested Three-Day Itinerary for Visiting Football Fans
Arrive in Eugene → Relax in Florence → Celebrate at Autzen Stadium
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:
- Hike the Oregon Dunes
- Try sandboarding, rent an ATV, or take a scenic dune buggy tour
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
- Have breakfast in Florence overlooking the ocean or the river
- Drive back to Eugene (60 to 75 minutes with beautiful scenery)
Afternoon:
- Explore the U of O, the vibrant downtown, Eugene’s riverfront, and breweries if time allows
- Tailgate with fellow fans
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 itinerary lets you combine:
- A thrilling college football matchup
- A bucket-list Pacific Ocean experience
- Off-season coastal comfort
- Unique adventures you simply can’t find back home
For many visitors, it becomes the most memorable football road trip of their lives.
Remember, contact us at either 541-997-3128 or info@FlorenceChamber.com and we can help you plan your Florence getaway!
