written by Kerry Newberry | photography by Valley River Inn
Eugene’s reimagined riverfront retreat exudes contemporary lodge vibes while still preserving its local heritage. Originally opened in 1973, the historic Valley River Inn recently wrapped up a multimillion-dollar renovation, transforming everything from guest rooms to the lobby lounge.
Many design elements that celebrate the area’s historic logging industry—from original timber beams to grand chandeliers made from old mill parts—still grace the revived spaces. But you’ll also find fresh artwork and elegant, honey-hued wood pieces made by the locally owned Urban Lumber Co., adding modern flair.
One you can’t miss is a stunning, live-edge desk that stretches along shelves of colorful hardback books, a focal point in the lobby. Just beyond this charming book nook, you can relax in the lobby’s sunken living room, where a stunning floor-to-ceiling hearth brings warmth to the space.
No matter the season, you’ll want to take advantage of the property’s prime location. It sits on the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System, a collection of leafy trails sprawling along the Willamette River popular with runners, cyclists, walkers and kayakers. The most mesmerizing view, however, is from the riverfront rooms, where the flow of rippling water by starlight and sunrise weaves a spell—a reminder of the singular beauty found at the water’s edge.
ROOMS
One of the perks of the hotel’s 1973 heritage is the size of the 250-plus rooms. You’ll find some of the largest guest rooms in Eugene here, all fully renovated with modern amenities and contemporary furnishings from sleek desks to reading sconces. Book a riverfront room for serene morning views. Or for Elvis fans, the Cassanova suite—where the legendary musician stayed in 1976.
AMENITIES
Check out the new fitness center, and if it’s pool season, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool. Definitely plan to cycle, run or walk along the city’s prime riverfront trails. The property sits on the Ruth Bascom River-bank Path System, and runners can follow a path that connects to Pre’s Trail, a popular route dedicated to Steve Prefontaine, one of Oregon’s most legendary distance runners.
LOBBY LIBRARY
A statement wall of colorful hardback books is a focal point in the lobby (feel free to check a book out for your stay). The bookish atmosphere is enhanced by a long, live-edge desk made of maple and peppered with reading lamps. Just beyond the reading nook, there’s a sunken living room with a stunning fireplace, statement chandelier and ample space to read, work or relax.
DINING
The lobby market is packed with local snacks to purchase from Kettle Chips to pints of Tillamook ice cream. Head to Sweet Waters on the River for all-day dining and spectacular views of the Willamette River. The menu celebrates the bounty of the Pacific North-west and sources from Willamette Valley farms, wineries and breweries.
1000 VALLEY RIVER WAY EUGENE
www.valleyriverinn.com
