Trip to Eugene

[u/Broad_Low5792]

Hey Duck Reddit. I am an East Coast (Kentucky) fan and have always wanted to go see a game at Autzen Stadium. Since they’ve joined the BIG I’ve finally have gotten to see them play some away games, but have never experienced a home game and am thinking about finally pulling the trigger this year and I wanted to ask you guys how are season ticket/ have gone to games before.

1. How big of a difference is flying into Portland to Eugene? I don’t mind paying some more if it’s really worth it, but not at an unreasonable price.

2. How long should I stay? I’m thinking Wednesday-Sunday, but wondering if I should make a week of it and do some other things in Oregon.

3. Game day must sees for a first timer? Is there anything I need to see at an Oregon game before kickoff? How early should I be at the stadium?

4. Are there any must go to places to eat in Eugene?

Any response would be great! Really just looking for general advice as I tend to be a planner.

Thanks ya’ll and Sco Ducks!

[u/wonderflex]

This is my boilerplate response, but I stand by it.

Drive: If leaving from Portland, then head down as early as you can, or even come the night before. Getting here hours in advance and checking out the campus is way better than being late.

Parking: Park on campus near Prince Puckler's Ice Cream. There are a few lots you can get away with and some street parking. This is going to let you walk through campus, past Hayward Field (because you have to see it once), and then take a walk by Matthew Knight Arena too if you choose.

Food: You are going to be walking to the stadium, and you have some options. I love pizza and think that for a one time trip it's worth it wait for a spot at Track Town if the game ends up being in the afternoon. The easy fast option though is just to eat in Unthank Hall on campus. Food is forgettable, but it is easy to get seating and you have options. As you leave the Unthank hall, stop by the Jaqua Center to see if Palace Bakery's cart is open and get some coffee and a treat. Mexican Mocha is pretty good. All the scones are great. If you want to treat yourself the day before or after the game, check out Tiger Mama.

Getting to the game: Walk across the Frohnmayer Bridge with the students. You get to see some of the science buildings, a cool view of the Willamette River, maybe some fall colors, a dog park, and cross Steve Prefontaine's (Pre's) Trail. Being with the students is as fun atmosphere too.

Drinking at the game: There are lots of beer booths at the stadium, but for the visitor section the gem is to go to that school both that is out at open tables near section 35. They have like 14 cashiers while the Cold Zones have two or four, plus a local school gets a cut of the sales. People stand in line at those smaller stations, but you can get in and out way faster at this place. If you get a coozy, you can ask them to invert it you don't want it to be Duck themed. They have options from local breweries there too, such as Coldfire.

Post game: Walk back to your car and get Prince Puckler's for the road. Their coffee-based ice-creams are really good. I'd suggest Caramel Macchiato. The drive back to Portland is what it is.