2 Best Sights in The Willamette Valley and Wine Country, Oregon

This 710-acre floodplain and woods is home to thousands of ducks and geese, deer, otters, beavers, herons, and eagles. Nearly  five miles of walking trails allow birders and other animal watchers to explore the wetlands for a chance to catch a glimpse of indigenous and migrating creatures in their own habitats. The Education Center has several hands-on exhibits, as well as a real bald eagle's nest that has been completely preserved (and sanitized) for public display. No dogs, scooters, motorized vehicles, or bicycles are allowed.

This beautiful nature preserve near southeast Eugene includes extensive all-weather trails, educational programs for all ages, and facilities for special events. Its visitor center holds workshops and features native amphibian and reptile terraria; microscopes for exploring tiny seeds, bugs, feathers, and snakeskins; "touch me" exhibits; reference books; and a working viewable beehive.