Eugene: An Ideal Destination for AdventureELEVATE (Part 1 of 2)

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Oregon is a one-of-a-kind destination: soaring sand dunes along pristine coast, towering mountains, surging waterfalls, high desert playgrounds, eclectic cities, artisan-filled towns, wild rivers, abundant farmlands and world-class cuisine. It’s 100% real, but when you’re there, you might swear otherwise. The magical beauty of Oregon and its broad array of authentic and off-the-beaten path adventures for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, makes it an ideal setting for AdventureELEVATE 2022

As much as the adventure travel community appreciates the soul-nourishing benefits of outdoor adventure, the Adventure Trade Travel Association (ATTA) places equal emphasis on the need for responsible and sustainable tourism. That is, the need to protect natural and cultural resources in a way that benefits communities and businesses in the outdoor adventure travel industry – for today and for the future. As you’ll soon discover, the natural beauty of Eugene, Oregon is only part of the reason why this city and the host partners (Eugene, Cascades & Coast and Travel Oregon), shine as an event destination that aligns with ATTA’s mission.  

The city of Eugene is most widely known for two things: The University of Oregon (go Ducks!) and the nickname, TrackTown USA (for the long and successful history of the university’s track and field program). While not headquartered in Eugene (you can head a couple hours north to Beaverton for that), Nike’s co-founders Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman, debuted their waffle-patterned sole running shoe in Eugene.

More than a charming college town, Eugene and the surrounding region is a place of happy contrasts with so much to offer. A spirited athletic culture thrives alongside the laid-back pace of river recreation. You’ll find artists, innovators and nature seekers enjoying iconic and hidden places to sip a craft beer (renowned Ninkasi Brewing Company is based here), enjoy world class farm-to-table cuisine, explore history, bike the riverfront, or hike to epic views. 

Inspired by this history, the lush landscape, and other elements that celebrate the city, the venue for 2022 AdventureELEVATE, Graduate Eugene, delivers an immersive and locally-inspired experience for attendees:

  • Ducks, ducks, ducks. A very large pull duck (who goes by the name Slim) greets you upon entering the hotel lobby, while much smaller ones surround you on the bathroom wallpaper. 
  • Each room is decorated with paintings depicting Eugene’s landmarks, waffle lamps honor the origins of the Nike shoe sole, and side tables inspired by the Pacific NW and Native American Tribes who have lived in the region: Paiute, Chinook, Tillamook, Siuslaw, and Kalapuya. 
  • Small tributes to the Simpsons (Springfield, OR is the REAL Springfield and where the creator Matt Groening grew up) and the 70’s college classic, Animal House (filmed in and around Eugene) are sprinkled throughout.  
  • Every piece of furniture and small decor items were purchased from secondhand and local antique stores.
  • The expansive community table was sourced from 4-5 Oregon fir trees in the 1800’s.

Visit the Traveler Information page for details on how to reserve your room by 13 April 2022 to receive the AdventureELEVATE discounted rate. After 13 April, the rooms blocked for the event will be released and available to the general public.

Tickets are still available for AdventureELEVATE 2022. Learn more about the agenda, attending media, Day of Adventure activities, and how to reserve your spot today.

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