Meaningful Experiences at the Meaningful Travel Summit with the Willamette Valley

The Summit program will feature meaningful travel experiences that allow attendees to explore the Willamette Valley region and engage with local changemakers. These activities will highlight sustainable practices and community impact, offering a deeper understanding of the region's unique offerings.

October 1: Experience Day Tours

When registering for the Summit, attendees can indicate their preferred experience day activities, and we'll do our best to accommodate those choices. Confirmation of assigned activities will be sent to all attendees before they arrive in Eugene.

Activities will go on rain or shine, so please come prepared:

  • Dress in comfortable layers

  • Wear closed-toe, comfortable shoes

  • Bring an umbrella and rain jacket, or a hat and sunscreen

  • Have a backpack for your valuables

  • Bring a full water bottle

Lunch is included with all experiences and dietary needs noted on registration forms will be taken into account. All groups will depart from and return to the Graduate Hotel at approximately 3pm.

Downtown Eugene Mural Tour

Experience downtown Eugene through an engaging tour of its vibrant murals and street art, brought to life by the 20x21EUG Mural Project.  Uncover the stories behind these stunning visuals, including the challenges and triumphs faced in bringing this ambitious public art initiative to life. Before heading to the Whiteaker Neighborhood in the afternoon enjoy lunch at The Yardy Rum Bar—a locally owned and operated restaurant opening exclusively for the Summit. Relax and savor amazing food while learning about Yardy's philosophy of sustainability and its commitment to supporting local producers to create quality dishes. The guide for the day will be Debbie Williamson-Smith, one of the founding members of the 20x21EUG Mural Project.

**This tour involves walking through city sidewalks and streets with frequent stops at art installations along the way. There will be a sit-down lunch and networking break in the middle of the tour.

Camas Country Mill Tour and Bakery Lunch and Learn 

Visit Camas Country Mill, a locally owned business in Oregon’s agricultural heartland. Owner Tom Hunton will guide attendees through the working mill and share his vision for sustainable farming and the importance of community support. After the tour, head to Mill’s Schoolhouse and Bakery to enjoy a lunch of soup made onsite by staff using local ingredients and fresh bread from the bakery. During lunch, enjoy a wine-tasting and educational session led by Willamette Valley Vineyards. The Schoolhouse regularly hosts monthly "Lunch and Learn" events for the local community, and this month’s session is exclusively for Summit attendees. The visit will wrap up with an opportunity to explore the bakery and shop for local treats.

**Mill includes a short walking tour on the floor of the working Mill’s processing facilities followed by a sit-down lunch and wine tasting and learning session hosted by Willamette Valley Vineyards.

Connecting with the Indigenous Communities of Oregon and the Willamette Valley

Become immersed in Oregon’s rich history and explore the past, present, and future of the region’s Indigenous communities at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History. Ruth Hyde, Director of Community Engagement, will introduce the museum’s mission and exhibits. She will be joined by Deana Dartt, PhD, who will share her work on decolonizing museum representation of Native peoples—their cultures, histories, and contemporary lives. Enjoy a locally sourced, sustainable lunch provided by the University of Oregon's catering team. Afterward, join Deitrich “Deitz” Peters for a cultural presentation. A short walk across campus will lead attendees to the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art for a special preview of the Steph Little Bird Fogel Installation, This IS Kalapuyan Land, before its official opening at the museum. Any remaining time will allow for a brief exploration of the museum’s other collections before returning to the hotel.

**The tour will include a brief 15-minute walk across campus.

Biodynamic and Sustainable Winery Tour 

This tour begins with a delicious wine tasting at King Estate Winery, discover the winery's innovative biodynamic farming practices that prioritize sustainability and enhance the land’s natural vitality. Afterward, attendees will drive across the Valley, stopping for a quick break and to pick up lunch at the local restaurant, Our Daily Bread, a former church turned into a unique dining establishment. Arriving at Antiquum Farm, enjoy another wine tasting followed by a farm and vineyard tour, exploring the farm’s unique grazing system and sustainable farming practices. The guide for the day will be Kieron Wilde of First Nature Tours.

**Wineries are located outside the city, so please be patient with travel times to and from these tours. The farm tour may involve some rougher terrain through the vineyard. 

Walking Tour Exploring the History and Impact of Local BIPOC Oregonians

This tour will begin with a presentation by Oregon Black Pioneers, uncovering the rich but often overlooked history of Oregon's Black heritage. Attendees will learn about key individuals and events that have shaped this history, addressing the erasure caused by historic marginalization. Attendees will then embark on a guided walking tour inspired by PeaceHealth’s "Strides for Social Justice" app, exploring significant landmarks and hearing stories of Black Oregonians' resilience and activism. The tour includes a hike to Skinner's Butte, offering stunning views of the Willamette Valley. Relax and enjoy lunch at The Yardy Rum Bar—a locally owned and operated restaurant opening exclusively for the Summit. Savor amazing food while learning about Yardy's philosophy of sustainability and its commitment to supporting local producers to create quality dishes. Guides for the day will be Denise Thomas and Becky Radliff from Strides for Social Justice, and education provided by Mariah Rocker from Oregon Black Pioneers.

**The tour will begin with a brief presentation at the hotel before transitioning into a walking tour of the city. It includes an easy to moderate 2.6-mile round-trip hike to Skinner's Butte. The total walking distance for this tour is 3.2 miles.

Please come wearing comfortable close-toed shoes. Sneakers are appropriate and hiking shoes are not necessary, but welcome. Be sure to download the Strides for Social Justice app in advance of your tour (Android or Apple). 

Check Out Our Program and Impact Partners: 

  • Antiquum Farm

    Antiquum Farm is a family-owned vineyard and winery located in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Embracing a philosophy of "passive farming," Antiquum Farm relies on a holistic and regenerative agricultural model where the land is allowed to thrive naturally, with minimal intervention. This approach fosters a rich, biodiverse ecosystem that contributes to the distinct character of their wines. Antiquum Farm is committed to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and creating wines that reflect the vitality and complexity of their vineyard.

  • 20x21 Mural Project

    The 20x21 Mural Project is a city-wide initiative in Eugene, Oregon, aimed at creating 20 world-class murals by the year 2021. This public art project features works from renowned international and local artists, enriching the urban landscape and fostering cultural vibrancy within the community. Tourism Cares' experience day tour will highlight the triumphs and challenges of this monumental public art initiative, and reveal the essential role of community collaboration in shaping Eugene's public spaces.

  • Camas Country Mill

    Camas Country Mill is a family-owned operation dedicated to producing high-quality flour and grains from locally grown, sustainably farmed crops. Tourism Cares' Summit attendees can tour the mill, explore the impact of community support on our agricultural ecosystem, and learn about sustainable farming practices that strengthen the connection between consumers and their food sources.

  • First Nature Tours

    First Nature Tours is a DMC tour operator based in Portland, Oregon, specializing in sustainable travel experiences.

    With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, First Nature ensures that each tour aligns with global sustainability standards. Their team of experts in ecology, history, and climate science creates experiences that are not only immersive and educational but also respectful of the natural world. By prioritizing both the planet and their guests, First Nature Tours contributes to a more sustainable approach to travel.

  • Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art

    The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art is renowned for its diverse collections and exhibitions that highlight cultural heritage and artistic expression. The museum's immersive offerings include the amazing Steph Little Bird Exhibit, a profound celebration of Indigenous artistry and resilience that honors the enduring spirit of Indigenous traditions.

  • King Estates Winery

    As one of the largest certified organic vineyards in North America, King Estate integrates sustainable farming, renewable energy, and conservation efforts into every aspect of its operations. Their dedication to preserving the environment ensures that their award-winning wines reflect the purity and richness of the land. Summit attendees can tour their vast estate and taste their world-class wines while learning about their Biodynamic agriculture process, Salmon-Safe certification, Raptor Release Site, Habitat Preservation, and Renewable Energy systems.

  • Museum of Natural and Cultural History

    The Museum of Natural and Cultural History (MNCH) enriches the Eugene community through interdisciplinary research and education, celebrating Oregon's diverse environments and cultures. Summit participants can explore Oregon's Indigenous heritage firsthand at MNCH, guided by experts committed to respectful collaboration with Indigenous peoples, ensuring their voices and cultural treasures are honored and shared.

  • Oregon Black Pioneers

    The Oregon Black Pioneers is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history and contributions of African Americans in Oregon. Established in 1993, the organization researches, documents, and shares the stories of Black individuals and communities who have shaped Oregon's history. Through educational programs, exhibits, and community outreach, the Oregon Black Pioneers aims to promote a deeper understanding of Oregon's diverse heritage and foster an appreciation for the pivotal role that African Americans have played in the state's development. Their work helps to ensure that these often-overlooked stories are recognized and honored, contributing to a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of Oregon's history.

  • Strides for Social Justice

    Strides for Social Justice is a community initiative dedicated to promoting social equity and inclusivity through active engagement. This program encourages participants to explore the city's rich history of social justice movements while fostering awareness and dialogue around ongoing issues. By combining physical activity with education, Strides for Social Justice aims to create a more informed and united community.

  • Willamette Valley Vineyards

    Willamette Valley Vineyards is dedicated to producing elegant, classic Oregon wines from cool-climate varietals, with a strong focus on sustainability. Since its founding in 1983, the winery has prioritized stewardship of the land, operating certified LIVE and Salmon-Safe estate vineyards. Committed to environmental responsibility and community impact, the winery offers guests a memorable experience with food and wine pairings, sweeping vineyard views, and engaging tours. Located in the Salem Hills, the Estate provides a welcoming and accessible setting for visitors. Learn more at wvv.com.

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