Step back in time as you explore the Cottage Grove Historic District, where beautifully preserved brick storefronts, colorful murals, and historic theaters showcase the town's rich heritage. As you stroll along Main Street, you'll learn about the community's timber and railroad roots and discover why Cottage Grove has served as the filming location for classics such as Stand By Me and Animal House. Your guide will share the stories behind the murals, point out notable local shops and cafés, and highlight the town's unique place in Oregon history. Depending on the season, you may also visit the Bohemia mining display or explore a historic building now home to galleries and boutiques. As an added highlight, you'll visit one or more of Cottage Grove's famous covered bridges, earning the town its nickname as the Covered Bridge Capital of the West and offering a fascinating look at both cultural and engineering history.

At the Dorena Covered Bridge, you'll step into a piece of Oregon history while admiring one of the state's most photogenic covered bridges. Built in 1949, this 105-foot (32-meter) span crosses the Row River and once connected the community of Dorena with Cottage Grove before the creation of Dorena Reservoir. Now open to pedestrians, the bridge offers a wonderful opportunity for photos and a leisurely walk. As you explore, you'll learn about the bridge's history, the community it served, and the craftsmanship behind its construction. Surrounded by the flowing Row River and forested hills, this scenic stop provides a memorable glimpse into Oregon's cultural and engineering heritage.

Your journey begins in Eugene, the gateway to Oregon’s southern Willamette Valley. From here, you'll travel through scenic countryside to Cottage Grove, home to the state's largest collection of historic covered bridges. Along the way, enjoy views of rolling landscapes as your guide shares stories about the region's history, culture, and unique covered bridge heritage.