ADVERTISEMENT Beautiful Bridges When I got here, I started with the town’s biggest attraction — a drive along the roughly 30-mile Covered Bridge Tour Route. I passed by six of the area’s 20 historic bridges, including the 1925 Chambers Railroad Bridge, believed to be the only remaining covered railroad bridge west of the Mississippi River. It was so cool to roll through the oldest covered bridge in Lane County, Mosby Creek Bridge. Then I strolled across the rustic Stewart Bridge and gazed down at the local swimming hole below. I definitely got my steps in, also exploring the new J. Polk Currin Swinging Bridge. It was a hoot to walk across. Excellent Eats Cottage Grove is full of tasty local eats. I stuffed my belly with takeout from local restaurants — everything from hearty pot pies and finger-licking barbecue to tasty vegan fare, locally brewed beer and award-winning cider. I even got to enjoy some live music on the sunny outdoor patios. Sensati al Sh ping and Cult al Sights You can easily spend a whole day exploring charming downtown Cottage Grove. I walked for hours browsing the independent shops for antiques, souvenirs and books. A number of downtown buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places, so you’ll see architectural jewels like the Cottage Grove Armory. Taking a break from shopping, I got to grab a bleacher seat at Cottage Grove Speedway to catch a race on the classic quartermile clay oval. East of downtown, my next stop was the Oregon Aviation Historical Society & Museum, which exhibits several home-built aircraft you won’t find anywhere else. Did you know that Oregon was the first state to create an aviation department? The centennial celebration of Oregon aviation is 2021, which makes it a great time to visit. M vel s M als There’s so much beauty to take in around Cottage Grove, including the 21 public murals. I spent one afternoon on a self-guided walking tour, stopping to take in the mysterious Opal Whiteley mural and the Fourth of July mural, which was painted from photographs taken on Main Street in the early 1900s. The Buster Keaton mural commemorates the 1926 filming of “The General” — one of my favorites filmed in this region, along with “Stand By Me” and “Animal House.” I can’t wait to come back and catch a play or musical at the Cottage Theatre and spend several days touring through this part of Willamette Valley wine country. Only-in-Coage-Gre Outdrs Did I mention all of Cottage Grove’s natural wonders? I’d always heard about the worldfamous fish-filled rivers, gushing waterfalls, biking and hiking trails, and wildlife galore. You’ll have so many things to do. If you stop by the new Cottage Grove Visitor Center, they’ll help you plan your visit. I’m excited to hear what you think! Cottage Grove may be known as the “covered bridge capital of the West,” but that’s just the beginning. I’ve had a blast while I’ve been here — antique shopping, sampling the great food and wine, checking out the museums and murals, and more. I can’t wait for you to visit too! Sponsored by the City of Cottage Grove and the Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce | cottagegroveor.gov | cgchamber.com
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