Stay close to home for spring break — and still have a blast.
![paper calendar of March with a food truck in place of the calendar grid](/sites/default/files/2022-03/stories-spring-break.png)
The days are getting longer, the daffodils are about to emerge, and many of us are asking each other the same question: what will you do for spring break? If you’re looking for some great places to get some R&R or unique areas to explore, you don’t have to look much further than your backyard.
Breathe in some fresh, Pacific Northwest air.
Take a stroll — solo or with friends — through , or . Observe plants waking up from their winter hibernation, catch a glimpse of a squirrel or snail — and take in the beauty of Corvallis.
Dive into the Willamette Valley’s natural wonders — and even make a furry friend.
If you have new experiences on your list, head south to the town of Monroe and give a try. Located less than 25 minutes from Corvallis, hosts several classes where you can clear your mind and change up your exercise scenery. Or if you’re interested in a quick road trip, you can spend the night in an adorable cottage at in Alsea — located less than 35 minutes from OSU.
Get creative: with food!
Settle in with a hot cup of coffee and a good book.
Enjoy a creamy, vanilla latte and a croissant at in southtown Corvallis, or head downtown to where you can sip a cold brew while shopping for some greenery. In nearby Albany, is a great place to sit for a while, grab an Americano and catch up with friends.
Treat yourself and design your very own burger or donut tour. Or do both. Map out a mini road trip and try as many as you can!
Burgers:
From unique burgers with all the fixings to vegetarian options, you’re sure to find your fave.
Just a few blocks from campus, head to for the — complete with goat cheese crumbles, bacon and sweet chili sauce. If classic burgers are on your mind, check out or — also located in downtown Corvallis. At in nearby Albany, try the spicy fireside burger or travel just a bit further to Salem, where you can grab a patty topped with mac and cheese at .
Donuts:
If you haven’t had the Canadian maple donut at , it’s a must try. At — located right off campus on Monroe at 14th Street — you’ll find cookie dough, s’mores and more mouthwatering flavors. In nearby Lebanon, stop by Sugar Vibes for donuts topped with M&Ms or gummy candies. Or, if you need an allergy-free option, downtown Salem’s are all gluten-free and vegan — and delicious.
Food Carts:
If a variety of cuisine is more your jam, grab some friends and head over to a local food cart park. Grab some plates to share, or stock up your fridge for the week.
Corvallis: (try the BBQ at )
Albany:
Salem: (enjoy authentic Indian food at ) and (check out the street tacos and ginormous burritos at ).
Uncover the perfect gift — for yourself or someone you know.
The Willamette Valley is full of trendy — and charming — shops. Whether you’re looking for home décor, unique gifts or even something for your pet, you’ll discover something you love. In Corvallis, you’ll find and in addition to the Corvallis Indoor Winter Market, which runs until early April. In Albany, stop by and , or explore and in Salem.
Catch a show — or two.
If movies and popcorn are your game, swing by in Corvallis or treat yourself to some pizza or nachos while you watch at in Albany. Or if live theater is more your style, visit .
No matter where you decide to go, you truly can’t go wrong.
Happy exploring!
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