Key Takeaways
- REI Co-op has officially relocated its Eugene store to a larger, modernized space at the Oakway Center.
- The grand opening weekend features the traditional ‘cowbell’ welcome, exclusive giveaways, and community celebrations.
- The new 40,000-square-foot facility includes expanded departments for cycling, climbing, and snow sports.
- Local partnerships and outdoor advocacy remain a core focus of the new regional flagship.
Summary Lead
Outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon have a new reason to celebrate this week as Eugene’s new REI location opens its doors at the Oakway Center. Moving from its long-standing home on 13th Avenue, the co-op’s relocation marks a significant upgrade in both square footage and service offerings. The grand opening event, characterized by the signature ringing of cowbells and a palpable sense of ‘stoke,’ drew hundreds of local members eager to explore the revamped gear selections and professional shop services that define the REI experience.
The Deep Dive
A New Chapter at Oakway Center
For decades, REI was a staple of Eugene’s downtown-adjacent shopping district. However, as the city’s population grew and the demand for technical outdoor gear surged, the co-op outgrew its former footprint. The move to the Oakway Center represents more than just a change of address; it is a strategic expansion designed to better serve the Willamette Valley’s hiking, biking, and paddling communities. The new location offers significantly more floor space, allowing for a broader inventory of top-tier brands and REI’s own co-op cycle and gear lines.
Eugene’s new REI location has been designed with a modern aesthetic that mirrors the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Using sustainable materials and an open-concept layout, the store provides an immersive shopping experience. The increased square footage has allowed for a massive expansion of the footwear department and a more comprehensive apparel section, catering to everyone from casual weekend walkers to hardcore thru-hikers.
The Tradition of the Cowbell
True to REI tradition, the grand opening was far from a quiet affair. As the first customers crossed the threshold, they were greeted by the rhythmic clanging of cowbells—a long-standing REI custom used to celebrate major milestones and mountain summits. The atmosphere was electric, fueled by free coffee, local snacks, and a shared passion for the outdoors.
‘The stoke is real in Eugene,’ said one store manager during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. ‘We’ve seen generations of families shop with us, and seeing them line up at the new Oakway spot shows just how deeply rooted this community is in the outdoor lifestyle.’ The ‘stoke’—a term synonymous with extreme excitement in the outdoor world—was further amplified by gear giveaways and memberships perks offered to the first 100 people in line each day of the opening weekend.
Enhanced Services and Community Impact
Beyond retail, the new Eugene REI serves as a hub for technical expertise. The relocated store features a full-service bike shop and a dedicated ski and snowboard shop. These departments are staffed by master technicians who provide everything from basic tune-ups to complex builds, ensuring that local athletes are trail-ready year-round.
Furthermore, the move reinforces REI’s commitment to local stewardship. The co-op has historically invested heavily in Oregon’s trail systems and conservation efforts. With the opening of the Oakway location, REI announced several new grants aimed at local non-profits dedicated to making the outdoors more accessible and inclusive. This focus on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) ensures that the store isn’t just a point of sale, but a trusted community partner.
Navigating the New Space
Visitors to the Oakway Center will find the new REI easily accessible with ample parking—a major upgrade from the tight quarters of the previous location. The store also features a dedicated ‘Order Pickup’ station for those utilizing the co-op’s robust online platform, blending the convenience of digital shopping with the tactile expertise found in-store. Whether you are looking for the latest in ultralight backpacking tech or simply need a new pair of waterproof boots for Eugene’s rainy winters, the new location is equipped to handle the demand.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Q: Where is the new REI Eugene store located?
A: The new REI Eugene is located at the Oakway Center, moving from its previous long-term location on 13th Avenue to provide more space and better parking for customers.
Q: What are the hours for the new REI at Oakway Center?
A: Typically, the store is open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Sundays, though grand opening weekend hours may vary.
Q: Does the new Eugene REI have a bike or ski shop?
A: Yes, the new 40,000-square-foot location features a full-service professional bike shop and a ski/snowboard shop for repairs, tune-ups, and assemblies.
