Cottage Grove is a scenic, friendly small city in the Willamette Valley foothills known for its covered bridges, murals, the Row River Trail and nearby Dorena Lake — perfect for mult-week assignments if you like daily outdoor recreation, a walkable downtown with cafés/shops, and a relaxed community that feels more interesting than “boring small town.”
When you want more city options, Eugene (about 20–25 miles northwest) and neighboring Springfield provide University of Oregon cultural events, a regional airport, restaurants and bigger-nightlife options.