Bend, Oregon, is a scenic outdoor haven set against the Cascade Mountains, famous for its natural beauty, adventure activities, vibrant local culture, and year-round tourism appeal.
Here is a comprehensive guide to some of the top activities in Bend, ranging from outdoor adventures and scenic explorations to dining experiences and cultural attractions.
Things to Do in Bend Snapshot
Duration: 3-5 days
Route: Fly into Redmond Municipal Airport (15 minutes from Bend), or drive along scenic Highway 97
Estimated Budget: $800 – $1,500 (depending on activities and accommodation)
Best Time to Visit: June to September for warm weather and outdoor activities; winter months for skiing and snowboarding
Things to Do in Bend Oregon
1. Outdoor Activities
Hiking:
Bend offers endless hiking trails for all experience levels. Popular trails include the Deschutes River Trail, which provides picturesque views of the river and waterfalls, and Tumalo Falls Trail, where visitors can enjoy an easy hike to a 97-foot waterfall. The Smith Rock State Park is ideal for more challenging hikes and boasts impressive rock formations.
Mountain Biking:
Bend is a mountain biking paradise with more than 300 miles of trails, including the Phil’s Trail Complex, which offers routes suited for beginner to advanced riders. Local bike shops often offer rentals and guided tours for first-timers.
Rock Climbing:
Smith Rock State Park is a world-renowned destination for rock climbing, with hundreds of routes for climbers of all levels. This park is a must-visit for rock-climbing enthusiasts.
Water Sports:
With the Deschutes River winding through Bend, water sports are a big draw. Visitors can rent paddleboards, go white-water rafting, or take a leisurely float down the river. Kayaking is popular on Elk Lake and Sparks Lake, which offer calm waters and stunning mountain views.
Skiing and Snowboarding:
In winter, Mt. Bachelor becomes a major hub for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Known for its reliable snowfall and extensive terrain, it’s one of the largest ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest.
2. Exploring Bend’s Scenic Spots
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway:
This 66-mile scenic drive takes travelers past beautiful mountain lakes, including Sparks Lake, Elk Lake, and Devil’s Lake. It’s ideal for sightseeing, with stops for fishing, kayaking, or enjoying a lakeside picnic.
High Desert Museum:
This museum combines nature, history, and art with exhibits showcasing the region’s wildlife, Native American culture, and early pioneers. Live animal displays include otters, raptors, and reptiles, making it a hit with families.
Lava River Cave:
Part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, this mile-long lava tube is one of the longest in Oregon. Visitors can explore this underground marvel with flashlights, learning about the volcanic history of the region.
Pilot Butte:
An extinct volcano located right in town, Pilot Butte offers a short, steep hike to the summit, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Bend and the surrounding Cascade peaks.
3. Food and Beverage Scene
Bend Ale Trail:
Known as one of the best beer destinations in the U.S., Bend is home to the famous Bend Ale Trail, featuring over 20 local breweries. Some notable stops include Deschutes Brewery, Boneyard Beer, and Crux Fermentation Project. Many breweries also serve food, making it easy to pair craft beers with tasty bites.
Farm-to-Table Dining:
Bend’s food scene includes numerous farm-to-table restaurants, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Ariana Restaurant offers a high-end culinary experience with Pacific Northwest cuisine, while Spork provides globally inspired street food.
Food Trucks:
Food trucks are popular in Bend, offering everything from gourmet tacos to fresh seafood. Check out food truck lots like The Lot and On Tap for a variety of delicious options.
4. Cultural Attractions and Family-Friendly Activities
Old Mill District:
Once a lumber mill area, the Old Mill District is now a trendy shopping and entertainment center. It includes a variety of shops, restaurants, and live music venues, making it perfect for a leisurely day out.
Downtown Bend:
Historic Downtown Bend has charming streets lined with unique shops, art galleries, cafes, and more. It’s also home to Tower Theatre, which hosts live performances ranging from concerts to theater shows.
Bend Art Center:
Art lovers can explore local galleries, such as the Atelier 6000, showcasing contemporary and local artwork. Bend also has a vibrant street art scene with murals around town.
5. Events and Festivals
Bend Film Festival:
Held in October, this festival celebrates independent films with screenings, panels, and events that draw filmmakers and film enthusiasts from around the country.
Summer Festivals:
Bend hosts a variety of summer festivals, including Bite of Bend, a food and drink festival, and Balloons Over Bend, where hot-air balloons fill the sky.
WinterFest:
Each winter, the Oregon WinterFest brings live music, food, and art to Bend along with unique activities like fire-pit competitions and ice sculpture displays.
6. Unique Experiences and Hidden Gems
Horseback Riding at Brasada Ranch:
Located just outside Bend, Brasada Ranch offers horseback riding through scenic trails and open landscapes, perfect for a memorable outdoor experience.
Pet-Friendly Bend:
Bend is one of the most dog-friendly towns in the U.S., with numerous dog parks, pet-friendly trails, and even breweries that allow dogs. Ponderosa Park and GoodDog! Park are popular places to let pets run free.
Sunriver Observatory:
Just south of Bend in Sunriver, the observatory is a great spot for stargazing. It features telescopes and nightly astronomy shows, providing visitors with a unique look at the cosmos.
7. Nightlife and Evening Adventures
Bend, Oregon, offers an eclectic nightlife scene with something for everyone, from casual activities to lively bars and entertainment venues. Here are some top evening options:
Bars and Breweries:
Known for its craft beer scene, Bend has a variety of breweries and bars where visitors can enjoy local brews and live music. Popular spots include Deschutes Brewery and McMenamins Old St. Francis School, which features a brewery, pub, and theater for movies and live events.
Puzzle Effect and Escape Rooms:
For an engaging group activity, check out escape rooms like Puzzle Effect or the mobile NW Escape on Wheels, where participants solve puzzles and race against the clock.
Lava Lanes Bowling & Roller Skating:
Families or groups can enjoy bowling at Lava Lanes or visit the local roller rink for a fun, retro night out.
Concerts and Live Music:
Many venues around Bend, like the Volcanic Theatre Pub and The Capitol, feature live music across various genres, making for a lively evening experience.
Bend Ale Trail:
For a unique evening, embark on the Bend Ale Trail, a self-guided tour of local breweries offering samples and an introduction to the city’s craft beer culture.
Must-See Destinations
Bend’s landscape is stunning, with towering mountains, pristine rivers, and unique geological features. Here are the top spots to check out:
1. Deschutes National Forest
One of the jewels of Bend, Deschutes National Forest is a sprawling natural wonderland. With over 1.6 million acres of pristine forest, it’s a dream for hikers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Here, you can find lava flows, scenic lakes, and breathtaking mountain views. Pro Tip: Hike the Lava Butte Trail for some stunning vistas!
- Hours: Open 24/7
- Tickets: Free to enter, but some trailheads require a pass
- Getting There: 15-minute drive from Bend via US-97
- Time to Spend: 2-3 days if you’re camping; day trips for specific trails
Tourist Attractions:
- Sparks Lake, Lava River Cave, Newberry National Volcanic Monument
2. Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is an iconic landmark for climbers and sightseers alike. The towering cliffs offer some of the best rock climbing in the Pacific Northwest, and the views are absolutely surreal.
- Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
- Tickets: $5 for day use
- Getting There: 40-minute drive north from Bend via US-97
- Time to Spend: At least half a day
- Highlights: Misery Ridge Trail, Crooked River, Picnic areas
Tourist Attractions:
- The Crooked River, perfect for photography.
- The Misery Ridge Trail, offering panoramic views of the Cascades.
3. Tumalo Falls
A short but scenic drive from Bend, Tumalo Falls is a beautiful spot for a half-day adventure. The 97-foot waterfall is a sight to behold, and there are hiking trails leading to even more spectacular views.
- Hours: Open year-round, though winter access can be limited
- Tickets: Free to enter, but a Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking
- Getting There: 20-minute drive west from Bend
- Time to Spend: 2-3 hours for a hike and photo stops
Tourist Attractions:
- Tumalo Falls, a perfect spot for a picnic.
4. Mount Bachelor
For winter sports, Mount Bachelor is a world-class ski resort. It’s not just for skiing – you can also go snowshoeing or snowboarding.
- Opening Hours: Open from 9 AM–4 PM for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing during winter.
- How to Get There: About 22 miles from Bend.
- How Many Days to Spend: 1-2 days for skiing or snowboarding.
Tourist Attractions:
- Stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.
- Fun après-ski spots for a cozy end to your day.
5. Deschutes Brewery
For a local experience, stop by Deschutes Brewery, one of the pioneers of Bend’s thriving craft beer scene. You can take a tour, sample beers, and relax by the river.
- Opening Hours: 11 AM–9 PM.
- How to Get There: Located right in downtown Bend.
- How Many Days to Spend: An afternoon for beer tasting and food.
Tourist Attractions:
- Tasting room with rotating seasonal brews.
- A laid-back, friendly atmosphere.
6. The High Desert Museum
Great for families and history buffs, this museum offers a deep dive into the region’s natural and cultural history.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM–5 PM.
- How to Get There: About 10 minutes south of Bend.
- How Many Days to Spend: 2–3 hours.
Tourist Attractions:
- Animal exhibits featuring local wildlife like owls and otters.
- Historical exhibits showcasing Native American culture and early settlers.
My Top Travel Recommendations
When planning a trip to Bend, Oregon, it’s important to take care of several key details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Below are recommendations for booking flights, car rentals, accessories, and tours to help make your trip to Bend unforgettable.
1. Booking Flights
- Airports: The main airport serving Bend is Roberts Field (Redmond Municipal Airport – RDM), located about 15 minutes from downtown Bend. It offers direct flights from major cities like Portland, Seattle, and San Francisco.
- Booking Tips: To find affordable flights, use comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner. Booking in advance (at least 2-3 months ahead) often results in better prices. If you’re flying from a smaller city, consider flying through Portland and taking a connecting flight to Redmond or renting a car for a scenic drive.
- Airlines: Airlines like Alaska Airlines, United, and Delta serve Bend directly, with regional flights connecting through major West Coast hubs.
2. Car Rentals
- Best Rental Options: In Bend, renting a car is highly recommended as public transportation options are limited. Rental car companies such as Enterprise, Avis, and Budget operate at Redmond Airport (RDM). You can also find rental locations in Bend itself.
- 4WD or AWD: If you plan to explore rugged areas like Smith Rock or mountain trails, renting a 4WD or AWD vehicle is advised, especially in winter when conditions can be snowy.
- Booking: To secure the best deals, use rental car comparison sites like Kayak or Expedia to book early. Rates fluctuate seasonally, with summer months being the most expensive.
3. Accessories
- Outdoor Gear: Bend is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. If you’re planning to hike, bike, or ski, bring the right gear:
- Hiking: Durable backpacks, trekking poles, and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Cycling: If you don’t bring your own bike, consider renting one from local shops like Bend Cyclery or The Hub Cyclery.
- Ski Gear: Rent ski gear at Mt. Bachelor or local ski shops like Bend’s Ski and Snowboard Shop for convenience.
- Hiking: Durable backpacks, trekking poles, and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: The weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter. Pack layers and bring rain gear, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Merino wool clothing is ideal for keeping warm while being breathable.
- Technology: A portable charger, camera, and GPS app are must-haves for exploring both the town and the wilderness.
4. Booking Tours
- Guided Outdoor Adventures:
- For hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing tours, companies like Bend Outdoor Worx and Cascade Adventure Guides offer tailored tours.
- Smith Rock: Join a guided climbing tour or take a scenic walking tour to explore this world-renowned rock climbing area.
- For hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing tours, companies like Bend Outdoor Worx and Cascade Adventure Guides offer tailored tours.
- Cultural and Scenic Tours:
- Bend Brew Bus: If you’re a fan of craft beer, consider a brewery tour with the Bend Brew Bus, which offers guided tours of the local breweries along the Bend Ale Trail.
- Scenic Drives: For a relaxed exploration of the Cascade Mountains, you can take a Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway tour, either self-guided or with a local guide.
- Bend Brew Bus: If you’re a fan of craft beer, consider a brewery tour with the Bend Brew Bus, which offers guided tours of the local breweries along the Bend Ale Trail.
- Family and Wildlife Tours: Consider booking a wildlife safari or a family-friendly nature tour with companies like High Desert Adventures to spot local wildlife like elk, deer, and birds of prey.
- Air Tours: For a unique experience, consider booking a hot air balloon ride over Bend and the surrounding landscape, with companies like Balloon Adventures.
5. Additional Tips
- Travel Insurance: Consider booking travel insurance to cover unexpected changes in your plans, especially for outdoor activities.
- Time of Year: The best time to visit Bend depends on your interests:
- Summer (June-August): Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
- Winter (December-February): Perfect for skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor.
- Fall and Spring: Great for scenic drives and fewer crowds, with beautiful foliage or wildflowers depending on the season.
- Summer (June-August): Ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
- Local Events: Check the Bend Visitor’s Bureau or Visit Bend website for upcoming festivals, live music, or events during your stay.
Final Thought
Bend, Oregon, offers an adventure for every type of traveler. From its serene lakes and scenic trails to bustling breweries and unique cultural spots, it’s a must-visit for those looking to experience the best of the Pacific Northwest!
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