You'll Bond With Bend After Doing These Things
The Native Americans called this place Quela, the Beautiful Valley. It's a special part of the Beaver State with slow drivers and fast-paced outdoor action. Bend has enviably sunny weather for most of the year. Dozens of scrumptious scones, doughnuts, and croissants are on the menu here, along with the wares from microbreweries and shops.
An extinct volcano lies within the city's borders, and you don't have to travel far to see sublime Alpine lakes, forests, and canyons. The most distinguishing features of Bend's skyline are three smokestacks, a relic from the days when Bend was a timber mill hub. But this is no small town, and there's a good chance you'll want to move here after your first trip.
01 Drake Park
Float down the Deschutes River for family-friendly fun that's sure to loosen you up. Head to Riverbend Park and laze down to Drake Park, where a shuttle waits for the return journey. The river current is slow, so it's not unusual to see dogs kicking back on paddleboards while their owners work their cores. Drake Park is great for a stroll, picnic, or people-watching. There's live music and some artsy stalls on the weekends, and the Fourth of July festival here is top-notch. Be sure to pass by the Historic District to see the G.P. Putnam House. George Palmer Putnam, a New Yorker, became Bend's mayor at the ripe old age of 24. He went on to marry the famous aviator, Amelia Earhart.
02 Sparrow Bakery
The ocean rolls from this local gem of a bakery are legendary. Seriously, you will need to go to Bend Parkway early if you don't want to stand in a queue. These pastries are filled with a sweet vanilla and cardamom mixture that is rich and addictive. Sparrow's creations are available elsewhere in the city, too, such as at Looney Bean Coffee. They're a must-try while you're in town.
03 Downtown Bend
Bend's downtown area used to be rather bawdy around the turn of the 20th century, but it's mellowed since then. You'll find a convivial atmosphere on the walkable Bond and Wall streets, especially on the first Friday of the month. You'll spy the Three Sisters peaks, part of the Cascade Range, in the distance while you sip a coffee or a drink. Child-oriented businesses keep their doors open almost as long as surrounding retailers, so kids won't be searching for entertainment. Downtown Bend also has spas if you want some downtime after your adventures.
04 McMenamins
Even if you're not staying at this 3-star hotel, which used to be a Catholic school, it's worth a visit for a dip in the Turkish bath, a meander around secret hallways, the hidden bars, and the general ambiance. You'll require your own towel if you plan on jumping in the soaking pool. Order some tater tots, stop by the cigar lounge, and sit by the fire pits to work out more of your itinerary.
05 Tetherow Resort
Are you a wannabe Tiger Woods? The luxury golf resort Tetherow is four miles from downtown and is one of 25 courses in the area. The stunning 18-hole Scottish links-style course at Tetherow has been voted one of the country's 100 best public golf courses. With such spectacular scenery, the appeal is clear as day, and when you're done, Century Drive segues into the beautiful Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway for a mini road trip.
06 Newberry National Volcanic Monument
You can visit the Newberry caldera just 13 miles south of Bend. Look out for the Lava River Cave and trek through the Big Obsidian Flow, the youngest lava flow in Oregon from approximately 1,300 years ago. The two crater lakes, Paulina Lake and East Lake, are full of trout. Paulina Peak stands 7,984 feet tall—the viewpoint here provides a zoomed-out perspective of obsidian, pumice, and Hawaii-like verdure. It's gorgeous. You'll need a National Forest Day Pass and a reservation for the cave.
07 High Desert Museum
One of the top attractions in Central Oregon, the High Desert Museum is a 130-acre venue with edifying exhibits about the Oregon High Desert region. Native American culture is at the forefront, and the animals on-site, including cute river otters and injured birds of prey, delight visiting children. There are also seasonal art exhibits. The museum offers fee-free days if you'd like to stretch your budget.
08 Out and about
Bend and Central Oregon are a paradise for nature lovers. Reconnect with Mother Earth, take some deep lungfuls of fresh air and move your body. There are various activities for different fitness levels and interests. You can drive up to Pilot Butte if you want to chill or hike for a combined two miles. Shevlin Park, over 100 years old, is a memorable green space with loads of trails and a river for swimming. And Tumalo Falls is another pretty highlight. You might be interested in rock climbing at Smith Rock or spelunking at Redmond Caves Recreation Site if you're not claustrophobic or scared of the dark.
09 Mount Bachelor
Mount Bachelor is where you want to go to get your adrenaline pumping. It's a beloved spot in the Pacific Northwest and the 6th largest ski resort on the continent. The Summit Chair leads you to 360-degree skiing, which is certainly not run-of-the-mill. There's Nordic skiing, and the downhill mountain biking here is fantastic too. This premier ski resort should be on your schedule, whatever your skill level. Young children can ski at no charge, and adults can ski for free in the side country.
10 Bend Whitewater Park
You can pass many an hour at Bend Whitewater Park, whether you're sunbathing and scoping out the action from the foot bridge or doing your thing on the waves and whitewater rapids. Enjoy tubing, paddling, kayaking, boogie boarding, and all-year river surfing hours away from the ocean. Best of all—it's free!
11 Deschutes Historical Museum
Tucked away in Old Bend, the Deschutes Historical Museum stands as a testament to the region's rich historical legacy. As soon as you step through its doors, you're greeted by eye-opening artifacts and art pieces that span centuries. Exhibits tell ancient stories, like those of the Native American tribes that once roamed the land during the logging era. Interactive displays bring history to life, so learning is fun and informative — an especially engaging experience for younger visitors. Special events, lectures, and seasonal exhibitions mean there's always something new to discover, making it a must-visit for history buffs and curious minds.
12 Bend Rock Gym
The Bend Rock Gym is more than a climbing facility — it's a community. With walls catering to climbers at every experience level, it offers challenges that truly test the mind and body. Beginners can benefit from highly-rated one-on-one sessions with experienced instructors, ensuring a safe and enjoyable climb. What's more, the gym has plenty for those looking for something besides climbing. It boasts a state-of-the-art fitness facility and yoga classes and has a shop stocked with the latest essential gear.
13 Wanderlust Tours
The knowledgeable guides at Wanderlust Tours lead you through Bend's most breathtaking landscapes. You'll explore the depths of ancient caves, echoing with tales of volcanic eruptions, sail through serene lakes that glisten under the Oregon sun, and learn about Bend's rich and captivating history. Night owls can embark on starlight tours, where the vast Oregon sky, unpolluted by city lights, reveals its celestial wonders.
14 Bend Electric Bikes
Freedom, adventure, and sustainability converge at Bend Electric Bikes. Its fleet of electric bikes caters to all, while detailed maps and tried-and-true routes ensure you make the most of your ride. An electric bike can be your buddy as you explore downtown Bend, venture into its scenic outskirts, or tackle its challenging landscape head-on.
15 Bend Brew Bus
Bend's reputation as a craft beer haven speaks for itself, and the Bend Brew Bus offers a front-row seat to this hoppy paradise. As you journey from one brewery to the next, expert guides share fascinating tidbits about Bend's beer history, the intricacies of the brewing process, and the unique flavor profiles of the region's tipples. You can sample a diverse range of brews, from crisp lagers to robust stouts, and learn everything you ever needed to know about Oregon's craft beer scene.
16 Cascade Center of Photography
A haven for photography enthusiasts, the Cascade Center of Photography is more than just a gallery. It boasts workshops that cater to all skill levels, including classes for beginners looking to grasp the basics and advanced lessons for professionals keen on honing their craft. Rotating exhibitions showcase a mix of local and international talent, offering fresh perspectives on the world through the lens of a camera. Photography tours, led by seasoned photographers, capture Bend's scenic beauty and diverse population, ensuring participants leave with a clearer picture of the snow-capped city.
17 Check Out the Hiking Trails
Bend's numerous hiking trails beckon adventurers, nature lovers, and hiking enthusiasts, who can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surroundings, from dense forests to meandering rivers. Each trail has its own charm, with gentle inclines that are perfect for beginners and rugged terrain that would pose a challenge to even the most seasoned hikers. Along the way, you'll encounter local wildlife and blooming wildflowers and might even stumble upon hidden waterfalls. Bend's hiking trails offer a physical challenge and provide a serene escape, making them ideal for those seeking the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.
18 Ski Mt. Bachelor
Perched high above Bend, Mt. Bachelor stands as a snowy sentinel, offering some of the best skiing experiences in the Pacific Northwest. It caters to novices taking their first glide down the bunny slopes, as well as experts carving their way through challenging terrain. The mountain boasts a range of runs with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, cascade peaks, luscious forests, and shimmering lakes. After a day on the slopes, cozy lodges await, inviting you to warm up by the fireplace and recount tales of your snowy adventures.
19 Oregon Spirit Distillers
The art of distillation comes alive at Oregon Spirit Distillers. As you walk through its premises, guided by a beverage virtuoso, you're introduced to the meticulous process that transforms raw ingredients into smooth spirits. Navigating through a maze of copper stills, barrels, and the smell of toasted grains, you'll learn, taste, and enjoy great company. Highlights include tasting a range of spirits, each telling a tale of time, patience, and craftsmanship. From the sharp bite of gin to the smoky notes of whiskey, there's a flavor for every palate and a fascinating history for every tipple.
20 High Desert Museum
Set across 135 acres of majestic Oregon woodland, the High Desert Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Bend. You can see otters, raptors, reptiles, and porcupines up close and see birds of prey swooping overhead during summer. Exhibits are ever-changing in a museum that combines history, culture, art, and nature in a delightfully engaging manner. Visitors benefit from numerous eateries and shops with food and trinkets showcasing the best of Bend's local offerings.
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