While Bend is breathtakingly beautiful, there’s history that isn’t so pretty. The indigenous tribes of this region fished, hunted, and recreated on these lands for generations before any of us donned skis or dropped a kayak in the Deschutes.
That history is not lost on us, and we recognize we’re inhabiting and recreating on the traditional lands of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Wascoes, and Paiutes. We are working to acknowledge their experiences and their relationship to this land.
CREDITS
Design by Laurel Hunter and Moxie Sozo.
Words by Tawna Fenske and Paxton Wiers.
Photography by Richard Bacon, Halee Booke, Samantha Henry, Adam McKibbon, Haley Nelson, Elena Pressprich, Max Rhulen, Tyler Roemer, Whitney Whitehouse, and Nate Wyeth.
The official Bend Visitor Guide is the annual publication of Visit Bend. For more information about Visit Bend, please visit us online at visitbend.com.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without express written consent of Visit Bend.
Thank you, visitors
Your vacation makes Bend even better
You might not know this, but bunking in Bend means you’re giving back to this place we all love. It’s not just the family-owned shops you’re supporting—though our bakeries, breweries, and stores sure appreciate you! But your stay at a Bend hotel or vacation rental supports our special places through the Bend Sustainability Fund. By reinvesting room tax dollars in sustainability initiatives, we’re taking care of the places that take care of us, ensuring access for future generations. Thanks to you, we’re protecting the backcountry hiking spot that leaves you spellbound. The singletrack trails you love? We’re maintaining those, too. From your favorite powder stash to the sparkling Cascade Lakes, Bend’s magical spots depend on you.
And did we mention we’re grateful you’re funding the arts? Yep, room tax dollars support that through the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund. It’s a Visit Bend grant program that puts some of our funding toward musical productions, art exhibits, film festivals, and other artsy endeavors aimed at bringing visitors during off-peak times. Thanks to your Bend stay, we’ve granted more than $2.3 million since the program’s inception in 2015.
Thank you for visiting Bend. Welcome. We appreciate you, and we’re glad you’re here.
—Leonardo da Vinci
EXPERIENCES
MAKE A DEPOSIT IN YOUR MEMORY BANK
Bend’s a dazzling wonderland where snow-capped mountains meet vast desert and a wild river winds through the heart of town.
Tucked between tall peaks and high desert plateaus , Bend has evolved from a sleepy lumber town to an international mecca for active vacationers and those who crave wide-open spaces. You don’t just visit Bend. You live it fully, eyes and heart wide open.
Your morning coffee is still warm when you hit the Cascade Mountains just minutes outside Bend. Carve fresh tracks on the pristine slopes of Mt. Bachelor, cast a fly into the trout-filled waters of the Deschutes River, or hike trails with soul-stirring views of the Three Sisters Mountains. Inner child unleashed, you’re up for more.
Back in town, afternoon temperatures feel toasty, so it’s off with the jacket and out with the clubs. Be picky if you like—the Bend area offers more than two dozen scenic, challenging golf courses from the industry’s top designers.
The last hole lands you at the start of hundreds of miles of spectacular singletrack mountain biking trails. Road biking? How about 100 miles of organic eye candy— the Cascade Lakes Highway alongside stunning alpine lakes, or choose one of the state-designated Oregon Scenic Bikeway routes.
If it’s a leisurely pedal that suits you, coast your cruiser through the Old Mill District to hip eateries and fashionable boutiques before setting your kickstand on the fringe of an outdoor amphitheater beside the sparkling Deschutes River. With your toes in the grass and music in the air, it’s a perfect spot to see the stars and moon dance.
Speaking of the Deschutes, it’s also home to anglers, rafters, kayakers, and inflatable tubers. Got an urge to try something new? Local outfitters can hook you up with a standup paddleboard and a quick lesson to get you gliding on glassy water in minutes.
Still got the urge to splash? Check out the state-ofthe-art Bend Whitewater Park with three separate channels for all sorts of river play, ranging from a casual float to whitewater fun.
And don’t think your day has to end once the sun goes down. A starlight canoe paddle or moonlight snowshoe outing are an easy addition to your adventure list, thanks to Wanderlust Tours.
With your heart full of memories and your soul stirred by beauty, you’ll leave Bend refreshed and invigorated. Hold tight to that feeling ‘til your next Bend adventure unfolds.
[ VISITBEND.COM/EXPERIENCES ]
Life's a journey best traveled on foot
Hiking is one of the easiest—and most rewarding—activities to add to your Bend itinerary. You won’t have to roam far to see why it’s one of the most popular pastimes in our high desert wonderland.
Bend boasts more than 50 miles of in-town trails, and thousands of acres of hikeable terrain just outside the city limits. Choose from urban trails you can tackle in sandals or more challenging hikes that send your heart pounding and your head whirling with stunning mountain vistas. From caves to desert terrain to alpine trails flecked with wildflowers, you’ll find a little of everything in Bend—and lots of it.
Perhaps Bend’s best-known hike is Pilot Butte State Park. This 500-foot cinder cone makes Bend one of just a handful of U.S. towns with a dormant volcano in the city limits, and you can hike all the way to the top. Take the mile-long paved road (watch for cars!) or the mile-and-a-half dirt trail to the summit. Once you’re there, catch your breath and bask in 360degree views of the Cascade Mountains to the west and the high desert to the east. It’s a great way to orient yourself to the city.
Like your hikes with a side of water? You’ll find tons of trails running along the mighty Deschutes River, with options ranging from mild to wild. The upper Deschutes River Trail makes a great starting point if you kick things off at the Meadow Camp Day Use Area off Century Drive. Follow the river’s edge as far as you like, scoping out Benham Falls and Dillon Falls along the way.
If Central Oregon’s endless desert drew you here, don’t miss the Oregon Badlands Wilderness. At more than 29,000 acres, this magical oasis feels vast and wild, but still manageable for the average hiker to tackle
in small chunks. You’ll see ancient junipers, craggy volcanic formations, and soaring hawks overhead. There are several trailheads off Highway 20 east, or head north toward the Larry Chitwood Trail located off Dodds Road.
Can’t get enough of the unique volcanic landscapes in Central Oregon? Spring, summer, and early fall are great times to check out the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Start at the Lava Lands Visitor Center and catch a shuttle to the top of Lava Butte for a quick loop hike around the summit. Then head to Lava River Cave for some spelunking, or visit Paulina Falls for stunning views of this 80-foot waterfall. After lunch at Paulina Lake Lodge, spend time hiking around Paulina Lake or East Lake before detouring to the Big Obsidian Flow where you'll amble through endless fields of glittery, glasslike obsidian.
For more essential hikes to add to your agenda, check out the suggestions on the next page or head to visitbend.com/hike
Oh, and have you noticed how pristine and lovely it is in Central Oregon’s great outdoors? You can help us keep it that way! Follow Leave No Trace practices when you’re out on the trails, and pack out anything you’ve packed in.
See Bend-specific Leave No Trace principles at visitbend.com/lnt .
For even more intel on hiking in Bend, head to:
WATERFALL LOVERS LOOP
Like waterfalls? You’ll love Tumalo Falls, with its crashing whitewater and meandering trails lined with towering evergreens. Your viewpoint of the 89-foot waterfall is just a few steps from the parking lot, but don’t stop there. Hike another five minutes to the top of the falls for a different perspective, or continue upstream along Tumalo Creek. Hike a mile along this trail to see smaller waterfalls, or continue a total of four miles to Happy Valley. Retrace your steps from there to get back. This spot is extremely popular with limited parking, so it’s a great chance to plan ahead and carpool.
THE OTHER SMITH ROCK
We know, we know... Smith Rock State Park makes everyone’s wish list, which means parking lots and trails can be crowded in peak season. Want an insider tip? Head for Gray Butte instead and enjoy sweeping vistas of Smith Rock without all the crowds. Gray Butte is a Crooked River National Grassland peak just north of Smith Rock State Park. Start at the trailhead on the northern flank and hike the trail around the peak. You can also head up the gated road to the 5,108-foot summit. Bring plenty of water so you can sit and sip and enjoy those hard-earned views!
CASCADE LAKES SPLENDOR
With so many scrumptious lakes off the Cascade Lakes Highway, it’s tough to pick just one. Why choose? Pop in at Todd Lake for a scenic 1.25-mile hike on a trail that circles the lake and offers mesmerizing views of wildflowers in midsummer. Parking lot full? Drive 10 minutes to Devils Lake for a stunning 1.7-mile in-and-out hike around a sparkling, spring-fed pool of green water. Want another option? Keep cruising and enjoy postcard views of the mountains as you head toward Cultus Lake. Grab lunch at the lodge before hiking the lake shore, or see it in style by renting a canoe or jet ski. Pro-tip: Some hiking spots require a special wilderness permit to visit. Search “Central Cascades Wilderness Permits'' for maps and the link to snag your permit online.
VOLCANIC EXCITEMENT
Just a stone’s throw from Bend, Newberry National Volcanic Monument includes 54,000+ acres of lakes, lava flows, waterfalls, and geologic wonders you won’t see anywhere else in the world. The highest point is the summit of Paulina Peak at 7,985 feet, which earns you sweeping views of the Cascade Mountains and Newberry Caldera. The caldera stretches across 17 square miles in the heart of a shield volcano spanning 1,200 square miles (about the size of Rhode Island). Geologists believe the caldera sits over a shallow magma body only two to five kilometers deep, so here’s your chance to survey cinder cones and vents, miles of basalt flows, and glittering rhyolite flows of obsidian.
MAKE A RUN FOR IT
Whether your “it” is to clear your mind, to get in your workout, or just an excuse to get out-out, you’ll find Bend’s a runner’s paradise.
Even when there’s snow in the mountains, miles of desert trails wind through sagebrush, manzanita, and volcanic rock formations at lower elevations around Bend, making it a trail runner’s dream. With tons of in-town paths maintained by the Bend Park and Recreation District and hundreds of miles of multi-use trails, it’s no wonder Bend was named “America’s Best Trail Running Town” by the editors of Outside Magazine.
You don’t even need to jump in the car for some of Bend’s most popular daily runs. You’ll find endless miles of dirt path flowing along beside the Deschutes River. Start at First Street Rapids Park and you’ll probably catch a glimpse of kayakers playing in the whitewater. From there, dip into Archie Briggs Canyon, alive with wildflowers in the summer, and shades of orange, yellow, and red in the fall.
At the other end of town, the Deschutes River Trail starts at Farewell Bend Park and makes an easy threemile loop past gurgling rapids and waterfalls. Some of the most picturesque sections of the trail begin off
Century Drive before the Widgi Creek Golf Course. Weave through lava flows and the Big Eddy Recreation Site, a popular rapid for Bend whitewater rafting companies.
The Larkspur Trail offers a glimpse at another side of Bend, connecting Pilot Butte State Park and Larkspur Park on the east side of the city. Add an additional mile (and some elevation gain!) to your run by going up to the top of Pilot Butte for 360-degree views of the city. On the lookout for winter trails? Head out to Maston or east to the Badlands where snow is scarce and the views are endless.
And if road running’s more your jam, you’ll find miles of low-traffic roads around the Old Mill District, or head south to explore the 6(ish) mile Sun-Lava Path from the Lava Lands Visitor Center all the way to Benham Falls. The Three Sisters Scenic Bikeway isn’t just for pedal power, and many of its roads are great for striding it out on pavement.
[ VISITBEND.COM/RUN ]
TR AVEL LIGH
Whether you’re tackling a multi-day backpacking trip in the Three Sisters Wilderness or riding the Phil’s Trail pump track with your kids, Bend’s outdoor places make the perfect backdrop for endless fun.
No matter how you embrace Bend’s outdoors, it’s vital to follow Leave No Trace principles to protect our special landscape from human impact. If you’re cycling, trail running, hiking, mountain biking, roaming the dog park, fly fishing, or floating the river, these tips will help you recreate safely and responsibly.
Stop by the Bend Visitor Center to score a sweet Leave No Trace sticker sheet.
[ VISITBEND.COM/LNT ]
ROLL OUT
Paradise is one pedal stroke away
Maybe you’re a steadfast mountain biker with a lust for log rides and rock jumps. Or you could be a casual cruiser whose cycling route is a ride down the driveway for mail. No matter how you ride, Bend has a world-class urban trail system and more than 500 miles of varied singletrack, plus more than 5,000 miles of gravel roads right outside town. Pedal your way to paradise!
National Geographic named Bend one of America’s best mountain biking towns , and who’s surprised? With an amazing trail system of cross-country paths and gorgeous scenery at every turn, your mountain biking adventure includes all the forests, lakes, cliffs, waterfalls, rivers, and wildlife you can handle. Cog Wild Mountain Bike Tours offers options for all skill levels and group sizes, as well as shuttles to make carpooling a cinch.
If you favor berms over bike paths, Mt. Bachelor’s downhill mountain bike park boasts lift-served trails to pack your days full of exhilarating downhill rides over natural and constructed terrain.
Feeling more like a casual ride? Rent a cruiser bike and pedal paved pathways along the Deschutes River through downtown and the Old Mill District. Make it a family affair with a four-wheeled surrey bike from Wheel Fun Rentals. If you like the option of powerassisted pedaling, you’ll find several companies that rent electric bikes and offer tours.
It’s easy to find your peloton here. Nearly all of Bend’s bike shops sponsor fun group rides during the week and on weekends with special long rides staged year round throughout the cycling season. Scope out visitbend.com/events to see what bike-tastic events take place during your Bend stay.
If you’re more lycra than baggies, you won’t want to miss the Three Sisters Scenic Bikeway. It’s part of Oregon’s Scenic Bikeway program which establishes signed bike routes on roads and bike paths that provide access to national, state, or regional resources “of superlative quality and scenic splendor.” We have five of these designated road cycling routes across Central Oregon, including bikeways on McKenzie Pass, a route from Sisters to Smith Rock, and Bend’s first scenic bikeway, the Twin Bridges Loop.
Got a hunger for gravel? Check out the Cascades Gravel Scenic Bikeway for the thrill of the open road paired with a ridealong with Mother Nature. Choose from six different routes, ranging from shorter, flatter,
more forgiving rides to more technical mixed-surface fondos to test your legs and lungs. You can even try your hand at racing, with the Cascade Gravel Grinder and Oregon Trail Gravel Grinder events bringing together some of the best gravel in the country.
Riders with mobility challenges can rest easy knowing Bend’s got tons of accessible bike trails. Check the website for Central Oregon Trail Alliance to learn which trails have been audited to establish accessibility for aMtbs (accessible mountain bikes).
To see a different side of Bend’s cycling scene, come in the fall when Cyclocross is in full swing. Bend landed on the Cyclocross map by hosting several USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships over the years.
more intel on cycling in Bend, head to:
The community of Bend loves Cyclocross racing, so check our event calendar and get your cowbell ready.
And don’t let a little snow stop you from cycling all year. Pull on your thermals and give fat biking a try. We’ve got trails to keep you spinning through the winter blues. Scout out the groomed trails at Wanoga SnoPark or head out to Tumalo Falls. Want something even more remote? Pedal out on any of the snowmobile trails you’ll find snaking through the snowy hills.
Whatever boats you float
Nothing beats the dreamy bliss of an afternoon spent canoeing, kayaking, floating, or standup paddleboarding on the mighty Deschutes.
The crystal-clear river winds its way through the heart of the city, so you can savor your Bend sightseeing with the current gently lapping at your toes.
New to aquatic adventure? Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe offers lessons of all kinds, whether you’re eager to kayak, SUP, or master your canoe paddling skills. They’re one of several local outfitters offering gear rentals, including the coveted float tubes you’ll see bobbing along the river on a hot summer day.
If floating is in your plans, you’ll see the Bend Whitewater Park along the way. Open to the public and free for all to enjoy, this state-of-the-art park features a passageway, a nature habitat channel, and a whitewater channel with perfect artificial waves. Have a heart for Mother Nature? Watch for local river cleanup events and do your part to leave Bend better than you found it.
Both Sun Country Tours and Ouzel Outfitters lead whitewater rafting adventures to leave your whole family with big grins and lasting memories. If flatwater is more your speed, head to one of the high Cascade Lakes and find plenty of spots to dip your toes and paddles in the water. For a nighttime adventure, book a midsummer moonlight canoe outing with Wanderlust Tours.
Need a bigger dose of octane in your water play? Rent a jet ski or motorboat at Cultus Lake or Lake Billy Chinook.
LOOK WHAT YOU DID
Thanks to your stay, we’re making Bend better
THE BEND SUSTAINABILITY FUND
Sleeping in a Bend hotel scores you more than just a blissful rest. Your stay includes a tax that helps fund valuable community programs. A portion of this tax goes toward grants aimed at tending Bend’s wild places. Through the Bend Sustainability Fund, we’ve invested nearly $3 million in projects creating sustainable experiences in Bend and surrounding communities. That includes projects like these...
RIVERBEND ACCESS AND RESTORATION
A $140,565 grant helped restore habitat along the Deschutes River at Riverbend Park, creating three new river access points to limit future degradation. The new access points are coupled with interpretive signage educating users about the river and natural resources.
MT. BACHELOR SUMMER TRAILS
Thanks to a $245,000 grant from the Bend Sustainability Fund, Mt. Bachelor expanded its summer trail network. The new trails include an 11-mile complete hiking loop from West Village to the summit and back again. Since this hike doesn’t require a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit, it’s a great way to get a High Cascades hiking experience without having to plan ahead. Interpretive info along the way helps make this trail suitable for visitors of all skills and abilities.
BIG SKY BIKE PARK
With a $350,000 grant, multiple Bend organizations worked together to create an inclusive bike experience at Big Sky Bike Park. The attraction is aimed at bikers of all ages, abilities, and interests, providing the opportunity to host cycling events at local, regional, and national levels. The project was a collaboration between Central Oregon Trail Alliance, Oregon Adaptive Sports, Bend Endurance Academy, Mount Bachelor Sports Education Foundation, and Bend BMX.
WORLD’S BEST STREAMING SERVICES
Long before Bend became famous as a self-propelled sports enthusiasts’ destination, it was known for its fishing.
Besides year-round fishing for trout and steelhead , Bend is home to nationally-renowned rivers, streams, and lakes providing anglers with a mindboggling abundance of world-class fishing.
Rated by Fly Fisherman magazine as one of the top 10 fly fishing towns in the U.S., Bend is truly a fly fishing paradise. Cast your line over the fast-flowing Tumalo Creek below Tumalo Falls, the gin-clear Fall River south of Bend, or stretches of the Deschutes River right in town.
There is no one “best season” for stream and river fishing, as sections of the Deschutes are open to fly anglers throughout the winter. In early summer, there’s a significant salmon fly hatch and, come fall, many big browns begin their migration from the Deschutes into smaller feeder streams.
When it comes to lake fishing, the Cascade Lakes region is noted for its good-sized rainbows, especially in Crane Prairie Reservoir. For the ultimate challenge, try Hosmer Lake, home to large rainbows, brookies, and cutthroats.
Brush up on your skills at the 12-hole casting course in the Old Mill District. It’s the first permanent casting course in the country, and you can grab a brochure at the Ticket Mill.
Except where otherwise noted, Bend area streams, rivers, and lakes are open to bait and spin fishing generally for rainbow, brook, and brown trout. Bass fishing, while limited mostly to ponds, is popular on Crane Prairie and Wickiup Reservoirs, and on Davis Lake.
Whether you feel like taking your fishing to the next level or just want to take the hassle out of scouting for the best spots, you can book a fishing tour with several local outfitters. Choose from half-day outings or multi-day fishing adventures, and get access to all the best gear and tips.
And if you’re looking for a simple way to introduce the kids to fishing, the Bend Park and Recreation District offers two kid-friendly fishing ponds in Bend. The ponds are stocked by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and allow a limit of two fish per day with an eight inch minimum. Shevlin Park Pond features rainbow trout and is open to youth 17 years and under. At Pine Nursery Park, the pond is open to all ages and stocked with rainbow trout, blue gills, and bass.
[ VISITBEND.COM/FISH ]
—Jennifer Lee
A DAY AT THE CRAG
Some of the best sport climbing in North America can be found right here in our high desert oasis. Hint: It’s not only at Smith Rock.
Known as the birthplace of modern American sport climbing , Smith Rock State Park sits just 30 minutes north of Bend. With towering basalt cliffs, endless blue skies, and jaw-dropping views of the Crooked River, the area features some of the most spectacular climbing routes in the world. Choose from thousands of established routes with options for everyone from pro climbers to first-timers—even the kids.
Want to try your hand at climbing? We’ve got several outfitters and climbing schools in the area. You’ll also find gear shops and restaurants nearby to ensure you have everything you need to safely enjoy your adventure.
But don’t feel like you need to scale cliff walls to fully appreciate Smith Rock. Lots of hiking trails require no ropes at all. Keep an eye out for eagles, osprey, otters, deer, and other wildlife in the area, especially along the stunning Crooked River.
Keep in mind that Smith Rock is a popular attraction and parking can be challenging in summertime and on weekends. Beat the crowds and visit Smith Rock on a weekday, or consider carpooling to reduce congestion. It’s crucial to stay on marked trails to protect the fragile landscapes at Smith Rock. Take plenty of photos, but please leave only your footprints!
If you’re itching to climb but don’t want to brave crowds at Smith Rock, consider alternate options like Trout Creek. This rugged climbing site sits 45 minutes north of Smith Rock and features countless vertical cracks and stemboxes on large basalt columns. Local guide shops can give suggestions and directions to other lesser-known climbing areas around Central Oregon.
Bend is also home to a number of fantastic climbing gyms, which are great picks when wildfire smoke or sketchy weather chase you indoors. You’ll find stateof-the-art climbing facilities at Bend Rock Gym and the Circuit Bouldering Gym, plus fun, family-friendly climbing walls at Free Spirit Yoga.
There’s also a one-of-a-kind bouldering area at Alpenglow Park. This 37-acre space offers three structures that include several natural climbing routes, some set routes with hand-holds, and accessible routes with rope-assist climbing for adaptive climbers and those with disabilities.
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SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW Let it
Norwegian and Swedish immigrants came to Bend in the early 1900s to work in the town’s flourishing timber mills. They brought skiing with them, and snow sports have been a treasured Bend tradition ever since.
With more than 4,300 acres of lift-accessible terrain, Mt. Bachelor is a must-do on your winter bucket list. It has the highest skiable elevation in all of Oregon and Washington, with steeps and trees galore. And the snow? Mt. Bachelor has the best powder conditions of any West Coast resort and one of the longest seasons in the USA, with operations into May. If jumps and half-pipes are your style, Mt. Bachelor delivers: catch air in one of their top-notch terrain parks or a sweet superpipe.
Craving something more serene? Start your Nordic adventure at the Mt. Bachelor Nordic Center, with access to 56 kilometers of groomed trails for skate and classic skiing, and the longest groomed Nordic season in North America. You’ll also find 47 kilometers of groomed trails at the Virginia Meissner SnoPark off Century Drive near town. For those who prefer un-groomed but marked trails, the Swampy Lake and Edison Sno-Park trails are a great way to glide into the wild. You can even Nordic ski with
your pooch on the dog-friendly trails at Wanoga Sno-Park, Skyliner Sno-Park, and Three Creeks Sno-Park. Be sure to check trail status online or at the Bend Visitor Center before setting out, as trails sometimes close for maintenance or fire-related hazards.
Got backcountry ski experience? With the Three Sisters Wilderness and its volcanic cinder cones so close, Bend’s backcountry skiing is among the most accessible in the country. Try Tumalo Mountain just across the road from Mt. Bachelor for a great mix of open bowl and tree skiing. Grab maps and supplies at local ski shops, or arrange a guided backcountry trip through Oregon Ski Guides. Before you set out, be sure to check conditions through the Central Oregon Avalanche Center.
And then there’s snowshoeing—hiking’s laidback winter cousin. Try Drake Park in the heart of Bend when there’s snow, or head up along the Cascade
Lakes Highway to scout out marked snowshoe trails at the Wanoga, Edison, Swampy Lakes, and Virginia Meissner Sno-Parks. You can also nab a free corridor pass from Bachelor’s Nordic Center to shoe your way to Todd Lake. Not ready to go it alone? Try an organized adventure with a naturalist guide at Wanderlust Tours and leave the driving, planning, and gear to the pros.
Winter enthusiasts with disabilities can contact Oregon Adaptive Sports for adaptive approaches to skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding. They’re the experts at ensuring winter adventure is accessible to all.
Want to twirl ‘til you’re dizzy? Ice skating makes the perfect winter outing. The Pavilion near the Old Mill District offers Central Oregon’s only full NHL-sized sheet of ice, which is perfect for everything from hockey games to family skate dates. You’ll also find rinks at Seventh Mountain Resort, Sunriver, and a small community rink in nearby Redmond.
Nothing says family fun like sledding. Wanoga SnoPark off the Cascade Lakes Highway offers kids and kids-at-heart the opportunity to sled, build snowmen, and giggle their way through an old-fashioned snowball fight.
For a truly unique winter adventure, try dogsledding. Oregon Trail of Dreams sled dog tours leave from the Sunrise Lodge at Mt. Bachelor. Owned and operated by Iditarod racer Rachael Scdoris and her family, they harness some of the sport’s top dog athletes for fun family rides.
If you want to rev your engine, snowmobilers will find more than 250 miles of groomed sled trails fanning out into the mountains from a variety of Sno-Parks less than 15 minutes from downtown. Try a guided tour and leave all the navigation and gear to the pros.
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YOUR WINTER WONDERLAND AWAITS
THE RIVER HAS GREAT WISDOM AND WHISPERS ITS SECRETS TO THE HEARTS OF MEN.
—Mark Twain
BEND THERE, DONE THAT
Want to spend your vacation seeing the sights instead of studying the map? Add a guided tour to your Bend agenda.
Fans of winter fun can schedule a snowshoe trip with award-winning geo-tourism outfitter Wanderlust Tours. They’ll take you out for an unforgettable moonlight or starlight tour—complete with a roaring bonfire—or try a daytime snowshoe excursion. Wanderlust has you covered for summertime fun as well, with canoe and kayak trips on the Cascade Lakes. They can even show you Bend’s hidden underground with a lava tube cave tour.
Maybe mountain biking is more your style. Roll out with Cog Wild Mountain Bike Tours and get the inside scoop on the best trails. They provide the bikes, gear, and will even pick you up at your hotel. Favorite trips include the Mt. Bachelor to Bend ride and the Cascade Mountains loop with stops for high lakes swimming, or try their snowy fat bike tours in wintertime.
Thirsty for river adventures? Ouzel Outfitters and Sun Country Tours lead exhilarating rafting excursions on the Deschutes, McKenzie, and North Umpqua Rivers for the perfect family trip or a week-long whitewatergetaway. For a shorter rafting trip close to town, checkout Sun Country Tours’ Big Eddy Thriller.
Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe also offers full and halfday canoe, kayak, and standup paddleboarding tours.
For a fun twist on seeing the sights, an electric bike tour gives you the option of pedaling or powering up those hills. The Deschutes Historical Museum does historic walking tours of downtown Bend during the summer months, or catch their spooktacular special tours happening around Halloween. Seeking serenity? Try a forest bath or outdoor yoga class from r’oming yoga, or book an experience with Gather Sauna and try leaf whisking, plant meditation, or an herbal ritual to enhance your time in their traditional wood-fired sauna.
For a high-octane option, head out with Outriders Northwest or Octane Adventures for the ultimate all-terrain or snowmobile adventure. Get a second dose of adrenaline when you head up to Mt. Bachelor for their summertime zipline.
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in the woods babes
FIND YOUR FAMILY TREE... PLUS RIVERS, LAKES, AND MOUNTAINS
Nothing brings folks closer than shared fun , and Bend’s brimming with ways to build those family bonds.
Get up close with wildlife like eagles, owls, hawks, falcons, porcupines, otters, and reptiles at the High Desert Museum. Chat with the live history reenactors and visit a family of homesteaders at an authentic 1880 cabin from a mustang ranch.
Want an organized outing that’s fun for everyone? Set out with Wanderlust Tours and explore Bend’s unique landscapes with a volcano or cave tour. For your adrenaline fix, try whitewater rafting with Sun Country Tours or a guided bike adventure with Cog Wild.
For an extra-tasty treat, visit Goody’s for an oldfashioned soda fountain experience. A stop at Cravin’s Candy Emporium downtown is the perfect fix for your family’s sweet tooth, or try Sweet Tooth Candy Shoppe in the Old Mill District.
If hunting for fossils and thundereggs sounds fun, stop by the Bend Visitor Center for a rockhounding map. Then treat yourself to a family-friendly pizza dinner with bowling, bumper cars, and go-kart rides at Sun Mountain Fun Center.
Time to cool off? Head to the Park-n-Float lot near The Pavilion and set yourself up with a worry-free afternoon floating the sparkling Deschutes River. They’ve got free life jacket rentals for the littles, and plenty of tips for making the most of your river float.
If you’re here in the winter months, try a spin on the ice rink at The Pavilion near the Old Mill District or a thrilling sled dog tour at Mt. Bachelor. It’s easy for youngsters to get their first taste of skiing at Mt. Bachelor with a plethora of lesson options and ranging from one-day to season-long programs.
Embrace your inner cowpoke with Smith Rock Trail Rides and see this stunning state park with the help of hefty horse-power. For a budget-friendly outing, take the fam to Pilot Butte State Park and trek to the top for killer views of Bend and bragging rights for hiking a dormant volcano.
Need to get the wiggles out? Hit the Mountain Air Trampoline Park or K1 Speed for a fun way to burn off that extra energy. Trampoline Zone is another popular stop for bouncing, and comes with bonus zones like climbing walls, a laser maze, pickleball courts, and even a ninja course.
[ VISITBEND.COM/FAMILY ]
FAMILY FUN
SHEVLIN PARK
It may be less than four miles from downtown Bend, but Shevlin Park feels like a whole different world. This cherished regional park clocks in at nearly 1000 acres and has a paved road and three developed picnic sites, but most of the park remains undeveloped. Lovely Tumalo Creek rambles through the park with several footbridges crisscrossing it. Shevlin Park makes the perfect location for hiking, jogging, nature watching, fishing, cross country skiing, and picnicking. There’s an extensive trail and pathway system for both summer and winter exploration. It’s also home to Aspen Hall, a lodge-like facility you can rent for weddings and family reunions.
HIGH DESERT MUSEUM
Named the #1 attraction in Bend by TripAdvisor, the High Desert Museum has been a Central Oregon treasure since 1982. With 135 acres and more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, it’s a must see for families. Enjoy close encounters with wildlife like eagles, owls, otters, porcupines, reptiles, and more. Visit with living history characters from the Old West at the Miller Ranch or in the boomtown of Silver City. Explore high desert art, culture, and history through daily programs, or run wild in the new nature-based playscape. Don’t miss the popular Raptors of the Desert Sky exhibit, which features hawks, owls, and falcons swooping overhead.
ROCKHOUNDING
Tens of thousands of rockhounds come from around the globe to seek their own hidden treasure in Central Oregon’s diverse landscape. Most are looking for agates, jasper, or obsidian. Thundereggs are Oregon’s state rock, and there are several sites around the region where you can find these magnificent stones filled with glittering crystals. To get started, stop by the Bend Visitor Center to purchase a rockhounding map and scope out our selection of stones for sale. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, since many rockhounding sites are remote.
MT. BACHELOR
If Mt. Bachelor’s rep for epic ski conditions has you thinking it’s not for year-round fun, think again. Summertime brings disc golf, swooping rides through the downhill bike park, a breathtaking zipline, and dryland sled dog rides in a wheeled cart. Cap off your evening with a scenic chairlift ride to a sunset dinner at 7,775-feet, followed by a post-dinner lift ride under the stars. When winter rolls around, Mt. Bachelor makes it easy for youngsters or first-timers to get a taste of skiing with with tons of budget-friendly lesson options. For a unique treat, schedule a wintertime sled dog ride for the whole family. If Nordic skiing is more your style, Mt. Bachelor boasts the longest groomed Nordic season in North America, running from mid-November through late-May.
OUR GREENS ARE ALWAYS GREENER
With more than two dozen courses around Central Oregon, it’s no wonder Bend’s been dubbed “the Palm Springs of the North.”
Load up the clubs and your very best A-game. We’ve got a golf course to suit every skill-set and budget. Bend’s even home to three courses ranked among Golf Digest magazine’s list of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses.”
So what makes golfing great in the high desert? The upside of being shielded by the Cascade Mountains is that Bend enjoys a dry climate and plenty of sunshine—perfect for golf!
Beneath blue skies that go on forever, Bend’s golf courses will steal your breath away. Enjoy the heart-stopping panorama of the snow-capped Cascades from tees and greens throughout the region.
Craggy lava rock and ancient junipers present challenging obstacles at the Jack Nicklaus Course of Pronghorn Club at Juniper Preserve. At David McLay Kidd’s Tetherow links-style course, enjoy stunning
views of Bend’s icons: Mt Bachelor, Broken Top, and the Three Sisters.
Want to play some of the locals’ favorites? Check out Widgi Creek just off Century Drive and River’s Edge located right in the middle of town.
If traditional golf isn’t your scene, try a round of disc golf. There’s a popular 18-hole course at Pine Nursery Park on the east side of Bend. There’s also a course at Mt. Bachelor, which stretches from the top of Outback to the West Village base. Bring your endurance, a sense of adventure, and a sharp eye for this Professional Disc Golf Association-listed course. If you’re seeking a shorter, 9-hole disc golf experience, try Rockridge Park, Skyline Sports Complex, or Sundance Meadows.
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You say traffic circle, we say masterpiece
Just like you, Bend’s art scene loves playing outside. We’ve got it on good authority that fresh air perks up paintings and sculptures, so take your art-loving soul outdoors in Bend.
The Roundabout Art Route is a collection of more than two dozen pieces of public art on display throughout the city in the most unlikely places—at the center of Bend’s traffic circles. Roundabouts filled with trees and flowers are designed to keep traffic flowing around the city, and most hold unique art designed to enhance Bend’s cultural landscape.
The nonprofit Art in Public Places is responsible for all this great artwork in Bend’s roundabouts. Americans for the Arts honored these sculptures as being among the most innovative approaches to public art in the country, so grab a Roundabout Art Route map at the Bend Visitor Center and start your artistic journey.
Hungry for more public art? Check out the Tin Pan Alley Art Collection. It’s an assortment of more than two dozen murals scattered throughout Downtown Bend and the Old Mill District. Each piece is four feet by eight feet and features a museum-quality plaque describing the work and introducing the artist who created it. You’ll find the Tin Pan Alley Art Collection murals adorning parking garage walls, the sides of buildings, and in alleys around Downtown and the Old Mill.
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LOOK WHAT YOU DID
Thanks to your stay, we’re making Bend better
THE BEND CULTURAL TOURISM FUND
When you bunk at a Bend hotel, your stay includes tax that helps fund valuable community programs. A portion of this tax goes toward grants for arts and culture. Since 2015, we’ve granted more than $2.3 million toward musical productions, art exhibits, and film festivals that draw visitors to Bend during off-peak times. That includes projects like these...
BENDFILM
A non-profit group aimed at celebrating independent cinema’s power to enrich lives, promote diversity, and inspire change, BendFilm hosts a variety of films and educational programs throughout the year. Their signature event, the BendFilm Festival, was named by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the coolest festivals in the world. Since the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund launched, the program has granted more than half-a-million dollars to keep this amazing cultural cog rolling.
WINTER PRIDEFEST
Since 2019, the Bend Sustainability Fund has granted $133,500 to Winter PrideFest. This multi-day, multi-event weekend celebrates diversity and inclusivity in the outdoors through winter activities, film screenings, cultural discussions, and social gatherings.
JUNETEENTH
The Father's Group was founded by several Black fathers concerned about their children’s experiences both in school and the broader community. This group is a Black-led organization embracing collaboration and cross-cultural influences. Over two years, the group received $42,000 earmarked for marketing Bend’s annual Juneteenth celebration of Black, Afro, Caribbean culture in Drake Park in commemoration of the federal emancipation of Black citizens in June 1865.
RENEW YOUR ARTISTIC LICENSE
Calling all art-loving souls! From concerts to galleries, film fests to museums, Bend’s art scene beckons you to color outside the lines of your everyday experience.
Bend’s vibrant arts community includes countless musicians, filmmakers, painters, writers, and other creatives. That means endless access to live performances, captivating exhibits, and enchanting dinner theater.
There’s an art-centric festival or event nearly every month of the year in Bend. From intimate shows at quirky-cool Greenhouse Cabaret, to the free Munch & Music summer concert series in Drake Park, to the BendFilm Festival in October, you’ll find your culture fix around every corner.
Revel in Bend’s art scene at the start of each month during First Friday Art Walk. Live music fills the streets as shops and art galleries stay open late to showcase artists and their work. While you’re downtown, take a walk through one of the many alleys filled with a world-class collection of local artwork as part of the Tin Pan Alley Art Collection.
For the performing arts passionate, take in a show at the Tower Theatre, which features everything from concerts to plays to classic films. The venue is a 1940s Art Deco Moderne theater that was fully renovated in 2004 to become Bend’s premier stage. You can even rent the space for major events and conventions.
Craving more live music? Get your groove on at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater. The venue attracts topnotch artists including Brandi Carlile, John Legend, Slightly Stoopid, Chris Stapleton, Dave Matthews Band, boygenius, Anderson .Paak, Luke Bryan, Beck,
Sarah McLachlan, Sting, and many more. Popular shows sell out during the summer, so get your tickets early at bendconcerts.com. Then show up and get your groove on beside the sparkling Deschutes River.
If it’s a different sort of music that makes your heart sing, check out OperaBend or High Desert Chamber Music and get your culture fix while you’re here. Don’t miss Jazz at the Oxford in Bend’s swanky Oxford Hotel happening through the winter months. Pro tip: Shows sell out fast, so buy tickets well in advance.
Ever find yourself saying, “This art would be way cooler with otters here?” The High Desert Museum has you covered! While folks know it best as a place to check out wildlife and natural history, they’re also home to a vast collection of Native American art, along with rotating cultural exhibits and sculptures scattered around the campus.
Want to know more about the various arts organizations making all this awesome art possible in Bend? Check out Art in Public Places. You can also read up on the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund (BCTF), which is a grant program dedicated to enhancing the local economy through the promotion and cultivation of Bend’s cultural tourism programs.
TAX-FREE RETAIL THERAPY
The best souvenirs are ones that remind you of your epic Bend vacation. The bonus: there’s no sales tax!
The cosmopolitan vibe of downtown Bend calls you to indulge your passion for fashion, fine art, home décor, and more. Browse hip, independent shops like Clementine Urban Mercantile, vintage Western boutique Cowgirl Cash, kid-centric Leapin’ Lizards, one-of-a-kind jewelry shop John Paul Design, and funky Dudley’s Bookshop Café with coffee and snacks to enjoy while you browse. Score uniquely-Bend souvenirs at the Bend Store, Cascade Cottons, and Scout and Pine.
Then head for the historic Old Mill District for brandname national and local retailers. Look for the three towering silver smokestacks that were once part of the Brooks-Scanlon lumber mill from Bend’s timber era, now outdoor retailer REI. Around the corner, popular chains like lululemon, Anthropologie, and Sephora offer something for everyone. Local gems like Vanilla Urban Threads, Confluence Fly Shop, Wild Child Inspired Toys + Gifts, and Kara’s Kitchenware round out the eclectic mix, and the backdrop of the Deschutes River lets you scope out otters and kayakers while you scout for deals.
If bargains are your bag, try the Bend Factory Stores on Bend’s south end to browse outlets by Pendleton,
Nike, Carter’s, Runway Fashion Exchange, and Columbia Sportswear. For a more traditional shopping experience, visit retailers like TJ Maxx, Macy’s, and Kohl’s at the Bend River Promenade in the center of town.
If a small-town neighborhood shopping vibe is what you crave, check out Northwest Crossing. Grab lunch at Sparrow Bakery before swinging by Roundabout Books for your vacation reading. Browse clothing and locally-made accessories at Cosa Cura, then cap things off with a glass of wine at Portello. You might also love the historic Box Factory, where shops like Danner Boots, Modern Games, and used sporting goods retailer Gear Fix cozy up to eateries like Fix & Repeat, Miyagi Ramen, and Stoller Wine Bar.
Into antiques? You’ll find a unique selection of antique shops and thrift stores throughout Bend, including Iron Horse, Mountain High Coins & Collectibles, and Trivia Antiques. Speaking of secondhand finds, Bend boasts an impressive array of consignment shops selling gently-used treasures. Dress up your house at Roundabouts Home Consignments, or get your fashion fix at upscale consignment shops like Nikki’s Nearly New or kid-centric Stone Soup.
PAMPERED WITH POSSIBILITIES
It’s tempting to spend your whole vacation scurrying like a rabid squirrel to experience everything Bend has to offer.
But several days of hiking, biking, skiing, shopping, and paddling can leave your body feeling frazzled.
Relax! You can recharge your batteries, pamper your body, and soothe your soul at one of a dozen decadent day spas around Bend.
Bend has some of the finest massage therapists in the country, working to alleviate the aches and pains of Central Oregon’s many professional athletes. Let a therapist at one of Bend’s world-class spas give you a deep tissue massage to lengthen muscles and provide lasting relief to specific pain areas. Add hot stone therapy for an extra treat, and let your therapist use heated basalt stones to increase blood flow and accelerate healing.
How about a couples massage for you and your sweetheart? Jinsei Spa has a special suite designed just for this purpose. If you haven’t gotten your fill of mud out on the trails, try Spa W’s unique Moor Mud Body Mask. In a hurry? Bella Nuova offers a 30minute speedy facial that’ll have you back out on the
trails before you can say “ahhh.” For a same-day massage fix, try NOW Massage on Century Drive.
Want an inexpensive spa treatment while giving a local student some valuable experience? Check out Phagen’s Central Oregon Beauty College, where you can get a deluxe facial for a fraction of what it might normally cost.
If yoga is your ticket to relaxation, you’ll find many local studios have drop-in classes that welcome visitors. They even offer outdoor classes in Bend’s warmer months.
Human — dog’s best friend
It’s been more than a decade since Dog Fancy magazine named Bend the nation’s dog-friendliest city and we haven’t stopped barking about it since.
When vacationing with your favorite canine pal, start your Bend trip off on the right paw by booking a room at one of dozens of dog-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. Some will even roll out the red carpet for Rover, like the upscale Oxford Hotel, which offers homemade dog biscuits, travel bowls, and a dog bed sized for your pooch.
If bringing your dog to his own pet-loving resort is more your kind of vacation, Bend has doggie hotels and daycare options to pamper even the pickiest puppy.
Ready to play? Bend boasts nine off-leash parks where Fido can run free. The largest is the Bob Wenger Memorial Off-Leash Area, which features 17 fenced acres of trails, natural terrain, grass, and even a spray park.
For on-leash walking, both the Shevlin Park Loop and the Deschutes River Trail near Farewell Bend Park have paths that wind along the river, offering plenty of opportunities for your pup to cool off in the water.
The adventures for your canine companion don’t stop with trips to the woods. Rent a canoe at Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe, then pick up a flotation device made especially for your dog by the Bend-based animal outfitter, Ruffwear.
If you’re here in the winter, Wanoga, Edison, and Kapka Sno-Parks have dog-friendly cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, and Wanoga is often groomed for
skate skiing. The 2.5 mile stretch of dirt road up to Tumalo Falls after the bridge (on Skyliners Rd) is also left unplowed during winter months, and dogs are welcome to frolic along trails.
To make sure your pup gets welcomed back with open paws, follow leash laws and pick up all his canine landmines.
When it’s time to eat, you’ll find a surprising number of local restaurants that let dogs dine with humans at outdoor tables. The same holds true for most breweries along the Bend Ale Trail, so belly up to the bar with your four-legged friend.
Need info on off-leash trail laws or the best spots to take your pooch to play? Check out dogpac.org, a non-profit dog advocacy group. If you and Fido get separated while exploring Bend, don’t panic! But do contact the Humane Society of Central Oregon so they can help reunite you with your furry pal.
And don’t miss some of Bend’s special events celebrating man’s best friend. Bookmark the date for the annual Bend Pet Parade every July 4th and the annual Tuxes and Tails fundraiser for the Humane Society.
GET IT TOGETHER
What makes Bend more fun? Enjoying it with co-workers, buddies, or that weird uncle you see once a year.
p icture your next staff retreat packed with paddleboarding and craft beer instead of powerpoint decks and stale coffee. It could happen in Bend.
Or maybe you’re seeking a unique spot for a reunion or bachelorette party. You might end up loving it so much that you book your family’s next wedding in our little slice of mountain paradise.
Bend’s packed to the gills with unique spaces for meetings and special events. From the grassy, treelined splendor of historic Hollinshead Barn to the beer-tastic event space at 10 Barrel Brewing’s eastside location, you’re sure to find the site that’s right for you.
Opt for an all-in-one venue like Aerie at Discovery West where you’ll find pet-friendly lodging mixed with meeting spaces, dining, and hiking trails right out the door. At Riverhouse Lodge and Events Center, enjoy on-site catering and banquet facilities combined with high-tech meeting rooms and comfy suites with epic river views.
For a dose of zen at your next workshop, book a serene space at Hanai Foundation where they also offer community-based programs to nourish mind,
body, and soul. Searching for the perfect remote office environment? Check out The Haven, The Breakroom, BendTECH Coworking, the Work-Collective, The Green House Co-Working Space, or Embark Coworking Community.
For groups looking to get down and party, try a pole dancing lesson at Seksé. Need a more tranquil bonding experience? Book a private forest bath with r’oming Yoga to bring your whole group together in nature. And nothing bonds friends like a mountain bike ride with Cog Wild, capped off by fireside drinks at one of Bend’s award-winning breweries.
Whether you’re planning a bachelor party on the Bend Ale Trail, or a lakefront wedding with post-event refreshments in a swanky wine tasting bar, Bend’s got the space to take your special event from nice to whoooa
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BEND IS FOR EVERY BODY
Bend welcomes you with open arms, whether you’re rockin’ an extra chromosome or rollin’ in a wheelchair.
We all do Bend differently. Maybe your version finds you hiking the trails with a registered service dog or cruising the slopes on a mono-ski. Whichever way you experience Bend, our accessible oasis calls you to explore.
If live music fuels your soul, head for the Hayden Homes Amphitheater where the front third of the amphitheater is flat concrete edged with ADA pathways between sections of synthetic turf. You’ll find ADA seating in both reserved and general admission sections, and folks needing special assistance can contact concert hosts in advance of any show.
Bend boasts more than 80 parks, including accessible playgrounds built like Juniper Park using universaldesign principles. Alpenglow Park has a wheelchair-accessible swing and more than two miles of ADA accessible trails. For a park filled with wide-open spaces, try Pine Nursery with its accessible parking, open-air picnic shelter, pickleball courts, an accessible fishing dock, and 2.6 miles of relatively flat asphalt and multi-use paths.
There’s also Riley Ranch Nature Reserve, where a hard-packed gravel trail offers breathtaking glimpses
of open meadows, forests, and wildlife galore.
A Bend staple since 1982, the High Desert Museum opens its doors (ADA accessible ones, of course!) to guests of all abilities. Between wheelchair-accessible trails and ramps into outdoor exhibits, they make it easy to scope out art, natural history, and an abundance of wildlife exhibits. They have wheelchairs and an electric scooter for visitors to borrow, and as a Kulture City-certified institution, they offer designated quiet areas, noise-canceling headphones, and other tools to reduce anxiety and overstimulation.
Want to explore Bend’s outdoor spaces with the aid of specialized gear? Oregon Adaptive Sports offers adaptive equipment for cycling, golf, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding. Bendbased Wanderlust Tours works with AdvenChair to make adventure more accessible with their specialty off-road wheelchairs. You can rent, buy, or test an AdvenChair during your Bend stay.
For more tips on navigating Bend your way, the Central Oregon Disability Network makes a great resource.
FOOD + BEV
Fuel your
A PPETITE
Bend is an adventure town, and few adventures feed your body and soul like our city's spellbinding culinary scene.
Start your morning with a scrumptious, scratchmade breakfast. Try Chow on Bend’s west side for fare made from locally-sourced ingredients, or Jackson’s Corner for melt-in-your-mouth baked goods and creative spins on breakfast basics. McKay Cottage is another locals’ fave with generous portions of bellywarming pastries, waffles, egg dishes, and unique breakfast hash.
When lunchtime rolls around, stroll the Old Mill District to scope out a wide array of river-view eating options. Anthony’s and Greg’s Grill boast a host of tables both inside and out, so stake out your spot to savor your sandwich with a side of sparkling Deschutes River magic. Don’t forget to make dinner reservations for later at upscale favorite, Lady Bird Cultural Society.
In a town with such beauty flowing right through its center, it'd be a crime not to take in those river views a few more times. Catch views of the Deschutes from Red Robin, Pastini Pastaria, Va Piano Vineyards, Monkless Brewing, The Commons, Sen Hot Pot, Looney Bean, Pine Tavern, Bend Brewing Company, and Currents at the Riverhouse.
Time for dinner? Take it up a notch with reservations at Ariana Restaurant on Galveston for award-winning cuisine with Northwest pizzazz. If impeccable steak’s on your wish list, don’t miss Rancher Butcher Chef, The Blacksmith, or Hawkeye & Huckleberry. Satisfy your social conscience—and your craving for tasty, sustainable cuisine—at Mountain Burger, where their expansive climate action plan aims to take them to net-zero emissions.
Craving Asian flavors with a dash of Central Oregon flair? Award winning chef Joe Kim (one of the only Oregon chefs outside Portland to be nominated for a prestigious James Beard Award) infuses Yoli with Korean flavors fueled by his own childhood memories. On the south end of Bend, try JIA Asian Street Kitchen and prepare to be wowed.
If you’re out on the Bend Ale Trail, treat your taste buds to culinary delights that perfectly complement each pint. Don’t miss the legendary fish and chips at Bend Brewing Company, or try Worthy Brewing for some of the tastiest pizza in town. Pair with a hoppy IPA and you’re good to go. Cheers!
LESS DIETARY RESTRICTION, MORE EPICUREAN REVOLUTION
Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan.
Visiting a new place can be stressful when you’re gluten-free or vegan. You’re unsure where to find meals that fit your dietary needs, and you don’t want folks getting cranky if you ask. Relax: Bend’s a chill place where we’re happy to please all kinds of palates.
Zydeco has mastered the art of safe dining for celiac and other gluten-intolerant diners. Almost everything on the menu can be made gluten-free, including tasty favorites like the barbecue shrimp, artichoke and corn fritters, and their famous flourless chocolate cake. Salud Raw Food offers endless salads, wraps, and delicious desserts guaranteed to please both glutenfree and vegan diners.
Hungry for fried chicken that ticks the gluten-free box? Fricken Faco food truck not only delivers on the chicken front, but makes a mean gluten-free fish taco. For a zestier chicken experience, the Korean Fried Chicken at Mill Works Pub will rev up your taste buds in the very best way.
When it’s time to rise and shine, vegetarians will love the poached eggs with crispy herb polenta, spinach, and gluten-free hollandaise at Chow, or try the veggiecentric Green Hornet Omelette at The Victorian Cafe. Find tasty acai bowls and smoothies at Active Culture
and Fix & Repeat. Then add a side of avocado toast because you’re worth it.
Ready to hit Bend’s food cart scene where several stops boast 100% plant-based dining? The Lively Up Yourself cart at MidTown Yacht Club slings some of the best vegan mac ‘n cheeze in town, or try Broken Angel Sustainable Food Cart for Southwest and Mexican-inspired vegan bites. If you haven’t tried the plant-based crunch wraps at Toasty food cart, drop what you’re doing and take your appetite there, pronto. You’ll thank us later.
Broken Top Bottle Shop makes a stellar pick whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free, since all menu items are clearly marked. Try the Tempeh Reuben made with house-smoked tempeh on Big Ed’s marbled rye with sauerkraut, swiss cheese, and an unbelievably scrumptious housemade 1000 island.
Need a few more stops for specialized dining in Bend? Put Laughing Planet, Dear Mom Cafe, Mountain Burger, Spork, Life & Time, Wild Rose, Crave Bend, and Café Yumm on your list, too. Now sally forth and eat safely and guilt-free in Bend!
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KIDS' CHOICE
Bend’s dining scene welcomes your little ones with open arms and ample kid-friendly fare.
p arents, we feel ya. It’s tough to plan the perfect family vacation. You’re making memories in the great outdoors and need nutritious meals where you won’t get dirty looks if the kids get squirrely over sandwiches.
Relax into Bend’s family-friendly dining scene. We’ve got tons of terrific restaurants where tykes are welcomed with big smiles and kid-approved menus.
Start your day right when you treat the tots to Sparrow Bakery’s famous Ocean Rolls. Parents will appreciate the tasty array of breakfast sandwiches and fresh coffee at their NW Crossing location. Most meals pack up nicely for on-the-go eating.
Jackson’s Corner offers fresh, locally-sourced fare and a coloring station just for your youngsters. If pizza’s on the wish list, both Pacific Pizza and Olde Towne Pizza have the kid-friendly vibe you’re seeking. Bend’s food carts also make a great pick, pairing endless culinary variety with outdoor space where kids can scamper.
Want the comfort of a familiar franchise? Red Robin has a monstrous kids’ menu featuring kid-friendly items like grilled cheese, corn dogs, burgers, mac and cheese, and chicken fingers. The cherry on top? It’s Red Robin’s scenic riverfront location in the Old Mill District.
Choose from a mouthwatering assortment of wraps at Parrilla Grill for grab-and-go meals guaranteed to satisfy everyone in the family. Bonus: tidy wraps mean less mess on the kids and your backseat.
If good behavior has earned you—er, your kids—a sweet treat, visit Goody’s old fashioned soda fountain. Choose from hand-dipped chocolates, ice cream sundaes, or even safe-to-eat dough cones filled with real cookie dough. Bend’s also home to several fro-yo shops where kiddos can relish choosing their own toppings for frozen yogurt.
If you had your heart set on hitting the Bend Ale Trail, don’t give up the dream just because the kids are with you. Crux Fermentation Project serves up some of the best beers in town with a huge grassy lawn where kids can play. Bend Brewing Company has a fabulous kids’ menu and a beer sampler tray to please all palates. Bond with other parents on the sunny patio at Worthy Brewing Company as you watch the sunset and toast the success of another fun-filled family vacation.
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BEND ALE TR AIL The
Welcome to the microbrew capital of the West.
When you’ve got the best mountain water in the land, you put it to use making craft beer. To celebrate, we created the legendary Bend Ale Trail. It’s been buzzed about everywhere from the New York Times to USA Today, and it includes breweries across Central Oregon. Enjoy a bevy of new breweries, territories, and perfect pairings to enhance your taste journey through coppery pale ales, creamy stouts, and crisp lagers. Best of all, you get passport stamps to earn prizes.
Seven territories, one ale trail
Bend began as a logging town, but today it's a lager town. And ales, stouts, pilsners, porters, witbiers, sours, and IPAs, too. You get the picture.
Bend’s craft beer scene brims with possibility. From just a handful of breweries when the Bend Ale Trail first started to the dozens you’ll find today, there’s always something new to discover— no matter how recently you last took your tipsy trek.
Explore all seven hopped and heavenly territories. From the Old Block to the Badlands, from the Western Front to the Far North, from the Brewer’s District to the Riverlands and even the Outer Rim, you’re bound to find your new frosty fave. With many stops now offering non-alcoholic beer, there’s a brew here for everyone. There’s even a designated driver program that lets DDs collect their own prize for shuttling friends safely between breweries.
Stop by the Bend Visitor Center to get your Bend Ale Trail passport and start collecting stamps, or head online to bendaletrail.app . When you’ve filled your passport, zip back to the Bend Visitor Center to claim your prize!
Too eager to wait? We won’t stand between you and your pint! Use the map to the right to get started.
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Sip happens
Don’t miss the Drinkable Diversions, a side trip along the Bend Ale Trail to explore Bend’s alternative craft beverage scene. Crater Lake Spirits, Oregon Spirit Distillers, Cascade Street Distillery, Gompers Distillery, and BackDrop Distilling are some of the small-batch distilleries reviving the tradition of premium handcrafted American distilled spirits.
Hard cider, a naturally gluten-free alternative to beer, is taking Bend by storm with several craft cideries in town. Make the rounds to Bend Cider Company and Tumalo Cider Company to taste what’s unique about each. Made with regional and local ingredients like berries, apples, huckleberries, and apricots, cider in Bend is like a hybrid of winemaking and beer brewing.
If vino is more your taste, journey north to Maragas Winery and their epic outdoor patio overlooking mountains and grapevines. Nearby, you’ll find Faith Hope & Charity Vineyard nestled on a stunning 15 acres with a roster of grape varietals as vast as its mountain views. Check their website for a schedule of live music. If tasting rooms are more your scene, you’ll find several scattered through downtown, the Old Mill District, and the Box Factory. Bend’s wine shops make it easy to grab a bottle to take back to your hotel.
Not sure what you’re craving? Try a little of everything with the The Local Pour Tour from Wanderlust Tours.
You’ll visit a brewery, cidery, and distillery all in one fell swoop. They’ll even pick you up at your hotel or vacation rental and drop you off at the end.
Speaking of responsible drinking, jail time puts a damper on your vacay. Make a plan beforehand for a sober ride home if you intend to imbibe in Bend. You’ll find a wide array of options from Uber to Lyft to local taxi services.
If you’re on the n/a train, put your sober status to use as a designated driver. Visit Bend’s DD program rewards responsible friends who get the rest of their pals safely around the Bend Ale Trail. Simply collect a designated driver stamp at each stop, making it clear to the barkeep you’re doing sober driving duty. Redeem your passport to get a special prize for doing your part to keep impaired drivers off the road.
DRI N K A BLE
Wine, dine, and sunshine
Time to refuel? Keep outdoor adventure alive by dining al fresco.
Our bounty of outdoor recreation gives Bend an edge if you crave sunshine on your shoulders while filling your belly.
The sunny patio at McKay Cottage makes the perfect spot to savor a breakfast scramble while watching the wind in the trees, or grab a sweet little bistro table outside Lemon Tree for savory brunch and some people-watching.
When it’s time for lunch, enjoy a cool breeze drifting off the Deschutes outside Pine Tavern, a Bend staple since 1936. For a livelier riverfront dining experience, nab a spot at Pastini Pastaria, Greg’s Grill, or Anthony’s in the Old Mill District, and watch kayaks and paddlers cruise past your patio table.
Coveted tables line Bend’s bustling sidewalks in summertime, or try the cozy, sun-dappled courtyard at Jackalope Grill. If astral wonders are on the agenda, snag a patio seat at Worthy Brewing’s Star Bar before heading up to the Hopservatory for some telescope stargazing.
At the peak of summer, Mt. Bachelor offers one of Oregon’s most unique dining experiences. Ride the chairlift to Pine Marten Lodge at 7,775 feet for a romantic date night, then ride it back down under a blanket of twinkling stars.
Curious about Bend’s food cart scene? Head for Midtown Yacht Club on a tucked-away residential street in northeast Bend. A cluster of culinary trailers surrounds open-air seating space with fire pits and plenty of tap handles. Check out the Podski food carts for tasty eats and a hip, happening scene. Breweries minus kitchens of their own make up for it with bountiful food carts. Try Bevel for its bright selection of brews and a cozy food cart court.
If you saved room for dessert, swing by Bonta Gelato in downtown Bend for a cup of creamy coolness in flavors like salted caramel or roasted strawberry with honey. Treat in hand, set out for a stroll through the downtown streets before capping off your evening on a park bench in Bend’s scenic Drake Park.
DON’T MIND IF I DOOBIE
Cannabis. Weed. Marijuana. Herb. Bud. Pot.
Whatever you call it, it’s legal in Oregon for people 21 and older to possess and use it recreationally.
Bend has lots of spots where you can buy it. Using it, on the other hand, gets more complicated. (For more, see the legal info to the right.)
If you want to buy cannabis and cannabis-related products on your Bend vacation, you’ll find more than two dozen dispensaries around town. Each one is staffed by trained bud tenders eager to educate you about their products and this growing industry.
And while you’re more than welcome in the Deschutes National Forest, Mary Jane can’t join you on federal land. Same goes for crossing state lines with the Devil’s Lettuce, which is a federal felony. In other words, toke ‘em if you got ‘em, but don’t take ‘em home with you.
KEEP IT LEGAL, BEAGLE
Don’t think Oregon’s marijuana laws let you smoke at a concert or out on the river. You can’t light up in public, so keep those joints tucked away.
Visit whatslegaloregon.com for everything you need to know.
MAKE MERRY WITH MOCKTAILS
Savor your options for alcohol-free sips.
Want to sample Bend’s liquid libations without risking a hangover? We’ve got you covered!
The passionfruit limeade at El Sancho starts with fresh limes squeezed daily. They add real passionfruit puree, making it so flavorful you’ll polish it off before the meal arrives. (Pound a second; we won’t tell.)
Deschutes Brewery is the granddaddy of Bend’s beer culture, but they’re also Bend’s first brewery to make their own craft root beer and ginger beer. Besides soda, they brew several varieties of booze-free beer, as does Crux Fermentation Project, Boneyard, Worthy Brewing, Sunriver Brewing, Bridge 99, and several more. That means you can still tip back a pint without getting tipsy.
Plenty of upscale Bend restaurants can mix you a mocktail version of your favorite cocktail, but there’s no beating the creative n/a and low-alcohol offerings at Lady Bird Cultural Society. Try the Blind Serpent made with Wilderton Lustre, cucumber, citrus, basil, and adaptogenic soda, or go for the Fins Up made with non-alcoholic mezcal, pineapple, coconut, lime, and Luxardo.
Salud Raw Food expertly blends fruits, veggies, herbs, and spices for optimal flavor and zing in their fresh juices. Try the Hippy Hoppy, made with apple, carrot,
spinach, lemon, beet, and ginger; or the Heavy Metal Detox with cilantro, lime, apple, pineapple, mint, and celery.
Sen Hot Pot shakes up mocktails with a global flair. Try the Happy Baby made with carrot syrup, coconut milk, pineapple, orange, and lemon. Jia Asian Street Kitchen on Bend’s southside slings seriously fab booze-free beverages, like the Tiki Panda made with pomegranate, pineapple, and lemon juice with sparkling water and house dehydrated fruit.
Even Bend’s hottest cocktail stops are getting in on the zero-proof action. At San Simon, grab a Calm the F**k Down for a perfect mix of lavender, chamomile, ginger, soda, and CBD. If you’re seeking a bar with a mocktail-forward menu, try Hosmer in the Waypoint Hotel. Drinks are made zero-proof unless you ask otherwise, so sample treats like the n/a Diamond Lake Libation with pineapple and clove shrub. For more booze-free fare, hit The Dez Lounge and try an array of non-alcoholic cocktails.
Bend is also home to several kombucha breweries, and you’ll find this healthful, fermented beverage on tap at lots of local pubs and restaurants. Watch for offerings from Bend-based Compassion Kombucha and Humm Kombucha.
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STAYS
HUNDREDS OF WAYS TO COUNT SHEEP
When it comes to vacation lodging, we all have different wishes.
Some of us want sticky s’mores in a tent beneath the stars , while others dream of luxury spa services and a frosty drink by the pool. Fear not: You’ll find the perfect lodging in Bend.
If you prefer the privacy of your own vacation home, many Bend vacation rentals include perks like hot tubs, standup paddleboards, and bikes to pedal your way from your front door to your favorite brewery. You’ll find homes big enough to accommodate your family reunion, or small and intimate enough for a honeymoon.
Whether you fancy an upscale, award-winning boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, or a trusted chain conveniently located on the highway, Bend can hook you up.
And don’t feel you need to choose between being close to restaurants and shopping or enjoying a quiet spot in the woods with your own private Jacuzzi. We’ve got oodles of cozy hideaways tucked along the river near the Old Mill District or on the road to Mt. Bachelor.
Planning a conference that calls for a state-of-theart convention center with gorgeous views of the Deschutes River? Try the Riverhouse, where you’ll
break up the monotony of meetings with a round of golf or a kayak outing for the whole team.
Need family-friendly amenities to keep the kids happy and entertained? You’ll find properties in Bend with swimming pools, pickleball courts, rental bikes, and even organized outings like whitewater raft tours guaranteed to give the whole family a lifetime of vacation memories.
And hey, if you’re here on a budget and just want a no-frills room that’s clean and inviting, we’re happy to recommend our favorite low-cost options if you swing by the Bend Visitor Center. You’ll love what Bend has to offer whether you’re pinching pennies or splurging on the vacation of a lifetime.
No matter where you rest your head, your dreams will always be sweeter in Bend.
For a complete list of Bend lodging choices, head to visitbend.com/sleep or stop by the Bend Visitor Center when you’re in town!
For a complete list of Bend lodging choices, head to:
PUT YOUR STAKES IN THE GROUND
There’s no better way to experience the natural wonder of Bend’s great outdoors than by sleeping in it.
You’ll find countless spots around c entral Oregon where you can pitch a tent, pop up a camper, or park your RV to forge a temporary home in the wilderness. The Visit Bend website has a page devoted to camping and RV parks, complete with handy grids to show amenities available at each place.
One thing to keep in mind? Many campgrounds that weren’t previously reservable are now reservationonly, which means they’re apt to fill up. Check online for a status before you head out.
If you like your campsites with some amenities, head for larger campgrounds at areas like East Lake in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument; Cove Palisades or Perry South at Lake Billy Chinook; or Crane Prairie off the Cascade Lakes Highway. Nearby, you’ll find flush toilets and shower facilities to make your camping experience a lot less spartan.
RVers will love the convenience of campgrounds within the city limits of Bend. Sun Outdoors, Bend RV Resort, Scandia, and The Camp (smack dab in the center of town), all take reservations. If you’re willing to stay 20 minutes west of Bend, Sisters Creekside Park has both RV and tent sites in a lovely waterfront setting.
State parks are another option for those willing to drive 20-40 minutes. Smith Rock State Park has spots for tent campers, while La Pine State Park, Cove Palisades, Tumalo State Park, and Prineville Reservoir can accommodate both RVs and tents.
If roughing it’s more your speed, you’ll find oodles of dispersed camping and backpack-in-only options around Central Oregon. Keep in mind that this type of camping requires extra effort, like bringing your own water, a porta potty, chairs and table, and being conscientious enough to pack out all of your trash. It’s also important to check fire regulations, since many areas prohibit campfires during the driest months of the summer. Some even ban them all year long.
For middle-of-the-road campers wanting access to pit toilets and potable water, scope out the campsites near Suttle Lake, off the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, or along the Metolius River.
For a unique spin on camping, check into camper van and RV rentals. Lots of local outfitters can set you up with a portable home to take with you into the great outdoors.
And if you need to get cleaned up after a few nights in the wilderness, Bend’s Bunk + Brew Historic Lucas House hostel in Downtown Bend offers a “Dirtbag Deluxe” just for campers. For a small fee, you get a shower, use of towels and laundry facilities (including laundry soap!), sauna access, Wi-Fi, and a cold brew. Stop in to refresh before you head off on your next adventure!
CASCADE LAKES
Locals sometimes refer to the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway as the Highway to Heaven. If you’ve ever taken it, you know why. Besides being the main road that delivers visitors to popular hiking trails, Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway provides access to more than 25 established campgrounds. Most of the campgrounds along and off of the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway do take reservations and fill up quickly, so make sure you reserve early. As a friendly reminder, the Cascade Lakes Highway and the campgrounds are only open in summer months, generally from Memorial Day through the first onset of winter.
SISTERS/SANTIAM PASS
Like the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, this road between Central Oregon and the Willamette Valley offers a near-endless number of places to pitch a tent or back in the RV. Starting in Sisters, you’ll find your first campground just off the Highway as you near Black Butte (yeah, that Black Butte—namesake of Deschutes Brewery’s world-famous porter). Get access to the Metolius River area campgrounds nearby, and as you approach the pass, you can find campgrounds at several lakes (Suttle Lake, Big Lake) with boating and other recreation. Just like the campgrounds along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, most are closed in the winter, so plan your camping trip before you pack up the Subaru.
NEWBERRY NATIONAL VOLCANIC MONUMENT
Legend has it that a long, long time ago when the powers-that-be were looking to establish Oregon’s first (and only) national park, the decision was between Crater Lake and Newberry Crater. Crater Lake won, and that makes us real winners: You’ll get an equally awe-inspiring experience at Newberry National Volcanic Monument, and with far fewer crowds. There are nine established campgrounds within the monument, and many of them take reservations. This magical 54,000-acre monument will dazzle you with lakes, waterfalls, and glittering fields of obsidian guaranteed to give you sweet dreams.
OCHOCO NATIONAL FOREST
Offering a much quieter and one-with-nature experience far from the campgrounds listed above, the Ochoco National Forest lies just east of Bend. You’ll often find yourself surrounded by towering pines as the stars tickle the sky above. If dispersed camping is more your style, you’ll find plenty of space here where the established campgrounds are fewer and farther between.
All roads lead to Bend
Bend is the basecamp of Central Oregon, with tons of ways to find your path here.
BY AIR
Roberts Field Airport (RDM) sits less than 20 minutes from Downtown Bend. It’s Oregon’s fourth-largest commercial airport. Current flights include Burbank, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Phoenix, Portland, Santa Rosa, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, and Seattle. Get details at flyrdm.com.
Six full-service rental car agencies are on-site at the Redmond Airport, offering an array of car rental options, including larger multi-passenger vehicles, and fully equipped 4WD sport utility models.
BY AIR CHARTER
An on-demand air charter service can take you conveniently from the airport closest to you directly into Bend. No security delays, layovers, connecting flights, or hassles.
BY ROAD
Centrally located at the junction of US Highway 97 (a north and south route from Madras to Klamath Falls) and State Highway 20 (the east and west route from Idaho/Burns to Salem/Willamette Valley), Bend is easily accessible from all directions and is three hours southeast of Portland. Visit the Oregon Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) website TripCheck.com for road cams and conditions, or call 511 in Oregon.
BY BUS
Bend is served by regional bus service from many cities in Oregon including Portland, Eugene, Salem, John Day, and Ontario.
Nowhere epitomizes Bend’s transformation from a sleepy lumber town to a world-class travel destination like the Old Mill District.
Once home to two of the largest sawmill operations on the planet, the Old Mill District now boasts more than 60 restaurants and shops nestled alongside the Deschutes River, as well as Oregon’s largest outdoor music venue, the Hayden Homes Amphitheater.
The amphitheater hosts approximately 50 shows each summer, drawing some of the biggest acts in music, including Sturgill Simpson, John Legend, boygenius, and The Lumineers in recent years.
