Bend, Oregon Visitor Guide - 2022-2023 by Visit Bend OR

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

THE FIELD JOURNAL TO ALL THINGS BEND EAT. PL AY. SLEEP.

VOLUME SEVENTEEN VISITBEND.COM

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— Henry David Thoreau

02 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

BEND, OREGON

CREDITS

Some people think childlike wonder is something you grow out of. But in Bend, amazement is something you fall into—and it’s here, waiting for you to arrive.

Design by Laurel Hunter, Nate Wyeth, and Moxie Sozo. Photography by Nate Wyeth, Richard Bacon, Adam McKibbon, Ryan Brennecke, Tyler Roemer, and Pete Alport.

Whether you’re dipping a paddle, sipping a pint, or plunging into the unknown, Bend puts you at ease and in awe all at the same time. Wide eyes. Galloping heart. Unscratchable itch to return and experience it anew again.

The official Visit Bend Visitor Guide is the annual publication of Visit Bend. For more information about Visit Bend, please visit us online at visitbend.com.

This is Bend.

That smile bursting between your lips? That’s all yours. Glad we could help you find it.

EAT

PLAY

SLEEP

Foodies Forever

Less Dietary Restriction, More Epicurean Revolution

Kids' Choice

Tour de Best

Bend Ale Trail

Grab a Table for View

Don’t Mind If I Doobie

Go Drinking Without Drinking

A Lifetime’s Worth of New Experiences

Take a Hike

Essentials: Hiking

Roll Out

Make a Run For It

Whatever Boats You Float

World’s Best Streaming Services

A Day at the Crag

Let It Snow

Bend There, Done That

Family Fun

Essentials: Family Fun

Our Greens Are Always Greener

Art All Year

You Say Traffic Circle, We Say Masterpiece

Tax-Free Retail Therapy

Pampered With Possibilities

Human—Dog’s Best Friend

Essentials: Five Billion Star Hotels

Put Your Stakes in the Ground

Hundreds of Ways to Count Sheep

Bend Means Business

The Bend Pledge

Find Your Way Here

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04 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

THANK YOU, VISITORS Taking care of the places that take care of us is our top priority.

Because you come to play and stay, you naturally visit our breweries, bakeries, and shops. When you bunk down in a Bend hotel or vacation rental, you’re giving back to our community through the Bend Sustainability Fund. This fund reinvests room tax dollars into the places and spaces you come to enjoy. Thanks for contributing to a long-term, sustainable destination. For caring about the singletrack, the backcountry, the Cascade Lakes, the hidden powder stash, and the mighty Deschutes River. For taking the Bend Pledge, Pledging for the Wild, and contributing to what makes this place great. We appreciate you, we thank you, and we’re glad you’re here. BENDSUSTAINABILIT YFUND.COM

HOLDS ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS MAN HAS NOT YET LEARNED TO ASK. —Nancy Newhall

visitbend.com

THE

Official Visitor Guide of Bend

EAT &

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EAT. PL AY. SLEEP.

Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Foodies Forever

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Bend is an adventure town, and there are few adventures more satisfying than trekking the city's renowned culinary scene.

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Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Let Hunger Be

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Start your morning with a scrumptious, scratch-made breakfast. Try Chow on Bend’s Westside 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 belly-warming 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. In a town with such beauty running through the center of town, it’d be a crime not to take in those river views a few more times. Besides Anthony’s and Greg’s, you’ll catch views of the Deschutes from Red Robin, Pastini Pastaria, Monkless Brewing, The Commons, 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 pizazz. If you’re strolling Bend’s historic Downtown, visit Jackalope Grill to savor unique preparations of wild game, fresh seafood, pasta, poultry, and Oregon beef dished up in an intimate setting. Craving something with an Asian flair? Chef Joe Kim at 5 Fusion is one of the only Oregon chefs outside Portland to be nominated for a prestigious James Beard Award. Visit 5 Fusion to sample outstanding sushi, inventive cocktails, and more in an upscale, urban setting. If you’re heading out on the Bend Ale Trail, treat your taste buds to culinary delights that perfectly complement each pint. Don’t miss the legendary Grilled Cheesy at Crux Fermentation Project, or try Worthy Brewing for the best fish tacos you’ll ever have. Pair with hoppy IPA and you’re good to go. Cheers!

From food carts to fine dining, you’ll find plenty to please your palate.

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Your Guide

12 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

LESS DIETARY RESTRICTION, MORE EPICUREAN REVOLUTION Gluten-free, Vegetarian, and Dairy Free

Visiting a new place can be stressful when you’re Ready to hit Bend’s food cart scene? The Lively Up Yourgluten-free or vegan. You’re not sure where to find meals self cart at the Midtown Yacht Club slings some of the that fit your dietary needs, and you don’t want folks get- best vegan chow in town, or try Broken Angel Sustainating cranky if you ask. Relax: Bend’s a chill place adept ble Food Cart for their Southwest and Mexican-inspired at pleasing all kinds of palates. vegan bites near the Box Factory. Zydeco has mastered the art of safe dining for celiac and Broken Top Bottle Shop is a safe bet whether you’re vegan, other gluten-intolerant diners. Almost everything on the vegetarian, or gluten-free, since all menu items are clearly menu can be made gluten-free, including tasty favorites marked. Try the BBQ tempeh sando, a bun piled high with like the barbecue shrimp, artichoke and corn fritters, house-smoked shredded tempeh, vegan Georgia red BBQ and their famous flourless chocolate cake. Salud Raw sauce, and Carolina red slaw. Food offers tons of salads, wraps, and delicious desserts guaranteed to please both gluten-free and vegan diners. Need a few more stops for that Bend bucket list? Put Laughing Planet, Fix and Repeat, Deeply Rooted, Bo’s Can’t bear to give up baked goods or pizza? McKay Falafel Bar, and Café Yumm on your list, too. Go forth Cottage, on Bend's northeast side, has a fantastic selection and eat safely and guilt-free in Bend! of gluten-free pastries made from scratch daily, while Pizza Mondo does a to-die-for gluten-free pizza crust with VISITBEND.COM/EAT an array of mouthwatering toppings and combinations. 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.

KIDS' CHOICE Eat

Bend’s dining scene welcomes your little ones with open arms and plenty of kid-friendly fare.

Moms and dads: 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 dessert.

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 Parilla Grill for grab-and-go meals guaranteed to satisfy We feel ya, and we know there’s nothing to worry about. everyone in the family. Bonus: tidy wraps mean less mess Bend has tons of terrific restaurants where your tykes on the kids and your backseat. are welcomed with big smiles and kid-approved menus. If good behavior has earned you—er, your kids—a sweet Start your day right when you treat the tots to Sparrow treat, visit Goody’s old fashioned soda fountain in downBakery’s famous Ocean Rolls. Parents will appreciate the town Bend. Choose from hand-dipped chocolates, ice tasty array of breakfast sandwiches and fresh coffee at cream sundaes, or even safe-to-eat dough cones filled their NW Crossing location. Most meals pack up nicely with real cookie dough. for on-the-go eating. If you had your heart set on hitting the Bend Ale Trail, you At Flatbread Community Oven, they won’t just feed your don’t have to give up just because you’ve got kiddos along. kids — they’ll let them roll up their sleeves and make their Crux Fermentation Project boasts some of the best beers own do-it-yourself pizzas. While grown-ups sip wine and in town and a huge grassy lawn where kids can frolic. savor salads and a slice, the kids decorate their dough Bend Brewing Company has a fabulous kids’ menu and with sauce, cheese, and toppings before watching the a beer sampler tray to please all palates. Bond with other whole thing bake up in big, wood-fired ovens. parents on the sunny patio at Worthy Brewing Company as you watch the sunset and toast the success of another Want the comfort of a familiar franchise? Red Robin has fun-filled family vacation. a monstrous kids’ menu featuring kid-friendly items like grilled cheese, corn dogs, burgers, mac and cheese, and VISITBEND.COM/EAT

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Tour de Best We’re not ones to play favorites. (With a near-endless list of right answers, how could we be?) But if you need somebody to point you in the right direction, here are a few tips to get your tour started.

BEST FISH TACOS

BEST BURGERS

Tacos make vacations better, and fish tacos top our list of fresh Pacific Northwest fare. Head to Worthy Brewing for their famous steelhead tacos paired with a hoppy IPA. At El Sancho, enjoy tender mahi mahi tacos with fresh cabbage slaw and a dollop of fresh crema and avocado salsa. If battered fish is your passion, head to Spork for tacos brimming with fried catfish and an unbeatable blend of cabbage, radish, cilantro, green onion, and chili mayo. At Barrio, pick between salmon and grilled rockfish, or round out your taco trio with one of each, plus another pick from their mouthwatering menu. At Longboard Louie’s, bless your fish tacos with piles of fresh goodies from their salsa bar.

Craving a juicy burger after a full day on the slopes? Bend Burger Company grills up some of the tastiest treats in town, with french fries sure to make you swoon. Dandy’s Drive-in offers an old-fashioned experience with handmade shakes, scrumptious burgers, and servers on roller skates. At Brother Jon’s Alehouse, try the Ranch Burger with bacon, dill Havarti, fresh avocado, ranch dressing, lettuce, tomato, and thinly-sliced onion. Even vegan diners can join the burger parade at Deschutes Brewery with a veggie burger that’s 100% plant-based and 110% delicious.

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BEST SUSHI

BEST ON-THE-GO BREAKFAST

Start your journey at Chi, where you’ll find scrumptious sushi and creative cocktails. Don’t miss 5 Fusion, where Chef Joe Kim has racked up multiple James Beard nominations (sorta like the Oscars of dining). At cozy Kanpai, don’t miss the Orgasm Roll made with tempura unagi, crab, and cucumber topped with avocado, creamy scallops, tobiko, and sweet soy reduction. If sushi trains are your jam, check out Sora Sushi in downtown Bend. Hanging in the Old Mill District? Head for Mio Sushi and grab a Bubble Bubble made with avocado, tobiko, salmon, and ikura, topped with paper-thin slices of fresh lemon.

Your car makes an ideal eatery on your way to the day’s adventure. A bagel sandwich from Rockin’ Daves will hit the spot, and their build-your-own breakfast burritos will hit it again. Speaking of breakfast burritos, Los Jalapeños is a hidden gem of a midtown eatery with the freshest, softest tortillas and best combos you can imagine. Feel like a smoothie? Check out Mother’s Cafe and order the Tropical Fuji, made with orange juice, pineapple, banana, mango, coconut, mango sorbet. You’ve surely heard of the famous Ocean Rolls at Sparrow Bakery, but they also offer a tasty breakfast sandwich made with poached egg, bakery-smoked bacon, avocado, arugula, and aioli served on a hand-rolled croissant.

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16 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Welcome to the craft beer 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 that, we launched the legendary Bend Ale Trail in 2010. It’s been buzzed about everywhere from The New York Times to USA Today, and in 2021, it got even better. Bend Ale Trail 2.0 brings a bevy of new breweries, territories, and perfect pairings making it more fun to taste your way through coppery pale ales, creamy stouts, and crisp lagers while gathering passport stamps to earn prizes.

BEND ALE TRAIL

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18 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Seven Territories, One Ale Trail Bend may have started as a logging town, but today we’re a lager town. And ales, stouts, pilsners, porters, witbeirs and IPAs, too. You get the picture. Bend’s craft beer scene is booming. 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 sip on something extraordinary. With so many breweries beckoning you, we’ve got a million frosty reasons to try them all. 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!

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DRINK ABLE DI V ERS I ON S

Seeking a change of pace from malty goodness? 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.

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.

If vino is more your taste, hold on to your grapes because Central Oregon was officially recognized as a wine region in 2011. Visit vineyard country with a journey north to Maragas Winery and their epic outdoor patio overlooking mountains and grapevines. Nearby, you’ll find Faith, Hope and Charity Vineyard, 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

And hey, if drinking alcohol at all isn’t for you, you’re also in luck. Visit Bend’s Designated Driver 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 DD duty. When you redeem your passport, you’ll get a special prize for doing your part to keep impaired drivers off the road.

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 Hard cider, a naturally gluten-free alternative to beer, is rental and drop you off at the end. taking Bend by storm with several craft cideries in town. Make the rounds to Avid Cider, Bend Cider Company, and Speaking of responsible drinking, jail time would sure Tumalo Cider Company to taste what’s unique about each. put a damper on your vacay. Make a plan beforehand for Made with regional and local ingredients like berries, a sober ride home if you plan on imbibing in Bend. You’ll apples, huckleberries, and apricots, Bend cider is like a find a wide array of options from Uber to Lyft to local taxi services. hybrid of winemaking and beer brewing.

visitbend.com

Not sure what you’re craving? Try a little of everything with The Local Pour Tour from Wanderlust Tours.

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Grab a Table

For a full listing of food trucks, outdoor eateries, and dining options in Bend: VISITBEND.COM/EAT

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for View Belly’s growling? Keep outdoor adventure alive by dining al fresco.

Bend’s abundance of outdoor recreation gives this city date night, then ride it back down under a blanket of an edge if you crave sunshine on your shoulders while twinkling stars. you refuel your body. The sunny patio at McKay Cottage is the perfect spot to savor a breakfast scramble while you watch the wind in the trees. A sweet little bistro table outside Lemon Tree offers the perfect vantage point for people-watching, not to mention a savory brunch with international flair. When it’s time for lunch, enjoy the cool breeze drifting off the water. The Pine Tavern has been nestled along the Deschutes River in downtown Bend since 1936, and their spacious outdoor patio is a divine spot for salads, burgers, and killer views of Mirror Pond. If you prefer an energetic parade of kayaks, paddleboards, and happy river floaters chugging past, nab a patio seat at Pastini Pastaria, Greg’s Grill, or Anthony’s in the Old Mill District.

Call ahead or show up early to call dibs on primo outdoor spots at 900 Wall, Drake, Hola! or the upper balcony at Deschutes Brewery. PRO TIP:

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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 openair seating space with fire pits to keep things toasty and tap handles to keep you fueled with locally-sourced beer and cider. While you’re exploring the Box Factory, check out the Podski food carts for tasty eats and a hip, happening scene. Breweries minus kitchens of their own make Many restaurants in downtown Bend offer coveted up for it with bountiful food carts. Try Bevel for its bright tables lining the bustling sidewalks of summertime. selection of brews and expansive food cart court, or slip Inside scoop: Zydeco boasts the best sunset views in over to Spider City’s east side brewery for beers and food town from their limited rooftop dining, or try the cozy, cart barbecue. sun-dappled courtyard at Jackalope Grill. Make reservations early to nab a top table. If you crave adult alone-time, If you saved room for dessert, swing by Bonta Gelato in score a table on the second-story patio of the Star Bar at downtown Bend for a cup of creamy coolness in flavors Worthy Brewing, where you’ll sip stellar suds and tasty like salted caramel or roasted strawberry with honey. nibbles before heading up to check out their Hopservatory. Treat in hand, set out for a stroll through the Downtown streets before capping off your evening on a park bench At the peak of summer, Mt. Bachelor offers one of Oregon’s in Bend’s scenic Drake Park. most unique dining experiences at 7,775 feet in the Pine Marten Lodge. Ride the chairlift to your romantic

22 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

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 jargon to the right.) Want to brush up on bud in Bend? Search for guided tours at visitbend.com where you’ll get all your burning cannabis questions answered by knowledgeable industry professionals. 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. Just remember, if you’re visiting from out-of-state, it’s a federal felony to cross state lines with the Devil’s Lettuce. 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.

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GO DRINKING WITHOUT DRINKING Mocktails and booze-free beverages.

Tons of travelers visit Bend with growlers in hand and their sights on the Bend Ale Trail, while others sip their way through distilleries and cideries that make up Drinkable Diversions. But what about softer liquid libations?

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.

The Passionfruit Limeade at El Sancho leaves you swoon- Sen Noodlehouse shakes up mocktails with a global flair. ing with no risk of a hangover the next morning. They Try the Anchan Limeade with fresh limeade and butterfly squeeze fresh limes daily, then add real passionfruit puree, pea flower syrup, or the Tiger Woods for sweet Thai tea making it so flavorful you’ll polish it off before the meal with fresh lime. arrives. (Pound a second; we won’t tell.) Bend also boasts several kombucha breweries, and you’ll Deschutes Brewery is the granddaddy of Bend’s brew find this healthful, fermented beverage on tap at lots culture, but they’re also pioneers on the non-alcoholic of local pubs and restaurants. Caboost, Bucha Buena, front as Bend’s first brewery to make their own craft root Compassion Kombucha, and Humm Kombucha are sevbeer and ginger beer. eral labels to watch for, as they’re all based in Bend. You can also fill a growler with kombucha at places like The Plenty of upscale Bend restaurants can mix you a mock- Growler Guys and Food 4 Less. Taste test all the flavors tail version of your favorite cocktail, but there’s no beating and pick a favorite (or 12)! the Blueberry Mojito at Brickhouse. It’s made with freshlymuddled mint, fresh lime, oodles of plump blueberries, and a healthy splash of ginger beer.

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24 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

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THERE CANNOT BE GOOD

WHERE THERE IS NO GOOD

— Benjamin Franklin

Thank You! BEND COMMUNITY

hank you for making the Bend experience so heartfelt in the greeting you extend, the care you give, and the morning smile you share.

Ordering a cappuccino is more than getting a coffee when the barista sprinkles it with a dash of positive energy. Dining out is more than a meal when the server goes the extra mile to suggest a wine pairing or name the farm where the food grew. It’s these little things that elevate the Bend experience. Thank you to the gas station attendant who shares a treat with Fido and a tip on the best swimming hole as he tops the tank for a trip up the Cascade Lakes Highway. Thank you to the lifty who shares a joke and a smile for those waiting a turn in line.

Thank you to everyone whose work is an invaluable–and sometimes invisible–thread in the fabric of our community.

Official Visitor Guide of Bend

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A T

I S N OT A PL AC E TO V I S I T. I T I S

—Gary Snyder

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A LIFETIME’S WORTH OF NEW EXPERIENCES Bend is the outdoor playground of the West, and it’s got lots more to do than your average jungle gym Tucked between snow-covered peaks and high desert plateaus, Bend has evolved from a sleepy lumber town to an international mecca for active vacationers and people who crave the outdoors. In Bend, Oregon, play is non-negotiable. Your morning coffee is still warm by the time you hit the Cascade Mountains and the Deschutes National Forest just minutes outside Bend. You can carve fresh tracks on the snow-covered 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. And don’t forget your sunscreen: Bend has nearly 300 days of sunshine per year. Back in town, afternoon temperatures are warm, 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 course designers.

ionable boutiques before you set 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 way to fuel your soul. 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 have you skating the glassy surface of the river in minutes. Still got the urge to splash? Check out the state-of-the-art Bend Whitewater Park with three separate channels for all sorts of river play. Experts will love the Whitewater Channel with four distinct man-made waves where you can test your mettle on a surfboard or whitewater kayak. Add pizzazz to your river float by taking your tube through the Fish Ladder, or study the quiet calm of nature in the Habitat Channel. And don’t think playtime has to end once the sun goes down. A starlight canoe paddle or moonlight snowshoe outing are an easy addition to your adventure list with a quick call to Wanderlust Tours.

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, No matter how you play, recess never ends in Bend. Get or choose one of the state-designated Oregon Scenic Bike- out and enjoy it. way routes. If it’s a leisurely pedal that suits you, coast your cruiser through the Old Mill District to hip eateries and fash-

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30 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Take a Hike Hiking is one of the easiest—and most rewarding—activities to add to your Bend bucket list. It’s also one of the most popular pastimes for Bend visitors and locals alike, and with good reason.

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 top 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.

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 top. Then head to Lava River Cave for some spelunking, Perhaps Bend’s best-known hike is Pilot Butte State Park. or visit Paulina Falls for stunning views of this 80-foot This 500-foot cinder cone makes Bend one of just a hand- waterfall. After lunch at Paulina Lake Lodge, spend time ful of U.S. towns with a dormant volcano in the city limits, hiking around Paulina Lake or East Lake before detouring and you can hike all the way to the top. Take the mile-long to the Big Obsidian Flow and ambling through endless paved road (watch for cars!) or the mile-and-a-half dirt fields of glittery, glass-like obsidian. trail to the summit. Once you’re there, catch your breath while savoring the 360-degree views of the Cascade Moun- For more essential hikes to add to your agenda, check out tains to the west and the expansive high desert to the east. the suggestions on the next page. It’s a great way to orient yourself to the city.

Oh, and before we forget, have you noticed how pristine Like your hikes with a side of water? You’ll find tons of and lovely it is in Central Oregon’s great outdoors? You trails running along the mighty Deschutes River, with can help us keep it that way! Follow Leave No Trace pracoptions ranging from mild to wild. The upper Deschutes tices when you’re out on the trails, and pack out anything River Trail makes a great starting point if you kick things you’ve packed in. . off at the Meadow Camp Day Use Area off Century Drive. If you want to give back to the wild places that make Follow the river’s edge as far as you want to go, scoping Bend special, consider a donation through Pledge for the out Benham Falls and Dillon Falls along the way. Wild. Pledge for the Wild is a group of mountain towns If Central Oregon’s endless desert drew you here, take supporting responsible tourism in our wild places. time to scope out the Oregon Badlands Wilderness. At 30,000 acres, the area is vast and wild, but still manageable enough 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

It’s easy, just text ‘WILD4Bend’ to 44321. Consider donating one dollar for every hour you spend playing in Bend’s wild places during your vacation. To learn more about the initiative, point your browser to pledgewild.com

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For even more intel on hiking in Bend, head to:

essentials hiking

WATERFALL LOVERS LOOP 44º 03’ N 121º 57’ W

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Like waterfalls? You’ll love a visit to 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 waterfall for a different perspective, or continue upstream along Tumalo Creek. You can hike a mile along this trail to scope out some smaller waterfalls, or continue on a total of four miles to Happy Valley. Retrace your steps from there to get back. The Tumalo Falls area is extremely popular and has 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 is on everyone’s bucket 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!

44º 25’ N 121º 06’ W

CASCADE LAKES With so many jaw-droppingly gorgeous lakes off the Cascade Lakes Highway, it’s tough to pick just one. Luckily, you don’t have to. 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 mid-summer. Parking lot full? Hop back in the car and drive 10 minutes up the highway to Devils Lake for a stunning mile in-and-out hike around a sparkling, spring-fed pool of green water. Want another option? Keep cruising the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway to enjoy postcard views of the mountains as you head toward Cultus Lake. Pro-tip: Some spots require a special wilderness permit to visit. Search “Central Cascades Wilderness Permits'' for maps and the link to snag your permit online.

44º 05’ N 121º 31’ W

VOLCANIC EXCITEMENT 43º 91’ N 121º 35’ W

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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 ft, and the view from the top includes 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 this is your chance to survey cinder cones and vents, miles of basalt flows, and glittering rhyolite flows of obsidian.

Official Visitor Guide of Bend

43º

91’ N

121º

35’ W

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PARADISE IS ONLY A PEDAL STROKE AWAY.

aybe you’re a hardcore mountain biker with a lust for log jumps and wall rides. Maybe you’re a beginner whose cycling routine means pedaling down the driveway for mail. No matter which category you belong to, Bend has a world-class urban trail system and more than 300 miles of varied singletrack, plus more than 5,000 miles of gravel roads right outside town. Paradise is just a pedal stroke away.

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36 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

“THE BEST MOUNTAIN BIKING TOWN IN AMERICA” – MOUNTAIN BIKE ACTION MAGAZINE

Mountain Bike Action magazine named Bend “The Best Mountain Biking Town in America.” Who’s surprised? We’ve been saying it for years. With an amazing trail system of cross-country paths and gorgeous scenery around every turn, your mountain biking adventure will include all the forests, lakes, cliffs, waterfalls, rivers, and wildlife you can handle. Cog Wild Mountain Bike Tours offers a wide range of touring options for all skill levels, and even several shuttle options to make carpooling a cinch. If you’re more into berms than bike paths, Mt. Bachelor’s downhill mountain bike park features more than enough lift-served trails to pack your days full of exhilarating downhill rides over natural and constructed terrain. If a casual cruise is more your speed, rent a cruiser bike and pedal paved pathways along the Deschutes River through downtown and the Old Mill District. You can make it a family affair by renting a four-wheeled surrey bike from Wheel Fun Rentals. If you like the option of power-assisted pedaling, you’ll find several companies in town that rent electric bikes and even offer tours.

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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. Catch the annual Tour des Chutes or Cog Wild’s Bend Bike and Brew Tour, which combines epic riding with Bend’s best beer.

ranging from shorter, flatter, more forgiving rides to more technical mixed-surface fondos that will test your legs and lungs both. 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.

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 connecting the communities of Central Oregon, which includes bikeways on McKenzie Pass, a route from Sisters to Smith Rock, and Bend’s first scenic bikeway, the Twin Bridges Loop.

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. The community of Bend loves Cyclocross racing, so scan 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. Bend offers loads of trails to keep you spinning through the winter blues. Check out the groomed trails at Wanoga Sno-Park Check out the Cascades Gravel Scenic Bikeway if you or head out to Tumalo Falls. Want something even more want the thrill of the open road paired with a ridealong remote? Pedal out on any of the snowmobile trails you’ll with Mother Nature. Choose from six different routes, find snaking through the snowy hills.

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38 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Make a Run For It Whether your “it” is to clear your mind, to get in your workout, or merely an excuse just to get out-out, you’ll find Bend is runner’s paradise.

The city’s abundance of year-round sunshine and the unique high desert topography make Bend a trail runner’s dream town. Even when there’s snow in the mountains, miles of desert trails wind through sagebrush, manzanita, and volcanic rock formations at lower elevations. With miles of in-town trails maintained by the Bend Park and Recreation District and hundreds of miles of mountain biking, cross country, and hiking trails a short drive from town, it’s no wonder Bend was named “America’s Best Trail Running Town” by the editors of Outside Magazine. Bend was also the chosen site for the USA Track & Field Trail Half Marathon, 50k, and Mountain Running National Championships.

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 three-mile 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 You don’t even need to jump in the car for some of Bend’s the east side of the city. Add an additional mile (and some most popular daily runs. You’ll find 11 miles of dirt path elevation gain!) to your run by going up to the top of Pilot along the Deschutes River at opposite ends of town. Start Butte to enjoy 360-degree views of the city. at First Street Rapids Park and you’ll probably catch a

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ROAD RUNNERS

TRAIL RUNNERS

With miles and miles of paved trails that lead to even more miles of low-traffic roads, finding a route where you’ll lose yourself is easy. If you want to avoid traffic, check out the paved trails in and around the Old Mill District, or head a few miles south to explore the six(ish) mile Sun-Lava Path that takes you from the Lava Lands Visitor Center all the way to Benham Falls. If road running is more your speed, many of the same roads that guide you along the Three Sisters Scenic Bikeway are perfect for striding it out.

We get it, some runners like it dirty. Who are we to judge? It’s no secret Bend offers some of the best trail running towns in the country. The Deschutes River Trail, which begins in town and continues all the way to Sunriver, offers several starting and jumping off points if you need to cool off. In the wintertime, head out to Maston or east to the Badlands where snow is scarce and the views are endless. When you’re done, head to the closest microbrewery. Legend has it Bend beer is the best recovery drink in all the land. Cheers!

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Official Visitor Guide of Bend

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Whatever Boats You Float Nothing on Earth compares to the bliss of an afternoon spent canoeing, kayaking, floating, or stand up 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, too, including the much-desired float tubes you’ll see bobbing along the river on a hot summer day.

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 offer 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. If you prefer a little engine revving in your water play, rent a jet ski or motorboat at Cultus Lake or Billy Chinook.

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 No matter which form of splashy fun is beckoning, you enjoy, this state-of-the-art park features a passageway, a can answer the call in Bend. nature habitat channel, and a whitewater channel with perfect artificial waves. Have a heart for Mother Nature? visitbend.com

Thank You! CARETAKERS OF SUMMER FUN

rails don’t build themselves, and neither do our river access points, sport routes, or trail signs. Thank you for making our backcountry adventures possible, for providing us with the opportunity to ride bikes, climb mountains, and raft rivers. Thank you for keeping our rivers clean and healthy, our trails clear, and our climbing routes bolted and safe.

While summer in Central Oregon comes naturally filled with sunshine, you’re the ones making Bend’s outdoors brighter.

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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 steel- Except where otherwise noted, Bend area streams, rivhead, Bend boasts nationally-renowned rivers, streams, ers, and lakes are open to bait and spin fishing generally and lakes providing anglers with a mind-boggling abun- for rainbow, brook, and brown trout. Bass fishing, while dance of world-class fishing. limited mostly to ponds, is popular on Crane Prairie and Wickiup Reservoirs, and on Davis Lake. Rated by Fly Fisherman Magazine as one of the top 10 fly fishing towns in the U.S., Bend is truly a fly fishing Whether you feel like taking your fishing to the next level paradise. Cast your line over the fast-flowing Tumalo or just want to take the hassle out of scouting for the best Creek below Tumalo Falls, the gin-clear Fall River south spots, you can book a fishing tour with several local outof town, or stretches of the Deschutes River right in town. fitters. Choose from half-day outings or multi-day fishing adventures, and get access to all the best gear and tips. There is no one “best season” for stream and river fishing, as sections of the Deschutes are open to fly anglers throughout And if you’re looking for a simple way to introduce the the winter. In early summer, there’s a significant salmon fly kids to fishing, the Bend Park and Recreation District hatch and, come fall, many big browns begin their migration offers two kid-friendly fishing ponds in Bend. The ponds from the Deschutes into smaller feeder streams. are stocked by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and allow a limit of two fish per day with an eight inch When it comes to lake fishing, the Cascade Lakes re- minimum. Shevlin Park Pond features rainbow trout and gion is noted for its good-sized rainbows, especially in is open to youth 17 years and under. At Pine Nursery Park, Crane Prairie Reservoir. For the ultimate challenge, try the pond is open to all ages and stocked with rainbow Hosmer Lake, home to large brookies and landlocked trout, blue gills, and bass. Atlantic salmon. 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.

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A DAY AT THE CRAG Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Ask anybody where to find the best sport climbing in North America, and most people won’t say the Central Oregon desert. But most people are wrong. Known as the birthplace of modern American sport climbing, Smith Rock State Park is just 30 minutes north of Bend. With towering basalt cliffs and endless blue skies, the area features some of the most spectacular climbing routes in the world. There are literally thousands of established routes to choose from, with options for everyone from pro climbers to first timers—even the kids.

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.

Though Smith Rock is a year-round climbing destination, summer temperatures can reach 100 degrees, and winter Some of Smith Rock’s most renowned routes and climbing temperatures often hover around freezing. Spring and fall areas include Monkey Face, Mesa Verde Wall, The Dihedrals, are the most popular climbing months. The park and walkand others providing a variety of challenges for all skill levels. in tent camping are open year round. A $5 day use permit or a current state park camp receipt is needed for each Smith Rock State Park encompasses 651 acres on the Or- vehicle. Yearly permits are available for $30, and day use egon high desert plateau, which hovers around 3,000 feet permits are available from the self-service pay stations. in elevation. Hiking trails offer spectacular views of the surrounding area, including the Crooked River winding its Keep in mind that Smith Rock is a popular attraction way through the park. and parking can be challenging in summertime and on weekends. Beat the crowds and visit Smith Rock on a Smith Rock’s major rock faces are composed of compressed weekday, or consider carpooling to reduce congestion. volcanic ash reaching a height of up to 550 feet. The picnic It’s also crucial to stay on marked trails to protect the and tent camping areas sit on top of the rimrock, offering fragile landscapes at Smith Rock. Take plenty of photos, dramatic views of the Crooked River, climbing routes, and but please leave only your footprints! climbers. Interested in other climbing areas around Central OreWant to try your hand at climbing? You’ll find several out- gon? In addition to Smith Rock State Park, Bend offers fitters and climbing schools in the area, equipped to have several other, lesser-known pockets of superb climbing. your whole family safely scaling rock faces in no time. You’ll Check in with one of the local guides or shops for suggesalso find gear shops and restaurants nearby to ensure you tions and directions to other climbing locations in town. have everything you need to safely enjoy your adventure. VISITBEND.COM/CLIMB

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T H E M O U N TA I N ? B EC AU S E I A M I N

O V

—William Shatner

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WHY DO I

Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Mount Bachelor The mountain is famous for its dry snow, with typical snowfall of over 462 inches (1,170 cm) per year and a mid-winter base over 150 inches (380 cm). The resort boasts a lift-served vertical drop of 3,365 feet (1,026 m) with a lift running to 9,000 feet (2,743 m), just 65 feet (20 m) below the volcano's summit, which is accessible via a short hike.

44º 00’ N 121º 68’ W

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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.

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48 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

YOUR WINTER WONDERLAND AWAITS W

ith 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 to keep even the most extreme skiers and riders happy. 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 terrain parks and halfpipes are more your style, Mt. Bachelor delivers: catch air in six terrain parks and a 400-foot-long Superpipe with 18-foot walls. Craving something a little 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 nearly 40 kilometers of groomed trails at the Virginia Meissner Sno-Park off Century Drive near town. For those who prefer un-groomed but marked trails, the Swampy Lake and Edison Sno-Park trails are an ideal way to escape the hustle and bustle and glide into the wild. You can even Nordic ski with your pooch on the dog-friendly trail at Wanoga Sno-Park.

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Are you an experienced backcountry skier? 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. Head back into the wilderness for all-day trips featuring long climbs and descents. Guided backcountry trips can be arranged through Oregon Ski Guides. If you prefer to try it on your own, maps and supplies are available at local ski shops.

Nothing says family fun like sledding. Wanoga Sno-Park off the Cascade Lakes Highway offers kids and kids-atheart the opportunity to sled, build snowmen, and giggle their way through an old-fashioned snowball fight.

Try scheduling one of the most unique wintertime adventures around: dogsledding. Oregon Trail of Dreams dog sled tours leave from the Sunrise Lodge at Mt. Bachelor. Owned and operated by Iditarod racer Rachael Scdoris and her family, Oregon Trail of Dreams harnesses some of the sport’s top dog athletes for fun and exhilarating Then, there’s snowshoeing—hiking’s wintertime cousin. family rides. Try Drake Park in the heart of Bend when there’s snow in town, or head up along the Cascade Lakes Highway to If you want to rev your engine, snowmobilers will find scout out a variety of Sno-Parks along the way. You’ll find more than 250 miles of groomed sled trails fanning out marked snowshoe trails at the Edison, Swampy Lakes, into the mountains from a variety of Sno-Parks less than and Virginia Meissner Sno-Parks. You can also nab a free 15 minutes from Downtown. corridor pass from Bachelor’s Nordic Center to shoe your way to Todd Lake. Not ready to go it alone? Try an all-inclusive tour led by a naturalist guide at Wanderlust Tours and leave the driving, planning, and gear procurement to the pros.

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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.

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Thank You! CARETAKERS OF WINTER FUN

o the groomers, the forecasters, the trailbreakers, and the lifties: We know dawn patrol comes earlier for you. Thank you for offering us information and access to make our winter playground more magnificent. Thanks for stocking our warming huts with firewood and laying down satisfying corduroy. For getting up early, staying up late, and providing the avalanche forecasts to keep us safe in the mountains— we salute you.

Thanks for making our frosty mornings and snow-filled days so much sweeter.

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T O F I N D O U T W H E R E Y O U T R U LY

—Sue Fitzmaurice

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YOU MUST GO ON

52 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

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I N T H E P U R S U I T O F W H AT S E T S YO U R

ON FIRE. —Jennifer Lee

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BEND THERE, DONE THAT Prefer to spend your vacation seeing the sights instead of studying the map? Add a guided tour to your Bend agenda.

If winter recreation is your scene, book 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 snowshoe excursion by light of day. 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. 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 whitewater getaway. For a shorter rafting trip close to town, check out Sun Country Tours’ Big Eddy Thriller. Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe also offers full and half-day 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 haunted tours happening around Halloween. For a high-octane option, head out with Outriders Northwest for the ultimate all-terrain adventure. Get a second dose of adrenaline when you head up to Mt. Bachelor for their summertime zipline. VISITBEND.COM/TOURS

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Official Visitor Guide of Bend

fun.

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YOUR FAMILY'S NEW FAVORITE PLAYGROUND. BEND is a playground for all ages, and the merry-go- jacket rentals for the littles, and plenty of tips for making round gets merrier with young ‘uns along for the ride.

the most of your river float.

Get up close with wildlife like eagles, owls, hawks, falcons, wild cats, 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.

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 their popular Ski or Ride in 5SM (SORI5) program.

Want an organized outing that’s fun for the whole family? 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.

And if you’re craving indoorsy fun for the whole family, check out Sun Mountain Fun Center for bowling, arcade games, and bumper cars. The warmer months offer outdoor mini-golf, go-karts, and batting cages.

For an extra-tasty treat, visit Goody’s to see why they were named one of the nation’s top ice cream factory tours by Frommers. A stop at Cravin’s Candy Emporium downtown is the perfect fix for your family’s sweet tooth.

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, or treat the fam to a virtual reality zombie battle at Zero Latency.

If hunting for fossils and thundereggs sounds like fun, stop by the Bend Visitor Center for a rockhounding map. Then treat yourself to family-friendly dinner and mini golf at Walt Riley’s on Bend’s west side.

VISITBEND.COM/FAMILY

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

Location Edison Butte Sno-Park visitbend.com

essentials family fun

SHEVLIN PARK 44º 08’ N 121º 38’ W

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It may be less than four miles from downtown Bend, but Shevlin Park feels like a whole different world. This cherished, 652-acre regional gem has a paved road and three developed picnic sites, but most of the space remains undeveloped. Lovely Tumalo Creek rambles through with several footbridges crisscrossing it. Shevlin Park is the perfect location for hiking, jogging, nature watching, fishing, cross country skiing, and picnicking. There’s an extensive trail and pathway system providing for both summer and winter uses. It’s also home to Aspen Hall, a lodge-like facility that can be rented 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. Don’t miss the popular Raptors of the Desert Sky exhibit, which features hawks, owls, and falcons swooping overhead. A museum curator narrates the action and introduces the hunting strategies and natural behaviors of these spectacular birds of prey.

43º 96’ N 121º 34’ W

ROCKHOUNDING People travel from all over the world to Central Oregon in search of the perfect rock. Tens of thousands of rockhounds come from around the globe to seek their own hidden treasure to bring home as an artifact of this 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. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, since many rockhounding sites are remote and far removed from facilities.

43º 91’ N 121º 36’ W

MT. BACHELOR 44º 00’ N 121º 68’ W

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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 dry-land 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’s Ski or Ride in Five program offers a budget-friendly option for families. For a unique treat, schedule a sled dog ride for the whole family. If Nordic skiing is more your family’s style, Mt. Bachelor boasts the longest groomed Nordic season in North America, running from mid-November through late-May.

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OUR GREENS ARE ALWAYS GREENER With more than two dozen courses around Central Oregon, it’s no wonder Bend has been dubbed “the Palm Springs of the North.”

Central Oregon has 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 so great in the high desert?

David McLay Kidd’s Tetherow, enjoy a links-style course amid 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.

And even if traditional golf isn’t your scene, you can try a The upside of being shielded by the Cascade Mountains is round of disc golf. There’s a popular course right in town that Bend enjoys a dry climate and plenty of sunshine— at Pine Nursery Park on the east side of Bend. There’s also perfect for golf! a course at Mt. Bachelor, which stretches from the top of Outback to the West Village base. Bring your endurance, Beneath blue skies that go on forever, Bend’s golf courses a sense of adventure, and a sharp eye for this Professional steal your breath away. Enjoy the heart-stopping panoraDisc Golf Association-listed course! Find a complete list ma of the snow-capped Cascades from tees and greens of courses at: throughout the region. Craggy lava rock and ancient junipers present challenging obstacles at Pronghorn Resort’s Jack Nicklaus Course. At

VISITBEND.COM/GOLF

ART ALL YEAR Play

Artists draw inspiration from breathtaking natural beauty, so it’s no wonder Bend has one of the most vibrant art scenes in the Pacific Northwest. The city is home to nationally-recognized art- Willie Nelson, Dave Matthews Band, Norah Jones, Luke ists, musicians, filmmakers, painters, writers, and other Bryan, and many more. Popular shows sell out during creatives. Enjoy movie theaters, museums, art galleries, the summer, so get your tickets early at bendconcerts. and dinner theater all year long. com. Then show up and get your groove on beside the sparkling Deschutes River. Bend is home to countless festivals and events nearly every month of the year. From the holiday shows at If it’s a different sort of music that makes your heart sing, our historic Tower Theatre, to the free Munch & Music check out OperaBend or High Desert Chamber Music and summer concert series in Drake Park, to the BendFilm get your culture fix while you’re here. Don’t miss Jazz at Festival in October, you’ll find your arts and culture fix the Oxford in Bend’s swanky Oxford Hotel happening all year long. through the winter months. Pro tip: Shows sell out fast, so buy tickets well in advance. Revel in Bend’s art scene the first Friday of each month during First Friday Art Walk. Live music fills the streets as Ever find yourself saying, “This art would be awesome shops and art galleries stay open late to showcase artists if only I had otters a few feet away?” The High Desert and their work. Museum has you covered! While folks know it best as a place to check out wildlife and natural history, they’re While you’re Downtown, take a walk through one of the also home to a vast collection of Native American art, many alleys filled with a world-class collection of local along with rotating cultural exhibits and sculptures scatartwork as part of the Tin Pan Alley Art Collection. tered around the campus. For the performing arts passionate, take in a show at the Want to know more about the various arts organizaTower Theatre, which features everything from concerts tions making all this awesome art possible in Bend? to plays to classic films. The venue is a 1940s Art Deco Check out Art in Public Places. You can also read up Moderne theater that was fully renovated in 2004 to be- on the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund (BCTF), which come Bend’s premier stage. You can even rent the space is a grant program dedicated to enhancing the local for major events and conventions. economy through the promotion and cultivation of Bend’s cultural tourism programs. Craving more live music? Get your groove on at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater. The venue has attracted artists including Paul Simon, Brandi Carlile, John Legend, BENDCULTUREGRANTS.COM

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60 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

You Say Traffic Circle We Say Masterpiece Art looks different in Bend, Oregon. It has skinned knees and a gleeful, good-time grin. It doesn’t sit stiffly on the walls of some museum. Our art plays outside!

Answer the trivia questions on your map and bring it back to the Bend Visitor Center for a fabulous prize.

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With its abundance of sensory pleasures, it’s no surprise Bend can transform even the mundane into something breathtaking. That’s the spirit driving the world of art in Bend, and the fuel that feeds the Roundabout Art Route.

Want to tackle the art route on two wheels instead of four? Many bike shops offer rentals of both traditional bikes or electric-powered bikes to let you explore The Roundabout Art Route is a collection of more than the artsy side of Bend. Think of it as an art tour for 20 pieces of public art on display throughout the city active souls, offering 360-degree views of art against in the most unlikely places—at the center of Bend’s the backdrop of the most beautiful, vibrant, and quirky traffic circles. The circles filled with trees and flowers town in the nation. are designed to keep traffic f lowing around the city. Once you’ve completed the Roundabout Art Route, don’t Each roundabout holds a unique display of art designed forget to bring your completed map back to the Bend Visto enhance the cultural environment for Bend visitors itor Center for a tasty and unique commemorative prize. and residents. It’s sponsored by Art in Public Places, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing art GET YOUR ART GAME ON AT to the community of Bend. In 2005, Americans for the ROUNDABOUTARTROUTE.COM Arts honored these sculptures as being among the most innovative approaches to public art in the country. Want to play the game? It’s easy to do the Roundabout Art Route at your own pace. Simply pick up the map at the Bend Visitor Center and make your way to a minimum of 10 of the roundabout sculptures in the city.

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62 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

TAX-FREE RETAIL THERAPY You’ve gotten wrapped up in all Bend has to offer, so you’ll want a little something wrapped up to take home with you. The bonus: there’s no sales tax!

The cosmopolitan vibe of Downtown Bend beck- The Cascade Village Shopping Center flanks the north end ons you to indulge your passion for fashion, fine art, home of town with big-box retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, décor, jewelry, and more. It’s brimming with hip, inde- Best Buy, and Target. Get your picnic goods at Trader Joe’s pendent shops like Clementine Urban Mercantile, vintage before heading for the charming outdoor plaza, featuring Western boutique Cowgirl Cash, one-of-a-kind jewelry a fire pit in wintertime and a fountain where kids frolic by John Paul Design, and quirky-cool Dudley’s Bookshop in summertime. Café with coffee and snacks to enjoy while you browse. If a small-town neighborhood shopping vibe is what you Then head for the historic Old Mill District for brand- crave, check out Northwest Crossing. Grab lunch at Sparname national and local retailers. Look for the three row Bakery before swinging by Roundabout Books for towering silver smokestacks that were once part of the your vacation reading. Browse clothing and locally-made Brooks-Scanlon lumber mill from Bend’s timber era, accessories at Cosa Cura, then cap things off with a glass now outdoor retailer REI. Around the corner, popular of wine at Portello. chains like Banana Republic, Buckle, and Zumiez offer something for everyone. Local gems like Vanilla Urban Into antiques? You’ll find a unique selection of antique Threads, Hello Sunshine, and Kara’s Kitchenware round shops and thrift stores throughout Bend, including Iron out the eclectic mix, and the backdrop of the Deschutes Horse, Mountain High Coins & Collectibles, and Trivia River lets you scope out otters and kayakers while you Antiques. Speaking of secondhand finds, Bend boasts an impressive array of consignment shops and other retailscout for deals. ers offering gently-used treasures. Check out Redeaux If bargains are your bag, try the Bend Factory Stores on or Revival Furnishings and Home Decor for household Bend’s south end to browse outlets by Nike, Pendleton, goods and furniture, or get your fashion fix at upscale and Columbia Sportswear. For a more traditional shop- consignment shops like Bag Ladies. ping experience, visit retailers like TJ Maxx, Macy’s, and Kohl’s at the Bend River Promenade in the center of town.

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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.

How about something special for you and your sweetheart? Many local spas offer couples massages. Jinsei Spa has a special couples 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. 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.

Bend has some of the finest massage therapists in the If yoga is your ticket to relaxation, you’ll find many local country, working to alleviate the aches and pains of Cen- studios have drop-in classes that welcome visitors. They tral Oregon’s many professional athletes. Let a therapist even offer outdoor classes in Bend’s warmer months. at one of Bend’s world-class spas give you a deep tissue massage to lengthen muscles and provide lasting relief Speaking of beauty products, did you know aos (formerly Angelina Organic Skincare) is based in Bend? They offer to specific pain areas. small-batch natural products for face and body, with You can also try a hot stone massage, in which heated many of their botanicals sourced from here in Oregon. basalt stones are used to increase blood flow and accel- They even have a retail shop in downtown Bend so you can erate the healing process. Add a few drops of lavender or stockpile all your favorite goodies to take home with you. chamomile essential oils to reduce anxiety. If you need a pick-me-up, try basil, cinnamon, or rose.

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64 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Human — Dog’s Best Friend In 2012, Dog Fancy magazine named Bend the nation’s dog-friendliest city. It came as a shock to precisely none of the thousands of four-legged souls who live and play here every day.

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If you’re planning a Bend vacation with your favorite canine pal, start things off on the right paw by booking a room at one of dozens of dog-friendly hotels and vacation rentals around the area. 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 just for your pooch.

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 ½ 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 beside the trails.

If bringing your dog to his own pet-loving resort is more your kind of vacation, Bend offers a number of doggie hotels and daycare options to pamper even the pickiest puppy.

When it’s time to dine, you’ll find a surprising number of local restaurants to welcome your pup with open arms and a cozy spot at your table on their outdoor patios. Dogs are also allowed in the outdoor dining areas at many spots along the Bend Ale Trail, so belly Ready to play? Bend boasts eight off-leash parks up to the bar with Rover. where Fido can run free. The largest is the Bob Wenger Memorial Off-Leash Area, which offers 17 fenced acres Need info on off-leash trail laws or the best spots to of trails, natural terrain, grass, and even a spray park. take your pooch to play? Check out dogpac.org, a non-profit dog advocacy group. If you and Fido get For on-leash walking, both the Shevlin Park Loop and the separated while exploring Bend, don’t panic! But do Deschutes River Trail near Farewell Bend Park have paths contact the Humane Society of Central Oregon so they that wind along the river, offering plenty of opportunities can help reunite you with your furry pal. for your pup to cool off in the water. And don’t miss some of Bend’s special events celebratThe adventures for your canine companion don’t stop ing man’s best friend. Check out the annual Bend Pet with trips to the woods. Rent a canoe at Tumalo Creek Parade every July 4th and the wiener dog racing during Kayak & Canoe, then pick up a f lotation device made Bend’s Oktoberfest. especially for your dog by the Bend-based animal outfitter, Ruffwear.

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essentials five billion star hotels

CASCADE LAKES 44º 03’ N 121º 57’ W

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Locals sometimes refer to the Cascade Lakes Highway 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 Highway provides access to more than 25 established campgrounds. Most of the campgrounds along and off of the Cascade Lakes Highways 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 Highway, 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 Highway, most are closed in the winter, so plan your camping trip before you pack up the Subaru.

44º 25’ N 121º 06’ W

NEWBERRY 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 Volcanic National Monument, and with far fewer crowds. There are nine established campgrounds within the monument, and many of them take reservations.

44º 05’ N 121º 31’ W

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.

43º 91’ N 121º 35’ W

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68 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

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 Central Oregon where you can pitch a tent, pop up a camper, or park your RV to forge a temporary home in the forest. 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? The pandemic prompted lots of folks to start camping, so your favorite undiscovered campground may not be undiscovered anymore. Many campgrounds that weren’t previously reservable now require reservations, so check online for a status before you head out.

Cove Palisades, and Prineville Reservoir can all accommodate both RVs and tents. If roughing it is what you’re after, 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, such as 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 If you like your campsites with some amenities, head toilets and potable water, scope out the campsites near for larger campgrounds at areas like East Lake in the Suttle Lake, off the Cascade Lakes Highway, or along the Newberry National Volcanic Monument; Cove Palisades Metolius River. or Perry South at Lake Billy Chinook; or Crane Prairie off the Cascade Lakes Highway. Nearby, you’ll find flush For a unique spin on camping, check into camper van and toilets and shower facilities to make your camping ex- RV rentals. Lots of local outfitters can set you up with a portable home you can take with you into the great perience a lot less spartan. outdoors. RVers will love the convenience of campgrounds within the city limits of Bend. Scandia, The Camp (smack dab And if you need to get cleaned up after a few nights in in the center of town), and Crown Villa RV Park all take the woods, Bend’s Bunk + Brew Historic Lucas House reservations. If you’re willing to stay 20 minutes west of hostel in Downtown Bend offers a “Dirtbag Deluxe” just Bend, Sisters City Park has both RV and tent sites in a for campers. For only $15, you get a shower, use of towels lovely creekside setting. State parks are another option and laundry facilities (including laundry soap!), sauna for those willing to drive 20-40 minutes. Smith Rock State access, Wi-Fi, and a cold brew. Stop in to get cleaned up Park has spots for tent campers, while La Pine State Park, before you head off on your next adventure!

Thank You! CARETAKERS OF OUR PUBLIC LANDS

o much of what makes Bend special is what surrounds us—our public lands. Thank you to our land managers for supporting the forests, mountains, grasslands, rivers, and parks we call our backyard. Thanks for the care you show to all who move through it on two or four or even eight legs. Thank you for working to protect this landscape from impacts, both human and non-human. We’re grateful you show up, even when Mother Nature flings snowballs or storm clouds or fireballs our way.

Your behind-the-scenes magic doesn’t go unnoticed. We thank you for taking care of the places that take care of us.

70 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

TO PUT YOUR

IN A

IS TO

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TOGETHER.

— Barry Lopez

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T H E C H O R D S T H AT B I N D T H E

Official Visitor Guide of Bend

SLEEP

SECTION

EAT. PL AY. SLEEP.

74 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

HUNDREDS OF WAYS TO COUNT SHEEP When it comes to vacation lodging, we all have different needs. Some of us want sticky s’mores in a tent beneath the stars, while others dream of luxury spa services and a frosty beverage to sip by the pool. Fear not: You’ll find the perfect lodging in Bend. Craving the coziness of a bed & breakfast? Bend has several to choose from, with a few within walking distance of downtown Bend and historic Drake Park. If you prefer the privacy of your own vacation home, you’ll love the variety of options scattered throughout town. Many Bend vacation rentals include extra perks like hot tubs, standup paddleboards, and bikes that make it easy 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.

Planning a conference that calls for a state-of-the-art convention center with gorgeous views of the Deschutes River? You’re covered there, too.

In fact, you can 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 Whether you fancy an upscale, award-winning boutique our favorite low-cost options. You’ll love what Bend has hotel in the heart of downtown, or a trusted chain conto offer whether you’re pinching pennies or splurging on veniently located on the highway, Bend can hook you up. the vacation of a lifetime. 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. In Bend, you can have it all! We’ve got oodles of cozy hideaways tucked along the river near the Old Mill District or on the road to Mt. Bachelor.

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

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BEND MEANS BUSINESS If you’re looking for an inspired and productive meeting venue, it helps to start with an equally inspiring location.

From conventions and sporting events to weddings, trade shows, family reunions, and retreats, Bend offers meeting planners a thoughtful mix of tools for both business and pleasure. It’s a proven fact that PowerPoint presentations are easier to digest when you’re anticipating a moonlit canoe adventure afterward. Sales meetings are more inspiring when your team is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Cascade mountains. And team-building is more cohesive when experienced in the awe-inducing beauty of Central Oregon.

Imagine tying the knot with blazing orange basalt rock in the distance at Smith Rock State Park, or on a grassy green lawn beside a stream at Shevlin Park. Whether you’re hosting a large sales convention or a small family reunion, be sure to save time for savoring Bend’s wealth of fun activities. Schedule a casual meeting on the green at one of more than 25 local golf courses, or plan a pampered outing with the girls at a luxurious day spa.

Need to do a little team-building? Many guided tour companies offer customized outdoor adventures for groups Our expansive mix of meeting facilities, state-of-the-art of all sizes. There’s no better setting for team-building convention center, over 3,000 hotel rooms, convenient acthan Bend’s great outdoors! Wanderlust Tours offers cess, abundance of restaurants, and unparalleled outdoor group outings like canoeing, caving, and snowshoeing, recreation provide the perfect recipe for the perfect meeting. while the folks at Sun Country Tours can get your hearts Of course, Bend is best known for amazing scenery and pumping on a whitewater rafting trip for the whole team. outdoor pursuits, so why not take advantage? If it’s a wed- The possibilities are as endless as the sunshine in Bend! ding you’re planning, consider making it an outdoor affair. visitbend.com

76 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

DWELL ON THE

A U

WAT C H T H E

T A

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Y O

RUNNING WITH THEM.

— Marcus Aurelius

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AND SEE

78 Official Visitor Guide of Bend

We just want to say thanks. Thanks for considering Bend as a place to visit. Thanks for your kindness, and for leaving Bend better than you found it. Thanks for leaving a positive impact on our special place, and thanks for already planning that next trip back. Because we know (we live here), it’s hard to stay away from a place as magical as Bend.

THE BEND PLEDGE Bend is pretty great. Help us make sure you leave it even greater.

Maybe we’re biased, but we think Bend is one of the most incredible places on Earth. No matter how you choose to spend your visit, Bend is going to give you its best, and you’re going to have a heck of a good time. We hope you’ll give Bend your best, too—and it starts with taking The Bend Pledge. The Bend Pledge is our way of asking you to join us in protecting the places we love to play by treading softly, taking only memories, and leaving only footprints. Head to our website to sign The Bend Pledge, and who knows? Your next Bend vacation might just be on us.

SOME SIMPLE RULES 1.

Smile, say please & thank you, give rightof-way, and simply slow down.

Adventure and explore in a manner that is respectful to the land, wildlife, and the people you share it with.

Plan and prepare for your time on the trails, in the mountains and on the water.

Walk more, drive less, and stick to established trails, routes, and parking areas.

We must take care of the places that take care of us; we are all visitors here. That’s it. It’s that easy.

VISITBEND.COM/THE-BEND-PLEDGE

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80 CB Official Visitor Guide of Bend

Find Your Way Here Bend is the basecamp of Central Oregon, and getting here is easy no matter which mode of travel you choose.

BY AIR

BY AIR CHARTER

With non-stop commercial air service from major markets, getting to Bend is quick and convenient. By the time you land at Roberts Field Airport (RDM), you’re only 20 minutes away from the excitement of downtown. Roberts Field is the fourth largest commercial airport in Oregon, serving all of Central Oregon. Flights are provided by Alaska, American, United, and Delta, along with boutique airlines Avelo, Allegiant, and Aha!. These carriers offer arriving and departing flights to and from Los Angeles, Phoenix, Denver, Portland, Reno, Burbank, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, San Diego, and Seattle.

If commercial air service doesn’t fit your needs or schedule, hiring an on-demand air charter service can take you conveniently from the airport closest to you directly into Bend. No security delays, layovers, connecting f lights, or hassles.

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 ROAD

BY BUS

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, along a route highlighted with scenic beauty. For current road conditions and road cams, visit the Oregon Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) website TripCheck.com. If you are on the road and need up-to-date weather and road information, call 511 in Oregon. Or if outside the state, contact ODOT at 503-588-2941.

Bend is served by regional bus service from many cities in Oregon including Portland, Eugene, John Day, and Ontario.

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VISIT BEND 750 NW L AVA RD., STE 160 BEND, OR 97703 Connect & Share #VISITBEND

VISITBEND.COM P 541. 382 .8048 TF 866. 292 .0141

Bend, Oregon Visitor Guide - 2022-2023

Articles inside

The Bend Pledge

Find Your Way Here

Put Your Stakes in the Ground

Human—Dog’s Best Friend

SLEEP Hundreds of Ways to Count Sheep 74 Bend Means Business

Pampered With Possibilities

Tax-Free Retail Therapy

You Say Traffic Circle, We Say Masterpiece

Our Greens Are Always Greener

Art All Year

A Day at the Crag

Whatever Boats You Float

Bend There, Done That

World’s Best Streaming Services

Family Fun

Make a Run For It

Kids' Choice

Bend Ale Trail

Roll Out

PLAY A Lifetime’s Worth of New Experiences 29 Take a Hike

Grab a Table for View

Tour de Best

EAT Foodies Forever 8 Less Dietary Restriction, More Epicurean Revolution