Old Mill District

SPRING IN THE OLD MILL

Bend’s Old Mill District is steeped in history; the mill that the district was built around is the original lumber mill that helped create the town as we know it today, situated on the Deschutes River to help transport logs with the currents. Now, the mill stands as a symbol of progress and evolving industry, as the modern district has shed its lumber past and is now known for its art, shopping, dining and adventure.

Arist: Yuya Negishi, Photo courtesy Old Mill District District

art

The Old Mill District is home to 20 public art installations, including many murals that add a splash of color to the surfaces they inhabit. Keep an eye out for the vibrant pieces from artist Yuya Negishi, including the staircase flower mural behind Ben & Jerry’s and The Dragon, along the Deschutes River behind Gap. Take the river walk to see more art along the walls in each tunnel. Look for the South Tunnel murals under Columbia Street, a collaborative project between Arts Central, a team of Nike designers from Portland and the Old Mill District.

Use the Old Mill District as a starting point for exploring all the murals of the region through the Central Oregon Mural Trail. Learn more at visitcentraloregon.com/mural-trail.

shopping

Everyone will find something they love in the Old Mill. Kids and parents will love Wild Child, a new toy store that opened over the winter, offering high quality and sustainable toys, clothes, books and games. All products are catered to children from infancy to the age of 12. Hello Sunshine is the quintessential Bend boutique. This shop is home to clothes, accessories, home décor and more, all made with a touch of Pacific Northwest style. The Ticket Mill is the perfect spot for Bend souvenirs like hoodies, hats, mugs and more. This stop also includes Old Mill specific gifts, like gift cards to any store in the district and tickets to the Les Schwab Amphitheater for concerts and shows, tentatively expected to return later in the summer and fall.

Plan Ahead! Call businesses in advance to check hours and latest protocols.

dining

Life is good at the new tiki bar, Rapa Nui, where tropical drinks are served with fresh pressed fruit juice and an Asianinspired tapas menu awaits exploration. A local favorite place to sip, Va Piano offers views of the nearby river while serving up award-winning reds alongside delicious charcuterie boards. The Boxwood Kitchen is a comfort food favorite that is sure to please everyone. Their menu features burgers made with local beef, mac & cheese, fried chicken bits, and for dessert, a to-die-for chocolate mousse.

Adventure

New experiences are waiting just around the corner at the mill. Free Spirit Yoga + Fitness + Play offers outdoor yoga and fitness classes along the river for the adults, while the kids get to play in their indoor ninja warrior obstacle course; it’s a win-win for the whole family. When the weather is warmer, check out Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe. Paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and more; if it floats, you can probably rent it from here. For more on-the-water fun, try a guided fly-fishing tour with Confluence Fly Shop. The owner personally leads the excursions, and provides anything from a half-day lesson to a 5-day, 4-night adventure with camping, fishing and good eating.

Rapa Nui Tiki Bar, Photo @heathermwinner

Central Oregon is one of the most pet friendly communities you’ll ever visit. Our furry friends work, dine and adventure with us all year round. With one pup for every three people, each dog has a personality as unique as their owner. Join Chad Copeland as he explores the region with man’s—and woman’s—best friend. Follow the show and see special behind the scenes content at adventurecalls.visitcentraloregon.com.

ALL EPISODES AVAILABLE HERE