Tour Places | Easy Travel Tips and Fun Destinations

Exploring Bend, Oregon The Best Things to Do

Bend, Oregon is a lovely place in the Pacific Northwest. It’s full of beautiful nature and exciting outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by mountains and the Deschutes River. There are lots of things to do here for people who love nature, adventure, or culture. Whether you live here or are just visiting, let’s explore the best things to do in Bend, Oregon.

Things To Do In Bend Oregon

Hike Smith Rock State Park

things to do in Bend Oregon with kids

Go for a hike at Smith Rock State Park, which is not far from Bend. This park is perfect for people who like hiking and climbing rocks. You can see amazing rock formations, like the famous Monkey Face. There are trails for all levels, from easy walks to tough climbs. Bring a picnic and enjoy the stunning views of the Crooked River in the canyon.

Cycle the Deschutes River Trail

things to do in Bend Oregon with kids

 Put on your helmet and ride a bike along the beautiful Deschutes River Trail. This paved path runs alongside the river, giving you stunning views of the water and the scenery around it. Make sure to take a break at Dillon Falls for some great photos! If you’re up for it, keep going downstream to see Benham Falls, where the river flows over old lava rocks.

High Desert Museum

things to do in Bend Oregon with kids

Explore the area’s history and nature at the High Desert Museum. This museum is fun and has hands-on exhibits, live animals you can see up close, and interesting displays about the high desert’s culture and environment. Walk through old homesteads they’ve recreated and watch birds of prey fly during special shows. Exploring the High Desert Museum with kids is amazing.

Indulge in Craft Beer

things to do in bend oregon

Bend is famous for its great craft beer. There are lots of breweries and places to try different beers all over the city. Take a tour of a brewery, taste a variety of local beers, and enjoy the special flavors made by passionate brewers. Cheers to Bend’s beer culture! Make sure to visit popular breweries like Deschutes Brewery, Boneyard Beer, and Crux Fermentation Project.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument

things to do in bend oregon

Go on a volcanic adventure at Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which is not far from Bend. Explore old lava flows, check out lava tubes, and hike up Lava Butte for amazing views of the volcanic area. Don’t miss seeing Paulina Lake, a peaceful spot, or trying out the warm hot springs nearby for a relaxing soak.

Hit the Slopes at Mt. Bachelor

things to do in bend oregon

 During winter, Mt. Bachelor becomes a magical place for skiing and snowboarding. It’s known for its amazing slopes and variety of terrain, with more than 4,300 acres to explore. The skiing season here usually goes on until spring, making it perfect for everyone who loves snow sports. Take in the beautiful Cascade Mountain views from the chairlifts and treat yourself to tasty snacks and drinks at the lodge after skiing.

Old Mill District

things to do in bend oregon

Take a walk along the beautiful riverfront area of the Old Mill District. Historic mill buildings here have been turned into shops, restaurants, and places for entertainment. You can watch a movie at Regal Cinemas or have a relaxing meal by the river. In the summer, enjoy outdoor concerts and events at the Les Schwab Amphitheater. It’s a great spot to unwind and have fun

Take a Beautiful Drive

 Bring some food for a picnic and take a beautiful drive along the Cascade Lakes Highway. You’ll pass by stunning alpine lakes, lush forests, and breathtaking mountain views. Stop along the way to enjoy the scenery and maybe even put your feet in the clear water. Check out lesser-known spots like Sparks Lake or Todd Lake for untouched natural beauty.

Rafting on the Deschutes River

things to do in bend oregon

 Feel the excitement of whitewater rafting on the Deschutes River, where you’ll encounter rapids that range from calm to thrilling. Take part in a guided rafting tour to experience stunning canyon views and have an unforgettable adventure. You can even choose a multi-day trip and camp under the stars along the riverbanks for a truly memorable experience.

Summer Festival

Bend hosts lively festivals and events in the summer, featuring music, art, food, and culture. Enjoy events like the Bend Summer Festival and Oregon Winterfest, where there’s always something fun going on. Be sure to check out the Bend Brewfest and Bend Fall Festival for local food, drinks, and entertainment. It’s a great way to experience the vibrant spirit of the community

Conclusion

Bend, Oregon, is perfect for outdoor lovers and those who want a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature. You can hike among impressive rock formations at Smith Rock State Park or bike along the beautiful Deschutes River Trail. Explore the area’s history at the High Desert Museum, taste delicious local beers at Bend’s famous breweries, and discover volcanic landscapes at Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Whether you’re skiing at Mt. Bachelor or taking a leisurely walk in the Old Mill District, Bend has activities for everyone to enjoy. For reservations, click here.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Bend, Oregon?

Bend has four seasons.Summer (June to August) is great for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Winter (December to February) is best for skiing at Mt. Bachelor. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) have mild weather and are good for exploring nature.

What are some family-friendly activities in Bend?

Bend is very family-friendly! Visit the High Desert Museum, explore lava caves at Newberry National Volcanic Monument, try paddleboarding or kayaking on the Deschutes River, and take beautiful drives to Cascade Lakes.

How do I get to Bend, Oregon?

You can reach Bend by car, bus, or plane. Major highways like US-97 connect Bend to cities like Portland, Eugene, and Seattle.

Are there accommodations available in Bend?

Bend offers various accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury resorts and vacation rentals.

What are some must-try dishes in Bend?

Enjoy local specialties like elk burgers, fresh trout, dishes made with craft beer, and farm-to-table cuisine featuring local ingredients.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top