In many ways, Bend feels like the perfect small town. It’s charming, sunny year-round and the scenery is breathtaking. The best part? There’s so many incredible things to do in Bend, Oregon for those in desperate need of a relaxing weekend.
I’ve visited Bend more than 40 times (in every season) and wanted to share my personal list of the best things to do in Bend to make trip planning a little easier. I hope you find this post helpful, please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, I’m always happy to help!
Just so you know, I’ll be covering things to do in the city of Bend itself along with some must-dos nearby and include some great activities for adventure-oriented folks.
Where to Stay in Bend
Bend offers a plethora of great hotels to choose from, catering to every budget. While prices have crept up in recent years, you can still score a deal—especially if you’re willing to visit during the off-season (winter). If helpful, here are some of my favorite hotels in Bend:
- The Oxford Hotel is hard to beat and not just because they welcome you with a complimentary glass of wine. This hotel is on the higher end, but if you’re looking to spoil yourself for the weekend, it’s your best bet.
- Riverhouse on the Deschutes: This hotel offers the best of both worlds—a peaceful riverside retreat while still being just minutes from downtown Bend. Recently renovated, this hotel sits right along the Deschutes River. If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, this is a fantastic option.
- Tetherow Lodge: Opened in 2014, this upscale lodge offers premium accommodations, stunning views, and access to an award-winning golf course. Whether you’re here for outdoor adventure or a luxurious stay, Tetherow delivers on both fronts.
Camping in Bend, Oregon
- Camping is allowed on the outskirts of the city in the national forest. Pitch a tent and invite some friends. Here’s our 10 favorite campsites in Bend.
Fun Activities in Bend
Table of Contents: Things to Do in Bend, Oregon
Table of Contents
- Where to Stay in Bend
- Fun Activities in Bend
- Explore the Old Mill District
- Stroll the Deschutes River Trail
- Enjoy Wine Tasting at Viaggio Wine Bar
- Float the Deschutes River
- Catch a Concert at Hayden Homes Amphitheater
- Participate in the Bend Ale Trail
- Learn Something New at the High Desert Museum
- Explore Downtown Bend
- Enjoy Cocktails at a Local Bar
- Visit McMenamins Old St. Francis School
- Enjoy the City’s Robust Art Scene
- Adventurous Activities & Hikes Near Bend
- Best Time to Visit Bend, Oregon
- Guide to Bend, Oregon (Post Summary)
Looking for a place to stay? For those asking, here’s the hotel where I usually stay while visiting Bend. Sold out? More great hotel options.
Explore the Old Mill District
You can’t talk about Bend without mentioning the historic Old Mill District. Once the backbone of the local economy, this area was home to two massive lumber mills that kept locals employed well into the 20th century.
When the mills shut down, they left behind a bit of an eyesore—vacant industrial lots that sat empty for years. But Bend did what it does best: it made lemonade. Today, the Old Mill District is a vibrant hub filled with boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and charming cafés.
First stop? Sisters Coffee for a proper cup of joe (great breakfast burritos too!).
Stroll the Deschutes River Trail
Strolling the Deschutes River Trail through the Old Mill District is easily one of the best ways to soak in Bend’s scenery. As the name suggests, the trail follows the Deschutes River, serving up panoramic views as it meanders through the city.
Expect to share the path with walkers, bikers, and joggers—everyone chasing that glorious sunshine. With your coffee in hand, take a leisurely mile-long walk from the Old Mill District to Drake Park. It’s about a 25-minute stroll one way and the perfect, low-effort way to ease into the morning.
Enjoy Wine Tasting at Viaggio Wine Bar
I never miss a chance to swing by Viaggio Wine Bar when I’m in Bend. This warm, approachable wine bar and shop opened in 2022, thanks to Benjamin Richardson—a seriously seasoned sommelier with next-level wine knowledge.
Richardson’s impressive past has some key milestones that can’t be overlooked. He trained under Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey (Wine Enthusiast’s 2015 Sommelier of the Year) and ran the wine program at a three-star Michelin restaurant. Safe to say he knows his stuff.
After a stint as Estate Director at Failla Wines in St. Helena, California, he eventually traded wine country for mountain town life, settling in Bend to focus on family. Luckily for us, he opened Viaggio in the process.
Richardson’s expertly curated menu takes all the guesswork out of ordering. Every pour is intentional, inspiring, and memorable. The seasonal bites are equally thoughtful, he works closely with local farmers to source produce that sings. I can’t imagine a better way to spend the afternoon.
Further Reading: The 10 Most Charming Wine Bars in Bend (Cheers!)
Float the Deschutes River
Spend just five minutes wandering through Bend, and you’ll quickly notice a trend—half the town is floating down the river. And for good reason! It’s one of the best things to do in Bend for locals and visitors alike, largly thanks to the hassle-free tube rentals.
During our last month-long stay, we couldn’t resist the allure and floated the river four times! I mean, we had friends visiting Bend and we wanted to give them the full experience.We rented tubes from Tumalo Creek, and the whole process was effortless. The best part? It was just $24 per person.
Floating the river while visiting Bend (here’s how it works):
- Park the car at the “Park & Float” located at 1000 SW Bradbury
- Connect with the friendly staff to reserve a floatie (or make reservations online in advance)
- You’ll get a quick safety demo and then board a shuttle that drops you off at the starting point
- Float the river for 1.5 hours (Drake Park is the end point), where a shuttle will pick you up and take you back to the “Park & Float”
This is such an iconic Bend activity, there’s no denying that floating the river is one of the best things to do in Bend.
Catch a Concert at Hayden Homes Amphitheater
The roster of talented musicians who swing through Bend each summer never fails to impress me. Seriously, the performances these past two years have been quite impressive! Tons of our Portland friends make the trek as least once a year to catch a show.
Located a stone’s throw from the river, you couldn’t miss the Hayden Homes Amphitheater if you tried. The music can be heard around town, but nothing beats spending the evening with friends, drinks in hand, soaking up live music as the sun sets.
We saw Bon Iver there in the summer of 2023 and still talk about how magical that night was.
Shows are known to sell out, so buy tickets in advance if you’re keen to see a well-known artist. Here’s the current lineup.
Participate in the Bend Ale Trail
My husband and I make it a tradition to try a new brewery every time we visit Bend—not exactly a small feat, considering the city boasts over 30 of them. To really dive into Bend’s vibrant beer scene, I highly recommend tackling the Bend Ale Trail.
Step 1: Pick up a passport (or download the app). Step 2: Hop from one participating brewery to the next, collecting stamps as you go. Rack up enough, and you’ll earn a prize at the Visitor Center—because apparently, drinking beer can be rewarding in more ways than one.
It’s a fun and low-pressure way to explore the local breweries, especially if you’re planning to sample a few anyway. That said, you definitely don’t need the Ale Trail to enjoy a killer pint in Bend. I’ve visited 25 breweries here so far (tough job, I know), and recently shared my personal roundup of the best breweries in Bend.
Learn Something New at the High Desert Museum
Alright, let’s address the elephant in the room: museums have a reputation for being a little… dry (dare I say boring?). And I get it, I’ve visited my fair share of dull museums where the price of admission left me feeling a bit cheated.
However, the High Desert Museum is nothing like that. In fact, I’d go so far as to say it’s one of the coolest museums I’ve ever visited. That’s why I highly recommend it and consider it one of the best activities in Bend for families.
Opened in 1982, this interactive indoor/outdoor museum sprawls across 135 acres and brings Oregon’s high desert history to life. You’ll find fascinating exhibits on the struggles of Native American communities, the perils of crossing the Oregon Trail, and so much more. It’s very engaging for kids and adults alike — it’s worth every penny, seriously!
Explore Downtown Bend
In my opinion, Bend has two “downtown” areas—the Old Mill District and the official Downtown. We’ve already covered the Old Mill, but let’s not overlook Downtown Bend—it’s just as charming! Packed with great restaurants, unique small shops, and top-notch breweries, it’s a must-visit for first timers.
If you’re in Bend during the summer, be sure to check out the Downtown Bend First Friday Art Walk on the first Friday of the month. Local artists, live music, wine, and food fill the streets, making it one of the best free things to do in town. Definitely worth making time for!
Now, let’s dive into some of my favorite things to do in Downtown Bend.
Enjoy Cocktails at a Local Bar
The Dogwood Cocktail Cabin is an easy favorite for craft cocktails. Their menu is a playground for creative concoctions, neatly sorted by your spirit of choice. If you’re a whiskey fan, do not leave without trying the Juan Connery—thank me later!
Another standout? San Simón. Widely considered one of the best bars in Bend, this intimate spot is always lively in the evening hours. Whether you’re out for date night or just looking to relax with a group of friends, the inventive cocktails at this locale are worth a detour.
Visit McMenamins Old St. Francis School
Ask any lifelong Oregonian about their favorite McMenamins property, and Old St. Francis School in Bend will probably make the list. The McMenamin brothers, Brian and Mike, are nothing short of legends in the state.
Hailing from Portland, the duo has spent the last four decades rescuing historic buildings from demolition and breathing new life into them. In an effort to properly preserve these places, the brothers hire historians to ensure important details aren’t overlooked during restoration.
As you’ve probably guessed, I’m a big fan of their work… and Cajun tots!
Originally built in 1936 as a Catholic schoolhouse, Old St. Francis School has since been transformed into the ultimate jack-of-all-trades. Part hotel (with former classrooms cleverly converted into cozy guest rooms), part pub, brewery, movie theater, cigar bar, and speakeasy—this joint wears many hats.
All this to say, there’s something for everyone. As such, spending an evening at the Old St. Francis School is one of the best things to do in Bend. The cozy outdoor patio is the only place to be on a summer night (the fire pits are a nice touch!).
Enjoy the City’s Robust Art Scene
Bend attracts a vibrant community of talented artists, all eager to share their work with the local community. The best time to see that creativity on full display? The Downtown Bend First Friday Art Walk, which I mentioned earlier—a monthly gallery tour that turns the streets into an open-air celebration of art, music, and culture.
You don’t have to go out of your way to experience Bend’s robust art scene. Thanks to the Art in Public Places program, striking sculptures and thought-provoking installations—scattered throughout the city, providing stimulating visual experiences for the local community. All the more reason to love Bend!
Adventurous Activities & Hikes Near Bend
Whether you love to hike, run, bike, or just sit quietly and meditate, Bend has something for you. The city is surrounded by the stunning Cascade Range and a natural playground of healthy forests, volcanic lava flows, cascading waterfalls, hot springs, caves, rivers, and lakes. You name it, Bend has it.
Visit Newberry National Monument
Visiting Newberry National Volcanic Monument should definitely be high on your list adventurous activities in Bend.
This massive natural wonder is actually the largest volcano in the Cascade Range, and its dramatic lava flows are ripe for exploration. The area is packed with lava tubes, cinder cones, and rugged volcanic landscapes you can hike through and see up close.
Exploring the Newberry National Monument is such a unique experience, I’ve visited the area multiple times and still enjoy returning. It’s so cool!
Hike Broken Top Trail to No Name Lake
Broken Top Trail to No Name Lake is, hands down, my favorite hike in Bend (check out more of my favorite hikes in Bend). We learned about this trail through a local and are forever grateful.
That said, don’t mistake our discovery for some hidden gem status—this trail is well-loved. When we hiked it last spring, the trail was completely full of hikers.
The high elevation of No Name Lake provides a vantage point that’s hard to beat. And just when you think you’ve reached the pinnacle of beauty you’ll see the expansive Cascade Range unfurl at your feet.
Hiking to No Name Lake is challenging because of the elevation gain but completely worthwhile. Of all the trails we’ve hiked to date, this one always stands a mile above the rest.
Read: Hiking the EPIC Broken Top Trail in Bend, Oregon
Hike Smith Rock State Park
Hiking the Misery Ridge Trail is one of the best things to do near Bend. The trail is aptly named (it’s challenging!) but it can’t be missed. Heck, even if you don’t plan to hike the entire trail, you should most definitely make an effort to see Smith Rock State Park because the landscape is something else.
Geology takes center stage here. The park’s iconic rock formations look like something from another planet—Smith Rock itself feels like an alien monolith rising out of the high desert. It’s the kind of place that seems to appear out of nowhere, offering dramatic views and a stunning vantage point of the Cascade Range. A must-see for any nature nut.
Read: How to Hike the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock
Go Snowboarding or Skiing at Mt. Bachelor
Mt. Bachelor is the 6th largest ski resort in the country, so if you’re looking to get your heart pumping while visiting Bend in the winter—look no further. Every year, like clockwork, adventure seekers flock to this iconic mountain for top-tier skiing and snowboarding.
Not a skier or snowboarder? No problem. You can still experience Mt. Bachelor by joining a guided snowshoeing tour, where you’ll learn about the diverse Central Oregon landscape while trekking through the snow.
Prefer to skip winter altogether? Mt. Bachelor is just as exciting in the summer, with hiking trails and mountain biking that let you take in the stunning alpine scenery—no snow gear required!
Explore Lava River Cave
Central Oregon is no stranger to caves, but if I had to recommend just one to explore, Lava River Cave at Newberry National Volcanic Monument gets my vote.
Before going in, you’ll need to sit through a short, Ranger-led info session. After the session, you’ll be given the option to rent lanterns ($5, if I’m not mistaken) before heading into the cave. I suggest bringing your own lantern, this is the one we’ve used the past 10+ years (we love it!), a cellphone won’t cut it.
From the lantern kiosk, a short trail leads you straight to the cave entrance, where you’ll descend exactly 55 well-maintained steps into the cool, dark abyss. The temperature drops quickly and stays at a steady 40 degrees throughout the hike, so be sure to dress accordingly.
This is easily one of the best Bend activities for families with young kids—we saw plenty of little explorers down there, and they were loving it!
Hike Tumalo Falls
Tumalo Falls is tucked into a lush evergreen forest that only adds to its dramatic beauty. For a less crowded experience, I recommend trekking up to the upper viewpoint, where you’ll get a stunning, unique perspective from the top of the falls.
The hike is a short half-mile up and half-mile back, but it’s well worth it—not just for the main event, but also for the handful of smaller waterfalls you’ll spot along the way.
Catch the sunset at Sparks Lake
Sparks Lake is framed by three iconic peaks—South Sister, Broken Top, and Bachelor Butte—creating a truly breathtaking backdrop. But fair warning: the secret is out. This spot gets very busy on weekends, and the parking lot fills up fast. If you’re hoping for a little solitude, arriving early is a must.
For a more peaceful experience, I recommend catching sunset from the Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail. It’s one of the most unforgettable things to do near Bend, and the best part? The hike requires minimal effort for maximum reward—the views are unreal.
The full trail is a 2.5-mile loop that hugs the lake, but I usually just hike to the viewpoint less than a mile in. I’ve lost count of the number of sunrises and sunsets I’ve watched from that spot—it gets me every time.
Drive the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
One of my favorite things about exploring Bend is the unparalleled access to the natural landscapes of Central Oregon. Driving the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is the cream of the crop.
The route starts in downtown Bend and meanders through 66 scenic miles. There’s plenty of opportunities to pop out for sightseeing. This drive is often considered one of the most beautiful in America, hence the “scenic” designation.
The entire drive takes 3-5 hours to complete, depending on stops. The road is open from June to October (or until snowfall closes the route just past Mt. Bachelor).
Visit Sisters, Oregon
Sisters, Oregon is a quaint little town with plenty to see, you can’t afford to miss it during your visit to Bend. One of my favorite coffee shops is Sister’s Coffee and we have been known to go out of our way for their breakfast sandwiches – so good.
Take advantage of the biking trail by renting a bike and exploring the old town on two wheels, make sure to swing by Three Creeks Craft Brewing for delicious brews.
Learn to fly fish
Did you know that Fly Fisher Magazine ranked Bend as one of the top 10 fly-fishing towns in America? Stay humble, Bend.
With the Deschutes River alone offering 252 miles of fishable water, it’s no wonder we see anglers scattered along the riverbanks every time we visit—no matter the season. So why not learn from the best? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total beginner, Bend’s fly-fishing scene is one you won’t want to miss.
My husband was commissioned by the city of Bend to make this video on the Deschutes National Forest (which surrounds Bend). I highly recommend giving it a watch for some more inspiration for things to do in Bend!
Best Time to Visit Bend, Oregon
After visiting Bend in all four seasons, I would say that the best time to visit Bend is the spring and summer seasons. Although honestly, Bend is one of those unique places where every season offers something exciting.
Summer is my favorite time to visit Bend because it’s easy to take advantage of the great hikes nearby. The temperatures can get hot mid-day, but there’s always a river to cool off in or a brewery to pop into.
Much like summer, spring is also great time to visit Bend. The temperatures will be mild most of the day but the evenings will get chilly. Wildflowers pepper the scenery and offer a delightful splash of color amidst swaths of healthy forests.
Visiting Bend in autumn is a treat because the fall color is spectacular! What’s more, crowds will have thinned out substantially but the days are typically filled with ample sunshine. Even if temperatures are chilly a jacket will be necessary.
Winter is also a great time to visit Bend Oregon if you love snow sports. If you plan to ski or snowboard at Mt. Bachelor make sure to do your homework a few months in advance. Season passes sell out quickly!
Where to Eat in Bend
Bend has an incredible food scene and you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy. Eating is a social event and it’s common to see large groups gathered together late into the evening. Here’s a roundup of my favorite restaurants in Bend:
Breakfast
- McKay Cottage Restaurant is a great spot for breakfast. I wish I could start every day with a meal from this place, and apparently so does half of Bend. This place gets very busy during the brunch hour, but the food is well worth the wait, try their pancakes and you’ll know what I mean. If you choose to brave the line, help yourself to a hot cup of coffee while you wait. There’s a self-serve station by the host.
- Jackson’s Corner became an instant favorite of mine. The warm homemade bread (need I say more?) and the quality ingredients shine through in these delicious meals. We visited the eastside location on a Sunday morning and had to wait an hour, this place gets very busy but there’s a good reason for it.
- Sparrow Bakery for their famous Ocean Rolls – a signature Bend pastry made from scratch every day of the week. Without giving away the goose, allow me to say the recipe starts with traditional croissant dough made on-site, enhanced with cardamom, sugar and vanilla. It is heavenly, I spent the entire day thinking about it.
Lunch
- Spork (a Mexican-fusion restaurant) is the best choice. The food here is so, so delicious and unique, we went back two days in a row. $20 says you will too. The line is out the door during dinner rush and sometimes late into the evening. Come early, come hungry.
Dinner
- For dinner pick a brewery, any brewery! We like to try a new one each time we visit (there’s so many to choose from!). I can confidently recommend any of the following breweries for great food and even better beer.
Best Coffee in Bend
It would be a disservice not to mention coffee shops worth visiting. Bend takes coffee seriously and the smooth blends prove it. Bonus points for bringing a reusable Hydro Flask! If you’re looking for more in depth recommendations I wrote all about the best coffee shops & cafes in Bend.
- Sisters Coffee is our favorite. Their drip coffee is just so damn delicious. We even order the beans to our house.
- Backporch Coffee offers consistently great coffee with friendly customer service. To cater to our weaknesses, they offer two locations – one on the eastside and one in northwest. Grab a pastry on your way out, nothing better than a buttery croissant before a sunrise hike. Please tell me other people hike before sunrise?!
Guide to Bend, Oregon (Post Summary)
- Explore the Old Mill District
- Walk the Deschutes River Trail
- Float the Deschutes River
- Wine Tasting at Viaggio Wine Bar
- Enjoy the Bend Ale Trail
- Explore the High Desert Museum
- Catch a Concert at Hayden Homes Amphitheater
- Explore Downtown Bend
- Enjoy Cocktails at a Local Bar
- McMenamins Old St. Francis School
- Enjoy the City’s Robust Art Scene
- Visit Newberry National Monument
- Hike Broken Top Trail to No Name Lake
- Hike the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park
- Spelunking at Lava River Cave
- Hike Tumalo Falls
- Catch Sunset at Sparks Lake
- Snow Sports at Mt. Bachelor
- Drive the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
- Join a Wanderlust Tour
- Visit Sisters, Oregon
- Learn to Fly Fish
I hope you enjoyed this guide to Bend, Oregon. It’s a pleasure sharing one of our favorite places with you.
Until next time,
Antonina
Love all of these and I live here!!! You should try out the Bend History tour along the Deschutes river at Let it Ride Electric bikes!
Hi Michelle, love the idea of getting a tour on a bike, thank you for the suggestion!
10 Barrel is not local, they are owned by Anheiser-Busch. Try any of the other amazing, local breweries listed!
This is a tricky one, I consider 10 Barrel a local brewery because it was started in Bend by two brothers who moved to the area from Portland. The brewery gained a lot of attention and success and the brothers took advantage of an opportunity to sell (to Anheiser-Busch). I’ve been going to 10 Barrel for years and can confirm that the quality hasn’t diminished.
To that end, I completely understand your point about supporting local breweries that don’t have the backing of Anheiser-Busch.
Cheers,
Antonina
They are indeed local. Yes they allowed them to buy them recently. But because who wouldn’t want to grow as a business? This allowed them to easily start shipping beer all over the place. Same owners same brewers. Same amazing food. I also recommend their special seasonal microbrews. Yum!
I completely agree! The brews, vibes and food are great, I still enjoy coming here.
I have lived in Central Oregon most of my life, and haven’t been to some of these places. Shame on me. Have made a list and will check them all out. . . Funny when you live in Gods Country you get kinda spoiled.
Oh I know what you mean! I’ve been traveling to various parts of the state for the past 5 years and some days I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface! Glad to hear you found some new spots to explore. Cheers!
Leaving out Thump Coffee makes this list irrelevant.
Another thing not mentioned above is that admission to the High Desert Museum is reduced to only $2.oo per person (Up to 6 people-2 adults and 4 children), if you receive SNAP Food Benefits. It makes it more accessible to anyone, regardless of income.
Something you will definitely have to try if you make it back during the winter month is a guided Snowmobile tour of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Such a beautiful area in the winter that is so underrated. the highlight of our family winter trip!