Unforgettable Things to Do in Bend, Oregon (Local’s Guide)

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.

Getting to Bend

One of the most common questions I get is how to actually get to Bend. The good news? It’s easier than you might think. From Portland, Bend is about a 3.5-hour drive, and you’ve two solid route options. US-26 takes you through the scenic Mt. Hood corridor (my personal favorite, especially in autumn when the colors are unreal), while US-97 is slightly more direct through the high desert.

If you’re flying in, Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) is just 20 minutes north of Bend. Alaska Airlines and a handful of other carriers offer direct flights from several West Coast cities. Fair warning though, rental cars go fast during peak summer season, so I’d book yours well in advance. Having a car is pretty much essential here since Bend is spread out and the best day trips require wheels.

Where to Stay in Bend

Bend offers plenty 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

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!).

Relax at Drake Park and Mirror Pond

Drake Park is one of those places that instantly makes you slow down and take a breath. Tucked right along the Deschutes River in downtown Bend, this 13-acre park is home to Mirror Pond, which is exactly as picturesque as it sounds. On a calm morning, the water reflects the surrounding trees and sky so perfectly it looks like a painting.

We love packing a simple picnic (grab sandwiches from Jackson’s Corner, trust me) and spending an hour or two just sitting on the grass watching the geese waddle around. It’s also a gorgeous spot to start or end a walk along the Deschutes River Trail. If you’re visiting Bend with kids, they will love running around the open lawns while you soak in the mountain views with a coffee in hand.

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.

Go Paddleboarding on the Deschutes River

If floating the river felt a little too relaxed for you (no judgment, but also, really?), stand-up paddleboarding on the Deschutes is the perfect upgrade. SUP rentals are available right at the Old Mill District from several outfitters, and the calm stretch of the river through town is ideal for beginners.

I will be honest, my first attempt was mostly me trying not to fall in while my husband paddled circles around me looking very smug. But once you get the hang of it, gliding along the river with the Cascades in the background is genuinely one of the most peaceful experiences in Bend. Most rental shops offer quick lessons too, so don’t let inexperience stop you. Budget about $30 to $50 for an hour, and try to go in the morning before the wind picks up.

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.

Insider Tip: Ask for the ‘Bend Ale Trail’ passport at any participating brewery. Get stamps at enough stops and you earn a prize. It’s basically a treasure hunt for adults, and yes, my husband and I’ve completed it. Twice.

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.

Hike Pilot Butte for 360-Degree Views

If you only have time for one short hike while visiting Bend, make it Pilot Butte. This volcanic cinder cone sits right in the middle of town (literally, you can see it from almost anywhere), and the trail to the top takes most people about 20 minutes. It’s hands down the easiest hike in Bend, and the payoff is absolutely worth it.

From the summit, you get a full 360-degree panorama of the Cascade Range, with Mt. Bachelor, Broken Top, and all three Sisters peaks on display. I’ve been up there probably a dozen times now, and it never gets old. My biggest tip? Go for sunset. The way the golden light hits those peaks is the kind of thing that makes you understand why everyone falls in love with this town.

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!).

Visit the Last Blockbuster Video on Earth

Yes, you read that correctly. The very last Blockbuster Video on planet Earth is right here in Bend, Oregon, and it’s still open for business. Walking through those doors is like stepping into a time machine (complete with that unmistakable carpet smell that will hit you right in the childhood memories).

The store has leaned into its celebrity status with fun photo ops, branded merch, and all the nostalgic vibes you could ask for. It has become one of the most popular quirky attractions in Bend, and honestly, even if you never once rented a VHS tape, it’s still worth a stop. My husband spent an unreasonable amount of time in the action section “just browsing,” so plan accordingly.

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.

Mountain Biking at Phil’s Trail Complex

Bend is widely considered one of the best mountain biking destinations in the country, and Phil’s Trail Complex is the crown jewel. With over 30 miles of world-class singletrack winding through fragrant ponderosa pine forest, this trail system has something for every skill level, from flowy beginner loops to technical descents that will test even experienced riders.

The trailhead is just minutes from downtown, which is part of what makes Bend so special for mountain bikers. You can grab a morning coffee, hit the trails for a few hours, and be back in town for lunch without breaking a sweat (okay, you’ll definitely break a sweat). If you didn’t bring your own bike, several shops in town offer quality rentals and can point you toward the best routes for your ability level. Pine Drops is a favorite loop for first-timers.

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,. 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.

Hike to Benham Falls

If you enjoyed Tumalo Falls, put Benham Falls on your list too. This one is less of a traditional waterfall and more of a dramatic stretch of churning rapids where the Deschutes River forces its way through a narrow lava channel. The power of the water here’s genuinely impressive, and the sound alone is worth the visit.

The hike itself is easy and flat, following a well-maintained riverside trail through beautiful pine forest. It’s about a mile each way from the parking area, making it perfect for families or anyone who wants a rewarding walk without a serious workout. We stumbled upon this one on a recommendation from a local barista, and I’m so glad we did. It has become one of our go-to stops whenever we’re in the area.

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).

Go Stargazing in the High Desert

Here is something that caught me completely off guard during my first visit to Bend: the stars. The high desert has remarkably dark skies, and once the sun goes down, the Milky Way puts on a show that will leave you speechless. I’m not exaggerating when I say I’ve never seen so many stars in my life as I’ve on clear nights in Central Oregon.

For the best experience, head to Pine Mountain Observatory, about 30 miles southeast of Bend. They host public viewing nights during the summer where you can peer through powerful telescopes and learn about the cosmos from actual astronomers (how cool is that?). Even if you don’t make it to the observatory, just driving a few miles outside of town and pulling over on a clear night will reward you with a sky full of stars. Bring a blanket, lie back, and prepare to feel very small in the best possible way.

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’ve 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.

Take a Day Trip to the Painted Hills

The Painted Hills are one of those places that make you question whether you’re still on Earth. Located about 1.5 to 2 hours east of Bend (depending on how many times you stop for photos along the way, and you’ll stop), this unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument features rolling hills striped with layers of red, gold, and black clay that look like something straight out of a sci-fi movie.

The landscape shifts dramatically with the light, so visiting during golden hour is especially magical. There are several short trails that let you get up close to the formations, and the whole area is wonderfully uncrowded compared to Oregon’s coastal attractions. I remember turning a corner on the drive in and literally gasping. It’s one of the most otherworldly landscapes in the Pacific Northwest, and the fact that it’s a doable day trip from Bend makes it an absolute must.

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.

Explore Shevlin Park

Ask any Bend local where they go to escape the tourist crowds, and Shevlin Park will almost certainly come up. This 990-acre park on the western edge of town follows Tumalo Creek through a gorgeous canyon lined with ponderosa pines, and it feels worlds away from the bustle of downtown (even though it’s only a 10-minute drive).

The main loop trail is about 5 miles and mostly flat, making it perfect for a morning jog, a leisurely walk, or just finding a quiet spot by the creek to sit and think about nothing for a while. We discovered Shevlin Park on our third trip to Bend, and I genuinely wish we had found it sooner. If you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor experience without the crowds you’ll find at Smith Rock or Tumalo Falls, this is your spot.

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’d 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!

Day Trips from Bend

One of the things I love most about Bend is how many incredible day trips are within easy driving distance. You could spend a full week here and still not run out of places to explore. Here are some of my top picks that are well worth the drive.

Crater Lake National Park is about 2 hours south of Bend and is, in my opinion, something every Oregonian (and visitor) should see at least once. The impossibly blue water isn’t photoshopped, it really looks like that. The Painted Hills (which I covered above) are roughly 1.5 hours east and offer one of the most surreal landscapes in the state. Sisters is a charming little town just 30 minutes northwest, perfect for a morning coffee run and some window shopping. Sunriver Resort is only 20 minutes south and makes for a fun afternoon of biking, golfing, or just lounging by the pool. And of course, Smith Rock State Park is about 30 minutes north, a must-visit for hikers and climbers alike.

My advice? Pick two or three of these for your trip and save the rest for next time. Because trust me, there will be a next time.

More Bend Guides

I have detailed guides for hiking, eating, and drinking your way through Bend.

• Best Waterfalls Near Bend
• Tumalo Mountain Hike
• Tamolitch Blue Pool Trail
• Skylight Cave
• Pros and Cons of Living in Bend

Frequently Asked Questions About Bend

Is Bend Oregon worth visiting?

Absolutely, one hundred percent yes. Bend is one of those rare places that genuinely has something for everyone. Whether you’re into hiking, craft beer, great food, or just soaking up sunshine with mountain views, Bend delivers. I’ve been visiting for years and still find new reasons to come back every single time. It’s worth every mile of the drive.

How many days do you need in Bend?

I would recommend at least 3 to 4 days to get a proper taste of Bend without feeling rushed. That gives you enough time to explore downtown, hit a couple of hikes, float the river, and enjoy the food and brewery scene. If you want to squeeze in day trips to places like Crater Lake or the Painted Hills, add another day or two. Honestly, a full week isn’t overkill here.

What is Bend best known for?

Bend is best known for its outdoor recreation, craft breweries (there are over 30 of them!), and year-round sunshine. It sits at the base of the Cascade Mountains and is surrounded by rivers, lakes, volcanic formations, and endless hiking trails. In winter, Mt. Bachelor draws skiers and snowboarders from all over the Pacific Northwest. In summer, the river float is practically a rite of passage.

Is Bend good in winter?

It really is! Winter in Bend is special if you enjoy snow sports. Mt. Bachelor is the 6th largest ski resort in the country and gets an average of 462 inches of snow per year. Even if skiing isn’t your thing, the town itself is cozy and much less crowded during the colder months, which means shorter waits at restaurants and lower hotel prices. Just pack warm layers because temperatures can dip well below freezing.

How far is Bend from Portland?

Bend is approximately 175 miles southeast of Portland, which works out to about a 3.5-hour drive. You can take US-26 through the Mt. Hood corridor (the more scenic option) or hop on US-97 for a slightly more direct route through the high desert. Both drives are beautiful in their own way, and the trip goes by quickly once you hit the mountains.

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)

1. Explore the Old Mill District
2. Relax at Drake Park and Mirror Pond
3. Walk the Deschutes River Trail
4. Float the Deschutes River
5. Go Paddleboarding on the Deschutes
6. Wine Tasting at Viaggio Wine Bar
7. Enjoy the Bend Ale Trail
8. Explore the High Desert Museum
9. Catch a Concert at Hayden Homes Amphitheater
10. Explore Downtown Bend
11. Hike Pilot Butte
12. Enjoy Cocktails at a Local Bar
13. McMenamins Old St. Francis School
14. Visit the Last Blockbuster Video
15. Enjoy the City’s Robust Art Scene
16. Mountain Biking at Phil’s Trail
17. Visit Newberry National Monument
18. Hike Broken Top Trail to No Name Lake
19. Hike the Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park
20. Spelunking at Lava River Cave
21. Hike Tumalo Falls
22. Hike to Benham Falls
23. Catch Sunset at Sparks Lake
24. Snow Sports at Mt. Bachelor
25. Drive the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
26. Go Stargazing in the High Desert
27. Visit Sisters, Oregon
28. Day Trip to the Painted Hills
29. Learn to Fly Fish
30. Explore Shevlin Park
31. Join a Wanderlust Tour

Over to you! Are you a summer Bend person or a winter Bend person? This debate divides Oregonians more than you’d think. Let me know your take in the comments! Drop your thoughts in the comments below, I read every single one!

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

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