Bend Oregon is a beautiful and energetic city settled in the high desert of Central Oregon.

Bend is known for amazing outdoor recreation, food, breweries, culture, and a general laid-back vibe.

As long-time Bend locals, we think everyone should visit Bend at least once (and ideally many times!).

In fact, we’ve gathered our local knowledge here for you and would love to help plan your visit.

Without further delay, let’s make sure you have an awesome trip to Bend Oregon!

Views of the Cascade Mountains from Pilot Butte in Bend.
Views of the Cascade Mountains from Pilot Butte in Bend.

Before you go further: We’ve packed a ton of information into this article. Please use the table of contents to jump around as needed!

Contents

Things to do in Bend Oregon: At a Glance

If you’re short on time, no worries! These are our top things to do in Bend.

Don’t worry, we go into way more detail about these and more Bend Oregon activities below, so please keep reading!

A scenic view of the Deschutes River on a fall day in Bend Oregon.
A scenic view of the Deschutes River on a fall day in Bend Oregon.

By the way, if you’re thinking about moving to Bend, check out Redfin. In fact, we were featured in a Redfin article! Check it out here: Unique Things to Do in Bend, OR: 8 Must-Do Activities| Redfin.

Overview of Bend Oregon

Whether you’re visiting Bend for the first time, or you are a regular, it’s worth taking a moment to get oriented in order to make the most of your time in Bend.

A graphic illustrating Bend's location.
A graphic illustrating Bend’s location.

Bend’s Picturesque Location

There’s no debate: Bend is surrounded by stunning natural areas that present tons of outdoor recreation opportunities.

In fact, we like to say it’s easier to list the outdoor sports you can’t do in central Oregon than those you can do!

Cascade Mountains Central Oregon
The striking central Oregon Cascade Mountain Range

To the west, the spectacular Cascade Mountain Range offers stunning mountain peaks, dense forests, sparkling alpine lakes, and tons of hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and more!

Views of Sparks Lake from the Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail
Incredible views of Sparks Lake and the mountains behind.

To the east, the remote semi-arid deserts, rocky canyons, and sprawling forests of Eastern Oregon stretch out for hundreds of miles.

To the north, the stunning Smith Rock State Park is just one example of the beautiful natural scenery between Bend and the Columbia River Gorge.

Hiking at Smith Rock State Park
Sunset at Smith Rock State Park.

To the south, dozens of lakes (including Crater Lake National Park), forests, peaks, and waterfalls await your exploration.

Culture, Food, and Vibe in Bend

When you’re not exploring the great outdoors near Bend, enjoy the variety of fun things to do in town.

Bend has a growing arts and culture scene, with a variety of galleries, museums, performance venues, events and festivals that take place throughout the year.

Additionally, Bend is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries located throughout the city.

Bend Brewing Company
Craft beer is popular in Bend! Image from BBC’s website.

The food scene in Bend is diverse, with a mix of regional and international flavors.

The outdoor seating area at the Podski Food Cart Lot.

There are a variety of restaurants, cafes and coffee shops, and food truck lots that offer everything from casual to fine dining, with many places emphasizing local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. 

Overall, Bend has a relaxed, friendly, and welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of community.

Outdoor Recreation in and Near Bend

Outdoor recreation opportunities abound in Bend and in the surrounding area. In fact, one of our favorite things about Bend is how easy it is to get outside and into nature.

Two people hiking at Paulina Lake Oregon.
Us hiking on the Little Crater Trail at Paulina Lake near Bend Oregon.

Within a 15-minute drive there are tons of parks and natural areas. However, in reality, you don’t even need to leave town to enjoy the outdoors.

In addition, if you’re willing to drive up to an hour, you can access even more amazing outdoor activities.

A man hiking at Smith Rock State Park on the Burma Road Loop hike.
Logan hiking at Smith Rock State Park on the Burma Road Loop hike.

No matter your schedule or your outdoor recreation goals, there really is something for everyone. These are the best outdoor activities in and near Bend Oregon!

Walk, Run, or Bike the Deschutes River Trail

Perhaps the most iconic trail in Bend, the Deschutes River Trail is a longstanding staple representing the ease of outdoor access this town provides.

Walking dogs on the Deschutes River Trail
The Old Mill area of the Deschutes River Trail.

While not a single trail, the Deschutes River Trail is actually multiple individual sections of trail, all parallelling the beautiful Deschutes River.

Deschutes River Trail
The Deschutes River Trail is a beautiful and accessible hike.

With both natural and urban sections, this trail has something for everyone. From long runs in the forest to casual coffee strolls in the Old Mill District, you can choose your own adventure.

Learn more in our full article about the Deschutes River Trail.

Explore Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is located about 26 miles north of Bend and is known for its stunning rock formations, hiking trails, unique viewpoints and world-class rock climbing.

The entry sign at Smith Rock State Park.
The entry sign at Smith Rock State Park.

In our opinion, no visit to central Oregon is complete without a trip to Smith Rock State Park!

If you’re in Bend for more than one day, we highly recommend taking a few hours to check out Smith Rock.

A view of Smith Rock on a spring day.
A view of Smith Rock on a spring day. Can you see the mountains in the background?

If you have the time, take an hour or two to explore Redmond Oregon, a smaller town to the north of Bend that is often overlooked.

Learn more in our full guide to Smith Rock State Park.

Ski or Snowboard at Mt. Bachelor

If you’re visiting Bend in the winter, consider spending a day on the slopes at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort.

A skier enjoying a sunny day on Mount Bachelor.
Abby enjoying a sunny day on Mount Bachelor.

Considered by many (including us) to be Oregon’s premier ski resort, Mt. Bachelor is known for its diverse terrain and great snow.

Skiers riding a chairlift at Mt. Bachelor.
Skiers riding a chairlift at Mt. Bachelor.

Though it is pricey, it’s without a doubt our favorite place for skiing near Bend.

Not into ski resorts? No worries. There are tons of other winter activities in Bend, including winter hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-skating!

Float or Paddleboard the Deschutes River

Perhaps the most popular way to beat the summer heat in Bend is to float the Deschutes River.

Deschutes River Float
People floating the Deschutes River on a nice day.

There are multiple entry and exit points and float routes to choose from depending on your schedule. If you don’t have a tube or paddleboard, you can rent one!

Learn more about how to float the Deschutes River.

Hike or Backpack in the Cascade Mountain Range

For the avid hiker or the casual sightseer, there are numerous hikes in the Cascade Mountain Range within an hour of Bend.

Signage on the trail from Todd Lake to No Name Lake.
Signage on the trail from Todd Lake to No Name Lake.

The crisp mountain views and sparkling alpine lakes of the Cascade Mountains offer some of the best hiking and sightseeing in all of Oregon (and beyond).

Local tip: One of our favorite hikes near Bend is the Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail at Sparks Lake.

A view of Sparks Lake from the side of the lake.
A view of Sparks Lake from the Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail.

Learn more about the best day hikes near Bend, and the best backpacking trips near Bend.

Explore the Numerous Mountain Lakes Near Bend

There are dozens of beautiful, crystal-clear lakes located within an hour of Bend.

The view of Mt. Bachelor from Lava Lake
The view of Mt. Bachelor from Lava Lake.

These lakes vary in size, amenities, and other characteristics. Most of the lakes near Bend are accessible via the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway.

At these sparkling lakes near Bend, you can fish, boat, swim, camp, paddleboard, kayak, or just soak up the sun.

Paddleboarding at Paulina Lake
Paddleboarding at Paulina Lake on a nice day.

Learn more about the best lakes near Bend.

Get your Golf Game On

While were not big golfers us, there are some excellent golf courses in Bend and many more within an hour’s drive.

Pronghorn Golf Resort at Juniper Reserve
Pronghorn Golf Resort at Juniper Reserve. Image from their website.

Many offer wide open views of the surrounding mountains and Central Oregon’s rugged landscape.

Sunriver Resort
Sunriver Resort has 4 golf courses. Image from their website.

The courses in Bend include: Tethrow, Aubrey Glen Golf Club, Widgi Creek, Lost Tracks, and River’s Edge Golf Course.

Go Rock Climbing

We love to rock climb. Central Oregon has lots of great rock-climbing spots. Many of which are near Bend. The most well-known is Smith Rock State Park.

Rock Climber at Smith Rock State Park
Logan climbing at Smith Rock State Park

If you are new to rock climbing but want to give it a shot, you can hire a guide for the day to take you rock climbing.

You don’t need any prior experience, and it is an amazing way to experience the natural beauty of central Oregon.

Cruise Down a Mountain Biking Trail

Bend has a vibrant mountain biking scene. There are numerous trails located close to the city and plenty of rental opportunities.

No matter your skill level, you can enjoy a fun and exciting day mountain biking near Bend. Learn more about where to mountain bike near Bend.

Play in the Snow at a Sno-Park Near Bend

Wanoga Snow Play Area and Virginia Meissner Sno-Park are popular winter recreation areas where you can enjoy some fun in the snow.

Cross Country Skiing at Virginia Meissner Sno Park
Skiing at Virginia Meissner Sno Park on a sunny day.

In these areas you can cross-country ski, snowshoe, or sled. These winter fun zones are a great place to spend a winter day outside.

Keep in mind each sno-park is different. Learn more about sno-parks in our full guide to sno-parks near Bend.

Food and Dining in Bend

Bend is an excellent place to make your tastebuds happy. There are a variety of options all flavor preferences and budgets.

These are some of the best ways to enjoy top notch food and dining in Bend.

Enjoy a Casual Meal at a Food Truck Lot

Food truck lots are a staple in Bend’s food and drink culture. Notice I said food and drink culture.

The Lot Food Trucks Bend
The Lot Food Truck and Taphouse. The first food truck lot in Bend.

That is because almost all of the food truck lots in Bend are combined with a taphouse or beer garden.

That said, food truck lots are a great place for the whole family because there is always a variety of food options, but also because you can bring your kids and dogs (Bend is known for being dog-friendly).

The outdoor seating area at the Podski Food Cart Lot.
The outdoor seating area at the Podski Food Cart Lot.

Learn more about the best food truck lots in Bend.

Experience one of the Top-Notch Restaurants in Bend

If you want a delightful sit-down experience, you won’t be disappointment by the excellent restaurants Bend has to offer.

We’ll cover a few of our favorites here but check out our full article about Bend restaurants for more recommendations.

McKay Cottage: Overall Best Breakfast in Bend

McKay Cottage is a quaint restaurant located in a historic home in Bend. McKay Cottage has been consistently voted the best breakfast in Bend for 13 years in a row (2010-2023)!

McKay Cottage
The outdoor patio is especially pleasant on a nice day. Image from their website.

Enjoy popular brunch dishes made with fresh, local ingredients like the eggs benedict and the homemade granola. The atmosphere is cozy and rustic, and the service is friendly. 

Spork: A Longtime Local Favorite

Spork is a fusion restaurant that combines international flavors with locally sourced ingredients. What started as a food truck in 2009 has blossomed into one of Bend’s most beloved restaurants.

Spork Bend
There is something for everyone on Spork’s fusion menu. Image from their website.

Spork is known for its eclectic street food inspired menu packed with flavor, serving primarily noodles, curries, and various types of bowls.

Zydeco Kitchen: Amazing Food, Cocktails, and Atmosphere

Zydeco is one of the most popular restaurants in Bend. It is a little on the fancy side and reservations are encouraged, but you can usually get a last-minute spot at the bar.

Chefs a Zydeco Kitchen in Bend Oregon.
Chefs a Zydeco Kitchen in Bend Oregon. Image from their website.

The food is incredible. The service is excellent. The cocktails are well-crafted. Take your special someone out to a special date night at Zydeco.

Ariana: Treat Yourself to High-Class Dining

Ariana is a fine-dining restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience in a cozy, romantic setting. One of the most renowned high-end dining options in Bend, they offer a daily seasonal menu with a daily six course chef’s tasting menu

Ariana Bend
Ariana offers a memorable dining experience. Image from their Facebook.

The service is impeccable, and the wine list is extensive. Looking to treat yourself or loved ones for a special occasion? Consider this memorable and delicious option but expect to shell out $100 per person or more!

Don’t Forget Dessert at Bonta Gelato

Bonta Gelato is our go-to for gelato in Bend. Their top-notch product comes in a variety of flavors. We love to pop-in for a bite of Bonta after a day in downtown Bend.

Remember, we have way more information in our full guide to restaurants in Bend.

Cafes, Coffee Shops, and Bakeries in Bend

Bend has more than its fair share of comfy cafes, reputable coffee shops, and delicious bakeries. These are our favorite!

Get Comfy and Read a Book at Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe

Dudley’s is one of our all-time favorite spots in Bend. Abby has been coming here to buy books, do homework, play games, or just sit and read for years.

Dudleys Bookshop Cafe Bend
Dudley’s is our go to spot for a cozy vibe, especially during colder weather. Image from their website.

It is so cozy to enjoy a chai upstairs at a table full of friends on a winter day. We suggest ordering the Prana Chai (they are the only place in town that serves it) with macadamia nut milk and relaxing with a book.

Pick Up a Bold Brew at Backporch

Backporch Coffee Roasters roasts beans purchased via direct trade with indigenous farms in small batches a few times a week and is a Bend go to for coffee since its inception in 2006.

Backporch Coffee Roasters Bend
Backporch Coffee Roasters does a delicious brew.

Their coffee is rich and absolutely delicious. Today they have 4 locations around Bend. Don’t forget to take a bag of beans home with you. You won’t be sorry.

Experience Palate Coffee

Palate Coffee is as charming as it is tasty. Palate has gained a reputation for its delicious and aesthetic coffee, down-to-earth ambiance, and welcoming atmosphere. This family-owned and operated coffee shop emphasizes fair trade, sustainable, and organic coffee.

Palate Coffee Bar
Palate Coffee Bar. Image from their Facebook.

The interior is cozy, even in the winter months, and great for chatting with friends or getting some work done. There’s also a small outdoor seating area.

Try the Famous Ocean Roll at Sparrow Bakery

Sparrow Bakery is a local favorite, known for its exceptional pastries and baked goods made with high-quality ingredients.

Sparrow Bakery Bend
Sparrow Bakery is an excellent Bend Oregon bakery.

They offer a wide variety of options, from classic croissants and scones to unique treats like their famous Ocean Rolls, which are a must-try for anyone visiting Bend.

Learn more about the best cafes and coffee shops, as well as the best bakeries in Bend.

Breweries and Craft Beer in Bend

Bend has a thriving craft beer scene and a number of excellent watering holes (aka breweries and tap houses) to support a thirsty population of beer drinkers.

These are some of the top breweries in Bend Oregon.

Take in the views at Crux Fermentation Project

Crux is known for its unique and experimental beers, and it has a large outdoor patio and lawn area where visitors can enjoy their beers while taking in the views of the Cascade Mountains.

Crux Fermentation Project
Crux Fermentation has beer, food carts, and lots of lawn space!

The large lawn and food trucks are awesome on a warm day! We especially like to go to Crux at sunset.

Visit the Bend Brewing Company

Bend Brewing Company is another popular brewery in Bend, which has been in operation since 1995. It has a great atmosphere (the outdoor space is great on a warm day) and a wide variety of beers, including a popular IPA and a strong porter.

Bend Brewing Company
Bend Brewing Company has such a nice outdoor space! Image from their website.

The brewery is located in the heart of downtown Bend and is a fantastic location to enjoy a beer and some food on the Deschutes River.

Silver Moon Brewery

A local favorite, Silver Moon Brewery is known for its excellent brews and welcoming atmosphere.

Silver Moon Brewery Bend
Silver Moon’s excellent patio. Image from Silver Moon’s Facebook.

With a solid outdoor seating area, this brewery is a great spot to soak up the sunshine while enjoying a cold beer. Keep an ear out for live music, trivia nights on Thursdays, and food trucks.

Deschutes Brewery Bend Oregon

Deschutes Brewery is a local craft beer pioneer that has been delighting taste buds since its establishment as the first brewery in Bend in 1988.

Known for their seasonal beers and timeless classics, Deschutes Brewery offers a range of flavorful brews to satisfy all palates.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit their pub house in downtown Bend, where you can enjoy their brews alongside a full food menu.

We just scratched the surface here. Learn more about the Bend craft beer scene in our full guide to breweries in Bend Oregon.

Shopping in Bend

Bend has an up-and-coming economic scene that has taken a foothold among local and out of town consumers of all preferences.

For example, a high-end boutique clothing shop can be equally successful as a used outdoor gear store. Whatever kind of shopping you fancy, chances are one of the following options rings your bell.

Walk the Old Mill District

Complete with over 40 attractive shops and ranging from boutiques to big-name stores, the Old Mill District is an outdoor mall centrally-located in Bend.

Situated close to downtown and the Deschutes River, there are plenty of walking paths to stroll before or after you get your shopping fix.

Whether you want to keep up with fashion trends, please your partner (or yourself) with some nice jewelry, or treat yourself to a spa day, the Old Mill District has a shop for you.

Stroll Downtown Bend’s Shops

Downtown Bend has a number of eye-catching shops that are just plain fun to check out. There are all sorts of stores in the downtown area, ranging from clothing, home goods, souvenirs, art galleries, outdoor gear, cosmetics, and more!

Of course, there are tons of restaurants, cafes, and dessert shops ready to serve the hungry shoppers of Bend. The downtown area of Bend is so much fun to explore. We recommend just wandering around and seeing where the day takes you.

Night Life in Bend

Night life in Bend is diverse and variable depending on the day of the week and the season!

With a variety of night life options such as taphouses, breweries, nightclubs, cocktail bars, live music venues, and outdoor concerts, there is something for everyone. Check out these night life activities in Bend.

Tap Houses and Breweries

We have already covered some of Bend’s craft beer scene, but it is worth mentioning again. On any given night, you’ll find a number of Bend locals gathering at their local watering hole for a few drinks.

The welcoming ambiance of Worthy Brewing in Bend.
The welcoming ambiance of Worthy Brewing in Bend. Image from their website.

To keep things interesting, many bars/breweries host trivia, bingo, karaoke and other fun events. If you want to feel uneducated, learn more about the best places for trivia in Bend.

Nightclubs and Dives

Need some dancing in your life? Bend has its fair share of energetic bars and nightclubs. Just don’t forget there may be a cover on the weekends. Or maybe you’re not the dancing type? Then try out your pool skills at a dive bar. These are some of the most popular.

LocationDescriptionClosing Time on Weekends
Astro LoungeNightclub. Bar, tables, some dance areas. DJs music on the weekends. Somewhere in between a dive bar and a nightclub.2 am
SEVENNightclub. Trashy and fun because of it. There is a cage you can dance in. Enough said!2 am
JCsDive bar. Casual on the weekdays but can get loud and rowdy on the weekends. Fun trivia. Pool tables. Shuffleboard.2 am
The CapitalNightclub. Games and food early in the night. Dance club later. Large dance floor. Live music, DJs, and some comedy.2 am
Duda’s Billiard’s Bar Pool bar. Rent one of the 8 tables by the hour and enjoy a beer and a snack while you play. Open to minors until 8 pm.2 am
Popular nightclubs and dive bars in Bend.

Cocktail Bars

Need some sophistication in your life? Put on your favorite hat and chat with friends over cocktails. These are some of the best cocktail bars in Bend.

LocationDescriptionClosing Time on Weekends
San SimonCute and sophisticated cocktail bar. Indoor and outdoor seating is in an alley. Known for cocktails and charcuterie boards. Midnight
Dogwood Cocktail CabinCool and classy cocktail joint. Engaging interior decorating and good drinks. Woodsy log cabin atmosphere.Midnight
Stihl Whiskey BarWhiskey, wine, and spirits. Hole-in-the-wall, speakeasy feel with solid food to match the drinks.1 am
Velvet LoungeRustic, modern, and cozy. Great for a chat with friends.Midnight
Frequented cocktail bars in Bend.

Live Music and Performance Venues

Live music is commonplace in many of Bend’s breweries and bars. However, there are also permanent performance venues and theaters that host concerts.

Hayden Homes AmphitheatreLarge outdoor amphitheater. The most popular concert venue in Bend. Reserve permanent seats up close for some concerts or choose general admission and sit on the lawn (chairs for rent). Right on the Deschutes River near Old Mill District.
Volcanic Theatre PubClassic and intimate concert venue without the embellishments. This place has a dance floor and theater seats. Many a jam session have sounded in its halls.
Midtown Ballroom / Domino RoomSimple small to medium sized concert venue. Second floor adds to the atmosphere. Lots of music variety. Standing room on main floor. One of the largest indoor venues in Bend.
Tower TheatreNeat and clean venue in downtown Bend. Seating room only. No standing space. A variety of performances. Many suitable for the whole family.
Theatres in Bend.
Tower Theater Bend Oregon
The sparkling Tower Theatre in downtown Bend.

Arts, Culture, Events, and Festivals in Bend

Bend is a lively and energetic city that is full of unique arts, culture, and community.

Seriously, there are no shortages of community events in this town. These are some of the best arts and culture activities in Bend.

Stroll Around a First Friday Art Walk

First Friday Art Walk is a fun event that takes place on the first Friday of every month in downtown Bend. It works like this: shops and art galleries in downtown Bend hand out free drinks (wine, beer, spirits) and people walk around, shop, and hang out.

First friday art walk Bend
A fun First Friday stop is Layor Art Supply.

You read that correctly, free drinks! The hope is that you spend some money at their store (and it works). Overall, “First Friday” is a fun and energetic atmosphere. Learn more about the First Friday Art Walk.

Pick up Some Nourishing Food at the Farmers Market

Bend’s Farmers Market has been nourishing Bend locals for more than 20 years. Every Wednesday from May to October, vendors sell their goodies in downtown Bend, right near the Deschutes River.

Bend Farmer's Market
Good vibes at the Bend Farmer’s Market. Image from their Facebook.

If you are around on a weekend looking for a farmers market the NW Crossing neighborhood also has a Saturday farmers market with all the goodies of the Wednesday market plus additional stands. It’s a great vibe to say the least. Check it out!

Increase your Central Oregon Knowledge at the High Desert Museum

A top-rated central Oregon activity, the High Desert Museum has been educating and inspiring families since 1982.

High Desert Museum live bird of prey presentation
A live bird of prey demonstration at the High Desert Museum. Image from their Facebook.

Complete with anthropogenic and natural history, visitors are able to peek into the incredible central Oregon region and the animals and people who have called this place home.

Embrace the Season at Bend Summer Festival

The Bend Summer Festival is an incredible gathering of artists, musicians, local businesses, and festival attendants.

Live music at the Bend Summer Festival.
Live jams at Bend Summer Festival. Image from their website.

In an effort akin to a Saturday market on steroids, this annual festival takes place early July and attracts people from all over the region.

Food, drink, arts, crafts, music, and sunshine blend to curate a happy and fun vibe all within downtown Bend. Don’t miss it!

Enjoy Some Summer Family Fun at Munch and Music

Munch & Music is a free summer concert series in on Friday nights in Drake Park starting in early July and lasting 6 weeks.

A music performance at Munch n Music in Bend Oregon.
Good vibes at Munch n Music. Can’t beat a free concert! Image from their Facebook.

This was one of my favorite events growing up and is perfect for folks of all ages. The music genre varies but is usually excellent, and the event even has a kid zone with inflatables. There is a beer garden and tons of local food vendors. 

Celebrate Fall at the Bend Fall Festival

The Bend Fall Festival is the cooler season’s counterpart to the Summer Festival. There are the same great happenings, as well as other handmade arts and crafts for sale.

Come celebrate the turning of seasons at the Fall Festival in late September in downtown Bend.

Stay Warm at the Oregon Winterfest

If you think the cold weather could keep outdoor festivals away, you haven’t been to Oregon Winterfest! Touted as the largest winter celebration in the Northwest, Oregon Winterfest offers a marketplace, live music, festive lights, and of course food and drink.

Oregon Winter Fest
Oregon Winter Fest. Image from their website.

Bring the whole family and get ready to have a ball! The Oregon Winterfest is held each February and is hosted at the Deschutes County Fairground (about 30 minutes from Bend).

Support Independent Artists at the Bend Film Festival

BendFilm Festival is a staple in the Bend community. Every October for a long weekend, films are shown around Bend at all of the local cinemas and also screened virtually.

Some of the films include Q&A with the filmmaker or actors after the show. At the end of the festival the best films are awarded. If you don’t make it to the festival, Tin Pan Theater screens Bend Film Fest films and other independent films all year. 

Family Friendly Things to do in Bend with Kids

Bend is quite family friendly as there are a lot of young people with kids in Bend. In addition to the things we’ve already mentioned, here are some of the best family friendly Bend activities.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Goody’s Candy Store

Bend’s longstanding downtown candy store (since 1984), Goody’s has gotten one thing right: sweets. They make all their own chocolate and ice cream, plus some of their other candy.

They even purchase their dairy from an Oregon-based farm. We love stopping here for chocolate treats or ice cream on a hot day.

Float the Deschutes River

There’s nothing quite like floating down a river in a tube or on a paddleboard.

Deschutes River rapids
The Deschutes River rapids on a summer day.

I don’t know about you, but as kids we loved doing this and still do! Make sure to read our ultimate guide to floating the Deschutes River.

Sun Mountain Family Fun Center

Fun center with arcade games, bowling, laser tag, mini-golf golf, go karts, and more! Sun Mountain is Bend’s family fun center. They also have billiards and even serve beer. Fun for the whole family!

Get some Airtime at Mountain Air Trampoline Park 

Mountain Air Trampoline Park is Bend’s trampoline park. They have a ton of fun trampolines and a number of other fun things like a bouncy basketball court, giant airbag, and a toddler area. This place is great for kids’ birthdays.

Kids bouncing on trampolines at Mountain Air Indoor Trampoline Park in Bend Oregon.
Kids bouncing on trampolines at Mountain Air Indoor Trampoline Park. Image from their Facebook.

Things to do in Bend with a Dog

Bend is a dog-loving town. Dogs are commonplace in Bend and fit in well with their outdoorsy human counterparts.

Leashed dogs at Shevlin Park enjoy a hike.
Bennie (left) and Beaux (right) resting after a long hike at Shevlin Park.

As a result, there are many things to do in Bend with your dog, and you can bring your furry friend with you almost anywhere.

Dog Parks and Off-Leash Areas

Bend has a ton of dog parks and off leash areas. These are our favorites to get your started.

LocationDistance From BendDescriptionFenced?
Good Dog Natural Area5 milesTons of trails and space to roam just 10 minutes outside of Bend.No
Awbrey Reservoir Off Leash AreaIn Bend (northwest)A large and forested dog park that has some nice views and a relaxed vibe. Northwest BendNo
Ponderosa ParkIn Bend (eastside)Large and clean park with an off-leash dog area.Yes
Riverbend Dog ParkIn Bend (central)An open and exposed dog park right next to the Deschutes River. There is also a small off leash area so that dogs can swim.Yes
Top dog parks in Bend.
Walking dogs on the Deschutes River Trail
The Old Mill area of the Deschutes River Trail.

Treat Yourself and Your Pup at Sunriver Brewing Co. – Galveston Pub

Sunriver Brewing Co. makes great beer, and they serve delicious food. The Galveston Pub location has a nice outdoor patio that is super dog friendly. They have water for the dogs, and you can even order food for your dog. That’s right. They serve burgers for dogs.

Paddleboard or Kayak with Your Dog

Paddleboards and dogs are a great combination. Okay maybe not every dog is comfortable being out on the water. If yours is, then Bend is a great place to do it! Learn more about the best places to paddleboard in Bend.

Paddleboards at Paulina Lake Oregon.
Paddleboards at Paulina Lake Oregon.

Snowshoe or Cross-Country Ski with Your Dog

Head up to Wanoga Snow Play Area to get out into the snow with your pup. Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing with your dog is a classic Bend winter activity that both humans and canines enjoy. We love cross-country skiing with our friends who have dogs.

Accommodation in Bend Oregon

There are so many great places to stay in Bend, including hotels, campgrounds, resorts, and short-term home rentals.

The boathouse at Suttle Lodge in central Oregon.
The Suttle Lake Lodge boathouse. Image from their website.

Short-Term House Rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo, Vacasa)

Short term rentals are abundant in Bend and are a great option for working professionals, families, retirees and other visitors.

They are a great way to stay in a neighborhood and get a more authentic Bend experience. The main three are Airbnb, Vrbo, and Vacasa.

Hotels in Bend

Hotels are a great option to stay in Bend. Here are several that have great locations.

McMenaminsA centrally located hotel with lots of character, food and dining, and lots of nice outdoor areas to hang out. Also, they have movie showings, live music, and even a soaking pool. A Bend classic.
DoubleTree Hilton Hotel BendYour typical Hilton hotel. Nice location near downtown.
The Oxford Hotel BendA higher-end hotel right downtown. Great location, excellent service, and nice rooms. They even have a new restaurant ROAM which promises to be as good as the restaurant that used to be underneath the hotel called 10 Bellow.  
SpringHill Suites BendTypical Marriott hotel. Nice location near the Old Mill District.
Popular hotels in Bend.
McMenamins Bend Oregon
The rooms are unique and cozy at McMenamins hotel in Bend. Image from their website.

Bend Campgrounds and RV Parks

There are tons of places to camp near Bend, including both paid and free options and tent camping or for RVs.

Lava Lake Campground near Bend Oregon.
Lava Lake Campground near Bend Oregon.

There really is a camping option for any time of year, any distance from Bend, and any type of camping.

LocationDistance from BendDescription
Tumalo State Park4 milesClean and inviting campground. Stay in a tent site, RV site, or a yurt! Right on the Deschutes River. Tons of hiking/walking trails.
The CampIn BendSuper cute and modern RV park. Stay in a clean and comfy vintage trailer, cottage, or bring your own rig.
Sun Outdoors Bend4 milesSpacious and modern RV park. Lots of trees and grass. Workout room, pool table, hot tub, tennis courts. Tons of great amenities at an affordable price.
Camping at the Lakes20 – 50 milesLots of paid and free campgrounds at the lakes in the Cascade Mountain range. Great option to get out into nature during warmer months.
Popular campgrounds and RV parks near Bend.

The list above will get you started, but for more detail learn more about the best places to camp near Bend Oregon and the best RV parks near Bend.

RVs at Sun Outdoors Bend. One of the top RV parks in Bend Oregon.
RVs at Sun Outdoors Bend. One of the top RV parks in Bend Oregon. Image from their website.

Working Remotely in Bend

Bend has a lot of remote working professionals that are both visitors and travelers passing through. As a result, there are a number of Bend co-working spaces set up specifically for remote workers. 

A view of the Haven Coworking space in Bend Oregon.
A view of the Haven Coworking space in Bend Oregon. Image from their website.

As remote workers ourselves, we are thankful for these places. Check out our full article about the best places to work remotely in Bend.

Conclusion

There you have it! Hopefully you know more about things to do in Bend Oregon.

As central Oregon locals, we love our home, and we want to help you make the most of your time in Bend and central Oregon.

Us in front of the Bend Oregon mural in the Old Mill.
Us in front of the Bend Oregon mural in the Old Mill.

If you’re in town for a few days, check out our other articles about central Oregon

Also, subscribe to our YouTube and follow us on Instagram for more inspiration for exploring the PNW. Happy roaming!

Author

Logan loves hiking, camping, surfing, and finding unique places to explore in the Pacific Northwest. He moved to central Oregon with Abby in 2022 and they have been roaming the PNW together ever since.

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