What to Do in Bend
Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, Bend is a haven for adventure, relaxation, and discovery, offering stunning landscapes and a rich local culture. For those seeking a unique experience, Bend also provides the opportunity to legally explore psilocybin therapy in a safe, serene setting, designed to foster personal growth and well-being.
To make planning your time here easier, we created this guide to help you find everything you need for a true Bend adventure!
Where to Stay
- The Oxford Hotel: Let yourself relax in eco-chic luxury right in downtown Bend. This boutique hotel offers plush accommodations with a commitment to sustainability. Get the best night's sleep wrapped in organic linens in a room furnished with locally crafted furnishings and stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. It is the perfect blend of indulgence and environmental consciousness.
- Campfire Hotel: This boutique hotel motor lodge serves as the perfect home base for outdoor adventures in Bend, combining edgy and affordable accommodations with thoughtful amenities. Inviting outdoor spaces, include a saltwater pool, hot tub, and fire pit area. With downtown Bend’s dining, shopping, and attractions just minutes away, this hotel is designed for both adventure and relaxation.
- Airbnb: For those seeking a home-away-from-home experience, Bend's Airbnb options are as diverse as the city itself. From cozy downtown lofts to spacious mountain retreats, you'll find the perfect base for your time here. Many rentals even come with bikes, kayaks, or ski equipment to jumpstart your outdoor explorations.
Where to Eat
- Spork: Indulge on a global culinary journey without leaving Bend! Spork's menu fuses flavors from around the world with locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is a creative masterpiece, from Thai-spiced fried chicken to Caribbean-inspired rice bowls. The vibrant, casual atmosphere perfectly captures Bend's laid-back gourmet scene.
- Active Culture: Fuel your Bend ventures with nourishing, organic fare at Active Culture. This health-conscious eatery offers diverse vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options packed with flavor. Their smoothie bowls and hearty salads are the ideal pre-hike energy boost, while the cozy interior adorned with local art makes it a great spot to relax and refuel after a day of exploring.
- Rancher Butcher Chef: Celebrating the bounty of Central Oregon's ranches and farms, Rancher Butcher Chef offers an authentic farm-to-table experience. Savor perfectly grilled steaks, innovative charcuterie boards, and seasonal vegetable dishes that showcase the region's best produce. The rustic ambiance and knowledgeable staff make every meal here a delightful exploration of local flavors. It is the ideal spot if you are looking for more than just grabbing food. Eating here is an experience for all senses.
- Chicken Shanty: A local favorite for comfort food done right, Chicken Shanty offers mouth watering fried chicken in a casual, family-friendly setting. It features classic chicken strip baskets, delicious sandwiches, and a huge housemade sauce selection. It's the ideal spot for a satisfying meal that won't break the bank.
- Wild Rose Northern Thai Eats: This cozy eatery serves bold, spicy flavors in dishes like Khao Soi (coconut curry noodle soup) and Sai Oua (house-made sausage). The intimate setting and reasonable prices make it a perfect choice for a flavorful night out.
- Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails: The ideal choice for a more upscale dining experience with a sophisticated Northwest and Southern cuisine blend. Their menu features dishes like blackened redfish and bourbon-braised short ribs, complemented by a wide-ranging wine list and craft cocktails. The sleek, modern interior provides the perfect backdrop for a special night out.
Coffee Shops and Cafes
Bend's thriving coffee culture offers a variety of local roasters and cafes.
- Thump Coffee Roasters: A Bend institution that roasts its own beans and serves expertly crafted espresso drinks in an industrial-chic setting. Don't miss their pour-over bar for a truly exceptional cup of joe.
- Backporch Coffee Roasters: With several locations around Bend, Backporch offers consistently excellent coffee in warm, inviting spaces. Their commitment to ethically sourced beans and precise roasting techniques can be tasted in every cup.
- Lone Pine Coffee Roasters: This charming downtown cafe roasts small batches of single-origin coffees. The minimalist decor and friendly baristas create a welcoming atmosphere for savoring your morning brew or settling in with a good book.
- The Sparrow Bakery: While famous for their Ocean Rolls, a must-try pastry, Sparrow also makes delicious coffee and espresso drinks. Their Northwest Crossing location offers a sunny patio perfect for lazy weekend mornings.
Shopping in Bend
Creating memorable experiences is one fun aspect of vacations. The other is finding that perfect souvenir to commemorate the trip in something more tangible. Luckily, Bend has plenty of options to do just that!
Downtown
Stroll through Bend's charming downtown, where historic buildings house an eclectic mix of boutiques and outdoor gear shops. Each store offers a unique slice of Bend's personality:
- Outside In: More than just an outdoor gear store, Outside In is a gateway to Bend's adventurous spirit. Their knowledgeable staff can offer expert advice on local trails and activities, making it the perfect first stop for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Evergreen: This delightful shop showcases the work of over 80 local artists and makers. From quirky Bend-themed t-shirts and stickers to handcrafted jewelry and home decor, you'll find the perfect memento of your Bend adventure here.
- Fjällräven Bend: Experience the intersection of Scandinavian design and Bend's outdoor lifestyle at Fjällräven.The store's minimalist design and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts and fashion-conscious shoppers alike.
- Title 9: Named after the groundbreaking law that revolutionized women's sports, Title 9 is more than just an athletic wear store - it's a celebration of women's strength and adventure.
- Lone Crow Bungalow: Discover a treasure trove of home decor, local art, and handcrafted jewelry at Lone Crow Bungalow. From locally made candles and soaps to unique furniture pieces, it's the perfect place to find something special to bring a bit of Bend's artistic spirit into your home.
- Dudley's Bookshop Cafe: A book lover's paradise, Dudley's combines the best of both worlds - a thoughtfully curated bookstore and a cozy cafe. With comfortable seating and a warm atmosphere, losing track of time in this literary haven is easy.
Old Mill District
Once home to two of the largest pine sawmills in the world, set against the backdrop of the Deschutes River, the Old Mill District now combines scenic beauty with premium shopping and entertainment:
- REI: Gear up for any outdoor activity imaginable in this outdoor aficionado's paradise.
- Lululemon: Find the perfect blend of style and function for your yoga, hiking, or lounging needs.
- Vanilla Urban Threads: This locally-owned boutique brings a touch of urban chic to Bend's casual outdoor vibe. Offering a carefully picked selection of trendy clothing and accessories for women, Vanilla is the go-to spot for updating your wardrobe with the latest styles.
- Kara's Kitchen Shop: A culinary enthusiast's dream, with high-quality cookware and unique kitchen gadgets.
- Confluence Fly Shop: Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to fly fishing, this shop offers everything you need to tackle Bend's world-class fishing spots.
- Nashelle Jewelry: Experience the beauty of locally crafted, nature-inspired jewelry at Nashelle. Each piece is handmade in their Bend studio, often incorporating elements like Oregon sunstone or cascading designs reminiscent of Bend's waterfalls.
- Ginger's Kitchenware: Ginger's Kitchenware is a cook's paradise. Browse their wide selection of cookware, bakeware, and kitchen accessories, including many hard-to-find items.
Grocery Stores
- West Coast Provisions: This gourmet market is a food lover's paradise. Explore an impressive selection of local and international cheeses, charcuterie, and fine wines. Their prepared foods section offers delicious grab-and-go options, perfect for a picnic in one of Bend's beautiful parks.
- Newport Market: A beloved local institution, Newport Market goes beyond your average grocery store. Their extensive beer and wine selection showcases the best of Bend's renowned craft brewing scene. Don't miss their in-house deli for freshly made sandwiches and salads – ideal for fueling up before a day of exploration.
- Market of Choice: This upscale grocer offers a wide array of organic, natural, and conventional products to suit every dietary need and preference. Their bulk foods section is perfect for stocking up on trail mix for outdoor adventures, while the expansive prepared foods area provides quick and delicious meal options.
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Step Into Bend's Breathtaking Backcountry
Popular Hikes
- Pilot Butte: Right in the heart of Bend, this extinct volcano offers a moderate hike with a big payoff. Climb this local landmark for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, surrounding desert, and snow-capped Cascade peaks. It's especially magical at sunset! While there is a road to drive up, check beforehand to see if it is open.
- Deschutes River Trail: In the mood for a stroll along a picturesque view? The Deschutes River trail is excellent for all skill levels. You'll enjoy scenic river views, wildlife spotting, and the calming sounds of rushing water. Don't miss the chance to see kayakers navigating the whitewater rapids!
- Tumalo Falls: Just a short drive from Bend, this 97-foot waterfall will take your breath away. The viewpoint is easily accessible, but more adventurous hikers can continue on the trail for stunning views from above the falls and access to more secluded cascades upstream.
- Smith Rock State Park: A mecca for rock climbers but equally captivating for hikers. The Misery Ridge Trail offers a challenging ascent rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the Crooked River and towering rock spires. In the mood for something equally stunning but shorter in mileage? The Homestead to North Point Loop gives hikers a chance to spot horses ford the river and offers great views of the giant basalt column lining the Crooked River Rapids! Keep an eye out for golden eagles soaring above as well!
Seasonal Adventures for All
Mt. Bachelor Activities
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Carve through powder on Mt. Bachelor's 4,300 acres of lift-accessible terrain. With a long season often stretching into May, you'll find runs for every skill level and breathtaking views of the Three Sisters mountains.
- Summer Mountain Biking: When the snow melts, Mt. Bachelor transforms into a mountain biker's paradise. Cruise down flowy singletrack or test your skills on technical downhill trails. The lift-accessed bike park caters to riders of all abilities.
- Scenic Chairlift Rides: Soak in the majesty of the Cascade Range without breaking a sweat. The 15-minute ride to the summit offers unparalleled views of alpine lakes, ancient lava flows, and distant peaks. Bring your camera!
- Disc Golf: Challenge yourself on one of Oregon's highest-elevation disc golf courses. The 18-hole course winds through beautiful alpine terrain, combining your love for outdoor recreation with friendly competition.
Unleash the Fun for Your Dog
Dog Parks
Known as every dog's dream destination, Bend also provides the best amenities for Pups!
- Pine Nursery Dog Park: Let your four-legged friend jump for joy in this spacious, 14-acre off-leash area. It's a canine paradise with separate small and large dog sections, an agility course, and plenty of open space for pups to get their energy out. The park also features walking trails and picnic areas for humans to enjoy.
- Bob Wenger Memorial Off-Leash Area: Located along the scenic Deschutes River Trail, this fenced dog park offers the perfect blend of exercise with a view. Your pup can cool off in designated river access points while you can capture stunning pictures of your pup with the scenic background.
- Riverbend Dog Park: Now, who let the dogs out? At Riverbend Park, the off-leash area is a hit with local dog owners. The park provides river access for water-loving dogs, plenty of open space for fetch, and beautiful views of the Deschutes River. It's also a great starting point for leashed walks along the river trail.
Wellness: Fitness and Spas
For those looking to stay active or relax in Bend, Oregon, you’ll find a lineup of top-rated fitness studios and rejuvenating spas to elevate your visit. From hot yoga and barre to luxurious spa and massage therapy treatments, Bend offers wellness options for every preference.
Top Fitness Studios in Bend
- Namaspa Yoga & Massage: A community-centered yoga studio offering power vinyasa, yin yoga, and guided meditation sessions for all skill levels.
- Groove Studio: Discover fitness through fun at Groove, a dance studio with high-energy dance and movement classes that appeal to all fitness levels.
- Yoga Shala of Bend: Dive into authentic yoga classes with different styles, including vinyasa and restorative yoga, in a peaceful studio setting.
- Bend Hot Yoga: A top choice for hot yoga in Bend, this studio offers heated classes designed to increase flexibility, detoxify, and rejuvenate.
- Still Water Yoga: Known for mindfulness-focused yoga, Still Water offers calming classes that help relieve stress and promote relaxation.
- Barre3 Bend: This studio combines ballet barre, Pilates, and yoga to create a low-impact, high-reward workout experience.
- Lagree High Desert: Home to the Lagree Method, a full-body workout that incorporates strength, cardio, and endurance training for a complete fitness regimen
Local Spas and Wellness Studios
- Evoke Healing Arts: This wellness spa offers holistic services designed to foster healing and relaxation.
- Jinsei Spa: A luxury spa with an array of therapeutic treatments focused on personalized, restorative experiences.
- Spa W Bend: Known for its massage therapy in Bend, this serene spa offers a wide range of treatments, including facials and body therapies.
- Anjou Spa: A premier eco-friendly spa offering treatments with a focus on sustainability, from organic facials to body wraps.
- Loft Wellness Studio: A cozy wellness spa that specializes in custom treatments, perfect for a rejuvenating escape.
The Adventure Awaits!
We can't wait for you to experience all the wonders Bend has to offer! From outdoor adventures to culinary delights, your journey here promises to be unforgettable. For personalized recommendations or to plan your perfect Bend itinerary, please don't hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable concierge service. See you soon in beautiful Bend, Oregon!