Fun Things to Do in Bend | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Bend Travel Guide
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Welcome to Bend! Located in the heart of Central Oregon, Bend is a vibrant and picturesque city that offers a plethora of outdoor adventures, stunning natural landscapes, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Known for its year-round recreational opportunities, Bend is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and mountain biking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The city is also home to numerous breweries, making it a haven for beer lovers. With its friendly atmosphere, breathtaking scenery, and endless activities, Bend is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable travel experience.
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Things To Do In Bend
Bend is a vibrant city located in the state of Oregon. There are numerous things to do in Bend that cater to a variety of interests.
One of the main attractions in Bend is the outdoor activities it offers. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike or bike along the scenic trails of the Deschutes River Trail or explore the Smith Rock State Park. For those who enjoy water activities, kayaking or rafting on the Deschutes River is a popular choice. Additionally, Bend is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities at the nearby Mount Bachelor.
Bend is also home to a thriving craft beer scene. The city boasts numerous breweries and pubs where visitors can sample a wide range of locally brewed beers. Taking a brewery tour is a great way to learn about the brewing process and taste some unique flavors.
For art and culture enthusiasts, Bend offers several galleries and museums to explore. The High Desert Museum showcases the natural and cultural history of the region, while the Bend Art Center features rotating exhibits of contemporary art. The Tower Theatre is a historic venue that hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and film screenings.
In addition, Bend is known for its culinary scene. The city is home to a diverse range of restaurants and food carts that offer a wide variety of cuisines. Visitors can indulge in farm-to-table dishes, fresh seafood, or international flavors.
Lastly, Bend is a great destination for shopping and exploring downtown. The Old Mill District is a popular shopping area with a mix of national retailers and local boutiques. Downtown Bend is known for its charming shops, galleries, and restaurants, making it a perfect place to stroll and soak in the city's atmosphere.
In summary, Bend offers a plethora of things to do for visitors. From outdoor activities to craft beer tasting, art and culture exploration, culinary delights, and shopping, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Tours And Activities In Bend
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Best Time To Visit Bend
The best time to visit Bend is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F. It is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and river rafting. Additionally, July is when the annual Bend Summer Festival takes place, featuring live music, food vendors, and arts and crafts. However, it is important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter experience, spring and fall can also be great times to visit. During these seasons, the weather is still pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. Spring is particularly beautiful, with blooming wildflowers and the chance to see wildlife. Fall offers stunning foliage colors and is a great time for hiking and photography. Winter is another popular time to visit Bend, especially for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The city is located near several ski resorts, such as Mount Bachelor, which offers excellent slopes and stunning mountain views. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and snowfall during this time.
Flight Calendar For Bend
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Best Areas To Stay In Bend
Bend is a beautiful city located in central Oregon, known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreational activities. When it comes to finding the best areas for accommodation in Bend, there are a few standout neighborhoods that offer a range of amenities and attractions.
Downtown Bend is the heart of the city and offers a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of historic buildings, trendy shops, and delicious restaurants. Staying in this area allows easy access to popular attractions like the Deschutes River, Drake Park, and the Old Mill District. Downtown Bend also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, making it an exciting place to stay.
Old Mill District is a revitalized area that was once home to a lumber mill. Today, it is a bustling neighborhood with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The area features a scenic riverfront, upscale shopping outlets, and a variety of dining options. Staying in the Old Mill District provides convenient access to the Les Schwab Amphitheater, which hosts concerts and events during the summer months.
Northwest Crossing is a newer neighborhood that offers a more suburban feel while still being close to downtown Bend. This area is known for its charming streets, beautiful parks, and community events. Staying in Northwest Crossing provides easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and biking trails, as well as local amenities such as grocery stores and cafes.
Westside is another popular area for accommodation in Bend, known for its proximity to the Cascade Mountains and outdoor recreational opportunities. This neighborhood offers a mix of residential areas, local businesses, and parks. Staying in Westside allows for easy access to popular attractions like Mount Bachelor for skiing and snowboarding, as well as the Phil's Trail Complex for mountain biking.
Overall, Bend offers a range of fantastic areas for accommodation, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you prefer the vibrant atmosphere of downtown, the scenic riverfront of the Old Mill District, the suburban feel of Northwest Crossing, or the outdoor adventure opportunities of Westside, there is a neighborhood in Bend that will suit your preferences and provide an unforgettable stay.
Hotels Map Of Bend
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Transportation To Bend
There are several transportation options to Bend.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Bend is the Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), which is approximately 17 miles away. Several airlines offer flights to and from this airport, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
2. By Car: Bend is easily accessible by car, as it is located along the US Highway 97. If you are coming from Portland, it is approximately a 3-hour drive south on the US-26 and US-97. From Eugene, it is about a 2.5-hour drive northeast on the US-126 and US-20.
3. By Bus: There are bus services available to Bend from various cities in Oregon. Greyhound offers bus routes to Bend from Portland, Eugene, and other cities. Additionally, the Central Oregon Breeze provides bus service between Bend and Portland.
4. By Train: Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Bend. The closest Amtrak station is in Chemult, which is about 90 miles southeast of Bend. From there, you would need to arrange for alternative transportation to reach Bend.
5. By Shuttle: There are shuttle services available from the Redmond Municipal Airport to Bend. These shuttles provide convenient transportation for travelers arriving by air.
Once you arrive in Bend, there are also local transportation options available, such as taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, and rental cars. Additionally, Bend has a public transportation system called Cascades East Transit, which operates bus routes within the city and surrounding areas.
Nearby Destination From Bend
1. Redmond: A charming town known for its outdoor recreational activities and stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.
2. Sisters: A picturesque village surrounded by towering pine forests, offering a quaint downtown area and access to numerous hiking trails.
3. Sunriver: A resort community nestled along the Deschutes River, offering world-class golf courses, biking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere.
4. La Pine: A small town located near the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring lava caves.
5. Prineville: A historic city with a vibrant downtown, known for its proximity to Prineville Reservoir and excellent fishing opportunities.
6. Madras: A gateway to outdoor adventures, including hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing in the nearby Deschutes National Forest.
7. Terrebonne: Home to Smith Rock State Park, a world-renowned rock climbing destination with breathtaking views of the Crooked River Canyon.
8. Culver: A charming agricultural town surrounded by rolling farmlands, offering a peaceful atmosphere and access to Lake Billy Chinook for water activities.
9. Tumalo: A small community known for its scenic beauty, offering opportunities for horseback riding, fishing, and exploring the Deschutes River.
10. Powell Butte: A rural area with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, popular for its hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and equestrian activities.