20 Unique Things to Do in Bend, OR
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=".vc_custom_1729546853194{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}"]This article is a Guest Post from RentBlog
Located in the beautiful PNW, east of the Cascades, Bend, OR notably attracts outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. If you’re looking to fish, interested in kayaking, an avid hiker, or novice skier, you’ve likely heard of or even visited this stunning city. But, did you know that Bend is also Oregon’s fastest-growing city and the sixth-best place to live in the state? Even if you’re not the most “outdoorsy,” Bend offers lots to do from craft breweries, unique shops, art classes, and more! If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry! We’ve compiled a list of the most unique things to do in Bend year-round. Whether you’ve just moved into your rental home in Bend, are apartment hunting, lived in your Bend home for years, or are just visiting, you’re sure to find at least one unique activity to add to your list.
1. Surf the Deschutes River
Have you ever tried river surfing? Van Kookz’ Kevin Arnold loves “catch[ing] some waves with my fellow kooks at the Standing Wave at McKay Park.” If you’re not into river surfing, he recommends “bring[ing] your favorite floatation device for a few mellow laps on the mini whitewater section.” After all, “Nothing beats a cold refreshing dip in the Deschutes River on a hot summer day.”
2. Garden sustainably
Passionate about sustainable living and gardening? Why not create a custom greenhouse or permaculture garden for your home? Shakti Farm Design helps “individuals and communities grow their own food with eco-friendly designs that integrate into Bend’s natural landscape,” tells Shiv Sagar. Once built, you can spend your free time gardening, enjoying, and cooking with the fruits of your labor.
3. Mountain bike
If mountain biking is more your speed, Phil’s Trail Complex is a must. Located just outside of Bend, this legendary mountain biking area offers over fifty miles of single-track trails perfect for riders of all abilities. “The trails wind through beautiful pine forests and provide stunning views of the Cascade Mountains,” describes Brian Hamilton, executive editor of Skyblue Overland. “Popular trails include Ben’s Trail, which is great for beginners, and Whoops Trail, known for its fun jumps and berms. The area is well-maintained by local volunteers, ensuring that the trails are always in top condition,” continues Brian. Perfect for seasoned riders, beginners, and everyone in between, you’re sure to enjoy Phil’s Trail Complex.
4. Shop downtown
Beyond the outdoors, Bend also has the most charming downtown. Filled with a plethora of cute stores, we guarantee you won’t leave empty-handed. Photographer Kayla McKenzie recommends checking out all of the locally owned shops and then “tak[ing] a stroll through Drake Park and walk along the waterfront,” afterward. We truly can’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon!
5. Share a bowl of soup
Committed to connecting the Central Oregon community to delicious and locally produced food, the High Desert Food and Farm Alliance (HDFFA) hosts several events year-round to do just that. This nonprofit truly “believes that everyone deserves good food [which] results in better health outcomes for our residents and a healthier local economy,” explains executive director Sharon Maier-Kennelly. Their SOUPer Bowl event occurs annually every February and showcases soups from over a dozen local restaurants. If soup isn’t your thing, they also host farm-to-table dinners, film screenings, and more, so be sure to check out their calendar.
6. Hike Pilot Butte
“For a panoramic view of Bend, head to Pilot Butte, an extinct volcano right in the city,” suggests MOT Photography’s Tom Lebsack. This short hike has an incredible payout with “a rewarding 360-degree view of the Cascade Mountains and the high desert.” This hike is perfect for all skill levels so it’s a great place to take some new (family, couple, or other) photos to decorate your space. Tom especially recommends photographing during sunrise and sunset for the best lighting against the vast Oregon sky.
7. See a show
“A show at Bend's historic Tower Theatre is a classic local experience,” says blogger Sarah K Voiles. Located in the old downtown, this iconic venue has been a cultural landmark since the 1940s for a reason. Whether you’re going for some live music, a comedy show, a classic film showing, or a theatrical production, you’re sure to enjoy your time here. Additionally, “The beautifully restored art deco architecture adds a nostalgic touch, creating an intimate atmosphere that locals cherish,” notes Sarah.
8. Go wine tasting
Located in the heart of downtown, FERM & fare wine is a petite bar and bottle shop with the best European vibe. This spot was designed to stimulate conversation and they “pride ourselves in offering knowledge without pretension,” says advanced sommelier and chef Dave Bodi. While they offer an “eclectic selection of delicious wines by the glass and bottle” daily, we especially recommend going on Thursday for their blind wine-tasting flights.
9. Take a workshop
Looking to meet new people and pick up (or hone in on) a new skill? CASA de STELA offers the best workshops in the area. Whether it's pasta making or learning the art of dyeing with plants, their creative and hands-on experiences are sure to inspire you while connecting you to fellow Bend locals. Not only are their workshops amazing, but their store also “specialize[s] in handmade ceramics, in-house apparel designs, curated vintage finds, and unique home goods,” says owner Jess Bercovici.
10. Listen to classical music
Violin, piano, cello – oh my! Did you know you can enjoy classical music right in Bend? Since 2008 High Desert Chamber Music has brought top-tier classical chamber musicians right to Central Oregon. Executive director Isabelle Senger especially recommends checking out their “award-winning concert series [which] features renowned performers.” As the “leader and premier resource of chamber music presentations,” you’re sure to enjoy the show.
11. Support your local growers
Support the small and shop Cultivate Farms’ farm store for the best locally grown food. This farm focuses on “regenerative practices, sustainable growing, and creating a healthy microclimate, [and offers] fresh, seasonal produce, flowers, eggs, and hand-crafted natural products, all grown with care for the land and our community,” say owners Maegen Hindson and James Radnich. Shopping locally not only “ensures you’re contributing to the health of our environment and local economy,” but we swear it makes your meals taste better.
12. Throw an art party
Whether you’ve just moved into your new home and want to throw a unique housewarming party or just want to break up the routine, consider one of Bend Art Events’ creative experiences. Artist and owner Dominique Kongsli “offers fun and engaging art parties [that] create memorable [and] creative experiences,” for all ages. With professional instructors, high-quality supplies, and a variety of themes to choose from, your party is sure to be a hit.
13. Hike to a waterfall
We actually recommend you do go chasing waterfalls! Muddy Camper’s Chris Moore recommends hiking to the stunning Tumalo Falls. This stunning 97-foot waterfall is truly a sight to behold. If you’re looking for a pre-hike bevy or post-adventure cool down, Chris suggests “unwind[ing] with a local brew at Crux or Bend Brewing.”Another great option is Tamolitch Falls, also known as Blue Pool. Just a short hour's drive from downtown, “It’s an easy-moderate 3.9-mile round trip hike to the most beautiful bright blue pool you've ever seen,” tells Ready, Set, PTO’s Lauren Wilson.
14. Deschutes River Trail
If you haven’t yet, the Deschutes River Trail is a must. Not only is this trail packed with stunning views, but offers several options for hikers of all levels. Regardless of which trail you choose, the Deschutes Trail Coalition wants to remind us “to tread lightly and stay on designated trails, yield to other trail users, say hi and smile.” If you’re more of a solo hiker and prefer hiking with headphones in, “make sure you are able to still be aware of your surroundings and other trail users, and use only one headphone or keep the volume down.”
15. Soak in the springs
Located within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, the Paulina Hot Springs offers the most relaxing and rejuvenating experience. “The hot springs are situated along the shores of Paulina Lake, providing stunning views of the surrounding caldera and forest,” describes Brian Hamilton. The short hike “along the Paulina Lake shoreline adds to the sense of adventure, [and] the warm, mineral-rich waters are perfect for soaking after a day of hiking or exploring the monument.” With the serene setting and soothing waters, you’re sure to enjoy your soak at this stunning natural hot spring.
16. Bend Teardrop
Looking for a little weekend or overnight trip? Bend Teardrop’s CEO and founder Dave Jaber recommends renting one of their campers, “head[ing] up the Cascade Lakes Highway, and explor[ing] one of many high alpine lakes and rivers.” If you’re looking for a comfortable way to enjoy the outdoors, a trip in one of their trailers is sure to help you create lifelong memories in Bend and beyond.
17. Rent a movie from Blockbuster
Bet you didn’t expect to see Blockbuster on this list! After a day of hiking or if you just want to stay in, host a watch party at home and rent a movie from the last Blockbuster store on Earth. Filled with nostalgia and a plethora of film options, visiting this spot is truly a unique experience.
18. Enjoy a locally grown and prepared dinner
While Portland, OR, is known for its food scene, don’t overlook Bend! Seize Central Oregon Locavore’s unique experiential dining opportunity at one of their Meet Your Farmer dinners. This series pairs local farmers and ranchers with local restaurants and challenges the chosen chef to prepare a meal using as many of the chosen farmer’s products as possible. Here you’ll also enjoy a presentation from the featured farmer, who will share insights about their farm and the products used in the carefully prepared meal. This is just one of several ways Central Oregon Locavore strives to provide the community with locally grown goods.If you’d prefer to make dinner yourself. Check out their market which “features both certified organic and organically grown items, and proudly offers the largest selection of locally raised, grass-fed, antibiotic-free, and added hormone-free meats in the state of Oregon,” describes outreach coordinator Lexie Houchins-Park. With their mission of “support[ing] local farms and ranches for the benefit of the individual, community, society, and the planet,” this food with not only taste good, but also feel amazing.
19. Visit the High Desert Museum
“Just a short drive from downtown Bend, the High Desert Museum is an enriching experience that blends art, culture, and natural history,” recommends Tom Lebsack. This museum is full of outdoor exhibits where you can have close encounters with owls, falcons, hawks, and even a vulture if you’re lucky. You’ll also learn lots about Native American history and culture here with the living history ranch. This museum is truly “a place where education meets natural beauty,” and such a great unique thing to do in Bend.
20. Experience a bit of paradise in Oregon
It’s no secret that Bend can get cold, after all, it is a large snow sports hub, but if you’re missing that tropical feel, be sure to stop by the Paradise Produce Stand. “Located in the heart of Bend’s Westside, Paradise Produce is a vibrant, open-air produce stand that services Central Oregon with the freshest local produce possible,” describes manager Ellie Bass. Inspired by a local fruit stand in Kihei, Maui, this place was started with the goal of bringing some of that “aloha” spirit to Oregon. Be sure to mark your calendars, because this stand is only open from May to October.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]