Key Takeaways:
- Bend, Oregon is a year-round destination that offers everything from outdoor adventures to vibrant arts and culture.
- Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or local festivals, Bend has something for every type of traveler.
- Plan your trip to Bend for a mix of scenic beauty, exciting activities, and a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes all.
Table of Contents:
- Hike the Tumalo Falls Trail
- Explore the High Desert Museum
- Visit Smith Rock State Park
- Ski or Snowboard at Mt. Bachelor
- Take a Stroll Through Downtown Bend
- Enjoy Craft Beer at Local Breweries
- Attend the Bend Winterfest
- Visit the Deschutes National Forest
- Explore the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
- Take a Dip in the Deschutes River
Bend, Oregon, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those in search of a laid-back vibe surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Known for its breathtaking views, over 300 days of sunshine a year, and an eclectic downtown, Bend offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, skiing down snowy peaks, or exploring its growing arts scene, Bend has become a must-visit destination in the Pacific Northwest. Its unique blend of outdoor activities, cultural events, and vibrant local life ensures there’s never a dull moment. Here’s a list of 10 exciting things you can do in Bend, no matter the season.
1. Hike the Tumalo Falls Trail
The Tumalo Falls Trail is a must-see in Bend, offering a short but stunning hike to one of the area’s most famous waterfalls. The trailhead is just a short drive from downtown, and the hike itself takes you along Tumalo Creek, where you’ll enjoy incredible views of the cascading water and surrounding forests. The trail is easy enough for most hikers, but still offers plenty of beauty and solitude. Along the way, you’ll pass through a variety of landscapes, from dense forests to rocky outcrops.
If you’re lucky, you may also spot some local wildlife along the trail, such as deer or birds of prey. The waterfall itself is absolutely breathtaking, especially in the spring when the snowmelt makes it even more powerful. This hike is ideal year-round, with different seasons offering new perspectives on the falls. Whether you visit in the lush summer months or during the snowy winter, Tumalo Falls never disappoints.
2. Explore the High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum is one of Bend’s top attractions, showcasing the region’s rich natural history, wildlife, and cultural heritage. The museum features exhibits on local wildlife, the history of the area’s Indigenous peoples, and the development of Bend as a city. One of the highlights is the museum’s live animal exhibits, where visitors can see animals like birds of prey, otters, and even a cougar up close. The museum’s outdoor exhibits offer even more to explore, including a recreated Old West town and walking paths through beautiful natural landscapes.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum offers special programs and events throughout the year, making it a great destination for both locals and visitors. It’s an engaging experience for the whole family, with educational opportunities and hands-on activities for kids. The High Desert Museum offers an immersive way to learn about the area while enjoying Bend’s incredible natural beauty.
3. Visit Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is a world-renowned rock climbing destination and a must-visit spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s stunning rock formations, including the iconic Monkey Face, attract climbers from around the world. If you’re not into climbing, the park also offers several beautiful hiking trails that take you through dramatic canyons, along the Crooked River, and up to the park’s stunning viewpoints. Smith Rock offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the region, with rugged cliffs and expansive vistas.
Even if you’re just visiting for the view, the park offers plenty to explore, including opportunities for photography, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The park is also home to a variety of plant species, making it a fantastic location for botanists and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re a climber or a hiker, Smith Rock is a perfect place to experience the rugged beauty of Central Oregon.
4. Ski or Snowboard at Mt. Bachelor
Mt. Bachelor is one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest, offering something for everyone from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders. The mountain boasts over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. With consistent snowfall and stunning views, Mt. Bachelor offers incredible skiing conditions all winter long. In addition to downhill skiing and snowboarding, the mountain also offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and tubing, ensuring fun for the whole family.
When the snow melts, Mt. Bachelor transforms into a hub for mountain biking and hiking. The resort’s scenic chairlift rides give visitors a chance to take in breathtaking views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains. Whether you’re visiting in winter for skiing or in the summer for outdoor adventures, Mt. Bachelor is a must-visit destination for year-round fun.
5. Take a Stroll Through Downtown Bend
Bend’s downtown is a vibrant hub filled with boutique shops, local restaurants, art galleries, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a casual stroll, do some shopping, or enjoy a delicious meal, downtown Bend offers plenty of options. The area is known for its unique architecture, local craft breweries, and small-town charm, making it a great place to spend the day. Many of the local shops feature handmade goods, perfect for picking up a special souvenir to remember your trip.
If you’re a food lover, Bend’s downtown also boasts a thriving culinary scene, with restaurants offering everything from farm-to-table dining to international cuisine. After exploring the shops and eateries, take a seat at one of the outdoor patios and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Downtown Bend offers something for everyone and is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city’s culture.
6. Enjoy Craft Beer at Local Breweries
Bend has earned a reputation as one of the best craft beer cities in the U.S., with more breweries per capita than almost any other city. You’ll find everything from light pilsners to rich stouts and everything in between. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking to sample something new, Bend’s breweries offer a wide range of unique and flavorful options. Many of these breweries have taprooms where you can enjoy a flight of different beers while chatting with locals and learning about the brewing process.
Several of the breweries also offer food menus featuring local ingredients, making them a great place to relax and refuel after a long day of adventure. Bend’s brewery scene is not just about the beer but the experience, with many breweries hosting live music, trivia nights, and seasonal events. For beer lovers, a brewery tour is an excellent way to explore the city’s diverse beer culture while meeting fellow beer enthusiasts.
7. Attend the Bend Winterfest
Bend Winterfest is one of the city’s most anticipated annual events, celebrating the beauty and excitement of winter in Central Oregon. This three-day festival brings together locals and visitors to enjoy live music, ice sculpting, snowshoeing, and outdoor fun. With a variety of family-friendly activities, Winterfest offers something for everyone, from kids’ play zones to beer gardens for adults. The event also showcases local art and crafts, making it a great way to experience the community’s creativity.
During the festival, you can watch ice sculptors turn blocks of ice into intricate works of art, participate in a fun winter run, and enjoy delicious local food. The Bend Winterfest is the perfect way to embrace the winter season while celebrating Bend’s lively atmosphere and outdoor culture. It’s a fantastic event to experience, especially if you’re visiting during the colder months.
8. Visit the Deschutes National Forest
The Deschutes National Forest is a vast, stunning area that offers a variety of outdoor activities year-round. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, camping, or simply taking in the natural beauty, the forest is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The forest is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elk, deer, and various bird species, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing and photography. Hiking trails in the forest range from easy walks to more challenging treks, with many offering incredible views of the Cascade Mountains.
In addition to outdoor activities, Deschutes National Forest also has several stunning lakes and rivers, perfect for boating, fishing, or just relaxing by the water. The forest’s beauty changes with the seasons, with vibrant wildflowers in the spring, lush greenery in the summer, and colorful foliage in the fall. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, Deschutes National Forest offers a diverse range of experiences for nature lovers.
9. Explore the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is one of the most beautiful drives in the Pacific Northwest, offering stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. This 66-mile route takes you through some of Central Oregon’s most picturesque landscapes, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring. The byway is home to several pristine lakes, including Sparks Lake, Elk Lake, and Cultus Lake, which offer peaceful spots for picnicking, kayaking, or just enjoying the scenery.
In addition to the natural beauty, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a fantastic route for wildlife watching. You might spot deer, elk, or even bald eagles soaring above the lakes. The byway is a perfect year-round destination, with snow-capped peaks in the winter and lush, green landscapes in the warmer months. Whether you’re exploring in your car or stopping to hike around the lakes, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a must-see for nature lovers.
10. Take a Dip in the Deschutes River
The Deschutes River is one of Bend’s most iconic natural features, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy water activities year-round. In the summer, you can float down the river on a tube, kayak, or paddleboard, enjoying the beautiful scenery as you glide past lush greenery and towering trees. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the river also has rapids perfect for whitewater rafting. The Deschutes River is the perfect spot for a refreshing swim or a relaxing day by the water.
In the winter, the river is a popular spot for ice fishing and scenic hikes along its banks. The river’s crystal-clear water and surrounding landscape provide a peaceful retreat, no matter the season. Whether you’re looking for an active water sport or a calm, reflective moment, the Deschutes River is an essential part of Bend’s outdoor experience.
What to do if you have kids?
Bend is an excellent destination for families, offering a variety of activities that kids will love. From the High Desert Museum’s hands-on exhibits to the Bend Winterfest’s fun winter activities, there’s no shortage of entertainment for little ones. Take a family hike at Tumalo Falls, or explore the Deschutes National Forest, where kids can experience nature firsthand. The city also has several parks, kid-friendly breweries, and family-friendly dining spots, ensuring that everyone in the family has something to enjoy. Bend’s outdoor attractions and friendly atmosphere make it a great place to create lasting memories with your children.
Where can I find free events in Bend, Oregon, taking place this weekend?
Looking for free events in Bend this weekend? Use our tool, Planmyweekend.ai, to discover the best free events happening around the city. Whether you’re looking for outdoor festivals, live music, or local markets, our tool makes it easy to find fun and free activities that suit your interests. Stay updated on what’s happening in Bend and plan your weekend without spending a dime.
Final Thoughts
Bend, Oregon, is a city that truly offers something for everyone, whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a foodie, or someone looking to relax and take in beautiful scenery. With its diverse landscapes, thriving arts scene, and welcoming community, Bend is an ideal destination year-round. From skiing on Mt. Bachelor to hiking in the Deschutes National Forest or enjoying a cold craft beer, the possibilities are endless. Plan your next adventure in Bend and experience all the excitement this beautiful city has to offer!
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai