Things To Do
in Bend
Bend is a charming city located in central Oregon known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The city is situated along the beautiful Deschutes River, offering scenic views and plenty of water activities. Bend has a vibrant downtown area with trendy shops, craft breweries, and delicious restaurants.
With a laid-back atmosphere and a strong sense of community, Bend is a popular destination for both tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at Smith Rock State Park, where you'll be greeted by stunning rock formations and scenic views. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy at one of the picturesque lookout spots.
After your hike, head back into town for lunch at a local café. Then, spend the afternoon at the Deschutes River, where you can soak up the sun or go tubing.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a riverside restaurant. Enjoy a local brew while watching the sunset over the water.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic Deschutes River Trail. The morning ride is invigorating, filled with beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
Stop for lunch at a food truck park, sampling the local cuisine. Afterward, visit the High Desert Museum to learn about the region's history and ecosystems.
In the evening, hit up the local breweries for a tasting tour. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and maybe catch some live music at a nearby venue.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, skiing, and biking.
- Vibrant arts and culture scene with local festivals and galleries.
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
- Growing economy with opportunities in various sectors, especially tourism.
- Higher cost of living compared to some areas in the region.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters.
- Housing market can be competitive and challenging for first-time buyers.
Best Activities in Bend
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy numerous hiking trails with scenic views of pine forests, lakes, and mountain peaks in Deschutes National Forest.
Explore a network of mountain biking trails through high desert terrain and pine forests at Phil's Trail Complex.
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting adventures on the Deschutes River with options for all skill levels.
Test your climbing skills at Smith Rock State Park, famous for its challenging routes and stunning views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bend with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bend
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Bend and the Cascade Range, great for sunrise and sunset photography.
A stunning waterfall surrounded by beautiful forest, perfect for nature photography and hiking.
Scenic trail along the river with opportunities for capturing the natural beauty of the area.
Food in Bend
Bend Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A mouthwatering cheeseburger made with beef from local ranches and served with a side of crispy tater tots, found at the Cascade Lakes Lodge.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught trout seasoned with local herbs and spices, often paired with seasonal vegetables, available at the award-winning Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails.
Tender elk medallions marinated in juniper and rosemary, served with huckleberry demi-glace, served at Ariana Restaurant, a renowned fine-dining establishment.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bend better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market showcasing organic produce, artisanal cheeses, fresh-baked goods, and handcrafted beverages from local vendors. Open every Wednesday and Sunday from May to October.
An outdoor food cart pod offering a variety of cuisines ranging from wood-fired pizza and gourmet burgers to Mexican street tacos and Hawaiian poke bowls, perfect for trying diverse local flavors in a casual setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bend, it is important to be mindful of personal space and not to invade others' personal bubbles.
Politeness and consideration towards others are highly valued in Bend. Simple gestures such as saying 'please' and 'thank you' are appreciated.
Bend residents place a strong emphasis on conservation and respect for the natural environment. It is important to be mindful of environmental impact and to leave nature as it was found.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bend with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bend
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in the service industry in Bend, United States. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants, bars, and for other services such as haircuts, taxi rides, and hotel staff.
In Bend, United States, most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Cash is also widely accepted. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly popular. Checks are less commonly used for everyday transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bend.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time for skiing and snowboarding, with average temperature around 30°F (-1°C). Expect snow-covered landscapes and winter sports activities.
Ideal for hiking and exploring nature, with wildflowers in bloom. Average temperatures range from 40°F (4°C) to 60°F (16°C).
Great for outdoor activities like mountain biking, river sports, and enjoying festivals. Average temperatures range from 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C).
Perfect for scenic drives and enjoying the fall foliage. Average temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C).
Bend at Night
Hiking in Bend
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous for its stunning rock formations and diverse hiking trails. Offers various routes suitable for all skill levels, with breathtaking views of the Crooked River.
A scenic trail that follows the Deschutes River, providing beautiful views and opportunities for bird watching. The trail is great for hiking, biking, and exploring.
A picturesque route that leads to several trailheads for hiking in the Cascade Mountain range. Offers access to lakes, forests, and stunning mountain views.
An easy hike to the top of a volcanic butte in Bend that offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Ideal for a quick and accessible hike.
A scenic trail located near Sparks Lake that provides beautiful views of the surrounding Cascade peaks. Great for hiking and enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bend through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bend by plane.
The nearest airport serving Bend, Oregon, approximately 18 miles away, primarily handling domestic flights.
Located about 130 miles from Bend, this airport offers flights to various domestic destinations.
About 160 miles northwest of Bend, PDX is the largest airport in Oregon, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Approximately 200 miles north of Bend, this major airport offers extensive domestic and international flight options.
Located about 340 miles east of Bend, BOI caters to both domestic and a selection of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Caucasian population, representing the largest demographic group.
Individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, the second largest demographic group.
Includes Asian Americans, representing a smaller percentage of the population.
A minority group representing a smaller segment of the population.
Indigenous peoples, making up a small percentage of the population.
Includes individuals from various other ethnic backgrounds not classified above.
The Soul of Bend
Discover the essence of Bend through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Bend is known for its extensive mountain biking trails that cater to various skill levels, drawing enthusiasts from all over.
The region offers numerous climbing spots, including Smith Rock State Park, which is a world-renowned destination for climbers.
With its stunning landscapes and diverse terrain, Bend boasts countless hiking trails that appeal to both casual walkers and serious trekkers.
During the winter months, nearby Mount Bachelor provides excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, making it a popular destination.
The area's beautiful trails attract many trail runners who appreciate the scenic views and challenging routes.
Bend's rivers and lakes are popular spots for fishing, offering opportunities for both fly-fishing and traditional fishing methods.
With a growing community, soccer has become increasingly popular in Bend, with various leagues and youth programs available.
Bend features several disc golf courses, making it a favored pastime for both casual players and serious competitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bend.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bend's culinary scene is veggie-friendly, with many restaurants and cafes featuring creative plant-based options. Notable recommendations include Spork, a food cart offering globally inspired vegetarian dishes, and Pine Tavern, known for its flavorful vegetarian entrees.
Vegan visitors will find delightful options at Ariana Restaurant, where the chefs skillfully craft elegant vegan dishes utilizing the best local produce and spices.
Many eateries in Bend cater to gluten-free diners, such as Pine Tavern, renowned for its gluten-free selections, and the food carts at The Lot, offering diverse gluten-free choices to suit different tastes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bend with these cultural adventures.
