Bend, Oregon, is well known as a destination that offers quality outdoor recreation all year round. Located just east of Oregon's Cascade Mountain Range, the Bend region offers a variety of interesting and scenic terrain, including lakes, rivers, desert, forest, and volcanic peaks. The city of Bend also has lovely parks, interesting shopping, and great food and drink options. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic escape, or a girlfriend's getaway, if outdoor activities are part of your wish list, Bend, Oregon, is the place for you.
Bend Oregon's best visitor attractions include:
Drake Park and Mirror Pond
Adjacent to Bend's historic downtown, Drake Park is the site of Bend community events throughout the year. As you wander the park's trails you'll enjoy lovely water views and learn about local history from interpretive signs.
Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint
Whether you choose to walk or drive, you'll enjoy awesome 360-degree views of Bend, the mountains, and the desert plain from the top of this city landmark. Those looking for a workout can walk the road or trails that wind up and around Pilot Butte. Leashed dogs are permitted.
Deschutes River Trail
Still being developed, this recreation trail system runs along or near the Deschutes River, passing through parks, across footbridges, and through canyons.
High Desert Museum
Part museum, part zoo, the High Desert Museum is the place to learn about the human and natural history of America's high desert region. Outdoors, you'll find exhibits featuring native critters such as river otters and birds of prey and you'll learn about the forest, Native Americans, and pioneer life. Live wildlife exhibits can be found inside the High Desert Museum's main building, along with history exhibits and art galleries.
Deschutes Brewery Tour
Stop by the Deschutes Brewery tasting room and gift shop for a free afternoon tour of the brewing facility. You'll learn about the ingredients that go into Deschutes' craft beers, how beer is brewed and bottled, and how they control the quality of each batch. Be sure to sample their Black Butte Porter and Mirror Pond Pale Ale, two of the Deschutes Brewery beers that are popular throughout the Northwest.
Old Mill District
This mixed-use development is based around the location of a huge old Bend sawmill. Visitors to the Old Mill District can enjoy shopping, dining, a multi-screen theatre, and a children's museum. The neighborhood's Les Schwab Amphitheater is a great venue for outdoor concerts. The river and the urban trail system both pass through the Old Mill District.
Golf in Bend, Oregon
Central Oregon is a popular destination for golf vacations. Visitors can choose from several public golf courses right within the city of Bend, including:
- River's Edge Golf Course
- Lost Tracks Golf Club
- Widgi Creek Golf Club
Des Chutes Historical Museum
Located in the old downtown Reid Schoolhouse, this history museum focuses on the history of Bend and Central Oregon.
