In addition to its beautiful location, Bend, Oregon, is known for its diverse offerings.
Plenty of activities will keep you busy in the city, such as art exhibits, dining at an award-winning restaurant, and exploring the famous Bend Ale Trail.
Apart from its diverse offerings, Bend, Oregon, also offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including cave tours and bird watching at the High Desert Museum.
The article covers some of the most intriguing and fun things to do in Bend, Oregon.
Where is Bend, Oregon?
The city of Bend is located in Oregon’s Deschutes County and is the county seat of the region.
It is also the largest city in the region’s Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Despite its small size, it is still considered the “mayor” of the region due to its low population density.
The city of Bend had a population of 99,178 during the 2020 census. It was up from 76,693 during the 2010 census and 52,029 during the 2000 census.
The area is regarded as one of the largest metropolitan areas in Oregon.
Things to Do in Bend, Oregon
There is no scarcity of fun activities in Bend, Oregon. On the contrary, Bend, Oregon, is filled with exciting activities for adults and children.
There is something for everyone. These are 21 things to do in Bend, Oregon;
1. Newberry National Volcanic Monument
The magnificent landscape formations created by the eruptions of the volcano known as the Newberry Volcano can be found in the National Volcanic Monument, which is located in Oregon’s Bend.
The last major eruption of the volcano happened 75,000 years ago.
The volcano, which has a caldera and a northwest rift zone, erupted approximately 1,300 years ago.
This natural feature is considered one of the region’s most popular hiking and camping sites. The park, which was established in 1990, spans over 55,500 acres.
Address: The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is located in Bend, OR 97702, United States.
2. Deschutes Historical Museum
The history of Oregon’s Deschutes Country can be explored through the exhibits of the local historical society.
One of the museum’s galleries focuses on the region’s Native American tribes.
It also explores the various activities in the area during the past century.
The museum’s exhibits are arranged in various mediums, allowing visitors to explore the various facets of Oregon’s history.
Many exhibits are made from photographs and artifacts and can be used to travel back in time.
Deschutes Historical Museum is one of the seven stops on the heritage walk of Bend.
Address: The Deschutes Historical Museum is located at 129 NW Idaho Ave, Bend, Oregon 97701.
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3. Lava River Cave
Situated in the middle of a large landscape consisting of snow-covered mountains, large ponderosa pine trees, and sagebrush, is the Lava River Cave.
This natural cave, which measures over 6,000 feet long, was formed around 80,000 years ago.
It has a unique and otherworldly feel due to the presence of ice stalactites, which can be seen in the cave even during summer.
If you plan to visit this area with your kids, this cave is a must-visit.
Address: This attraction is located in Bend, OR 97707, United States.
4. Les Schwab Amphitheater
During the summer, the city of Leesburg offers various activities and events.
Some of these include free concerts and festivals.
The town also hosts the second-largest Brewfest in the region each August.
One of the most popular events that can be held in this area is the concert at the Lake County Amphitheatre, which can accommodate up to 8,000 people.
Some of the prominent names that have performed at this venue include Bob Dylan and Dave Matthews Band.
Address: This attraction is located at 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend, OR 97702.
5. Wanderlust Tours
With the help of skilled naturalists, travelers can experience the region’s natural beauty through various activities and experiences offered by local tour companies.
Some of these include walking through the caves created by the volcanic activity in the area, taking in the moonlight canoe rides, and exploring the Hosmer Lake.
One of the most important advantages of visiting this area is that it allows travelers to meet new people.
This allows them to have a great time and learn more about the culture and history of the region.
Address: The Wanderlust Tours is located at 61535 S. Hwy. 97 Suite 13, Bend, OR 97702, United States.
6. Drake Park
Drake Park, located in Old Bend, is the most popular gathering spot in the area.
This park can be filled with families and individuals who enjoy the weather during the summer.
This park features a large pond and several acres of open space, which can be used for various activities.
The park also features an outdoor stage that can be used for various live events.
This facility is additionally home to a variety of wildlife.
Some of these include several types of birds and animals.
Address: The Drake Park is at 777 NW Riverside Blvd, Bend, OR 97701, United States.
7. Bend Whitewater Park
The Bend Whitewater Park is also located near the Old Mill District.
This facility features various recreational activities such as kayaking, surfing, and tubing.
It has three different channels that individuals can access.
Address: This attraction is located at 166 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend, OR 97702, United States.
8. 5 Fusion
The fusion cuisine you will experience at 5 Fusion will leave you with a great taste and a lasting impression.
This restaurant, located in a modern building, features a variety of art on its walls.
Its executive chef, Joe Kim, Jr., has created some of the most impressive creations you will likely eat.
The food you will receive at 5 Fusion will leave you with a great taste and a lasting impression.
This restaurant’s executive chef, Joe Kim, Jr., has created some of the most impressive creations you will likely eat.
He uses fresh, organic ingredients and blends Western and Asian tastes in his creations.
The restaurant also has a variety of wine and sakes to choose from.
Address: The 5 Fusion is located at 821 NW Wall St, Bend, OR 97701, United States.
9. Boneyard Beer
In 2010, Boneyard Beer was founded inside a former auto shop in the Old Bend district.
Its owner, Tony Lawrence, wanted to brew great beer using old equipment.
After working in the brewing industry for decades, Lawrence decided to use the old equipment he had collected.
He created the first batch of Boneyard Beer’s beers using his gathered equipment.
He was assisted by Clay and Melodee Storey, who were his co-founders.
Address: The Boneyard Beer is located at 1955 NE Division St, Bend, OR 97701, United States.
10. The Last Blockbuster
One of the last remaining Blockbuster stores in the world is located in Bend, Oregon. This was the company’s last location in the US.
In 2010, it filed for bankruptcy due to the decline of the video rental industry.
In March 2019, the last remaining Blockbuster in Oregon was in Bend.
Ken and Debbie Tisher owned and operated multiple video stores in the area before they decided to become part of the company’s franchise in 2000.
Address: This attraction is at 211 NE Revere Ave, Bend, OR 97701, United States.
11. High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum was established in 1982 to protect and exhibit the natural beauty of the West High Desert.
It has various exhibits that are designed to educate and entertain visitors.
The museum features a variety of animals and artifacts, such as bobcats, otters, and badgers.
It also has a stagecoach that looks like an American West replica.
Address: The High Desert Museum is located at South Highway 97, Bend, OR 97702,United States.
12. Tumalo Falls
The Tumalo Falls is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
It’s a hundred-foot-tall waterfall that overlooks the Tumalo Creek.
The natural beauty of the area’s waters and the way it flows into the canyon below are some of the reasons why it is easy to see why it is a popular spot.
If you plan to visit the area and explore its natural beauty, then Tumalo Creek is a must-visit.
Hiking through the creek can be done as far as the Bend watershed.
Address: This attraction is located in Deschutes National Forest at 63095 Deschutes Market Rd, Bend, OR 97701, United States.
13. Pilot Butte
One of the most popular landmarks in the area is Pilot Butte, which used to be a safe passage for wagon train passengers to cross the Deschutes River.
This natural feature was created by the explosion of a cinder cone from the nearby Newberry volcano.
This area now serves as a great spot to watch the sunset.
Address: The Pilot Butte is located at Greenwood Ave, Bend, OR 9770, United States.
14. Mt Bachelor Ski Area
The Mt. Bachelor is known for its beautiful snow-capped mountains and has plenty of activities for everyone, such as skiing lessons and snow blast tubing.
Racers can take a full-speed ride down the mountain using only a tube.
If you’re feeling like you’re missing out on some quality time with family and friends, take advantage of its free childcare.
Address: This attraction is located at 13000 SW Century Drive, Bend, Oregon 97702, United States.
15. Deschutes National Forest
Over three million people visit the area each year, and a variety of activities are available for everyone.
Some of these include fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. Besides these, various other activities are designed to entertain the whole family.
Oregon’s Deschutes National Forest is bordered by the Cascade Range and the Fremont National Forest.
Address: The Deschutes National Forest is located at 63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, Oregon.
16. Goody’s Chocolate and Ice Cream Factory Tour
One of the most popular activities in the area is a factory tour.
This allows you to see the working process of a sweet factory.
During this tour, you’ll get to sample some of Goody’s products.
Besides sweets, this tour also includes a visit to the company’s other facilities.
Address: The Goody’s Chocolate and Ice Cream Factory Tour is located at 1111 SE Division Street, Bend, Oregon 97702, United States.
17. Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area
The Oregon Wilderness Area is filled with various types of wildlife, such as bobcats, elks, and antelopes.
It also features numerous miles of trails that are open to the public. These trails can be used for hiking or horseback riding.
The area is also known for its unique geological features.
One of the most notable landmarks that you can see is the Dry River, which used to be a major river during the Ice Age.
It’s now separated from the Volcanic areas of the Horse Ridge and the Badlands volcano.
Address: The Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area is located at Oregon Badlands Wilderness, Bend, OR 97701, United States.
18. Tumalo State Park
The Tumalo State Park is located in the heart of Oregon’s central region and offers various outdoor activities.
It has various trails for activities, such as mountain biking and hiking.
During the summer, the park is full of people who enjoy fishing and floating in the river’s cool water.
Address: This attraction is located at 64170 O. B. Riley Rd, Tumalo, OR 97703, United States.
19. Deschutes Brewery Tour
One of the most popular activities in the area is the daily brewery tour, which allows people to get a closer look at what goes into making the Deschute Brewery’s special beers.
This free tour also provides an opportunity to learn about the company’s history.
During this event, you’ll get to try four free samples.
The brewery also has 19 different types of beers on tap, and all visitors are required to be over 12 to enjoy these beverages.
Address: The Deschutes Brewery Tour 901 SW Simpson Ave, Bend, OR 97702, United States.
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20. Riley Ranch Nature Reserve
The Riley Ranch Nature Reserve is located on the north western part of the city of Bend.
It features various natural features, such as a 30-acre cliff band and a canyon floor running along Oregon’s scenic Deschutes River.
This area provides a unique opportunity to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Address: This attraction is at 19975 Glen Vista Rd, Bend, OR 97701, United States.
21. Craft Kitchen and Brewery
The Old Mill District is a vibrant and romantic area with various attractions.
One of the most popular places to visit is the 3.5 Craft Kitchen & Brewery, located near the river banks.
This area has a large back deck that’s perfect for viewing the beautiful views of the river.
The brewery, named after its 3.5-barrel system, came from experimenting with different kinds of beers.
Address: This attraction is located at 62988 Layton Ave STE 103, Bend, OR 97701, United States.
Start Planning Your Visit to Bend, Oregon
There is something for everyone in Bend, Oregon. In this city, it is impossible to run out of exciting activities to engage in.
The article covered in great detail, 21 things to do in Bend, Oregon as a tourist or visitor.