The Ultimate Local’s Guide to Bend, Oregon
Welcome to Bend, Oregon, USA! As a local, you know this city has a lot to offer and you want to make the most of it. That’s why we’ve compiled The Local’s Guide to Bend, Oregon to help you find the best of the best. From where to eat and drink, to outdoor activities and shopping, this guide has it all. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there is something here for everyone. So let’s dive in and explore the beauty that is Bend, Oregon, USA!
Introduction to Bend, Oregon
Located in the beautiful state of Oregon in the USA, Bend is a popular vacation destination for many people from all around the world. With its stunning mountain views, endless outdoor activities and its vibrant downtown, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to Bend every year.
But, Bend isn’t just a vacation spot; it’s also home to many locals. If you’re looking for an insider’s perspective on Bend, this guide is for you! The local’s guide to Bend will help you explore the best of the city, from outdoor adventures and delicious eats, to the best shopping and top-notch accommodations. So, what are you waiting for? Read on to discover why Bend should be your next destination!
The best time of year to visit
According to locals, the best time of year to visit Bend, Oregon is during the summer months. During this time, you will experience the warmth of the sun and the beauty of the surrounding mountains and rivers. Additionally, there are many outdoor activities available, including rafting, hiking, and fishing.
For those looking for a more mild climate, spring is also a great time to visit Bend. The temperatures are milder and the wildflowers are in full bloom. The air is crisp and clear, providing an opportunity to take in the stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.
Fall is another favorite time of year for locals. With its beautiful golden foliage, cooler temperatures, and outdoor activities such as apple picking, it’s the perfect season to enjoy all that Bend has to offer. Plus, with Halloween events and the Bend Brewfest, there’s plenty to do.
Finally, winter in Bend is a special time of year. Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing are just a few of the activities available. Plus, there are plenty of local shops and restaurants that remain open for business throughout the winter months.
No matter when you decide to visit Bend, Oregon, you can be sure that The Local’s Guide to Bend will provide you with all the information you need to make your trip memorable!
top 10 things to do in Bend
- Visit the High Desert Museum – Located just outside of Bend, the High Desert Museum offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s culture, history and environment through its interactive exhibits and shows.
- Enjoy the Deschutes River Trail – Enjoy nature on The Deschutes River Trail, a 26-mile path that runs alongside the Deschutes River, offering stunning views and opportunities for biking, running, and walking.
- Visit the Smith Rock State Park – The Smith Rock State Park is considered one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon and is known for its incredible rock formations and miles of trails perfect for climbing, hiking, and exploring.
- Sample the Brews at Bend’s many Breweries – Bend is home to over 20 breweries, making it one of the top destinations in the U.S. for craft beer lovers! Sample some of their delicious brews and you won’t be disappointed!
- See the Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint – This landmark offers spectacular views of Central Oregon, including the Cascade Range, Pilot Butte, and the city of Bend.
- Go to an outdoor concert or event at Les Schwab Amphitheater – Les Schwab Amphitheater is one of Bend’s premier outdoor concert venues, hosting music festivals and concerts throughout the year.
- Go skiing at Mt. Bachelor – Located just 20 miles west of Bend, Mt. Bachelor offers some of the best ski slopes and terrain parks in the Northwest.
- Explore the Deschutes National Forest – This forest spans 2 million acres and features over 1,000 miles of trails perfect for mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping.
- Wander through downtown Bend – Downtown Bend has something for everyone – boutique shopping, locally-owned restaurants, art galleries, live music venues, and so much more!
- Check out Lava River Cave – One of the most unique things to do in Bend is to take a tour of Lava River Cave, a five-mile lava tube located near Sunriver that was formed thousands of years ago!
With so much to offer, it’s no wonder why locals and visitors alike love Bend, Oregon! Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or great food and beer, The Local’s Guide to Bend will help you discover all this amazing city has to offer.
where to eat and drink in Bend
When looking for a bite to eat in Bend, it can be hard to decide where to go. Fear not, The Local’s Guide to Bend has your back! From food trucks to high-end restaurants, here are some of the best spots in town to grab a bite or sip a cocktail.
If you’re looking for an upscale experience with an exquisite dining experience, check out Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails. This restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Bend and specializes in contemporary American cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. For something more casual, try Deschutes Brewery Public House for a delicious meal paired with one of their award-winning beers. If you’re looking for something more casual, check out the family-owned McKay Cottage for tasty breakfast and lunch options.
Food trucks are also popular in Bend, and there are plenty of options from which to choose. Stop by Papa’s Soul Food Truck for classic southern comfort food, or Tumbleweed’s BBQ for Texas-style barbeque. For Mexican food, you can’t go wrong with La Taqueria, which has been serving up delicious tacos for years.
For a refreshing drink, head to Boneyard Beer’s downtown tasting room and enjoy a beer made with some of Bend’s finest hops. For wine lovers, there’s nowhere better than Naked Winery, where you can sample unique wines made from local grapes. Finally, for a unique cocktail experience, check out the craft cocktails at Pine Tavern Restaurant.
Whatever your culinary preference, Bend has something for everyone. Use The Local’s Guide to Bend to find the perfect spot to grab a bite or enjoy a drink!
where to stay in Bend
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay while you explore Bend, Oregon, the local’s guide to Bend can help. From high-end luxury hotels and resorts to cozy cabins and vacation rentals, there are plenty of great options to choose from in Bend.
If you’re looking for a high-end option, consider staying at the luxurious Sunriver Resort or one of the many boutique hotels downtown. For a more rustic experience, check out some of the cozy cabins and vacation rentals around the area. Whether you’re looking for something that is close to the downtown core or located in a rural area surrounded by nature, you’ll be able to find something that suits your needs.
For budget-minded travelers, there are plenty of great options in Bend as well. Consider checking out one of the hostels downtown or booking a room at one of the local bed and breakfasts. Additionally, many of the local camping grounds offer RV sites and camping spots, making them great options for those who want to explore the area while keeping their accommodation costs low.
No matter what type of accommodation you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find something that fits your needs in Bend. With its stunning scenery and numerous attractions, Bend is an ideal destination for any traveler. Use the local’s guide to Bend to ensure you make the most out of your time in this incredible city.
