Nestled in the heart of Oregon, Bend offers a blend of a laid-back, small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community. Despite its unassuming appearance, Bend is a treasure trove of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it a favorite destination for locals and newcomers alike seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both. If you’re curious about the distinct attractions in Bend, OR, and want to uncover its unique charm, continue reading to explore some hidden gems you may not have heard of before.
Whether you’re in the market to purchase a home in Bend, OR, looking to rent an apartment in the area, or considering a rental home, you’ll discover numerous reasons to fall in love with this city. In this Redfin article, we’ll delve into some unique activities in Bend, OR, that are exclusive to this charming locale.
1. Immerse Yourself in the Craft Beer Scene Like a Local
Why settle for just one when you can enjoy the best of both worlds? Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a wine enthusiast, Bend has something for everyone.
For beer lovers, Bend is renowned for its thriving craft beer culture, with 26 breweries catering to diverse preferences,” as noted by Nicole Lewis from the blog Wandering With A Dromomaniac. You can explore Crux Fermentation, a spacious outdoor venue with large fire pits—ideal for a family outing. Alternatively, check out smaller breweries like Silver Moon Brewing Company, where you can savor a beer and participate in trivia nights. Be sure to grab a Bend Ale Trail passport online to earn rewards for visiting all the breweries.”
If you’re traveling with your family or furry friend, don’t miss Bevel Craft Brewing, a vibrant, family-friendly brewery on the east side of Bend, OR that welcomes leashed pets. Bevel Craft Brewing embodies the spirit of Bend, where outdoor adventure intersects with the art of small-batch craft beer. With a unique disc golf-themed ambiance and owned by world champions, it’s a local favorite that celebrates the rugged beauty and relaxed vibe of the area. Each pint at Bevel is a testament to the passion and innovation that define Bend’s craft beer scene.
For a touch of history, a visit to the iconic Bend Brewing Company is essential. “Situated along the Deschutes River, this brewery offers a cozy ambiance, delectable craft beers, and a picturesque riverside view,” shared Mike Van Tassel from The House Gyms. “It’s a quintessential Bend experience where you might catch live music, movies, and other engaging community events that foster connections.
2. Indulge in Charming Wine Bars and Tasting Rooms
For wine enthusiasts, one of the distinctive activities in Bend, OR is exploring the local wineries. Many wineries are conveniently located near shopping centers, allowing you to conclude a day of shopping with a glass of wine or a charcuterie board at a nearby winery.
While browsing through Box Factory—a marketplace showcasing locally crafted goods and services—make a pit stop at the Elixir Wine Group, a sister establishment to Ermisch Cellars. They are a pioneering wine importer, winery, and tasting room located in Bend that proudly features exceptional wines crafted on-site, alongside an international array of wines produced at their wineries in Argentina and Chile. They also offer exclusive imports from family-owned wineries worldwide.
A search for winery music events near Bend inevitably leads you to Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards, renowned for its stunning outdoor music venue hosting weekly live concerts. Surrounded by breathtaking views of the region, this vineyard stands as one of the premier destination wineries in Oregon. With numerous returning visitors, you’ll relish a delightful wine-tasting experience offered on their expansive patio.
3. Embrace the Outdoors
Bend presents boundless opportunities for outdoor escapades, including hiking, biking, and leisurely strolls, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy with loved ones in every season. Kristen from Wall Street Suites hotel in Bend elucidates, “For residents—living in Bend, Oregon truly embodies a perpetual vacation lifestyle. Each day offers the opportunity to relish the snow, surf, or mountain trails.”
“If you’re visiting Bend with your family, there are myriad fantastic options,” notes real estate photographer Kaleb Riley of Riley Visuals. “Grab a meal and head to Tumalo State Park where you can swim, paddle, or float. Local favorites like Spork, Wild Rose and Blue Eyes Burgers offer fantastic dining options.”
Tony from Tony Gambino Photography emphasizes that “living in Bend provides unparalleled proximity to diverse wilderness areas. If you’re exploring the region, embark on a scenic drive along the Cascade Lakes Highway, where you’ll encounter stunning alpine lakes, awe-inspiring mountain vistas, and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or simply reveling in the views, this route encapsulates the essence of Central Oregon’s natural beauty. Remember to respect the wildlife and stick to designated trails to help preserve this pristine environment for future generations.”
Melissa Gottlieb from Bend Relocation Services, offering seamless assistance for those relocating to Bend with tailored support, from local insights to community orientation, also shares her insights. “As the leaves change and the crisp air descends, Bend transforms into a picturesque playground for a variety of adventures. This autumn, immerse yourself in the vibrant hues with a hike through the stunning Cascade Mountains. The trails offer mesmerizing views of the foliage, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable outing. If biking is more your style, take a leisurely ride along the scenic Deschutes River Trail, where you can savor the beauty at your own pace. Alternatively, visit one of Bend’s local pumpkin patches for a fun-filled activity that everyone can enjoy. Nothing beats the excitement of corn mazes, fried apple fritters, cider, and autumn festivities.”
Beyond being an excellent destination for outdoor exploration, Bend also boasts exceptional golf communities. Awbrey Glen Golf Club in NW Bend focuses on offering superb golfing experiences and fostering a tight-knit community that celebrates the best of the city. Whether you prefer a casual round from the forward tees or are striving for that sub-par score from the tips, this course combines elegance and challenge to keep you returning for more.
4. Explore the Culinary Scene
Bend boasts a diverse array of culinary delights, from farm-to-table restaurants to food trucks, catering to varied palates and contributing to the list of unique activities in Bend. For those with a sweet tooth, Bend also features artisanal bakeries and coffee shops that showcase the area’s commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you’re savoring a gourmet meal, grabbing a quick bite from a food truck, or sampling local brews, Bend’s culinary landscape reflects the region’s dedication to exceptional taste and community.
When acquainting yourself with Bend, a visit to the Old Bend Iron Works is a must—adjacent to Café Des Chutes, this charming cluster of historic structures houses local artist and artisan studios, a home design center, and an array of shopping options, from gifts and vintage discoveries to home furnishings and fly fishing supplies.
“When the chilly Central Oregon winter arrives, stay cozy at The Lot, the pioneer of Bend’s now numerous combination taphouse-food-cart-lots,” recommends Logan Insinga from the blog Rooted And Roaming. “While others offer enclosed and heated spaces, the Lot also features heated benches that provide a snug respite after braving the cold. This spot is a favored locale to warm up post-skiing at Mt. Bachelor and relish good food with a local brew.”
Thump Coffee transcends the typical coffee spot. With three locations, it serves as a hub for community interaction, where each cup is crafted with passion and every visit feels like coming home. Whether you’re reenergizing after a ride, fueling up before a run, or simply catching up with friends, this is where Bend congregates, laughs, and thrives.
A must-visit in Bend is the Downtown area, particularly The Commons Cafe And Taproom. Situated directly on Drake Park overlooking Mirror Pond, “The Commons” as it’s affectionately known, is a gem nestled in a house constructed in 1904, offering locally roasted coffee, baked goods, and a wide array of other beverages, including draft beers, ciders, and wines. It serves as a communal space and focal point of Brooks Alley downtown, housing charming shops like