Bend, Oregon, is the largest city in the center of the state of Oregon. As such, it is a popular destination for those in the surrounding communities.
With a population of over 100,000, the city has grown rapidly over the past two decades. If you live in Bend or are visiting, you will enjoy your stay thanks to the various entertainment, cultural, and natural attractions in the city.
Fun Things to Do in Bend Oregon
If you want to get a good view of Bend and the surrounding area, a top attraction where you can start exploring Bend is at the Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint.
To get to the viewpoint, you'll need to drive up a winding road or hike up one of the various trails that lead to Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint. Pilot Butte has actually been a major landmark in the area since pioneer days, when it was used by new immigrants into the area to guide their way. From this scenic viewpoint, the city of Bend, Mt. Hood, Mt. Jefferson, and Black Butte can be seen.
If you're looking for an attraction to explore the culture and history of the high desert, head to the High Desert Museum. This is one of the best museums to visit in Bend.
This museum has been open since 1982. Exhibits at the High Desert Museum focus on the wildlife, art, culture, and natural resources of Bend and the surrounding area. There is also a Native American exhibit that illustrates life in the area before the arrival of Europeans.
For those with an interest in theater and film, there are numerous theaters located in Bend.
Theaters in the city include the Tower Theatre on Wall Street, Regal Old Mill ScreenX& IMAX on Southwest Powerhouse Drive, and Cascades Theatrical Co. on Greenwood Avenue.
Things to Do in Bend Oregon with Kids
Whether you've got toddlers and teens to entertain, there is plenty to do in Bend with younger members in your group. One of the most popular Bend attractions among youngsters is The Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic & Recreation Center (SHARC).
This facility offers over 2.5 acres of water recreation for young visitors. There are both indoor and outdoor pools as well as two water slides at the SHARC facility. This attraction makes for a great day trip from Bend, as it is located about 25 minutes outside of town.
Mt. Bachelor is another popular destination in the Bend area for the whole family. Mt. Bachelor offers a variety of outdoor activities like inner-tubing, skiing, and snowboarding. Another great wintertime activity at Mt. Bachelor is sled-dog rides. During the warmer months of the year, Mt. Bachelor is also a great place for hiking.
Kids also love to visit Sun Mountain Fun Center. This is a must-see attraction for those looking for things to do in Bend, Oregon, with kids. This attraction includes arcade games and bumper cars. There is also bowling, miniature golf, batting cages, and more.
Free or Cheap Things to Do
You don't have to spend a lot of money to have a good time in Bend. There are plenty of inexpensive options for those looking for free and cheap things to do.
For example, Deschutes National Forest is a great attraction near Bend that doesn't cost a lot to visit. Visitors to Deschutes National Forest can enjoy camping and hiking. They can view many prominent natural features of Oregon such as the Three Sisters volcanic peaks.
Another free attraction for those wanting to enjoy Oregon's rich natural beauty is Tumalo Falls. This gorgeous waterfall is accessible via an eight mile hike. In addition to the waterfall itself, there is much additional natural scenery along the way during this hike.
Things to Do in Downtown Bend, Oregon
Downtown Bend is a happening area with lots of great things to see. One of the things you absolutely have to see when looking for things to do in downtown Bend, Oregon, is The Old Mill District.
This is a shopping area that is found along the Deschutes River. The Old Mill District is the premier shopping destination in Bend. In addition to shopping, the Old Mill District also offers dining and entertainment like concerts. Concerts are held at the Les Schwab Amphitheater.
Things to Do in Bend, Oregon, at Night: Stay Up Late
There are plenty of great hangouts to enjoy when the day is over in Bend. You can head to a sports bar in town to have a few drinks with friends. Some bars to check out are the River Pig Saloon and The View Tap & Grill.
Another thing you can do tonight in Bend is go to the Tin Pan Theater to enjoy some cinema. You can view a lot of films at the Tin Pan Theater that you won't see elsewhere like independent and classic films.
Things to Do for Couples: Find Romantic Activities with Your Partner
If you're looking for romantic things to do for couples, it's a good idea to spend a weekend at one of Bend's romantic hotels.
The Oxford Hotel is a romantic place with a lounge, mountain view rooms, and deals for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. Another hotel for a romantic getaway is the Pronghorn Resort. This resort offers fantastic restaurants, golfing, a pool, a lounge, and much more.
Cool Things to Do in Bend, Oregon
Bend is an adventurous place, and that means there's plenty of exciting and unique things to do in this Oregon city. If you want to do something different, you should know that Bend is the location of the last remaining Blockbuster Video.
Enjoy a blast from the past by visiting Bend's Blockbuster Video. Another thing you can do in Bend that you probably can't do anywhere else is go on a helicopter tour where you can track down Sasquatch! This is a one-of-a-kind experience featuring an 80-mile helicopter ride that offers not just Bigfoot spotting, but also breathtaking views of the Oregon wilderness.
Indoor or Outdoor Things to Do
If you need to stay indoors in Bend, you should do some shopping or enjoy one of the city's museums. Three places to check out for shopping are Cascade Village Shopping Center, the Old Mill District, and Bend River Promenade.
These options just scratch the surface of all the great things you can do in Bend, Oregon. Regardless of your age or interests, Bend will keep you entertained thanks to its natural beauty, culture, entertainment attractions, and more.