Attractions and Places To See around Bend - Top 20

Bend is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. You can visit Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint, an extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the Cascade Range. The Deschutes River is central to the area, providing opportunities for floating, paddleboarding, and scenic walks. Just south of Bend, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument showcases lava tubes and cinder cones, while Tumalo Falls offers an impressive 97-foot waterfall. For dramatic basalt cliffs and world-class rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is a must-see. You can also explore the unique subterranean world of Lava River Cave or enjoy the serene beauty of Sparks Lake.

Yes, Bend offers several family-friendly options. Drake Park is a popular community spot with open lawns and river access, perfect for relaxation. Farewell Bend Park features a playground with a lumber mill theme and is a great spot for launching float trips on the Deschutes River. For easy cycling, the Ticket to Ride Trail is an ideal loop for beginners and families. The High Desert Museum provides educational exhibits on natural history and wildlife for all ages.

To delve into Bend's past, visit the Deschutes Historical Museum, housed in a historic 1915 school building, which covers the area's pre-history, Native American tribal history, and logging heritage. The Old Mill District, a revitalized historic mill site, now serves as a hub for dining and entertainment. For a unique cultural experience, check out the world's last Blockbuster Video Store. The Tower Theatre in downtown Bend is an art deco venue for performing arts, and the Roundabout Art Route showcases public art throughout the city.

Bend is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. You can enjoy hiking along the Deschutes River Trail or explore the trails around Pilot Butte. For mountain biking, Phil's Trailhead is a renowned complex with multiple trails of varying difficulty. Cycling routes like the Twin Bridges loop or the Benham Falls & Lava Island via Deschutes River Trail loop are also popular. You can find more detailed routes for hiking and cycling in the dedicated guides: Hiking around Bend and Cycling around Bend.

Yes, the Cascade Lake Welcome Station is wheelchair accessible and provides information, maps, and restrooms. While specific wheelchair-accessible trails are not extensively detailed, many parks and paved sections along the Deschutes River offer relatively flat surfaces suitable for various mobility levels. It's always recommended to check specific trail conditions before visiting.

The Cascade Lake Welcome Station is staffed with volunteers who can provide information, answer questions, and offer trail maps for the area, including access points to the Phil's and Wanoga mountain biking trail systems. Additionally, the Phil's Trailhead has information regarding its extensive mountain biking complex.

Bend offers outdoor activities year-round, but the best time largely depends on your preferred activity. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for river activities like floating and paddleboarding, as well as exploring high-elevation trails. Winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing in places like Shevlin Park or snowshoeing in the surrounding forests.

Bend is renowned for its craft beer culture. The Bend Ale Trail is a self-guided tour that highlights the city's numerous breweries, offering a fantastic way to explore the local brewing scene and sample a variety of craft beers.

Beyond the natural beauty, Bend has some truly unique spots. The Last Blockbuster Video Store offers a nostalgic trip back in time. McMenamins Old St. Francis School, a former Catholic school, has been transformed into a distinctive establishment with soaking pools, pubs, and accommodation. The Old Mill District provides a blend of history and modern entertainment along the Deschutes River.

Yes, Bend's natural areas are excellent for wildlife viewing. Farewell Bend Park is a lovely spot to observe birds and waterfowl in its natural marsh areas. The Oregon Badlands Wilderness, with its ancient juniper trees, is home to various desert wildlife. The High Desert Museum also provides an opportunity to learn about and see local wildlife up close in its exhibits.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint, an extinct volcano within the city limits that offers 360-degree vistas of the Cascade Range and the high desert landscape. Smith Rock State Park also provides dramatic canyon views, especially from trails like the Misery Ridge Trail. Additionally, Riley Ranch Nature Reserve offers dramatic views of the Deschutes River and Cascade Mountains from its rimrock cliffs.