Bend, Oregon: Top 10 Must-Do's for an Unforgettable Visit

We have spent a lot of time in Bend. Even in our short time visiting and exploring, we have watched it grow and grow and grow. While some will argue some of the changes take away from what Bend is, some will also argue that you will not get some of the amenities the city enjoys without the growth. It is now inevitable that the summers and winters will be crazy busy. It will be hard to get that dinner reservation at your favorite place, or you may have to get a permit for a hike, heck, you may have to wait in line for a beer!

The growth will happen, so hopefully tourists will respect the local businesses, nature areas and the city itself.

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Here are the top 10 things to do in Bend if you are here. As always, please practice leave no trace. People live here, animals live here. This is home, so respect it.

1. Concert at Hayden Homes

During the summer Hayden Homes Amphitheater puts on multiple shows from local artists to Dave Matthews Band. We love going to one of the concerts to sit out under the stars listening to our favorite artists. There is now a VIP area and as always food trucks and beer garden.

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2. Float the River or Surf

I think that everyone that comes to Bend floats and the locals come to surf. It can be bumper to bumper in the summer and you may have to wait for the shuttle to get back to your car, but on a hot day, it can't be beat. Start at Riverbend Park and it will end at Drake Park downtown.

3. Hike Beautiful Trails

Hiking in the area is like no other place. While you won't get the tech trails and 14ers in Colorado, Oregon has some of the most beautiful lakes and waterfalls in the US. I sometimes enjoy hiking on compact dirt and when it comes to trail running it can't be beat.

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4. Fish one of the many rivers or lakes in the area. Fly fishing is quite big here since the Deschutes River flows right through town. But as you head up the mountain there are many lakes to choose from!

5. Mountain Bike

With some of the best mountain biking trails in the state, it is a must if you are a mountain biker. There are plenty of trails to choose from. From beginning to intermediate. You can even grab a shuttle from town through Cog Wild.

6. Free Concerts at Drake

In the summer on Thursdays there is Munch N' Music. A free event that is put on for people to come and sit out and listen to some fun music, enjoy the local food carts and let the kids can play at the bouncy house area (there is a fee for this). Dogs are welcome but it is chaotic, just an FYI.

7. SUP

There are so many lakes and rivers to choose from that it could take more time to decide than to actually SUP. When it is too busy in town head a short distance out of town or go towards the mountain for smooth lakes and rivers. But during the week, when it is calmer, I love being at the Old Mill.

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8. High Desert Museum

Almost everything I mention is outside and even this museum is mostly outside. They do have exhibits inside that are worth perusing but it really is focused on educating you about the local fauna and flora. They have a few animals and a really good bird show!

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9. Brewery or Winery Hop

Bend is known for its breweries and so you really can't go wrong with any of them. Depending on what your favorite style is will probably depend on where you go but we have had some great times at Crux and Goodlife. For wineries, we enjoy Domaine Serene and VaPiano. There are also great wine bars and tap rooms if you want a variety.

10. Experience a Cave

There are so many lava caves in the area that if you have wanted to experience being in a lava tube and/or cave then this is your place. I don't like being in the dark for an extended period of time with only one way out but we do enjoy exploring. Make sure to bring a headlamp and a jacket.

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We hope you enjoy Bend!