Welcome to Bend
Nestled in the center of Oregon, with a river running right through it, Bend is perhaps one of the most scenic areas in the country. Where else can you bask in the sunshine, snowboard a mountain, and kayak down the river all in one day?
What started as a logging town and crossing point is now an oasis of outdoor recreation and resort getaways. From mountain biking and paddle boarding to skiing and golfing, there’s nothing Bend doesn’t offer. And on the off-chance you don’t find everything you need here, Portland is an easy car ride away.
Unofficially divided into two halves, the west side and east side, Bend is described by some as a small city, and others as a big town. What no one disputes is the warm, welcoming vibe, excellent culinary scene, and of course, outstanding breweries. Whether you’re looking for historic elegance, sprawling mansions, and spacious lots on the west side, or new construction homes and convenience shopping on the east side, Bend has something gorgeous to offer.
What to Love
- Endless outdoor recreation
- Expansive green space
- Vibrant culinary scene
- Gorgeous views
- Craft breweries
Local Lifestyle
To say residents of Bend are outdoorsy is an understatement. This is a community made for the incredible outdoor recreation Bend is known for, and they wouldn’t want it any other way. Mountain biking, fishing, hiking, camping, rock climbing, white-water rafting, skiing, paragliding, and golfing are just some of the sights you’ll see on an average day in this scenic city. This family-friendly spot is also home to spirited entrepreneurs, the evidence of which is found in the incredible restaurant and brewery scene.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Known for breweries and a strong entrepreneurial spirit, Bend boasts an incredible culinary and craft beer scene. Start off at the Box Factory, one of Bend’s most unique shopping experiences. Stop by for a quick pint, spend the day exploring the shops, take a yoga class or grab some ramen. Bend just wouldn’t be Bend without breweries and you’ll have your pick of the best. Bend’s original brewpub, Deschutes Brewery offers award-winning craft beer and hand-crafted ales, while 10 Barrel Brewing Co. features innovative, locally brewed beers. Bend Brewing Company is a craft brewery featuring a pub for pints and a full menu of American fares, like nachos and fish and chips.
What’s better with a crisp glass of beer than a great meal? Bend makes it easy with its impressive food truck scene. The Lot takes the food cart pod concept to a whole new level by designing a space for a group of food carts to gather together around a central seating area with an inviting atmosphere for people to enjoy their meal. The Podski has created a chill reprieve from the Bend hustle and offers a taste of everything from fried chicken and perogies to Thai, Korean Fusion, and mouthwatering vegan cuisine.
Bring the family, and the family pup, to River's Place Bend, which features five food trucks offering Mexican, hoagies, and chicken and waffles. The Bite offers an amazing assortment of beers on tap and food trucks serving up pizza, tacos, sushi, and more. In this town of Culinary Enthusiasts, Ingredient Studio provides a community of home cooks and food enthusiasts with a fun and friendly learning experience.
Things to Do
You might want to take notes because the list of things to do in Bend is endless. Enjoy concerts, brewfests, and races at the Les Schwab Amphitheater, an independent, outdoor riverfront Amphitheater built in the historic Old Mill District in 2001. Cinephiles, grab your popcorn and catch short films, indie films, and documentaries at the BendFilm Festival, which celebrates independent cinema through films, lectures, and education.
One magical weekend every summer, the beautiful Bend skies come alive with a rainbow of colors. Beginning at dawn, the Balloons Over Bend festival launches hot air balloons into the early morning sky and, later, offers up the Night Glow for an evening of music, food, and glow-in-the-dark balloons. The festival fun lasts all year long, with a Summer Festival of live music, food and drink, art and lifestyle marketplace, and a business showcase. Next up is the Bend Fall Festival, a time-honored tradition featuring pumpkin painting, the Harvest Market, Family Play Zone, live music, and more. The Northwest’s largest festival, Oregon WinterFest offers three days of fine art, a winter wonderland, and sports fair.
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