The best of both worlds, Bend offers visitors proximity to the Deschutes River while also being located on the eastern edge of the Cascades. There’s access to an amazing array of water activities and the stunning peaks provide views for miles. Voted one of the best places in which to live on more than one occasion, it truly is the recreational hub of central Oregon. And with an equally vibrant urban scene, visitors to Bend never run out of things to do. From exploring the Oregon Badlands to climbing to the top of Pilot Butte, a hollowed out volcano (one of only 3 in the US), the city is actually full of surprises. You can spend the day engaged in pretty much any outdoor activity you can think of—though they are known as something of a mountain biking town—and then enjoy an evening in the city sampling beer from local breweries and dining in one of the many trendy restaurants Bend has to offer.
Because of the city’s location, it definitely encompasses part of the state’s high desert region. Exploring the area is incredibly interesting especially for those unfamiliar with this type of climate. Check out the lava formations and see what the Badlands are all about.
One of Bend’s claims to fame: they have the highest per capita dog ratio in the country. Given the city’s walkability, it’s no wonder dog lovers flock here with their best friends in tow.
With 18 breweries, they also have the highest per capita ratio of breweries in the state. The people of Bend are definitely serious about their barley and hops. You could literally spend an entire day touring breweries and probably not get through all of them. Throw in their newly realized distillery industry and you’ve got the makings of a few days of tastings!
A night in the city is usually filled with a number of performance options. With an amphitheater and plenty of plays and concerts in the park, Bend is definitely set on entertaining its residents and guests.
Winter is a decent time to visit for skiers. Mount Bachelor is 20 miles to the west, and most visitors choose to stay in Bend on their trip to the ski area.
Spring is dry and steadily warming. Spring is relatively a slow time to visit.
Summer weather is fantastic for playing outside. Daily highs reach the low 80s with lots of sunshine.
Early fall can be great for visiting as the weather is beautiful, the trees are changing colors, and there are still plenty of events.