9 Awesome Things To Do In Bend, Oregon (including a map)

If you're planning a visit to Oregon, you may be wondering -

Is Bend a good travel destination?

Is this small city in the middle of the state worth the detour? After all, there's no shortage of places to visit in the Beaver State (Oregon).

I know the feeling.

We traveled extensively in Oregon in 2011 and never visited the Bend Area. We only got there in 2015. And let me tell you, it is WELL WORTH visiting.

There are many things to see and do in Bend and around the city. You could easily spend a week sightseeing in this area of Oregon, using Bend as your home base.

In this post, I'll show you nine fantastic things you can do in Bend and how to incorporate them into your itinerary.

Why you should visit Bend, Oregon

Bend is the largest city in the central Oregon region and the county seat of Deschutes County. With more than 90,000 residents, there are many urban activities to enjoy.

And here's the kicker:

These stores are all tax-free because, well, you're in Oregon.

No, I'm not counting shopping as one of the nine things to do in Bend, but I did want to mention it. This is mostly to show you that this busy hub can cater to all your traveling needs.

Back to sightseeing.

Bend is on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains. This area is all about volcanic landscapes, with lava-based rock features dotted with ponderosa pines, junipers, and sagebrush.

The natural setting is unique (and having traveled in 45 US states, I know what I'm talking about). If you're into special scenery, you should spend a few days here and explore.

Moving on to our list -

9 Awesome things to do in Bend, Oregon

Here's a list of 9 awesome things to do in Bend and around it.

Yes, I did say "around it," too. Everything on this list is within a one-hour drive range from the city.

If you're coming into the US from another country, it's worth mentioning that you need a car to visit the places listed here. Americans tend to take that for granted, but foreigners sometimes think a city can be visited without a rental car. Bend is not that kind of city.

It would be best if you had your wheels here. And once you have them, nothing stops you from taking day trips in the area. Which is why these places are listed as "in Bend."

1. High Desert Museum

A museum? Didn't I say this place has great scenery? Why go indoors? Yes, it would be best if you started your Bend sightseeing by visiting this museum.

For two reasons:

First, this is one of the best museums I've ever visited. It's one of those museums that combines a superb indoor display with an outdoor one. Trust me, you will enjoy the local scenery here.

This place has -

• A collection of local animals that will keep kids (and adults) entertained for hours
• Live history setting of a local pioneer farm with
• An interactive display of the history of the region
• Guided tours and activities, too, are all included in the entry price.

Secondly, a tour of the High Desert Museum will prepare you for all the other things to do in Bend and the area.

Many of the suggested places in my list showcase the region's unique geological features. Getting a good overview of the area in the High Desert Museum will help you understand what you're seeing as you explore the area.

The High Desert Museum website.

2. Newberry National Volcanic Monument & Lava River Cave

The Bend region is all about volcanic activity.

Volcanos! Yay!

You can see all of these cool volcanic cones at the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, a short drive from Bend.

Start at the Visitor's Center, where the local rangers will happily help you plan your day. Don't miss out on climbing the cinder cone volcanic mountain that's called "The Lava Butte."

"Climbing a volcano?" I hear you asking.

Don't worry. This is not an "extreme" kind of climb. A road takes you up there by car, and you finish the last part of the climb on foot.

You can then hike around the cone's opening for great views of the surrounding lava fields.

The park has several caves, the most famous one being the Lava River Cave - Oregon's longest lava tube cave. Depending on your speed, you can take a self-guided tour, which lasts about 1-2 hours.

It's pitch dark inside, so you need a strong lantern or flashlight that lasts at least two hours.

The rangers won't let you in without one, and no, your phone's flashlight is not enough (the battery won't last that long in the cold, dark cave). Fortunately, you can rent a proper lantern from the Rangers for $5.

3. Pilot Butte

Did I mention this was prime Volcano land?

Yeah, I'm pretty sure I mentioned the word volcano somewhere 😉 You don't even have to go to the Newberry National Monument to climb a cinder volcano (although you should!)

There are so many of them that there is actually one within city limits! You can climb up with your car for some spectacular views of Bend.

4. Distillery or Brewery tour

Bend has several breweries and distilleries that offer tours. If you want to sample local craft beverages in an authentic setting, choose one (or more!).

These come recommended by Tripadvisor reviewers: Crater Lake Spirits, Atlas Cider Co., and Boneyard Brewery.

5. Tumalo Falls

This beautiful 97-foot-high waterfall, just 14 miles west of Bend, is a popular local attraction. The USDA manages this as a day-use area, and it's a great picnic and hiking spot.

A short walk takes you from the parking lot to the first viewing platform. You can keep hiking for another mile to see a second waterfall (Middle Tumalo Falls). Short and pretty, this should be on your list of things to do in Bend.

6. Tumalo State Park

Despite the similar name, this is not where Tumalo Falls is. Tumalo State Park is a park by the Deschutes River where you can spend a day fishing, splashing in the river, or hiking the forest trails.

7. Peter Skene Ogden State Park

Drive for half an hour north of Bend, and you'll reach this unique little spot.

This is a designated scenic viewpoint where you can look down right into the steep Crooked River canyon and the nearby railroad bridge. If you travel with young children or pets, keep them close.

A low-lying stone fence is all that's keeping visitors from diving right into the gorge.

8. Smith Rock State Park

Not far from Peter Skene Ogden Park, you'll find one of the most beautiful places in Oregon. The Smith Rock State Park is considered one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon. That's saying something in a state as pretty as this one.

It is a spectacular area of towering volcanic cliffs that attract climbers worldwide. You don't have to climb them to enjoy them. There are beautiful trails along the canyon where you can admire the view.

This is actually on my suggested Oregon Bucket List, too!

9. The Cascade Lakes: Todd Lake, Sparks Lake and Hosmer Lake

Fancy some mountain views?

It's your lucky day! Bend has those as well!

Bend is right by the Cascade mountain range, and its awesome peaks are visible from just about anywhere. An hour's drive will take you into the mountains themselves.

Drive the pass between Mt Bachelor in the south and Broken Top and the South Sister peaks in the north for the majestic views of the Cascades. Three lakes that are well worth a longer stop at are Todd, Sparks, and Hosmer Lakes.

There you have it! This is my list of top things to do in Bend and the area.

Are you getting to Bend from Portland? Make sure you read my posts about traveling along the Columbia River Gorge and also about these awesome museums in Portland!

Oh, and if you're headed south from Bend, you'll probably want to check out my post about the ultimate Crater Lake road trip and possibly the one about Lassen National Volcanic Park, too. And wherever your itinerary takes you, check out my 37 true and tested road-tripping tips!

Have you been to Bend yourself? Or are you planning a visit? I'd love to hear more of your ideas about what would make a great itinerary in this area, so please leave me a comment! Happy travels!