The best place to visit in Bend OR
Tourist Attractions

The 15 Best Places in Bend OR to Visit This Year

Bend OR is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. With so many amazing places to choose from, it can be hard to know where to go. To help make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in Bend OR based on traveler ratings and reviews. So whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway spot or an adventure playground, there’s something for everyone in this metropolis area!

The best place to visit in Bend OR
The best place to visit in Bend OR

Best Place to Visit in Bend OR

Old Mill District

  • Address: 450 SW Powerhouse Dr, Bend, OR 97702, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (7115)
  • Phone: +1 541-312-0131
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The best place to visit in Bend OR
The best place to visit in Bend OR

5 Replies to The 15 Best Places in Bend OR to Visit This Year

  1. If you are in Bend this is the place to be. Whether you are looking to shop, laze around, spend time with family there is something to do for persons of all ages. Perfect amalgamation of indoors and outdoors. Highly recommend to visit if in the area.

  2. Nice open air mall with a lot of cool stores (REI ❤️❤️❤️) and restaurants. The walk along the river is very pleasant as well. It’s a bike path and walk promenade at the same time.

  3. Cannot wait to come back in the summer time, cannot wait to see all the trees in bloom! Stopped here while house hunting. Very clean and quiet. Will definitely return.

  4. This is an apparently new development with very nice layout and stores including a HUGE REI store and good coffee shops, we stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn right above, Very Nice…there is a river walk and a lot of people enjoy the area….Bend in general was more than we expected although we went there based on a Google 10 Best Towns recommendation…we visited Truckee north of Lake Tahoe from the same article GREAT choices.

  5. It was shopping day on our anniversary date and although we’d come to this district before (briefly), we’d never seen all the shops.

    While my wife shopped, I walked by the river and among the shops. It seems a very trendy space, not unlike Yaletown in my home town of Vancouver.

    Lots of new, trendy shops and fancy restaurants. Roads and sidewalks were very clean and flat and easy to walk on. There are several guides and maps to let you know where you are and how to get to where you want to go. Well laid out. Prices are, well…average.

    Not too many good deals here. Maybe it was just the time of the year we visited. Still, my wife loved it and we were able to get our 10,000 steps in no-time at all.

    We’ll need to visit the other side of the bridge once the bike rentals open again.

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Top 15 Tourist Attractions in Bend OR

The best place to visit in Bend OR
The best place to visit in Bend OR

Smith Rock State Park

  • Address: Terrebonne, OR 97760, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.9 (5649)
  • Phone: +1 800-551-6949
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Reviews:
    This is an impressive park. We hiked Misery Ridge Trail (in reverse). Instead of going to the right and going straight up, we went to the left and followed the river then went up to the ridge and down the steep part. It was in the 90’s when we were there with hardly any shade and the signs posted say to bring water and drink 16-ounces per hour! The trail was difficult in some areas, especially going down Misery Ridge Trail. It is steep and zigzags and you can easily lose your footing and slip. My toes were actually sore and even a little bruised the next day because it was so steep. Using hiking poles would have been a good idea (if I had any). We stopped a lot to take pictures, so it actually took us around 3 hours to do the hike. If we do it again, I would like to go in the spring and start early in the day when it is cool. The views from up top though are amazing! So bring lots of water, where good shoes and bring those hiking poles. There are some flush toilets at the park which is always a plus for me.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By A Richardson (a month ago)
    No rock climbers in our group, but our group really enjoyed hiking in the rim and river trails in this beautiful park. The rim trail offers nice views for hikers and non-hikers alike. Wide, flat trails, offer easy access to the river and canyon trails below.

    We had limited time there, so we didn’t climb the steep, exposed trails to the top of the mountains. Instead we hiked along the river snapping photos of the impressive cliff faces and scads of climbers.

    The park was crowded on a cool, sometimes stormy, Spring day, but the trails were never crowded. It’s a beautiful place, so I can see why! We’ll return to hike over the mountains soon. It will surely be worth the effort.

    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Ardor Bard (6 months ago)
    Awesome hike! My wife and I did a party that ended up being about 3 miles, and the scenery was gorgeous. Went about mid day, and although there were plenty of cars in the parking lot and side road, because the area is so large we hardly ran into anybody.

    You could spend hours exploring all the twists and turns. You’ll also probably see some rock climbers (experienced and learning)!

    ✭✭✭✭✭ By John Ebert (a month ago)
    Amazing spot for hike and enjoy the nature. Its popular spot so be early to enjoy the peace. You need $5 parking ticket. There are miles of hiking trails mostly easy to moderate. If you wanna go all the way up it would be little bit hard but still not too bad
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Arash D (4 months ago)
    This is such a stunning state park! Pay the $5 for day parking at the machine and then you’re good to go! Lots of hikes and trails available for all levels and an excellent spot for climbing too. Well worth the visit if you are in the area. Dry and rocky climate.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Jamie Waller (9 months ago)

High Desert Museum

  • Address: 59800 US-97, Bend, OR 97702, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (3131)
  • Phone: +1 541-382-4754
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Reviews:
    Awesome place for the whole family. Absolutely worth the stop. They have a great Cafe with good beer for a break between exhibits. Numerous exhibits range from outdoor Otter exhibit which is great, to very informative educational interactive exhibits inside. There are constantly changing features too, which keeps it new and exciting. Such a good spot.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Kiyel Chase (9 months ago)
    Fantastic place to visit, far all ages, very educational, very easy parking, very helpful and knowledgeable staff.
    The out door part is amazing it takes you back in time, if you are lucky you can cach the lady making ice cream. If you want to see the birds show make sure you get there before 5 pm. The all museum is superb, definitely a great place to see if you are in the area.
    Reasonable priced great gift shop.
    I am coming back.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Michele Angerosi (4 months ago)
    Even though it was 34 and raining, we LOVED this museum. The native American section was awesome. The desert section was awesome. The bird exhibits with eagles and falcons was awesome. And, of course, the otters were otterly awesome. Great way to spend a morning with 2 kids!
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Chris Rakunas (7 months ago)
    Definitely worth the stop!! great live animal exhibits, along with some historical/informational plaques and rooms. Didn’t do 5 stars because a few things were closed. I am definitely coming back. The otters, made the trip worth it!
    ✭✭✭✭ By Katie Bergio (2 months ago)
    This place is always incredible. I’ve grown up in Bend and coming here is always a treat. I’m grateful to have grown up admiring these birds, to be able to come back as an adult and photograph them is a real pleasure. I highly recommend a visit here, help support these amazing people and animals.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Immediate Review! (5 months ago)

Drake Park

  • Address: 777 NW Riverside Blvd, Bend, OR 97701, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (2555)
  • Phone: +1 541-389-7275
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
    Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Reviews:
    Drake Park in Bend, OR is a must see and experience. We were amazed how clean this Park is. It’s meticulously maintained and everyone was kind and friendly. Dog walkers, kayakers, kids playing volleyball, people biking and other walking around enjoying the beauty of the place.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Ken Graham (a month ago)
    Always love visiting this park while in Bend. It’s absolutely beautiful and makes a lovely morning or afternoon stroll. You can walk around the whole pond, meander through the quaint neighborhood surrounding the park, and stop at a local eatery or coffee shop across the way. Gorgeous every time of year!!
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Melody Broten (a year ago)
    Beautiful, relaxing park. There were people launching kayaks and paddle boards from here. We were here on a busy Sunday and eere able to find parking close to the park.

    Very relaxing with beautiful scenery.

    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Brian Baker (2 months ago)
    Beautiful natural area that follows the river into downtown Bend, lot of mature trees, benches, picnic tables, and employees who regularly sweep the park and keep it in tip top shape!
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Amanda D-G (4 months ago)
    This is such a lovely and well taken care of park! Perfect for a scenic stroll in Bend.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Dylan Chapman (6 months ago)

Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort

  • Address: 13000 SW Century Drive, Bend, OR 97702, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (2015)
  • Phone: +1 541-382-1709
  • Website: Link
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Reviews:
    Love this ski resort.

    Pet friendly with off leash park & off leash parking at west lodge parking area; family friendly with day care facilities~

    Mountain is big and lots powders. 360 degree descents from the 9,065’ volcanic peak. This vast landscape is served by 12 lifts – eight of which are high-speed quads – and three easy to use carpets. For beginners to advanced , everyone enjoys themselves here!

    RV can pay and park overnight. There’s restroom and showers available to use.

    Top of the mountain, there’s a building with restaurant to rest and eat.

    Charger for electric cars very convenient.

    Staff is friendly and helpful.

    Solo travelers , pets and families all happy here.

    Weekdays are not busy at all, weekends are crowded, long wait lines.

    Me and my puppy are both having fun here:) Will definitely come back again!

    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Faye Wang (8 months ago)
    I had a great experience snowboarding for the first time. Get there early if you’re going on a Saturday like we did. The parking lot fills up quickly. The bunny hill was really fun and was a great place to practice. The lifts were smooth and the staff would slow them down for you if you raise your hand when it was time to get off.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Greg Towers (3 months ago)
    Wow, lifelong Oregonian and had never been to Mt. Bachelor. My daughter ? skies there often and really enjoys her experiences. All photos were taken from the lodge. Wah an amazingly good lunch with a world class Bloody Mary. The weather was spectacular and everyone had a great time.Even non-skier me. Great facility and beautiful access.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By DANA (10 months ago)
    Great ski and snowboard mountain with good snow management and good vibe. Large enough that it spreads out the crowd. Eat at the food trucks over the lodges…most lodges have a bunch of fried food. I did get a taco salad at first lodge up main lift that was very tasty.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Rick Collins (8 months ago)
    Bachelor is stupid expensive and seems to only care about money. That being said it is a frikkin epic ski resort with 360 mountain access whenever summit lift is open. Summit lift is closed a lot due to wind and weather but there are tons of other lists. They’re usually not all open, especially in spring, but there’s usually still a lot to ski on. You can get back country through the trees and find fresh powder in the less explored areas. There are routes for all levels here. Their hours kind of suck, especially in the spring they close at 1:30 PM. They do have pretty frequent events and live music and competitions. Lots of kids programs. The food is mediocre and obscenely expensive.
    ✭✭✭✭✭ By Hilary Neilson (6 months ago)

Tumalo State Park

  • Address: 64170 O. B. Riley Rd, Tumalo, OR 97703, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (893)

Shevlin Park

  • Address: 18920 NW Shevlin Park Rd, Bend, OR 97701, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (729)

Deschutes National Forest – Forest Supervisor’s Office

  • Address: 63095 Deschutes Market Rd, Bend, OR 97701, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (569)

Bend Whitewater Park

  • Address: 166 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend, OR 97702, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (452)

Newberry National Volcanic Monument – Deschutes NF

  • Address: 58201 US-97, Bend, OR 97702, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (410)

Deschutes River Trail

  • Address: Deschutes River Trail, Bend, OR 97702, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (266)

Boyd Cave

  • Address: Bend, OR 97702, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (252)

Phil’s Trailhead

  • Address: Bend, OR 97701, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (249)

Wanderlust Tours

  • Address: 61535 S Hwy 97 #13, Bend, OR 97702, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.8 (162)

Deschutes Historical Museum

  • Address: 129 NW Idaho Ave, Bend, OR 97701, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.6 (154)

Visit Bend

  • Address: 750 NW Lava Rd #160, Bend, OR 97703, United States
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (135)
The best place to visit in Bend OR
The best place to visit in Bend OR

Bend OR is a world-famous tourist destination, and it’s no wonder why. Here is our list of the top 15 best place to visit in Bend OR – based on expert opinions and customer reviews. Did your favorite spot make the cut? Let us know in the comments above!

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