Your Guide To The Perfect Long Weekend in Bend, OR
In the heart of Oregon, about a 3-hour drive southeast of Portland, the town of Bend awaits you. This mountain town is full of life, giving you plenty of opportunities to see different angles of Oregon. From relishing in the beautiful outdoors to savoring delicious new foods, Bend is one of the best destinations for a long weekend getaway near Portland, OR. Whether you're a Portland local or flying in from afar, this guide will help you make the most of your long weekend visit to this charming high desert town.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IN BEND
Bend's gorgeous landscape and diverse climate entail exciting outdoor opportunities, no matter the time of year. Start your day with a sunrise hike at Pilot Butte, an extinct volcano in the city that will give you stunning views of Bend and the surrounding mountains. For those itching to be on water, the Deschutes River Trail provides an excellent opportunity for stand-up paddleboarding. Rent equipment from Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe and paddle through the Old Mill District for a fun day in the city.
Mountain biking fans will fall in love with Bend's ample network of trails, while winter sports lovers can hit the slopes at nearby Mt. Bachelor for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Oregon. For rock climbing adventures, head to Smith Rock State Park, known as the birthplace of American sport climbing, offering routes for all skill levels and breathtaking views of the high desert landscape.
MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS: WHERE NATURE MEETS CULTURE
Bend's attractions have everything you could want on a weekend getaway, with nature, culture, and history.
The High Desert Museum provides a fascinating look at the region's past, wildlife, and culture, with outdoor exhibits featuring live birds of prey. For a mix of shopping and art, the historic Old Mill District is home to local shops and galleries, including the must-visit Tumalo Art Co., a collectively owned gallery showcasing local artists.
We encourage all nature lovers to visit the Deschutes National Forest, just outside Bend, offering countless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. For a memorable geological experience, explore the lava tubes, obsidian flows, and volcanic lakes at Newberry National Volcanic Monument. And for a nostalgic trip, visit the world's last Blockbuster video store, now a museum.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN BEND
Bend's food scene has everything from upscale dining to farm fresh feasts, giving you many local favorites and visitor hotspots to add to your itinerary.
Start your day at The Victorian Cafe, where locals rave about the benedicts and bloody marys, or try The Lemon Tree for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and house-made pastries.
For a special dinner, Ariana Restaurant, housed in a charming craftsman bungalow, showcases the best of Central Oregon's local ingredients in a fine dining setting. Casual diners will love El Sancho Taco Shop, a former food cart turned Bend staple known for authentic street tacos and a welcoming atmosphere.
Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails has a Northwest cuisine with a Southern twist that perfectly highlights Bend's diverse food culture. At the same time, The Brick House presents a farm-to-table experience with a seasonally changing menu highlighting Central Oregon's produce.
EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Bend's entertainment scene is as varied as its landscape. Music lovers should check out concerts at Hayden Homes Amphitheater, an outdoor venue hosting significant acts throughout the summer. The experience of enjoying live music with the Deschutes River and Old Mill District as a backdrop is quintessentially Bend.
If you want to try some quality craft beer, check out the Bend Ale Trail, the most extensive beer trail in the West. An alternative option is the Crux Fermentation Project, which we recommend visiting around sunset for breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains.
Art gurus will enjoy the First Friday Art Walk, where downtown Bend comes alive with gallery openings, live music, and wine tastings on the first Friday of each month.
Seasonal events add to Bend's uniqueness. The Bend Summer Festival in July celebrates local art, music, and food, while February's Winterfest features ice sculptures, live music, and winter sports competitions. Film buffs should plan their visit around the Bend Film Festival in October, which showcases independent films from around the world.
For an unconventional entertainment experience, check out the live music events at McMenamins Old St. Francis School, a quirky hotel and entertainment complex housed in a former Catholic schoolhouse.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BEND, OREGON
For the ultimate Bend experience, we highly recommend booking with Arrived Vacation Rentals. As a trusted partner of The 100 Collection™, Arrived Vacation Rentals offers a curated selection of high-quality Bend vacation rentals that cater to various group sizes and preferences.
From cozy cottages perfect for couples to spacious homes that accommodate large families or groups of friends, Arrived ensures that your home base in Bend is comfortable, well-equipped, and ideally located. Many of their properties feature outdoor spaces where you can relax after a day of adventures, perhaps even with a view of the Cascade Mountains.
This guide is just a taste of what Bend has to offer. Don't hesitate to ask your Arrived Vacation Rentals host for their personal favorites - they're always happy to share insider tips to make your stay in Bend unforgettable. No matter when you visit, Bend offers abundant activities and attractions to fill your long weekend. From outdoor adventures to delicious local restaurants and cultural experiences to relaxation, Bend truly has something for everyone.
Whether you're visiting from Portland or further afield, Bend is waiting to captivate you with its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and quirky, laid-back vibe.
