February 23, 2020 By Travel After Five 72 Comments

Bend, Oregon After 5:00 pm

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a group of buildings with trees in the background

There are SO many amazing things to do in Bend, Oregon, you’d be hard-pressed to not extend your trip to explore more. Bend is a city teeming with adventure; after all the Cascade Mountains border the west side and woo all visitors to the area. Even if you don’t have time to do some of the incredible hikes in Bend or other adventures, there are still ways to have fun in while visiting.

You HAVE to drink beer in Bend. The craft beer scene here is incredible. Even if you think you don’t like beer, you just may be surprised (or haven’t drank REAL beer before, seriously, try one! I thought I hated beer too).

How to Get to Bend, Oregon

Bend is very easy to get to. You can fly into Redmond Airport, which is 30 minutes north of the city. Take the shuttle bus from Portland, which is around 4-5 hours. Or if you have your own car, just ride here from Washington, California, Nevada, or Idaho. Bend is centrally located in Oregon so you’ll be a few hours from Bend no matter which way you come in.

Getting around Bend is fairly easy but it’s made even easier if you have your own car. Hello, and welcome to the US, where cars are essential for 95% of the country! If you don’t have a car, Uber is available and there is a public bus route as well.

Where to Eat in Bend for Dinner

Any of the Breweries // Literally any of them! Aside from amazing craft beer, pretty much every single brewery in Bend offers an incredible menu to pair. Sunriver Brewery has an awesome General Tso Cauliflower, Deschutes Brewery has mouthwatering mac and cheese, and Craft has the best southern BBQ in town (or the West Coast).

River Pig // This is one of the main spots in Bend that’s open late, has REALLY good cocktails (for those who are not into beer), and some really good pub food. Their burger and curly fries are everything you want in a burger—juicy, meaty, and all on a satisfying fresh bun.

Wild Rose // Perfect for those craving good Thai food without the flight to Thailand. We lived in Thailand and this is the closest we’ve got to authentic Thai in the US.

Spork // For a very reasonably priced draft and dish, this is the spot to go. Unassuming, chill, and delicious. They always have a new special too so be sure to ask.

Brother Jon’s Public House // Just order one of their sandwiches, they are damn good! Their bomb sauce should go on life, or at the least your sandwich. The Jack Sparrow is a big fav.

Things to See in Bend at Night

The Lot // This spot is almost literally just a lot. There’s just a bar (serving beer) and a bunch of benches but it’s a hot spot to grab a brew. It’s surrounded by food trucks and you’re welcome to order from them and eat it at The Lot.

Sunset walk on the Deschutes River // Dash out at 5 during summer and you can still take a walk on the Deschutes River Trail for sunset. It’s short and easy and a good stretch for the “office legs.”

Mcminimums Turkish Bath // Relax in a Turkish Bath in Bend. Yes, it’s a real thing and aside from being very relaxing, it’s gorgeous inside. They also happen to serve up really good food at their bar as well.

Stargazing // Take your car out or go out with a tour company for a cool night adventure in Oregon. Just outside of Bend is some truly epic stargazing opportunities!

Bend Ale Trail // How long do you have in town? There’s the Bend Ale Trail and if you have a few nights, are a night owl, and really love beer, this route will keep you very entertained. You can grab a ‘passport’ at any of the breweries, get stamped, drink beer, and have fun!

There’s ALWAYS an event going on in Bend, so be sure to check what’s on in Bend, Oregon during your stay.

Guide by Nina and Garrett | Oregon is for Adventure | Facebook | Pinterest