Whether you’re living in Bend or visiting this Central Oregon gem this summer, this bucket list is packed with 20 exciting activities and iconic ideas to fill your days. From outdoor adventures and scenic hikes to local eateries and hidden gems, Bend offers something for everyone. Get ready to explore, experience, and make unforgettable memories with this ultimate Bend summer bucket list.
This list offers a unique and intimate experience of Bend, OR, capturing what we locals truly love about this town. As a 20-something who loves to live life to the fullest, adventure outside, and run, I’ve explored every corner of Bend. These suggestions come from genuine passion and firsthand experience. I also hold food quality and flavor to high standards, and only find it worth it to repeat at a handful of restaurants and cafes. Use this guide to uncover the true essence of Bend and make your visit as enriching and enjoyable as possible. Dive in, and let this list lead you to some of the best adventures and experiences Bend has to offer!
Looking for a place to stay? Here’s the hotel I’ve personally stayed at for a week when I visited Bend. It’s comfortable, conveniently located near the mountains, and offers great amenities like free bike use! Highly recommended for your visit!
1. Float the Deschutes River
Floating the Deschutes River is a quintessential Bend summer activity, offering three iconic routes: Old Mill Reach, Drake Park Reach, and Tumalo Reach.
Preparation
For a smooth experience, consider buying sturdy reusable floating tubes from Amazon, Costco, REI, or Ace Hardware. You can also rent tubes or book a shuttle bus service from Tumalo Creek.
Floating Routes
Old Mill Reach: Start at Riverbend Park and float to Bend Whitewater Park. This 30-45 minute float takes you past Bend’s iconic Old Mill District, Hayden Homes Amphitheater, and offers stunning mountain views. You’ll float under several bridges, soak up the sun, and join a bustling river crowd. Riverbend Park’s parking lot fills up quickly, but you can park at this free parking lot (my go-to spot).
Local Tip! If I’m only floating this reach, I’ll just walk back to my car from Bend Whitewater Park. It’s a convenient and enjoyable way to complete the experience without needing a shuttle.
Want more time in the water? Continue floating through the next reach!…
Drake Park Reach: Continue from Bend Whitewater Park to Tubing Takeout, just past the Galveston Road bridge. This 25-35 minute float winds through neighborhoods along the Deschutes River. This reach is generally less crowded than Old Mill Reach and is perfect if you want to extend your time on the water.
Local Tip! Tumalo Creek’s shuttle bus service can help you float both the Old Mill and Drake Park Reach. Alternatively, set up your own shuttle with friends and family by parking a vehicle near Drake Park. This way, you can easily enjoy both sections of the river without worrying about transportation logistics.
Tumalo Reach: Launch from Tumalo State Park and float to Tumalo Road Bridge. This lazy 45-60 minute float takes you through the serene Tumalo State Park and along Tumalo’s portion of the Deschutes River. It’s quieter and ideal for a more relaxed float. Note that this route requires a car shuttle as it’s not walkable like the other routes. Grab a bite or drink at The Bite Food Cart Pod after this float!
2. Sunrise at Pilote Butte
Start your day with a stunning sunrise at Pilote Butte, a popular spot in Bend. Drive or hike up to the summit. The hike is short but rewarding, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It’s a great way to soak in the beauty of Central Oregon at the break of dawn.
3. Pint & Pizza at 10 Barrel West
Location: 10 Barrel West
Savor a pint and a delicious pizza at 10 Barrel West, the flagship pub of 10 Barrel Brewing. My friends and I love to order their Pepperoni pizza and Nachos (request 1/2 chips and 1/2 fries) while enjoying the lively atmosphere on their intimate patio. It’s the perfect spot to relax after work or a day of adventuring.
4. Latte & Toasted Liege Waffle at Lone Pine West
Location: Lone Pine West
Treat yourself to a rich latte and a toasted Liege waffle at Lone Pine West, located just outside of downtown Bend. This cozy spot, filled with lush indoor plants and an open bay door, offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for a delicious breakfast or a midday snack.
5. Nitro Cold Brew & Cookie at Northwest Crossing Thump
Location: Northwest Crossing Thump
One of the best ways to start your summer day in Bend is with a Nitro Cold Brew and a freshly baked cookie from Northwest Crossing Thump. My personal favorite is their gingersnap, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of their baked goods or sandwiches. And let’s talk about their mochas – they’re next-level, made with real melted chocolate that just elevates the whole experience.
The vibe at this place is perfect for summer. It’s spacious and bright, and when the weather’s nice, they throw open the bay doors to let in the sunshine. It’s the ideal spot to relax, enjoy your coffee and cookie, and soak up the summer vibes of Bend’s Northwest Crossing neighborhood. Whether you’re gearing up for a day of adventures or simply taking it easy, Northwest Crossing Thump deserves a spot on your Bend summer bucket list.
6. Picnic at the Park – Drake
Location: Drake Park
Enjoy a picturesque picnic at Drake Park with tables scattered around offering river views and a relaxed atmosphere. Bring along a portable grill for cooking and grab a 20-inch pizza from Cibelli’s to savor outdoors. Don’t forget to pack your favorite outdoor games like Spikeball or portable cornhole for added fun in the park!
You’re going on a picnic – don’t forget to pack your…
- picnic blanket (pictured above)
- picnic silverware (pictured above)
- portable cutting board & knife kit
- picnic plate
7. Munch & Music
Location: Drake Park
Get ready to groove this summer at the Thursday free concerts in Drake Park, celebrating its 33rd season! Starting July 4 and continuing every Thursday through August 8, these concerts are a highlight of Central Oregon’s summer calendar. Held on the Boss Mortgage stage, the music kicks off at 5:30 pm and goes until about 9 pm.
This beloved weekly series not only offers fantastic live music but also features food vendors, family-friendly activities, local vendors showcasing their goods, and options for beer, wine, and spirits. It’s a community event that promises fun for all ages.
If you’re planning to attend, remember there will be bag checks at the entrance. While food carts are available, the lines can get long, so many prefer to bring their own picnic dinner. Just note that external liquids aren’t allowed inside the venue.
For pet owners, please make sure to leave your dogs at home as Drake Park has a strict dog policy during these events.
Mark your calendars for these dates: July 4, July 11, July 18, July 25, August 1, and August 8, and get ready to enjoy summer evenings filled with music, food, and community spirit at Drake Park!
8. Grab a Local Treat from Newport Market
Location: Newport Market
Newport Market beckons as a beloved local co-op in Bend. It’s a spot close to my heart, where friends and I frequently stop for a quick deli lunch before hitting the trails. Our must-have treats include their renowned brownies – the OMG and German chocolate flavors are irresistible. Additionally, Newport Market boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, making it a perfect place to pick up a beverage for any occasion.
While it might not be your go-to for everyday groceries, Newport Market shines with its specialty fresh foods and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a picnic, seeking a gourmet snack, or exploring their unique offerings, Newport Market offers a delightful experience that captures the essence of Bend’s local flavor this summer.
9. Bend Farmers Market
Location: Bend Farmers Market
Open every Wednesday from 11 AM to 3 PM, May through October.
The Bend Farmers Market is dedicated to supporting local farmers, ranchers, and food producers. This market focuses on fresh, locally sourced produce, proteins, and farm products. Unlike other markets, you won’t find jewelry or crafts here, but you’ll discover an outdoor grocery store filled with sustainably produced goods to nourish you and your family.
10. Northwest Crossing Saturday Farmers Market
Location: Northwest Crossing Drive
Open every Saturday from 10 am–2 pm, June 1st – September 28th
This larger market offers a wide variety of seasonal produce, locally-raised meats, fresh eggs and cheese, handmade items, beautiful flowers, and delicious treats. In addition to food, you’ll find more jewelry vendors here compared to the Bend Farmers Market.
11. Walk / Run at Riley Ranch Nature Reserve
Location: Riley Ranch Nature Reserve
Discover Riley Ranch Nature Reserve with 1.57 miles of soft-surface trails above the canyon and 1.25 miles on The Canyon Loop offering mountain and canyon views. You can hike down to the river and even connect to Tumalo State Park from here. Riley Ranch also provides access to Tumalo State Park, but please note that dogs and bikes are not allowed.
These are my current summer running essentials:
12. Walk / Run the Deschutes River Trail
Explore the scenic Deschutes River Trail, which weaves through town and stretches out towards the mountains. This trail offers multiple reaches, each providing a unique experience. My favorite sections starting in town are:
- Awbrey Reach: Experience canyon and mountain views.
- Pioneer Reach: Passes by Mirror Pond and Drake Park.
- Old Mill Reach: Wander along the river to the Old Mill and Hayden Homes Amphitheater.
- South Canyon Reach: Just past the Old Mill, take to the trail for more scenic views
These are my current summer running essentials:
13. Camping Weekend Trip
Camping is an essential summer activity, especially in Central Oregon where stunning landscapes are just an hour or less away. Whether you’re seeking serene lakes, lush riverbanks, or volcanic wonders, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. Here are some gorgeous nearby areas for camping:
- Cascade Lakes: Nestled amidst the Cascades, this area offers pristine lakes, hiking trails, and breathtaking mountain views. Perfect for fishing, kayaking, and simply soaking in nature’s beauty.
- Metolius River: Known for its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings, camping along the Metolius River provides a peaceful retreat with plenty of opportunities for fly fishing and riverside walks.
- Newberry National Volcanic Monument: Explore this volcanic marvel with its unique geological features, including the stunning Paulina and East Lakes. Enjoy hot springs, water sports, and a variety of hiking trails.
- Suttle Lake: A picturesque alpine lake surrounded by forests, Suttle Lake is ideal for swimming, boating, and lakeside relaxation. The area also offers well-maintained campsites and scenic views.
Each of these locations offers a unique camping experience, making Central Oregon a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Don’t miss my top summer camping picks here!
This list includes…
- camping hammock (pictured above)
- camping gear bin (pictured above)
- shop at Gregory here and save 15% with code LAUREN15
- puffy camp blanket
14. Backpacking Weekend Trip
Embark on a memorable backpacking weekend trip in Central Oregon, where you’ll find a range of stunning locations perfect for an adventurous getaway. Some of the top spots for a weekend backpacking trip include:
- Green Lakes: Nestled between the South Sister and Broken Top, this picturesque area offers serene alpine lakes and breathtaking views, making it a favorite among backpackers.
- Broken Top Loop: This loop trail features incredible views of the Cascade peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. It’s a challenging yet rewarding hike for experienced backpackers.
- Obsidian Trail: This trail offers a unique landscape of volcanic obsidian rock formations, lush meadows, and stunning mountain views.
Whether you’re seeking solitude in the wilderness or a challenging hike with rewarding scenery, these backpacking destinations provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable weekend adventure. Just make sure you’re prepared with all the necessary permits and gear for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Local Tip! Don’t miss grabbing your free backpacking packing checklist here!
Find my summer backpacking essentials here!
This list includes…
- women’s backpacking pack
- shop at Gregory here and save 15% with code LAUREN15
- beginner backpacking tent
- beginner sleeping bag
Learn more about the Central Cascades Wilderness permit in the following section: Hiking in Three Sisters Wilderness.
Here’s what you need to know before hiking in Central Oregon…
15. Hiking in Three Sisters Wilderness
Hiking in the Three Sisters Wilderness should be on your itinerary the next time you’re visiting Bend. With its diverse landscapes and stunning natural beauty, it’s a hiker’s paradise.
Before hitting the trails, be sure to secure a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit if you plan to hike one of the popular routes. Don’t risk hiking without a permit, as rangers are on the trails daily and will ask everyone they pass to show their permit. Without one, you’ll be turned around at a minimum.
Local Tip! Make sure you also have your NW Forest Pass for parking!
Find my summer hiking outfit guide here!
A handful of my summer hiking essentials…
- women’s day backpack
- shop at Gregory here and save 15% with code LAUREN15
- hiking snacks
- cute hiking socks
- electrolyte tablets
Here’s what you need to know about the Central Cascades Wilderness Permit...
Bend offers a variety of hiking experiences, including lava beds, mountain peaks, and alpine lakes. The lava beds, remnants of ancient volcanic activity, provide a unique and rugged terrain that’s fascinating to explore. The mountain peaks, including the iconic South Sister, Bachelor, and Broken Top, offer breathtaking panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment for those who reach the summits. Alpine lakes such as Moraine Lake and Green Lakes are serene and picturesque, perfect for a refreshing stop or a scenic backdrop for your hike. The Three Sisters Wilderness is rich with diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and flora, making every hike a new and exciting adventure. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual adventurer, the trails in this area promise an unforgettable outdoor experience.
16. Sunset at Sparks Lake
Watching the sunset at Sparks Lake is a quintessential Bend experience. Located just 25 miles west of Bend along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, Sparks Lake offers breathtaking views of South Sister and Broken Top reflected in the calm waters. The lake’s tranquil beauty makes it the perfect spot for a peaceful evening.
Bring a picnic, set up your camera, paddle board, or simply relax on the shore as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. Whether you’re a photographer looking to capture the perfect shot or just someone wanting to soak in the natural beauty, a sunset at Sparks Lake is an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to pack some warm layers as the temperature can drop quickly after the sun goes down.
17. Explore the Lava River Cave
Location: Lava River Cave
The Lava River Cave, part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, is a fascinating mile-long lava tube formed around 65,000 years ago. Open daily, the cave requires timed reservation tickets for parking, with slots available from 9 AM to 2 PM. Each ticket covers one vehicle; a valid recreation pass is also necessary.
Inside, the cave is pitch black and maintains a chilly 42°F (5.5°C) year-round. To help prevent the spread of White-nose syndrome, visitors are advised not to bring clothing or gear that has been in other caves.
Local Tip! Remember to pack your: puffy jacket, headlamp, and lantern.
These are my go-to caving essentials:
Exploring the cave takes about an hour, covering a 2.2-mile round trip. Access begins with a descent down 180 stairs, leading to a mix of boardwalk and uneven surfaces. Located near Bend, OR, the Lava River Cave is a must-visit for both tourists and locals interested in caving.
18. Brunching!
Brunch in Bend is a serious affair. For a quick bite to go, I recommend Bend Breakfast Burrito for their bacon breakfast burrito or Big O Bagels for their delicious breakfast sandwiches, lox bagel, or toasted peanut butter chocolate chip bagel.
If you prefer a sit-down experience, Lemon Tree or Drake are excellent choices. At Lemon Tree, don’t miss their Hazelnut Espresso Martini made with Crater Lake Vodka – it’s a must-try!
Looking for cute mountain town brunch outfits? Check out my LTK for outfit inspiration perfect for Bend, OR.
19. Paddleboarding on a Cascade Lake
Spend a day paddleboarding on Elk Lake, Sparks Lake, or Devils Lake, three picturesque spots along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. The crystal clear, turquoise waters of Devils Lake and the serene mountain views at Sparks Lake or Elk Lake create an ideal setting for paddleboarding.
If you don’t mind sharing the water with powerboats, Elk Lake offers amenities like restaurants, a marina, and lodging. You can rent paddleboards from town or bring your own. I’ve rented from Tumalo Creek and Seventh Mountain to pick up and drop off on my way to the lake.
Local Tip! Make sure to arrive early as parking fills up, and don’t forget your NW forest pass.
20. Join Our Running Clubs
One of my favorite running clubs meets every Thursday at 6:00 PM at Liftys. Join over 50 runners for a casual run around Bend, with paces and distances varying to accommodate everyone. Expect to run anywhere from 3 to 6 miles at paces ranging from 8 to 10+ minute miles on road and trail. It’s a great way to stay active, meet new people, and explore the beautiful trails and streets of Bend. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, you’ll find a welcoming community and a pace that suits you.
Exciting insider info! I might also be leading runs soon ? Stay tuned for updates shared on Instagram
These are my current summer running essentials:
Post Summary
Drinking & Dining in Bend, OR
- Pint & Pizza at 10 Barrel West
- Latte & Toasted Liege Waffle at Lone Pine West
- Nitro Cold Brew & Cookie at Northwest Crossing Thump
- Brunching!
Activities & Entertainment in Bend, OR
- Picnic at the Park – Drake
- Munch & Music
- Grab a Local Treat from Newport Market
- Bend Farmers Market
- Northwest Crossing Saturday Farmers Market
Adventuring in Bend, OR
- Float the Deschutes River
- Sunrise at Pilote Butte
- Walk / Run at Riley Ranch Nature Reserve
- Walk / Run the Deschutes River Trail
- Camping Weekend Trip
- Backpacking Weekend Trip
- Hiking in Three Sisters Wilderness
- Sunset at Sparks Lake
- Explore the Lava River Cave
- Paddleboarding on a Cascade Lake
- Join Our Running Clubs
Leaving Notes
Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I’m thrilled for you to experience the best of Bend! I hope you’re doing well, and I appreciate your support more than you know.
Here’s your reminder to get outside this weekend!
If you’re enjoying this blog and want to support me for free, you can:
- Like this post ?
- Comment or DM me your questions on planning your next trip to Bend, OR.
- Share this blog post with your friends and family who might also love to visit Bend.
- Shop through my REI link for all your outdoor adventure needs!
See you in the next adventure!
Happiest Outside,
Lauren (@laurensbigadvneture)
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