Considered the recreational capital of Oregon, Bend is a picturesque city with beautiful mountain views, tranquil forest walking paths, crystal-clear waterways, and many beautiful and relaxing places to stay for those planning a vacation. Centrally located in Oregon, this small community is the perfect spot for those who love being outdoors. From your convenient Bend vacation rental, you can enjoy the snow in the winter with a variety of snow sports to choose from, or go biking, hiking, fishing, and boating in the winter.
1. Bend River Promenade
Located in the center of Bend, the promenade area is the center of all of the action in Bend. This is the place to be if you prefer being close to shops and the commercial side of town. The Bend River Promenade Mall is home to many shops and restaurants, and the indoor atmosphere is the perfect way to beat the heat in the summer. Head outdoors to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument where you can go hiking, biking or simply take pictures of the area. You can also sign up for a Wanderlust tour to visit various tourist spots and learn about the history of the region.
2. Deschutes River
Soak your cares away during your vacation when you choose a vacation rental along the Deschutes River. Bring your kayak and scull along the water in the early morning where you can enjoy nature. Adults can enjoy the casino at the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, or gather the kids and test your nerves when you explore the ghost town of Shaniko. The Deschutes River is ideal for rafting, or you can walk along the trail and have a picnic lunch by the water.
3. Sunriver
Sunriver is a planned residential and resort community with luxury vacation rentals, including cabins and homes. Bring your bike and ride along the trails to Benham Falls. Sunriver also has an aquatic center to cool off during the heat of the day. You can drop your kayak in at the Sunriver Marina, or rent a boat and spend the day fishing.
4. Redmond
Located on the east side of the Cascades, Redmond has a variety of tasty restaurants, art galleries, museums, and the Smith Rock State Park where you can go rock climbing and hiking. Head to Maple Avenue for a hot air balloon ride over the high desert, or go horseback riding. There is a playground at Sam Johnson State Park, or rent some spelunking equipment and explore the Redmond Caves.
5. Old Bend
Old Bend is the Old Mill District of Bend. Located directly on the Deschutes River, Old Bend is the ideal location to find riverfront vacation rentals. Here, you can grab a canoe and paddle down Tumalo Creek or climb up to Tumalo Falls for a picnic. ThereÂ’s bird watching with the East Cascades Audubon Society, or enjoy live music at the Les Schwab Amphitheater.
6. La Pine
La Pine is well-known for its towering pine trees. This laid back community has a selection of rustic vacation rentals for those who love being near the great outdoors. When visiting, you can climb to the Pine Mountain Observatory and look at the stars, or stop in during the day to see views of the valley below. Kids will love visiting PaulinaÂ’s Mountain where they can ride bikes or take the PaulinaÂ’s plunge. In the winter, rent snowmobiles and skirt around the woods.
7. Sisters
Sisters, Oregon is named for its trio of towering peaks just to the west of the region. This energetic community is home to a variety of unique shops and art galleries and spectacular scenery. If you prefer to travel in the winter, the HooDoo Ski Area is the place to go for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiles. Warm up after a day outside with a relaxing massage at one of the day spas, and you can also enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the java joints in town. Go hiking along the Peterson Ridge Trail, or schedule tee times at one of the local golf courses, ThereÂ’s a theater for movie goers, or enjoy wine tasting at the local Cork Cellars vineyard.
8. Terrebonne
Terrebonne is a small community located in Bend. This rustic location is optimal for those who prefer quiet and solitude. Hike up the Peter Skene Ogden Viewpoint to get excellent views of the area, and be sure to bring your camera to get pictures. If youÂ’re looking for gifts to take home to family and friends, the Crescent Moon Ranch has a small gift shop with specialty items, and you can stop and pet the small animals. If you like rock climbing, sign up for a guided climb with the Chockstone Climbing Guides. ThereÂ’s also another small farm called the DD Ranch where your kids can pick out pumpkins in the fall.
9. McKenzie Bridge
Located along the McKenzie River, the McKenzie Bridge area is a bucket list for outdoor adventurers. Vacation rentals range from comfortable cabins to fully furnished homes. Here, you can rent bikes and hit the McKenzie River Trail, or hop in your car and drive along the National Scenic Byways. Along the river, youÂ’ll find shady fishing holes, towering waterfalls, spacious riverbanks for fly fishing, and soak away your troubles at the Terwilliger Hot Springs.
10. Downtown Bend
Also referred to as the historic district, downtown Bend is the perfect place to shop and explore. Begin your adventure by making a stop at the Bend Visitor Center where you can pick up pamphlets and information on the local walking trails and other points of interest. Rent an electric bike and go on an excursion through the community, or stop by the Cowboy Carriage Company for a reminiscent stroll through the city streets. If youÂ’re feeling cooped up in your vacation rental, pack a picnic lunch and head to Drake Park where you can watch the ducks on the water and let the children play on the playground.