Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, Bend is a town that surprises and delights at every turn. During my recent visit, I discovered its incredible blend of natural beauty, adventure opportunities, and culinary delights. 

While Bend may be lesser-known than other outdoor destinations in the US, I would argue it’s the perfect place for a memorable getaway with unique experiences and serene landscapes.

Here’s what to do in Bend, Oregon and why I think it’s one of the most underrated weekend getaways in the US.

What to Do in Bend, Oregon on a Weekend Trip

If you have 48 hours in Bend, this is what I’d recommend you see and do:

Explore Drake Park in the Fall 

Just a short walk from the Oxford Hotel, Drake Park is one of the best things to do in Bend, especially in the fall.

As the leaves change, the park transforms into a palette of reds, yellows, and oranges. It’s the perfect place to stroll, take photos, or enjoy a peaceful moment by the river. It’s also one of Bend’s longest-standing and best-known parks. 

Drive Up to The Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint 

For sunset, there’s no better place to visit in Bend, Oregon than Pilot Butte. You can either drive up or take a short hike to the top. From here, the views are breathtaking, with major Cascade peaks like Mount Bachelor, Broken Top, and the Three Sisters visible in the distance.

There is year-round access from the east side parking lot to all trails and the summit. The summit road for driving access is seasonal. Pilot Butte is a lava dome created from an extinct volcano in Bend. 

It’s a cinder cone butte that rises nearly 500 feet (150 m) above the surrounding plains. 

Fun fact: Bend, Oregon is also one of six United States cities with a volcano within its boundaries. 

Go Hiking at Smith Rock State Park 

Just a short drive from Bend, Smith Rock is a playground for hikers and climbers.

One of my favorite hikes in Bend, Oregon is the Misery Ridge Trail, which, though challenging, is particularly beautiful at sunrise. Other trails I highly recommend are the Crooked River Trail and the Smith Rock State Park Canyon Trail. 

Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this incredible landscape.

Historical Tidbit: Smith Rock State Park holds a special place in the history of American rock climbing. It is considered the birthplace of modern sport climbing, attracting climbers from around the world since the 1980s, and is one of the things Bend, Oregon is known for. The park’s unique geological features, formed from volcanic activity and erosion, create a dramatic and rugged landscape that is both challenging and inspiring.

Costs: Day-use fees of $5 to park at Smith Rock State Park are required year-round. You can also use the annual Oregon State Parks pass for $30 here.  

Read Next: Hiking in Glacier National Park

Shop My Hiking Essentials

Chase Some Waterfalls in Bend

Steelhead Falls is a hidden gem that makes visiting Bend, Oregon worth it. It’s only a short hike from the parking area, and there is a small parking fee. Remember to follow marked paths to avoid erosion and protect the natural surroundings.

Cline Falls is located between Smith Rock and Steelhead Falls. It’s a bit tricky to find, but its natural beauty makes up for the effort. Although the main viewpoint road is closed, a side trail provides access to this serene spot.

A visit to Bend isn’t complete without stopping at Tumalo Falls. You can hike up to the falls or simply drive to the viewpoint for a quick yet rewarding view.

Book a Lava Tube Cave Tour 

Looking for unique things to do in Bend? Join Wanderlust Tours for a guided tour of Bend’s volcanic lava tubes. Boyd Cave, one of Bend’s popular lava tubes, is fascinating to explore with a headlamp and layers, as the temperature in the cave remains cool year-round. 

Boyd Cave, a 1,880-foot-long lava tube located about 12 miles southeast of Bend, Oregon, was likely formed around 10,000 years ago by Newberry Volcano. This well-preserved cave showcases stunning pāhoehoe and ʻaʻā basalt formations. Accessible only through a 6-foot-wide opening in the ceiling, visitors can descend 20 feet via sturdy steel stairs into an extraordinary underground world.

You will need sturdy shoes and a helmet (provided by Wanderlust Tours). At one point, the guide made us switch off our headlamps and experience total blackness, which was super cool. This is an epic adventure, and I highly recommend adding it to your Bend, Oregon itinerary.

Go Kayaking in the Cascade Lakes 

One of the top reasons to visit Bend, Oregon is the abundance of outdoor activities. After exploring the many hiking trails, it’s time to ditch your boots and take to the water.

Wanderlust Tours also offers scenic kayaking tours in the Cascade Lakes. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the area’s flora and fauna while enjoying Bend’s pristine waters. You can also kayak in the Newberry Caldera area on Paulina Lake, where views of Paulina Peak and the obsidian lava flow add to the experience.

Visit The Newberry Volcanic National Monument 

Another must-visit is the Newberry Volcanic National Monument. The obsidian lava trail, with its glimmering black glass, is fascinating to walk. Remember to pack out your trash when exploring here.

Close by this national monument is Paulina Falls. It’s just a short stroll from the parking lot to this easily accessible viewpoint. The park requires a day-use pass for entry.

Where to Eat in Bend, Oregon

Bend’s culinary scene is thriving, and I had the pleasure of sampling some truly delicious meals. Here are some of the top restaurants in Bend I recommend checking out:

• Bend Brewing Company: One of the things Bend is known for is its beer. There are over 30 breweries in Bend and countless award-winning brews. Filtered through volcanic rock, its water is some of the best-tasting water you’ll find, making for exceptional beer. Bend Brewing Company’s beer is something special, and their fried chicken burger pairs perfectly with the riverfront view. You can choose indoor or outdoor seating here.

• Commons Cafe: With its riverside location, Commons Cafe has a laid-back vibe, offering great coffee, chai, local brews, and live music, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.

• Loony Bean Coffee: For coffee lovers, this spot has an incredible selection and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a quick coffee break.

• Pine Tavern: Bend’s oldest cafe, Pine Tavern, has a unique charm and is known for the ponderosa pine tree that grows through its center. It’s a wonderful spot to enjoy lunch with a touch of local history. The restaurant also has an outdoor patio facing the river.

• Wild Rose Northern Thai Eats: If you’re a fan of Thai food, Wild Rose offers authentic dishes like Khao Soi and basil chicken. Don’t miss the beautiful roses hanging from the ceiling, which add to its charm. I loved the Khao Soi, highly recommend!

Where to Stay in Bend, Oregon: The Oxford Hotel

I am biased, but the Oxford Hotel is one of the best hotels in Bend, Oregon. It’s a beautiful boutique experience that combines comfort, luxury, and eco-friendly practices. This hotel is centrally located, making it ideal for exploring Bend on foot. 

The on-site restaurant is another standout. I absolutely loved the menu. I had their chia seed pudding every morning at breakfast, and for dinner, I tried their brussel sprouts, wagyu sliders, tuna tostadas, and sriracha shrimp – all were fantastic. 

The hotel also has a well-equipped gym with treadmills and weights, perfect for staying active while on the road.

Embracing Sustainable Travel in Bend, Oregon

Bend’s natural beauty and outdoor opportunities make it a special destination, but with popularity comes responsibility. Practicing sustainable travel is crucial to preserving these spaces. Whether it’s following Leave No Trace principles, sticking to marked trails, or being mindful of waste, each of us can play a part in keeping Bend beautiful.

Thank you for reading! If you’ve visited Bend or have tips on exploring this incredible town, please share in the comments. I’d love to hear about your experiences!