THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Bend
Things to Do in Bend
Check out must-see sights and activities:
High Desert Museum, Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Hiking Trails, Extreme Sports. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
High Desert Museum, Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Hiking Trails, Extreme Sports. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Bend.
- fromper adultC$191
Cooking Classesfromper adultC$131
4WD Toursfromper adult (price varies by group size)C$190
Nature and Wildlife Toursfromper adultC$440
Photography Toursfromper group (up to 6)C$30
Bus Toursfromper adult (price varies by group size)C$264
Bike Toursfromper adultC$175
Winter Sportsfromper adultC$191
On the Waterfromper adultC$191
Scavenger Huntsfromper adult (price varies by group size)C$31
Speciality Museums
Interactive wildlife park with engaging otter habitats, outdoor exhibits, and bird encounters. Showcases regional history and culture amid pioneer and Native American displays.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Volcanic landscape with hiking trails, including a lava cave tour and unique flora. Views of caldera from visitor centers, with historical insights.
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Waterfalls
Scenic trails lead to breathtaking waterfall views with multiple tranquil lookout points. Features easy, well-maintained paths through Happy Valley's serene landscape. Limited parking available.
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Bodies of Water
Caverns & Caves
Subterranean lava-formed cave presenting self-guided exploration up to a mile in. Features an easy walk, requires warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and strong lighting.
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Visitor Centres
Volcanic landscape with easy-to-hike trails, showcasing lava fields and panoramic views. Features informative exhibits and engaging ranger-led activities.
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Breweries
Points of Interest & Landmarks
National Parks
Bodies of Water
Neighbourhoods
Scenic riverwalk and vibrant outdoor mall with diverse shops, dining, and activities like biking and river sports. Historical mill ambiance and pet-friendly spaces.
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Other Top Attractions around Bend
What travellers are saying
- JLR311Minneapolis, MN5 contributionsThis museum exceeded our expectations. We really enjoyed exploring the exhibits, learning about Sasquatch, watching the otters play, and the beauty of the Ponderosa pines. Definitely worth a few hours!Written November 10, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- hotweatherfan1Indianapolis, IN513 contributionsThis was an interesting place. We went to Lava lands and the Paulina lake/falls area. The waterfall at Paulina wasn't huge, but it was easy to get to and was very pretty. There are 2 viewing areas, top and bottom. The top is wheelchair accessible. The drive to a view point is scary. Very narrow gravel road with no side rails. If cars are coming opposite direction, one must pull as far over as possible and stop. The view from the top is a good one. The lakes are pretty too. At lava land we took the shuttle to the top of the butte. That was a nice view too. We also went to the water fall. I would like to go back and explore more.Written September 7, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- NeoWasHereFrederick, MD3,937 contributionsDepending on where exactly you're coming from in the Bend area, it will take anywhere from 15 - 45 minutes to drive here. In our case, it was a nearly 30 minute drive. Lots and lots of bicycles on the roads. There were more people on bicycles than vehicles. In fact, I haven't seen so many people on bicycles like in the Bend area than anywhere else with the exception of Amsterdam. The last 2.6 miles (Forest Service Road 4603) is closed to motor vehicles from Nov to May due to snow. We went on a Tuesday afternoon in June and there was no sign of snow anywhere to be found. We had no problem parking in the very limited and high use parking lot right at the trailhead. Parking (only vehicles under 27 feet) at this day-use area requires a $5 recreation pass and can be purchased at the site. We used our Interagency Access pass instead for FREE. They provide vault toilets for the restrooms.
The 97 feet tall waterfall was gorgeous. I love the sound of the rushing water of an impressive waterfall. The panoramic views were breathtaking. It only took a few minutes to hike the 0.5 mile uphill trail to the Upper Viewpoint. Leashed dogs are welcome. E-bikes are not allowed.
The best time to avoid the crowds is mid-week and in the morning before 9 AM.Written November 9, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - JohnnyO15 contributionsTotal gem. Hike along the forest and find your own private beach area! Water is crystal clear and the scenery is amazing!! A word of advice!! You must have good water shoes! Not flip flops! There isn’t sand like the coast, it’s all lava rock you’re walking on and hurts! Bring some kayaks or paddle boards. Pack a picnic and have a great dayWritten August 13, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- scoutscrapperMacomb, MI8 contributionsThis was an exciting cave adventure! Unlike other caverns, the dark cool lava tube was a totally different experience. Dress in layers, rent a flashlight. Take your time. Great value for the money. S2.00 reservation for timed entry-(do in advance). $5.00 day pass for our car, $5.00 flashlight rental.Written August 22, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- IrishRoverPittsburgh, PA3,234 contributionsVery cool place to spend a few hours. Nice visitor center with a great paved trail through the lava fields. There is some incline but nothing hard. Then $3 to take the bus up to the top for some amazing viewsWritten August 17, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Marie F5 contributionsTOUR WAS GREAT! OUR TOUR GUIDE WAS INFORMATIVE AND FUN. WE LEARNED A LOT ABOUT THE BREWING PROCESS AND WE WERE ABLE TO TASTE SOME INTERESTING BEERS!Written November 3, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- RAKESH PNew Delhi, India45 contributionsMount Butte is a must visit if you are traveling around Bend. Once you are at the top it gives a great view of the surroundings and Lava mountain. They have a bus from the base point which takes you to the top and bring back. Of course for a charge of $10.
If you are the adventurous kind can bike to the top.Written July 20, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Teri H10 contributionsBeautiful area. Clean lake. Stunning view of Mt Bachelor. Wonderful spot to kayak & paddle board. Decent outhouse near boat launch.Written July 8, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- E.L.EBrno, Czech Republic19,023 contributionsBeautiful forest to drive by on the way to Bend. Lot of green all around. Saw a Ranger Station nearby for safety. Worth spending a few hoursWritten January 1, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Sue K3 contributionsOne of the most relaxing river raft rides/floats we have ever taken. The scenery was beautiful. The access to the river was simple to get to and to exit.Written August 25, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Have Camera, Will TravelSouth Bend, IN3,807 contributionsWe spent one night in Bend at the Hilton Garden Inn right in the middle of the Old Mill area. It was excellent to be able to walk a short path to the shopping area and wander around. The REI store is excellent if you have any interest. We watched paddleboarders, kayaks, and tubers on the river from the bridge. It was a nice evening (if i ignore the smoke from wildfires, which is not the Old Mill's fault, obviously).Written July 22, 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
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