Exploring any new city can be overwhelming, but Bend is one of the most beautiful places to visit for any travel desire, surrounded by the Deschutes national forest and the peaks of the Cascade mountains like Bachelor. There are plenty of interesting adventures to have in Bend by yourself but it’s much more exciting with family or friends. Here for a week? Bend is full of its own rich history and has the right things for you.
Previously known as the Les Schwab Amphitheater, This amphitheater was built in 2001 and started their first season in 2002. Hosting about 10 to 26 concerts per year, This amphitheater sits outside by the riverfront and resides in the Old Mill District. The Hayden Homes amphitheater doesn’t just host concerts, but it also hosts brew fests and races as well. Since 2002, over one million guests have visited the amphitheater for ticketed and free concerts. Many artists have visited the amphitheater over the years, such as The Chicks, Jack Johnson, Kenny Chensny and, Marren Morris. It’s the ultimate summer destination. Although the season is over, the next event to take place is Death Cab for Cutie on June 17th, 2023.
The high desert is shown through fascinating animals, crafty exhibits and meaningful history at the High Desert Museum. It’s been a central tourist spot since 1982, getting plenty of visitors every summer, not only for the history but for the animals as well, like otters, porcupines and raptors. In the summer, visitors can see the birds of prey swooping just above the museum grounds and experience the café and living history exhibit, with people believing it’s the year 1904.
Central Oregon is known for its mountains and with those mountains, comes ski resorts. The Mount Bachelor Ski resort is the primary mountain destination. Since opening in 1958, it has become the sixth largest ski resort in North America with 4,300 skiable acres, 3,365 vertical drops and 121 unique runs, ready for snowboarders and skiers. Mt. Bachelor also offers some alternatives to snow sports. ‘, At the West village parking lot, there are 21 landscaped trails covering 34 miles of alpine country. The planned trails have clear views of snow-capped peaks of the Three Sisters wilderness. So, whether you’re feeling like storm chasing or being in the sun, Mt. Bachelor’s unique season will provide the mountain experience for you and whomever you may bring.
The Old Mill district is nestled beside the Deschutes River and is not only home to luxury houses but also restaurants; tasting rooms for wine or beer, shops and riverside trails in the heart of Bend. More than 55 different businesses reside in the area’s distinct shopping and dining scene, including chain businesses like Regal Cinemas and REI, but also establishments unique to the area. For foodies, the Old Mill District offers more than a dozen food and drink concepts.
Bend is surrounded by wildlife that is home to birds, deer, elk and wildcats. with more than 1.6 million acres and different varieties of landscapes and ecosystems. The forest is 9,000 feet in elevation, the lowest point being Lake Billy Chinook being 1,950 ft and the highest point at South Sister’s summit being 10,358 ft. The Deschutes National Forest homes more than 80 campgrounds that visitors enjoy during the hot summer months. Deschutes National forest has 5 wilderness areas that offer different hiking trails for one-day hike or backpacking trips and sweeping summit views of the Cascade Mountains.
Alexis Breshears
Reporter
