I don’t know about you, but I love a good fall shopping trip. It’s an excuse for one last summer escape before daily life gets hectic again. If you’re planning to visit Central Oregon, might I recommend a stay at Tetherow Resort and a weekend of shopping – tax free shopping – in Bend? (Bring the family..leave them at home and make it a girls trip – your call. )

Tetherow is Central Oregon’s newest boutique hotel, offering 50 deluxe rooms that overlook one of the nation’s Top 100 golf courses and a national forest that’s home to mountain biking and running trails. You’re also just a short distance from all the hiking and biking to be had along the Deschutes River Trail.

Along with outdoor fun and relaxation at Tetherow, save room for a day of shopping in Bend’s Old Mill District. This outdoor mall along the Deschutes River has terrific finds at stores such as Banana Republic, Gap and American Eagle. Make sure to seek out one-of-a-kind treasures at local favorites like Vanilla Urban Threads and Nashelle jewelry too. (Here’s a link to check out the weekly specials at Old Mill shops.)

Once there, have lunch on the patio of Greg’s Grill. Enjoy Pacific Northwest cuisine a s you watch paddleboarders and kayakers float down the river while the sun’s rays highlight the majestic Cascades. It’s truly a serene setting. Afterwards stroll down to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream shop for a warm weather treat.

After lunch, head a little farther south in Bend to find some great back-to-school deals at the Bend Factory Stores. There’s a Carter’s for the little ones, Eddie Bauer, Izod, Columbia Nike and Van Heusen and much more in the open-air mall. Treat yourself while you’re there to a little decadence at The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

You’ll also find some good deals at the Cascade Village Shopping Center, home to Famous Footwear, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Rue 21, Ross, Best Buy and more.

After a full day of retail therapy and indulgence, head into downtown Bend for some dinner. You can go upscale at 5 Fusion and Sushi Bar, home to two-time James Beard Award finalist Chef Joe Kim – or find a brewpub with award-winning craft beers and amazing food. (You can’t go wrong with Deschutes Brewery or Bend Brewing Company, two local’s favorites.)

So go on, you deserve it. Get out there and enjoy all the beauty and fun that only Central Oregon can provide. Make your travel reservations now. With all the back-to-school deals going on, it’s the perfect time for a little spree!

Nicole Meier

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Nicole Meier is a writer, travel blogger and social media consultant. The Source Weekly named her travel blog, Have Tote Will Travel, (www.havetotewilltravel.com) among the best local blogs of Central Oregon in 2013. When she’s not running her three kids from pillar to post, Nicole and her husband can be found skate skiing, paddle boarding or camping in Central Oregon’s playground.