GRAB A BITE
We like our ingredients local and our dishes diverse in Central Oregon. Redmond is no exception! From upscale fare and worldly eats to hearty burgers and food truck convenience, Redmond is bursting with options – so much so that you could easily forego all of your activities for a foodie tour of the town. Curb your cravings and satisfy your appetite with these top picks.
Appetizers & a view, anyone? Cocktails, mocktails, small plates, and Cascade mountain views are waiting for you on the Rooftop at SCP Hotel in Downtown Redmond. Watch the sunset as you sip handcrafted beverages using herbs, fruits, and spices grown in The Rooftop’s very own gardens.
For the sushi fanatic: For a quick lunch or dinner, don’t miss Oishi. Authentic Japanese cuisine, a colorful menu, and an attractive atmosphere? It’s a no-brainer. They’re known for their consistent quality and thoughtful touches. Plan accordingly, though, as they are closed on Sundays and Mondays, and each night fills up quickly! PS: The Bento box & 007 roll is not to be overlooked.
Warm up with pho: On a chilly afternoon, what’s better than a healthy, decadent broth made from scratch and sourced with the freshest ingredients at the Pho House? Go for the pho, stay for the teriyaki plates, noodle dishes, and Banh mi. You can thank us later.
Mexican with pizzazz and variety: Diego’s Spirited Kitchen offers a fresh take on Mexican food. From coconut shrimp tacos to barbecue pulled pork sandwiches, it’s a must-try. In addition, Madaline’s Grill serves up Mexican American upscale fare, including steaks for a nice dinner out. Hungry yet?
Casual and chill part II: Redmond loves a food cart lot, okay? Go with it. For a fun experience that’s kid and dog-friendly (and complete with a beer garden!), check out General Duffy’s Waterhole. This food cart pod has everything from Philly cheesesteaks to Asian fare, vegan options, and a taphouse that pours 20 craft ales and lagers. Want more? Check out all the craft breweries and cider spots in Redmond here.
For date night dinner & a movie: For the couple who loves an easy plan, Odem Theater Pub is a one-stop shop for all the makings of date night. Grab dinner, drinks, and a movie without switching locales. Psst: they also make their own pizzas.
Upscale with a menu to match: Brickhouse has a prime downtown location and prides itself on dishing out Northwest-raised USDA Prime steaks, and all the seafood and pasta to keep you full and happy. Pair your meal with award-winning wine from across the globe. Bon appetit!
For pinky-up Distillery vibes: A Redmond trip isn’t complete without stopping by Prohibition-themed Gomper’s Distillery, with hand-crafted spirits that will have you stocking up. The must-tries? Signature gin from hand-picked Oregon juniper berries, another with golden pears, and local lavender (yum). For more on Redmond’s top-notch food scene, check this out.
STAY THE NIGHT
From stylish and modern digs to classic resort seclusion and adorable Air BnB’s, Redmond is an ideal getaway for an overnight (or three). Read on for where to rest your eyes.
Love a serene, minimal community space? The SCP Hotel is a newer addition to Redmond and an ideal spot to kick back and relax. With a name that stands for, “Soul Community Planet”, this sustainably-driven hotel is located in a restored historic property at the heart of downtown Redmond. It’s eco-friendly, pet-friendly, and offers tons of wellness amenities. Check out its iconic rooftop bar, super cozy beds, and great community spaces! (Remote workers, this is for you). Known for holistic hospitality, their “Peaceful King” rooms have zero technology so you can fully unplug and unwind.
Get ready for thoughtful touches like salt lamps and white noise machines, minimal designs, and an array of rooms. Even if you’re not staying at SCP, check out Terra Kitchen for a bite. The hotel’s restaurant leans towards locally grown ingredients (some sourced directly from their rooftop garden!) with a flair of coastal Mediterranean vibes.
PS: Dogs are welcome! Take them over to Centennial Park, less than two blocks away, to roam free. For more places to stay in Redmond and beyond, read on.
IN-TOWN ATTRACTIONS
Redmond’s revamped downtown is a charming combo of antique shops, boutiques, public art, and incredible parks. Take a stroll and see for yourself. Here are our top ideas for frolicking the streets of Redmond when you need a breather from outdoor adventures.
Cozy up with a great read: …at Herringbone Books, that is. An independent, family-oriented bookstore located in the heart of downtown Redmond, this eclectic spot originally opened in 2007 as a second Paulina Springs Books location. In addition to their stellar selection of bestsellers, regional titles, and children’s books, they also have a wide variety of gifts and games. Take a chill pill and browse this special spot.
For all the entertainment you can muster: The Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center is home to year-round fun like concerts, trade shows, and the well-loved County Fair. This is where you go for all the Central Oregon rural roots & big names. Top that off with funnel cakes, hot dogs, and high-flying rides, and you’re in for a treat. See the website for upcoming events.
THINGS TO DO OUTDOORS
FOR DRAMATIC VIEWS A-PLENTY
Half-day: Cline Falls & Dry Canyon
Playtime for the whole family: Right in the center of town, Dry Canyon Park & Trail System runs north to south with trails, playing fields, and disc golf. In this 3.7-mile-long crown jewel of town, everyone is guaranteed to find something fun. This wild canyon was formed by glacial meltwater thousands of years ago. Check out the Magic Bridge climbing area, as well as Hope Playground in Sam Johnson Park.
For classic Central Oregon fall photos: Check out Cline Falls just off the McKenzie Highway. On the Deschutes River, this short one-mile loop is well worth it. The path to the falls is just inside the entrance to Cline Falls State Park. Pack a picnic lunch, then take the easy trek in to see the one-of-a-kind river symphony. Dogs must be leashed and it can get extra busy on the weekends, so if you’re looking to avoid a crowd, weekdays are best! There are a number of places to approach the falls. Another option is to park at the Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint lot and take a stroll under the bridge.
Done with waterfalls? Of course you’re not: Speaking of amazing out-and-back hikes that lead to a view, Steelhead Falls is a short trip from Redmond and boasts dramatic waterfall scenes. The 2-mile hike skirts along jagged, colorful cliffs and leads to a variety of swimming holes.
Full-day: Smith Rock State Park
Hike & climb with jaw-dropping views: One of Oregon’s seven wonders, Smith Rock State Park is a speedy 15-minute drive north of Redmond and is 100% worth the hype. Even if you’re not a climber, its deep river canyon hike and massive rock spires are enough to keep you all day. Bring comfy shoes, a puffy coat, a camera, and a ton of water for this perfect Fall adventure.
FUN ON WHEELS
For the family that bikes: Bring your wheels and get rolling at The Homestead Pump Track! Open daily from 8 a.m. to sundown, the track is 270 meters in length and features a few long straightaways, two wall rides, high berms, and plenty of dips to pump and pick up speed with. Entry is free. Here in Central Oregon, biking is kind of our thing, and Redmond has no shortage of high-energy fun. For more on where to take your bike in Redmond, browse this piece.
WE CAVED… WE’RE GOING SPELUNKING
Spend an afternoon like an intrepid explorer: Pretend you’re Tom Sawyer on this self-guided cave tour. Whether you’re just passing through or desire a break from your in-town hangs, this fun activity is close to the airport and accessible. Crawl, climb, and squeeze your way through the darkness – but like, in a fun way. Bring flashlights, grippy boots, and enthusiasm.
The secret’s out in Redmond. Experience the best of Central Oregon in this small town with big activities. From traveling with the family to date night or a quick escape for worldly cuisine, you’ll be glad you stopped by. Enjoy!
Other stories
More inspiring stories, adventures, and tips & tricks for planning and experiencing the best Central Oregon has to offer.
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Your Guide to Biking in Redmond, Oregon
Redmond, Oregon is located in the high desert between Bend to the south and Terrebonne—home of Smith Rock State Park—to the north. The city is perfectly situated to explore Central Oregon’s biking trails. As a lesser known destination for outdoor recreation, Redmond can sometimes feel like a local’s secret playground, featuring tons of trails to explore. From a pump track in town to the nearly limitless access to the nearby mountain biking trails of Central Oregon, avid bikers should consider a stop in Redmond for some adventure.
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Favorite Year-Round Mountain Bike Spots
When winter comes and the snow falls, some of Central Oregon’s popular mountain biking trails become a little too muddy to ride – which means some of the unheralded spots in the region get a little more love. Places like Smith Rock can get scorching hot (and quite crowded) in the summer making it a great spot to head come winter. Want some good locals tips on where to ride? Ask the folks at Hutch’s Bicycles, Pine Mountain Sports or The Hub Cyclery for the 4-1-1, or set up a tour with Cog Wild Mountain Bike Tours and Shuttles.
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The Ultimate Guide to Pumpkin Patches in Terrebonne, Oregon
Nothing signals the coming of fall quite like spending the day at a pumpkin patch. It’s tough to not feel the cozy spirit of the season when you’re solving a festive corn maze while bundled up and sipping a hot apple cider. Pumpkin patches in Central Oregon benefit from our desert climate and still get plenty of sunshine, even in late October. While smaller family farms all around the region will sometimes host fall events, the two most popular pumpkin patches both reside in Terrebonne: the Smith Rock Pumpkin Patch and the DD Ranch Pumpkin Patch.
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How to Beat the High Desert Heat
During the dog days of summer, one of your best options to beat the heat is to head up to the high lakes and splash around. But when you’re on vacation with the family sometimes all you want to do is go and relax at the pool. Luckily, Central Oregon has a handful of great places to soak up the sun in between cooling off in the water.
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Central Oregon Golf: Best Par 3s
Play a good golf course and chances are that when you’re back at the 19th hole, you’re talking about the Par 3s. The short one you made double on. The bear where you snaked in a 20-footer for your only birdie all month. They’re the “short” holes that can make or break a round. Some of the signature holes on the Central Oregon Golf Trail are Par 3s. Here’s a look at some of the best.
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Pumpkin Patches + Petting Zoos = Fall Family Fun
As soon as the first hint of autumn rolls around, my three kids ask on a regular basis when we can go to the pumpkin patch. This is not simply because they’re eager to gather Halloween décor. To my kids (all under the age of 12), fall means visiting the farm and getting all the animal petting, ropes course playing and barbecue eating they can squeeze into one afternoon.
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Outward Bound in the City: Central Oregon’s 5 Best Urban Hikes
Hiking in Central Oregon can take you deep into the wilderness, far away from worry and stress. But sometimes all you need is a quick break from reality…just a half hour or so outside in nature, on a trail, alone with your thoughts (or with your dog, husband and two kids.) There are hundreds of hikes and trails available in and around Bend, Oregon and Sunriver, Oregon. These “Urban Hikes” are the perfect remedy to slow down our all-too-busy lives.
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Photographer Shares Insights on Iconic Smith Rock Eclipse Image
Days of planning. Hours of climbing. One minute of perfection. How a small team of athletes and photographers pulled off the most iconic image of Eclipse 2017.
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Winter Isn’t Only About Snow in Central Oregon
It’s true that when winter rolls around in Central Oregon, most people’s minds veer toward things to do in the snow. With Mt. Bachelor, Hoodoo, sno-parks and more, there’s plenty of options for folks to get out and play.
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Central Oregon Hiking Trails
Head east on Highway 20 (Greenwood Avenue) to the Pilot Butte State Park. The parking area and trailhead are just east of the butte. Walk on either the nature trail or the paved road. The road is also for vehicle traffic, weather permitting. It is a wonderful viewpoint for the entire Bend area. This hiking trail is one of the most popular in Central Oregon.