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.
-
Smith Rock Ranch & Other Fall Experiences in Terrebonne and Beyond
If you grew up in Central Oregon, chances are that you picked your perfect jack-o-lantern pumpkin at Smith Rock Ranch—a huge pumpkin patch with spectacular views located in Terrebonne. But this Central Oregon pumpkin patch wasn’t always so grand. Farmer Matt Lisignoli grew up as a city kid in northeast Portland, and dreamt up the idea to start his first pumpkin patch on a rented farm in Redmond in 1998. While some people thought Lisignoli was crazy to farm pumpkins in the high desert, the operation, then called Central Oregon Pumpkin Patch, was a success.
-
Fall Favorites: Here’s Why Autumn is Awesome in Central Oregon
In Central Oregon, autumn’s arrival is both a welcome reprieve from the heat of the summer and the early sign that winter is right around the corner. It’s an odd time when many of us here desperately try to hold on to some semblance of summer while our loved ones are across the room doing a snow dance. We’re seasonally conflicted.
-
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.