With fall right around the corner, it’s a good time to grab a few friends and escape for a girls’ getaway. On such trips my girlfriends and I like to splurge a little with a day of shopping and spa treatments. And what better location to do so than downtown Bend?
If you’re going to stay overnight, check out The Oxford Hotel. The vibe is eco-chic, with emphasis on the chic, the rooms are oh-so-comfortable and the hotel bar/restaurant, 10 Below, is one of the swankiest places in town. Plus, this hotel’s locale is ideal for a day of strolling the streets sans car. Another great option downtown is the Double Tree by Hilton. Newly remodeled, this hotel offers plush rooms and a hip little restaurant and bar. (Not to mention complimentary, warm chocolate chip cookies upon check in.)
You might want to start your day with spa treatments from Jinsei Spa. With a view of Mirror Pond, this spa has a very Zen feel with massages ranging from hot stone to the more exotic Indonesian treatments. It’s also a welcome reprieve for expecting mothers because Jinsei offers unique prenatal pampering. In addition to massages, enjoy some downtime in the quiet steam room and finish your stay with a top-notch mani/pedi. This isn’t your average spa!
From there, walk a short distance back into downtown. Once on Wall Street, your first stop should be Oregon Body and Bath. Not only will you discover luxurious sleepwear here, but if you’re like me, you’ll also enjoy wandering the store smelling all of the decadent soaps and lotions.
Stroll a bit farther and find a plethora of boutique clothing shops. Cascade Cottons is the best spot to pick up Bend T-shirts as souvenirs for little ones waiting back home. My favorite store for gifts is Jubeelee. This eclectic little shop has some of the best, and most affordable jewelry and accessories in Central Oregon. It’s a terrific place to find that something special.
Right next store is Hot Box Betty. As featured in Lucky Magazine, this women’s wear boutique is for the fashionistas of the group. If you love high-end style, this store is for you. After stopping for a latte at neighboring Bellatazza, walk the breezeway that leads to the alley behind the coffee shop. Any gal who loves Western boots will be delighted at the finds inside Cowgirl Cash.
It’s well worth a quick diversion from the main streets. From there, head down Minnesota Avenue to find Lulu’s Boutique for trendy, yet unique, fashion. Lulu’s has great customer service and the owner is happy to help you put together a fun outfit for an evening on the town.
Indulge in a late lunch over a glass of wine and conversation at one of the many downtown restaurants. 900 Wall has a warm atmosphere and friendly bar. Drake has gourmet comfort food in a diner-like setting, and 5 Fusion and Sushi Bar has the best nigiri and sushi rolls around. There are no bad choices here!
Whether you stay for the day or an entire weekend, Bend has the right amount of charm and choices to keep your girl group happy. My friends have their list of favorites and when they visit they make sure to carve out enough time for a little retail damage. I bet you’ll find the same.
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