Take a scenic tour around Central Oregon, and among the lush forests, arid high desert landscapes and bright blue skies, you’ll start to notice stunning murals dotting the region. The murals, each with distinct symbols unique to the town, reflect the spirit of Central Oregon in animated colors and design. Artists Katie Daisy and Karen Eland began the “Greetings From…” series with inspiration from vintage postcards. Now, nearly every town in Central Oregon hosts a large hand painted mural with stunning details specifically designed for that town. Follow the Central Oregon Mural Trail and discover hidden treasures in each high desert town along the way.
Stop #1 — Redmond Municipal Airport
Flying into town? Start your journey on the Central Oregon Mural Trail at the Redmond Municipal Airport. When waiting eagerly to begin your trip around the region, don’t forget to check out the “Greetings From Central Oregon” mural located at the Visit Central Oregon visitor’s desk at baggage claim, proudly displaying signature pine trees centered around a towering mountain scene: exactly what to expect from your trip here.
2522 Jesse Butler Cir, Redmond
Stop #2 — Madras
Head north, journeying through the town of Madras, and drive by the vibrant “Greetings From Madras” mural located on Fifth Street. Look for the Midland Realty building to see a desert-toned mural with high desert creatures such as a rabbit, deer and hawk peek out the vivid hues of blues and yellows in letters spelling the town’s name. While in Madras, check out the Erickson Aircraft Collection—an array of world-class historical aircraft dating back to WWII. Worked up an appetite? Madras has a great selection of restaurants, including a local favorite, the Rio, or local brewpub, Madras Brewing.
715 SW 5th St, Madras
Stop #3 — Maupin
After exploring your inner airplane-enthusiast, hop on Highway 97 north, and drive to the quaint, beautiful town of Maupin. Stay a night at the Oasis Cabin Resort, and while you’re grabbing a beer after a day of road tripping, check out the “Greetings From Maupin” mural on the resort property. The mural is distinct to Maupin with the images of the Deschutes River cutting through desert-colored canyons, wildflowers and whitewater rafting—something you can try here before continuing your journey through the rest of Central Oregon.
609 US-197, Maupin
Stop #4 — Prineville
Journey back down along Hwy 126 to the oldest town in Central Oregon, Prineville, known for its endless angling opportunities, exciting Crook County Round-Up, and delicious eats. Downtown you’ll find the “Greetings From Prineville” mural located on the side of the Third Street Floor Covering building. The largest on the trail, Prineville’s mural draws from the colorful wildflowers, majestic horses, and sunset hues that mark the unique landscape of the region. While in town, explore the local shops, drop your fishing line into the Crooked River and finish your day marveling at the stars, as Prineville boasts being an International Dark Sky Destination.
225 NE 3rd St, Prineville
Stop #5 — Redmond
Head south from Maupin, taking in the vast plains and rolling hills of the region. When you get back to Redmond, explore the historic downtown area, browsing through local boutiques and antique stores. Don’t forget to stop by the alley between Evergreen Avenue and Fifth Street to see Redmond’s own “Greetings From…” mural which illustrates the magnificent Smith Rock—located just fifteen minutes north—and brilliant sunset colors over the panoramic mountain view.
520 SW Evergreen Ave., Redmond
Stop #6 — Sisters
Take a scenic drive over Highway 126 to Sisters. There, find the Old West inspired town with a plethora of activities to choose from. Grab brunch at Sisters Coffee Company or the Cottonwood Cafe, then take a trip through downtown, discovering art galleries on almost every corner. Before heading out of town on your next Central Oregon adventure, stop by Barclay Park for a picnic and see the “Greetings From Sisters” mural. The deep evergreens are reminiscent of the ponderosa forest surrounding town, and the reflection of the Three Sisters mountains in the lettering seems like an adventure calling.
211 W Cascade Ave, Sisters
Stop #7 — Bend
Drive to the heart of Central Oregon, the town of Bend, and find nothing but outdoor activities, amazing food and shopping galore. While strolling along the Deschutes River Trail in the Old Mill District, take a look at the series’ newest mural, “Greetings From Bend.” Like the Sisters mural, this piece of art also showcases the Cascade Range mountains, but from Bend’s perspective. Stunning wildflowers, butterflies and grassy plains show all the opportunity for exploration there is in town—and just outside of town.
450 SW Powerhouse Dr, Bend
Stop #8 — Sunriver
Hopping back on Highway 97 south, take off towards Sunriver; a magical town on the edge of the Deschutes River. The resort town boasts a number of seasonal activities including, but not limited to, golf, hiking, ice skating, as well as casual and upscale eateries and shopping. After getting a spa treatment or playing a round of golf, be sure to stop by and check out the “Greetings From Sunriver” mural located at the Sunriver Resort Lodge. The lively painting illustrates just what Sunriver is: a mecca of groomed green grass, bright blue skies and wildflowers bursting from the scene.
57070 Great Hall Loop, Sunriver, OR 97707, USA
Stop #9 — La Pine
Head south from Sunriver to La Pine – the last stop on the trail, but ironically the first. La Pine was the first location on the trail to receive the vintage postcard-inspired ‘Greeting From…’ mural. The rustic town is the gateway to the Newberry Crater, and to glorious lakes with opportunities to kayak and paddleboard. The “Greetings From La Pine” mural shows a cozy, fireside camping night—a popular activity for the area—with a cabin on a peaceful lake; this is exactly what to expect when visiting. Before leaving La Pine, try a juice-packed hard cider at Legend Cider in the heart of town.
51429 Huntington Rd., La Pine
Making these nine stops along the Central Oregon Mural Trail is a great way to get a taste of what each Central Oregon community has to offer. Hopefully, you were able to snap one, or nine, selfies along the way and capture some amazing memories and experiences.
Other stories
More inspiring stories, adventures, and tips & tricks for planning and experiencing the best Central Oregon has to offer.
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Where to Wine and Dine in Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon has a reputation as a beer town, the local wine scene has exploded in recent years with several new tasting rooms and nearby vineyards producing award-winning wines. Bend’s wine scene is intertwined with its farm-to-table culinary scene, and as a result, tasting rooms across Bend offer menus featuring fine dining options made from local ingredients. These tasting rooms are often cozy and fire-lit, perfect for any winter time tour through Bend. In the summer, inviting outdoor patios become a lively spot for wine-tasting in the sunshine. Read on to discover some of our favorite spots to wine and dine this year in Bend.
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Easy Hikes in Bend and Around Central Oregon
Bend has been referred to as an outdoor paradise, and it’s easy to see why. From rolling high desert hills and arid plains to forested and snow-capped mountain peaks with lakes and rivers throughout, visiting Bend and Central Oregon is perfect if you love adventure. There is no shortage of trails to be explored in the region; you have your pick of distance, difficulty, and landscape. To help get you started, here are five easy hikes we recommend in Bend and around Central Oregon.
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Adult Adventure Time: Summer Outdoor Clinics in Central Oregon
Warm weather is on the horizon, and we’re trying to make the absolute best of it by getting outside as much as possible. Sound familiar? Here’s a tougher question – when was the last time you learned new skills outside, and let someone else do all the planning for you around a fun adventure? (Deep breaths, type A’s! We got you.) Luckily, here in Central Oregon, we are no strangers to an outdoor playground. Whether kicking up dust with our trusty mountain bikes, paddling into the sunset, traversing up volcanic rock, or saluting our beers to the campfire, we know adventure here in the high desert.
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Top Hidden Restaurants in Warm Springs, Oregon
Sitting at the northern edge of Central Oregon, not far from where the forested slopes of Mount Hood descend into the high desert, the community of Warm Springs is awash in regional wonder. The Museum of Warm Springs tells the story of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, nearby Lake Simtustus Resort offers a relaxing getaway on the shores of its namesake reservoir, and the Lower Deschutes River—which runs through the heart of Warm Springs—is an angler’s paradise.
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Top Sno-Parks in Central Oregon Near Bend
Central Oregon sits at the doorstep of the Cascade Range, which is blanketed every winter in a scenic blanket of snow—turning the region into a playground for locals and visitors alike. Often, these play areas come in the form of Sno-Parks, which are exactly what they sound like: forested winter wonderlands where visitors can go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, hop on a snowmobile, or even try tubing and sledding on snowy hillsides. More often than not, these Sno-Parks are home to small warming shelters where visitors can step out of the cold and get cozy next to a roaring fire.
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Guide to Golf Courses in Sunriver, Oregon
Sunriver has long been known as a community based around the love of outdoor recreation. Generations of visitors and locals alike have enjoyed the various destination resorts in Central Oregon, but Sunriver is a tried-and-true destination known for its biking, skiing, floating and family-friendly entertainment options. When it comes to golf, the story stays the same. Sunriver is a premiere destination for golfers of all skill levels with courses that make use of the beautiful and unique natural environment surrounding the town.
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Discover Redmond's Best Golf Courses
Redmond, Oregon, is a bustling community that shares the same amazing views and landscape that the rest of Central Oregon has, but with a smaller population that gives way to quiet courses less likely to develop a crowd. The area’s milder weather grants golfers the opportunity to hit the links nearly year-round, all while enjoying the many amenities Central Oregon offers, like farm-to-table dining and some of the best craft beer, cider and wine around. You can’t really go wrong with golf in Central Oregon, but read on to discover some amazing golf courses in Redmond.
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Top State Parks to Visit in Central Oregon
A trip to Central Oregon is usually one with ample time spent in the great outdoors. From the expansive high desert landscape to the Deschutes National Forest and all the rivers, lakes and sometimes volcanos in between, Central Oregon is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. What better way to explore the region than to take a tour of the local state parks? To get started, check out these six state parks to get an idea of what Central Oregon is all about.
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Sunriver Resort: A Four-Season Wilderness Wonderland
Sunriver Resort welcomed its first visitors in 1969, setting the stage for decades of couples getaways, family vacations, joyful reunions, and memorable group trips. More than 50 years later, the resort remains an acclaimed destination just 20 minutes south of Bend, offering thoughtful, locally inspired flourishes for travelers from all walks of life.
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Stay, Play, & Golf at Tetherow Resort
We all have our own way of heralding the arrival of spring. For some, it means swapping the cross-country skis for mountain bike pads and helmet. For others, spring is a time to get reacquainted with our garden and plan for the seasons ahead. But for others, this is the time of year to dust off those golf clubs and hit the links.
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Spring day trip from Redmond to Terrebonne
There’s something undeniably special about a Central Oregon day trip in spring. The snow melts, the landscape comes to life with piney scents of juniper and ponderosa, and the mountains are just waiting to be hiked. As the days warm up, it’s the perfect time to plan a day trip.
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Late Summer in Sisters, Oregon: Day Trips & Town Tips
Here in Central Oregon, summer hits its stride in late June and keeps rolling on through September. There’s still plenty of time left to check all your sunny adventures off the list! No matter when you arrive, Sisters, Oregon is a treat and must-see. Less than 3000 people live here year-round, but myriads more pass through to soak in the scenery and play in the surroundings – and boy, are there a lot of places to see. From cozy lake and downtown strolls to breathtaking waterfalls, lava scenes, and scenic drives, you’ve got your work cut out for you. See what all the hype is about. Whether you’re looking for a day trip (or three), overnight, or long weekend stay with the family, we’ve got your itinerary covered.
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Complete Guide to Music Festivals in Bend & Central Oregon
Summer is fast approaching, which means the start of music festival season around Bend and Central Oregon—when up-and-coming acts, regional favorites, and national touring artists alike descend on the region for multi-day extravaganzas full of good music and memorable experiences.
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A Locals Guide to Golfing in Bend
Central Oregon is known for its gorgeous weather and sunny days. Bend, Oregon, the most populous city in the region, sits on the border of the Deschutes National Forest and the expansive high desert, at the base of the Cascade Mountains. With so much sunshine and such a varied landscape, golf near Bend has become a nationally recognized activity, featuring nearly 30 courses of all shapes and sizes, for all skill levels within 30 miles of Bend.
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Camping In and Near Bend, Oregon
Bend is often called a paradise for any avid adventurer or lover of the outdoors, and the reasons are simple. Bend has incredible weather, boasting plenty of sunny days throughout the year, making camping in Central Oregon more enjoyable. Visitors and locals alike love to spend their time in amongst the many mountains, forests, lakes and rivers before resting their heads under the stars. Read on for some of the best camping around Bend and Central Oregon.
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Best Waterfalls Around Bend That Are Worth Seeing
Arguably Bend’s most popular waterfall hike, Tumalo Falls is only a 30 minute drive from town up Skyliners Road to Forest Road 4603. When the falls are open in the summer, it’s an easy quarter-mile hike on the North Fork Trail. The trail–paved and wheelchair accessible at the observation deck–leads visitors to views of the spectacular 97-foot waterfall.
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The Ultimate Bend Winter Vacation at Tetherow Resort
The four-star Tetherow resort has long been known for—among other things—its world-class, 18-hole golf course designed by an award-winning architect. And while the course fills up on sunny spring and summer weekends, Tetherow has bolstered its winter offerings in recent years, transforming itself into one of Central Oregon’s premier year-round destinations.
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Sisters, Oregon Beer and Wine Guide
Sisters sits at the crossroads of high desert ranching country and the vast wilderness of the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests at the base of the mighty Cascade Mountains. Sisters Country is known for providing adventurous experiences and farm-to-table dining. Like the rest of Central Oregon, the city of Sisters is a great spot to enjoy craft brews and fine wines from both local and imported sources. Read on to discover some of the best places to sip your favorite libation in Sisters.
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Meet the Coffee Roasters of Central Oregon
There’s nothing better than waking up to a clear, cool Central Oregon morning than with a steaming hot cup of locally roasted coffee. The high desert has had its foot in the door with local coffee for decades, and experienced the roaster boom in the early 2000s, with many of the original roasteries still standing today. Backporch Coffee Roasters, Sisters Coffee and Junction Roastery (being the most recent) are three Central Oregon coffee roasters with unique histories, built around community and great coffee. They have settled into the high desert roasting scene over the decades, beginning in the late eighties to 2022.
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4th of July in Bend (2023)
Around Central Oregon, we like to say that summer doesn’t really begin until the Fourth of July—so we make sure to celebrate in style. Each year, Bendites mark the festive holiday by marching in an adorable pet parade, taking to the streets with a rowdy bike ride, floating the Deschutes River and admiring the booming fireworks display on Pilot Butte.
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Why Central Oregon Is the Best Place to Stargaze in Oregon
Are you an astrotourist? While the word might make you think of futuristic travelers jetting off in a spaceship to the stars, astrotourism is actually an experience you can have right here, right now, on Earth.
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Best Redmond, OR Restaurants for Special Occasions
If you’re spending a weekend in Central Oregon and want to explore beyond Bend, look no further than the eclectic offerings in Madras and the community of Warm Springs. There you’ll find heart-pumping mountain bike trails, cafés dishing fresh fare, important museums and more.
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Waterfalls Near Sisters, Oregon Worth Visiting
Just beyond the Sisters’ city limits, some of the most majestic natural wonders scatter the wilderness in every direction: waterfalls. Hikers have their pick in exploring the Cascade Mountains, the McKenzie River, the Three Sisters Wilderness, and the Willamette National Forest in search of these magnificent cascades. Here are nine waterfalls near Sisters worth exploring.
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Where to Play Pickleball in Bend, Oregon
Long a popular pastime in elementary and middle school gyms, pickleball was invented in 1965 in the Pacific Northwest. Broadly speaking, the sport blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis; it is played on a tennis-like court, with paddles and perforated plastic balls—and in recent years has earned acclaim for its low barrier of entry, easily understood rules and slow pace that invites camaraderie among players.
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The Three Sisters Mountains in Oregon
On a clear day from viewpoints throughout Central Oregon, the Three Sisters mountains command attention as the gorgeous snow-capped peaks seen to the west. Each of this trio of volcanic peaks reaches more than 10,000 feet in elevation, and have become a part of Central Oregon culture. The Three Sisters draw visitors seeking mountain climbers hoping to ascend the peaks, those seeking nearby hiking, camping and mountain biking, landscape photographers and anyone who appreciates a gorgeous view.
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72 Hours of Winter in Bend: Your Itinerary Awaits
We always encourage play in Central Oregon, and winter is no exception. Luckily in Bend, blankets of snow are plentiful. When the holidays slow you down and the weather keeps you humble, here’s what to see, do, and eat on your quick trip to Bend (good luck not extending your trip!)
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Where to Eat in Downtown Bend, Oregon
Downtown Bend is the lively core of Bend, with many shops, activities, lodging and restaurants, all just a couple of blocks from the glittering Mirror Pond, part of the Deschutes River. Whether a visit takes you browsing through downtown stores, taking a stroll through Drake Park or walking through the nearby historic neighborhoods of Bend, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Fortunately, downtown Bend is adorned end-to-end with delicious breakfast joints, hole-in-the-wall eateries and upscale restaurants.
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Tour the Central Oregon Mural Trail
Take a scenic tour around Central Oregon, and among the lush forests, arid high desert landscapes and bright blue skies, you’ll start to notice stunning murals dotting the region. The murals, each with distinct symbols unique to the town, reflect the spirit of Central Oregon in animated colors and design. Artists Katie Daisy and Karen Eland began the “Greetings From…” series with inspiration from vintage postcards. Now, nearly every town in Central Oregon hosts a large hand painted mural with stunning details specifically designed for that town. Follow the Central Oregon Mural Trail and discover hidden treasures in each high desert town along the way.
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Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA)—Building Biking Trails for Every Type of Rider in Bend & Central Oregon
Every spring, Central Oregon mountain bikers transition from a snowy winter and start gearing up for a long and lively season of riding the region’s singletrack through forests of pine, wide-open desert expanses, and epic alpine slopes.
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Whitewater Rafting Adventures Near Sunriver
A visit to Sunriver, Oregon calls for getting on the water and soaking up the sunshine. Sunriver is a community based around Sunriver Resort that lives and breathes outdoor recreation. Visitors from all over the world call Sunriver one of their favorite vacation destinations, and much of the reason belongs to the stretch of the Deschutes River that runs through town. When the summer sun is high in the sky, one of the best ways to cool off and get some thrills is to float a whitewater section of the river.
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Best Places to See Holiday Lights in Bend and Central Oregon
For some travelers, a trip to Central Oregon isn’t complete without hitting the slopes of Mt. Bachelor, kicking up dust along Phil’s Trail, paddling our alpine lakes, or hiking into our dramatic wilderness areas. For others, our scenic region is an idyllic destination to rest, restore, and recharge with a long weekend or laid-back vacation.
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Meet the Central Oregon Makers
Central Oregonians are a collection of dreamers, doers, storytellers and innovators who have all chosen this beautiful place as home. The result is a thriving community of makers who help weave the cultural fabric of this unique area. To showcase the depth of creativity that flows here, Visit Central Oregon created the "Central Oregon Makers" campaign. The hope is that the content inspires others to seek out and support the people who bring the Central Oregon region to life. See videos of each of these Central Oregon Makers here.
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Epic Central Oregon Day Trips: Madras and Warm Springs, Oregon
If you’re spending a weekend in Central Oregon and want to explore beyond Bend, look no further than the eclectic offerings in Madras and the community of Warm Springs. There you’ll find heart-pumping mountain bike trails, cafés dishing fresh fare, important museums and more.
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Haunted Houses & Ghost Tours in Bend, Oregon
Whether you’re walking in the shadow of brick buildings around downtown Bend or grabbing a bite in historic structures elsewhere in town, it’s hard not to feel a tinge of reverence for Central Oregon’s history. In the early 1900s, after all, scores of ranchers, loggers, and businessmen of all stripes descended on Bend to strike it rich and establish themselves in the growing community.
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Top Food Dishes in Central Oregon and Where to Order Them
Central Oregon is known for many things, and exceptional eateries are one of them. The benefit to being here is that you can practically find good food anywhere, but it can be hard to know where to start. As a region full of foodies, we know these tried and true restaurants have the best burgers, sushi, Mexican food, Thai food, barbeque and more in Central Oregon.
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Winter Tours You Have to Try in Bend and Central Oregon
Twinkling lights, fresh snow and fire pits bringing people together; it’s winter in Central Oregon! Bend and the surrounding towns within Central Oregon are great places to cozy up when the snow falls, and even better places to take part in winter recreation. Locals love to explore the nearby Cascade Mountains, with Mount Bachelor and plenty of sno parks located just a 30 minute drive away. Back in town, there are several breweries, cideries, wineries and distilleries waiting to be sampled. With so much to do, it can be tough to know where to start. Luckily, tours in Central Oregon that showcase the best outdoor and indoor recreation are available to help visitors make the most of their winter vacations.
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Your Ultimate Guide to Golfing at Black Butte Ranch
Turning off Highway 20, shrouded on both sides by ponderosa pine trees, it doesn’t take long to leave the forests of Central Oregon behind for a wide-open, laid-back vacation at Black Butte Ranch—sitting in the shadow of a half-dozen Cascade peaks. Once you’ve arrived at the ranch and kicked off your shoes, how you enjoy the ranch is limited only by how many vacation days you get to use. But one of the most popular activities at Black Butte Ranch is golfing. You’ll find two championship courses, a creative putting course, and a variety of fun ways to engage with the game—including lessons and clinics, annual events, group discounts, and (for the hearty golfer) stay-and-play packages.
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Where to Go Wine Tasting in Central Oregon this Spring and Summer
Summer is fast approaching, which means the start of music festival season around Bend and Central Oregon—when up-and-coming acts, regional favorites, and national touring artists alike descend on the region for multi-day extravaganzas full of good music and memorable experiences.
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Guide to Skiing Bend, Sunriver & Beyond
Visiting Bend, Oregon is a treat, especially if you’re a skier. Bend sits near the base of the Cascade Range, making it the perfect home base for all Central Oregon winter adventures. The city is blessed with light and dry high desert snow, the perfect type of snow for fun, powdery days on the mountain. Central Oregon is also known for its long ski seasons, which can stretch from November to May. With two ski resorts nearby and plenty of backcountry terrain to explore, there’s no shortage of opportunity for winter adventure. Ready to hit the slopes? Read on for a complete guide on skiing around Bend, Sunriver and beyond.
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Redmond, Oregon's Food Scene
The city of Redmond, Oregon, is a haven in Central Oregon’s high desert, surrounded by farms, ranches and outdoor fun aplenty. In recent years, Redmond’s dining scene has greatly grown as the city continues to see new and innovative bars, restaurants, breweries, food trucks and more. From classic drive-in burger joints to authentic Mexican cuisine, craft cocktails and farm-to-table eats, Redmond surely has something for you to savor.
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Local's Guide to the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
Views of the Cascade Range abound all over Central Oregon, but are never more dramatic than from along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway—a seasonal highway that heads southwest of Bend and into the heart of the mountains. Along the way, visitors can swim or paddle in more than a dozen alpine lakes, admire views of the snow-capped peaks that seem to rise from their shorelines, camp under starry night skies and traverse some of the region’s best-loved hiking trails.
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Q/A with Renowned Tetherow Course Designer
Fescue is not unfamiliar to American golfers. But traditionally, the faded greenish-brown turf was most commonly experienced by American through TV — once a year while watching the British Open.
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Top Spas in Redmond, Oregon
For some travelers, a trip to Central Oregon isn’t complete without hitting the slopes of Mt. Bachelor, kicking up dust along Phil’s Trail, paddling our alpine lakes, or hiking into our dramatic wilderness areas. For others, our scenic region is an idyllic destination to rest, restore, and recharge with a long weekend or laid-back vacation.
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The Ultimate La Pine Getaway
Central Oregon is all about balance. Small towns, big recreation. Quaint corners, cascading views. Where endless serenity exists right outside your back door coupled with humble communities that are tough to beat. Take La Pine, for instance. Rural, friendly, relaxed, and charming with a side of soaring mountains, the sparsely populated La Pine, Oregon is an unlikely getaway that leads with boundless forests and top-tier recreation.
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Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Sunriver
With an endless amount of activities available it’s no surprise that Sunriver has been a go-to destination for families for decades. From golf courses to stunning bike trails to water slides, every member of the family is bound to be entertained.
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Find the Best Golf Courses in Sisters, Oregon
Sisters, Oregon, is an idyllic mountain town with tons of Western charm that sits at the base of the mighty Cascade Range, with access to both the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests. Golfing, a popular addition to the list of things to do in Sisters often means surrounding yourself with mature ponderosa pine forests, babbling creeks with wildflowers lining the banks, and fewer crowds and lines. You really can’t go wrong golfing in Central Oregon, but read on for a list of the best golfing in Sisters.
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Horseback Riding in Sunriver, Oregon
For many, exploring new trails and breathing in the fresh mountain air is best done on horseback. And what better place to get in the saddle than in beautiful Sunriver, Oregon. Here, trail rides meander along the Deschutes River, offering mountain views and showcasing the natural beauty of the region. Enjoy corral rides, pony rides, lessons and guided trail rides on horses selected specifically for the comfort and ability of the rider.
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Best Family Restaurants in Bend, Oregon
Central Oregon can be described as the perfect outdoor playground for adults and kids alike, which makes Bend the perfect destination for your next family vacation. After a long day of hiking, biking, skiing, or simply enjoying the countless sunny days that Bend has to offer, it’s guaranteed that you and the kids will need a place to refuel and relax.
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Things to Do in Sisters, Oregon
Sisters is a small town with an adventurous spirit. The downtown area has the look and feel of a Western boomtown, paying homage to the community's Western roots. The City of Sisters is what you get when you mix cowboy and ranching country with outdoor adventure, farm-to-table dining and luxury accommodations. At the base of the Cascade Range where the mountains meet the forest, Sisters stands as a destination for adventure of all kinds. Read on to discover our ten favorite things to do while in Sisters.
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The Ultimate Guide to Eating in the Old Mill District in Bend
Whatever you’re looking for in Bend, chances are good you’ll find it around the Old Mill District. Outdoor fun? Go for a stroll or ride a bike on our paved paths, or paddle your kayak on the Deschutes River at your doorstep. Need to get some shopping done? Shop ‘til you drop at more than 40 stores, from locally owned boutiques to name-brand outlets. And that’s to say nothing of the vibrant murals dotting our district.
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Fall in Redmond, Oregon: Your Itinerary Awaits
Redmond has long been a hub of Central Oregon. A total foodie haven with a vibrant, charming small-town vibe, Redmond serves up the sights. A town of 30,000 and growing, it has it all, from stunning views at Smith Rock to varied cuisine and antique shopping, parks, waterfalls, and upscale hotel experiences. An ideal example of what a visit to Central Oregon should be, it’s where outdoor adventure meets high-end history. Whether you’re exploring the magic of Redmond for the first time, just passing through from the airport, or planning a full getaway, here are our go-to spots for one of the most memorable towns in Central Oregon in the shoulder season.
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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.
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The Best Hiking Around Sunriver, Oregon
Sunriver, Oregon is known for two things that might not come as a surprise: ample sunshine, and plenty of rivers and waterways. Nestled in the Deschutes National Forest at the base of the Cascade Range, Sunriver is a perfect destination for people who want to explore and see the best of the local landscape. The surrounding area is filled with tall pines and forested lands with meadows dotted throughout. The forest often gives way to a dry and volcanic landscape, contrasted by the refreshing rivers, lakes and ponds that can be enjoyed on a hot summer day. Want to get going? Here are five jaw-dropping hikes for you to try in and near Sunriver.
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Indulge at Tetherow's Fine Dining Restaurant: Solomon's
With an explosive history of volcanic eruptions, lava flows, and cinder cones covering the region, Central Oregon is no stranger to smoke. But these days, while our volcanoes remain in a state of blissful calm, another kind of smoke is the talk of the town: smoked cocktails, the latest culinary attraction from Solomon’s Restaurant at Tetherow.
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The Central Oregon Mural Trail
Large-scale, hand painted murals have been growing in popularity in Central Oregon communities in recent years, following the updated city codes (the moral - more murals in public spaces). These bright engaging murals not only bring new life and color to once drab building walls, but they provide the communities and visitors with a sense of pride for their natural surroundings. And let’s not forget, they make great selfie backgrounds!
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Best Snowshoeing Trails in Bend
Bend and Central Oregon are great places to visit in winter for myriad reasons: Mt. Bachelor is the sixth-largest ski resort in North America, fire pits turn up the heat on brisk afternoons, and rejuvenating day spas offer the chance to unplug from it all.
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Explaining the Central Cascades Wilderness Permit Program
Summer in the Central Oregon outdoors will look different this year, due largely to the unveiling of the Central Cascades Wilderness Permit System. Years in the making, the new system will cap the number of day-use and overnight visitors to some of the region’s most popular trails — including Green Lakes and Soda Creek, Broken Top, South Sister, and the Tam MacArthur Rim trails.
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Breakfast and Brunch in Sunriver
Sunriver, Central Oregon’s premier residential and resort community, has been a playground to Oregonians for over thirty years. Named for the abundant sunshine and beautiful Deschutes River that runs through the village, this small town has so much to offer. In order to fuel your vacation, which is sure to be full of outdoor activities, scenic views and family fun, you’ll definitely want to check out Sunriver’s dining scene.
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The Top Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon, has long been beloved by furry canines and their eager parents. According to BringFido.com, more than 100 restaurants, brewpubs and food cart pods across the city offer dog-friendly patios and other accommodations; pups enjoy exercising on the city’s many hiking trails; and no less than Dog Fancy magazine once named Bend the dog-friendliest town in America.
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Taste the Innovation at These Central Oregon Spots
Among the boundless list of things to do in Central Oregon, there are ample food and drink establishments dotting cities end-to-end. With so many options, finding a tasty place to fill up might be one of the easiest parts of a trip. But dig a little deeper, and visitors will find eateries and watering holes that are deviating from the norm, getting innovative and offering something a bit different. Excellent food is part of the program, as is ambiance, history and culture. These restaurants offer an allure for visitors to not only satisfy their taste buds, but to have an experience that is exceptional. -
The Best Dog Parks and Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Redmond, Oregon
Central Oregon is a dog owner’s paradise, and Redmond is no exception. Around the city, you’ll find a thoughtfully designed dog park at the end of a hiking and biking trail (showing that our regional affinity of the outdoors is matched only by a love for our four-legged friends), another dog park that serves regional craft beer to human companions and spacious restaurants with plenty of outdoor seating for tired dogs after an exciting day outside.
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A Summer Weekend in Prineville
Here in the high desert, small-town charm is easy to come by. But what happens when you combine a rich legacy of the old West, affordable vacationing, and a tight-knit community? You get Prineville – a town of just around 10,000 people in Central Oregon.
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How the Central Cascades Wilderness Permit System Will Preserve Trails for Future Generations
To say that the Deschutes National Forest has seen higher use in recent years is kind of like saying that Central Oregon offers “some” outdoor recreation or that we have a “decent” craft beer scene: technically the truth, but nowhere near capturing the whole story. In fact, the Deschutes National Forest saw a record 3.3 million visitors in 2018, the most recent year for which data was available, and officials estimate that visitorship was a whopping 40% higher in 2020 — with few signs the surge will slow anytime soon.
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The Great Escape to Maupin, Oregon
Here’s something special about a river town in summer. The warm-season brims with a heady mix of possibility and memories. The days melt into a haze, merging with the nostalgia of moments past: the sweet scent of barbeque, warm grass and cascading clouds, long days, and youthful nights. The river's surface breaks with the occasional ripple of fish, and days blush into beginning. Maupin, Oregon, with a tiny population of just 450, is mighty in spirit and its love for the water. In Maupin, you’ll find history flirting with ever-present nature, and small-town charm for days. Make this a summer to remember by chasing trails, waterfalls, and rivers in this epic spot along the Deschutes. Ready to plan your great escape? Let’s get to it.
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Warm-Weather Fun in Madras, Oregon
Central Oregon is a treasure of towns with endless good times and secret spots that are not to be missed. Take Madras, Oregon, with its population of 7,000 people and convergence of two canyons from the Crooked River and the Deschutes River. It’s a magical setting with lots of wildlife, interesting sights you won’t find anywhere, and views for days.
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Our Favorite Hikes in Sisters, Oregon
At the base of the mighty Cascade Range lies a little Western town that stands as the gateway to the Three Sisters Wilderness Area. Sisters, Oregon, is known for two things: keeping the spirit of the American West alive in its culture and traditions, and being surrounded by tons of hiking trails that provide nearly limitless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Here are five hikes to help get you started.
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Complete Guide to Planning Your Sisters, OR Vacation
When travelers visit Sisters, Oregon, they’re not disappointed. Sisters is an idyllic little mountain town at the base of the Cascade Mountains near the Deschutes National Forest that offers tons of outdoor activities, luxurious accommodations, downtown shopping and annual festivals. Make a trip here to feel like you’ve been transported to a friendly Wild West town full of adventure, farm-to-table eats, local coffee, art galleries and so much more.
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Top Mexican Restaurants in Redmond and Madras
The Central Oregon food scene has earned acclaim in recent years, thanks to an invigorating mix of creative food carts, fashionable fine-dining restaurants, and a growing number of globetrotting eateries that feature authentic cuisine from around the world. That eclectic selection includes a variety of taquerias and Mexican restaurants in Redmond and Madras, both of which host homegrown eateries that craft a mix of classic dishes, modern flavors, and innovative entrées.
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Your Guide to Biking in Sunriver, Oregon
No tour of the best biking in Central Oregon is complete without a stop in Sunriver, Oregon. A city named after the abundance of sunshine and water, Sunriver is a nationally-renowned destination for outdoor adventure. The town is nestled right where the Deschutes National Forest meets the base of the Cascade Mountains, just a few miles south of beautifully stark high desert landscapes. From mountain biking trails near volcanic monuments to paved paths meandering near the river, Sunriver is perfect to explore from the seat of a bike.
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The Complete Guide on the Best Breakfast and Brunch in Bend, Oregon
Exploring Bend is a great way to spend a day in Central Oregon, so start the morning right by sitting down for a hearty farm-to-table breakfast, a boozy brunch or by grabbing a quick but delicious bagel on-the-go. Whether you’re looking for a new restaurant to try or you’re visiting town for the weekend, here are the breakfast spots in Bend that you won’t want to miss.
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Top 10 Winter Activities in Bend and Central Oregon (Besides Skiing)
Central Oregon is a mountain lover’s dream. No matter the season, you can expect constant adventure at your fingertips. But, make no mistake: Winter is not just for the thrill seekers. Luckily, Bend, Oregon has far more to offer in the chilly months than Mt. Bachelor, its world-renowned ski resort and backcountry mecca. If you don’t fancy zooming down mountains on planks, are out for the season, or just want some diverse fun in your world, read on to learn about Central Oregon’s best endorphin-boosting activities (without the skis!).
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Made in Central Oregon
Whether souvenir shopping is on the agenda during a trip to Central Oregon, or the holiday gift giving season is once again creeping up, there is no shortage of shopping here in the high desert. While it has become easier than ever to shop from behind a screen, there’s a special feeling that comes with shopping local—whether it's for art, local specialty foods or experiences that showcase the best of Central Oregon.
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Six Car-Free Adventures You Can Have at Sunriver Resort This Summer
Summer is a time for kicking back, getting out of town, and making memories with the family. And if your travels bring you to Sunriver Resort this summer, you’ll find plenty of popular activities to enjoy at your doorstep—all without ever getting in the car.
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The Best Breakfast and Brunch in Sisters, Oregon
Sisters, Oregon brings visitors back in time to an old-West inspired town and magical hikes just beyond the mountains. Another thing that the town promises is incredible food. Whatever your day looks like in Sisters, start it off right with these breakfast and brunch spots right in town.
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Complete Guide to Food Trucks in Bend and the Surrounding Area
Over recent years, Bend, Oregon has become a foodie paradise. Aside from the nationally renowned chefs and the blossoming restaurant scene that offers tons of dining options, foodies now flock to Bend for a more indie dining experience. The food truck trend has proven to be much more than a trend, as more and more pods of deliciousness pop up around town. These pods typically include a variety of food trucks situated around a central location that more often than not acts as a tap house. Many of them offer indoor and outdoor seating, a variety of beer, wine and cider along with firepits, stages for musical performances and more. With so many spots each offering different food trucks to try, it might be tough to figure out where to start. Read on for a list of some highly recommended spots to try out, and start your own foodie adventure.
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Central Cascades Wilderness Permit System
Over the last five years people have flocked to the Central Cascades wilderness areas. Some trails have had visitation levels increase 300 to 500 percent. To keep these wilderness “wild” the United States Forest Service(USFS) has implemented a limited entry permit system. Beginning the Friday before Memorial Day and ending the last Friday in September, overnight permits will be required within the Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Washington and Three Sisters Wilderness. Day-use permits will be required on 19 of the 79 trails in those wildernesses.
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Elevation & Altitude in Bend, Oregon
When you visit Bend, Sisters, or other cities in Central Oregon, you might notice yourself a bit more out of breath than usual. Even those in good shape find themselves breathing a bit harder while hiking to alpine lakes, shredding our fast and flowy mountain bike trails, and snowshoeing through our peaceful forests.
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Your Guide to an Epic Lake Billy Chinook Day (plus time well spent in Culver)
Just 35 miles north of Bend and 10 miles south of Madras lies Culver, Oregon—the staging ground for adventures on sparkling Lake Billy Chinook and The Cove Palisades State Park. And while the options on the expansive lake are many, Culver, a sleepy town of less than 2,000, also sits surrounded by world-class golfing, quiet camping, jaw-dropping scenery and excellent wine tasting. Here’s what you need to know for enjoying a jam-packed day or thrilling weekend around Culver and Lake Billy Chinook.
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Stay & Play at the Best Golf Resorts Near Bend
Central Oregon has all the ingredients for great golf courses: We enjoy sunny skies across all four seasons, our scenic natural surroundings range from alpine forests to snow-capped mountain peaks, and our destination resorts all host stunning courses designed by renowned architects.
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Discover Sunriver Resort’s Secret Season
Summer is undeniably the most popular time to visit Sunriver Resort—and for good reason. It’s when families splash around in the boisterous aquatic center, couples crisscross the community’s roughly 40 miles of paved bike paths, and groups come together over farm-to-table fare in several elegant restaurants. But we wanted to let you in on a little secret: Fall is one of the best times of year to visit Sunriver Resort.
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Hoodoo Ski Area: The Feel-Good Resort Near Sisters
In 1938 Bend’s Ed Thurston looked out upon the craggy Central Oregon Cascades and decided to build a ski resort on Hoodoo Butte. And we’re sure glad he did. Now, 84 years later, Hoodoo Ski Area is well known for its comfortable down-home vibe as well as being “steeper, deeper and cheaper” than its competitors. Such a reputation, though, didn’t happen by accident. When Chuck Shepard took over as owner in 1999, he set about modernizing the beloved ski resort, which was originally built primarily from surplus World War II materials.
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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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Central Oregon: Fun Facts & Places to See
Central Oregon is a picturesque treasure of small-town charm, the great outdoors, world-famous cuisine, scenic communities, and a robust historic past. With all that and more, it can be a tad overwhelming to take it in. We’re all for bite-sized facts that are memorable, interesting, and capture a place’s essence (and we’re full of ‘em here), so we compiled our favorites to make your next adventure off the beaten path fun and exciting.
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Top 8 Things to Do in Sunriver in Summer
Whatever you’re looking for from a fun summer vacation, you’ll find it in Sunriver. Just 20 minutes south of Bend, the bustling community sits surrounded by forests of ponderosa pine and offers a full weekend of enjoyment for travelers of all stripes—complete with world-class golf courses, otherworldly natural scenery, lazy river floats and comfortable overnight stays.
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The Culinary Food Scene in Bend, Oregon
It’s true that travel writers, vacationers and roadtrippers alike visit Bend for its wealth of adventure. In the past, hiking through the lush Deschutes National Forest or relaxing beachside at one of the crystalline Cascade Lakes may have been the top experiences that drew visitors to Bend. While the endless opportunities for adventure remain, there is a new, delicious drive pulling visitors into town: food.
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Top Restaurants with a View in Bend and Central Oregon
Central Oregon has some of the most interesting and breathtaking landscapes around. Enjoying a view of the Deschutes River rushing through the high desert, or breathing the fresh mountain air of an alpine scene doesn't have to be a long way from town—or without an incredible meal. Here are the best restaurants in Bend and Central Oregon to pair a delicious dining experience with a spectacular view.
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The Ultimate Summer Guide to Black Butte Ranch
There’s never a bad time to visit Black Butte Ranch—the 1,800-acre resort community is a gem all year long—but there’s something undeniably special about summer. Maybe it’s the sun-kissed Cascade peaks that tower over the ranch, all the outdoor activities at your doorstep, crisp nights around the fire pit at your vacation home, or curated activities for everyone in the family.
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4th of July in Redmond, Oregon (2023)
Every Fourth of July, Redmond residents and visitors alike gather to celebrate the birth of the United States. It’s a festive time in what locals call “Flag City U.S.A.” (more on that later), and the city celebrates accordingly—with a charmingly old-school parade, boisterous fireworks display and more.
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What to Bring on Your Next Central Oregon Hike
With Cascade peaks dotting our skyline and clear mountain lakes enticing paddlers — not to mention thick forests, craggy volcanic features, and wide-open deserts all comprising our landscapes — there are several summers’ worth of outdoor experiences to enjoy around Central Oregon. But before you hit the trail this season, make sure you’re prepared. Here’s what to bring — and what to know about making the most of your next Central Oregon hike (whether it’s your first or 101st).
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A Weekend of Wellness in Bend & Sisters
When was the last time you treated yourself? Wellness shouldn’t be a once-in-a-while practice. Meditation, yoga, massage, fitness classes, and pampering reduce cortisol levels, calm the heart rate, boost those happy hormones, and empty our minds. So, safe to say, it’s pretty important. Lucky for you, we made it easy to plan a full weekend reset in Bend and Sisters so you can jumpstart your healthy habits. Read on to get relaxed.
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2023 Roundup of Central Oregon Rodeos in Sisters, La Pine, Redmond, Prineville & Beyond
Central Oregon is renowned for its beautiful landscape, outdoor recreation and rodeo culture. Rodeos have been a part of the Beaver State’s heritage for over a century, and they continue to be a popular activity for both locals and visitors. Sharpen your spurs, grab your Stetson hat, and let’s take a gander at some of the upcoming rodeos in Central Oregon. Giddy up!
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New Restaurants in Bend, Oregon
The dining scene in Bend, Oregon is constantly evolving, as new restaurants, cafes and pubs open up to feed the community and serve as lively gathering spaces for breakfast, lunch or dinner out on the town. New restaurants are often under development and construction to keep up with Bend’s growing population and visitor base, helping the region to maintain a vibrant foodie scene with dishes of various cuisines and establishments with a variety of concepts. In the mood for something new? Try one of these new Bend, Oregon restaurants. Check restaurant websites for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
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Tetherow — Still Firm and Fast
Nestled where the Cascade Range meets the High Desert, Central Oregon has given some of the world’s most renowned golf course architects an opportunity to show off their creativity. The result has been a nearly impossible diversity of golf courses.
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Winter Hikes in Central Oregon Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area
Bend sits at the doorstep of Central Oregon’s famous high desert—and the Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area offers a fascinating introduction to the region’s sunbaked ecology. In all, the Oregon Badlands comprise nearly 30,000 acres—largely atop a massive shield volcano just under the surface.
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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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Central Oregon Sled Dog Rides: Four-Legged Friends Power All Day Smiles
You can hear them before you see them. About 30 four-legged endurance athletes chomping at the bit for another chance to prove their worth and provide you with an ear-to-ear grin that will last an entire day.
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Curl Up and Get Warm – Central Oregon’s Cozy Romantic Getaways
With the weather making a quick turn toward winter, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about creative ways to get cozy with your significant other.
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Top Ideas for Making Magical Memories This Winter at Sunriver Resort
When you close your eyes and imagine the holiday season, what do you see? Many of us picture festive family dinners, while others think of twinkling light displays and dazzling tree lightings. Yet others reminisce on snowshoe outings through quiet forests or shredding the powdery slopes at their favorite ski resort. Whatever you thought about, chances are good it was rooted in tradition—long-standing, cherished events with family, friends and loved ones, some passed down through generations.
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Hot Springs in Central Oregon Near Bend and Beyond
Oregon is known for being an outdoor paradise; where else can travelers discover misty forests, snowy mountain peaks and vast desert expanses in one day? From the Cascade Mountains to the Painted Hills, volcanic activity has helped shape the many different landscapes of Oregon. Along with mountains and valleys, Oregon’s volcanic past helped create a host of hot springs scattered across the state. These hot springs are natural, hot pools of water—natural hot tubs. Some are more developed and have lodging nearby, while others feel completely remote and undiscovered. So whether it’s a soak under the stars in the high desert or a steamy pool in the forest, there’s a hot spring calling.
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Make the Most of Your Bend and Central Oregon Ski Vacation
Dreaming of skiing in Bend, Oregon? The Central Oregon region is an incredible destination for a ski getaway. While the average snowfall in Bend is a little more than thirty inches, Central Oregon ski resorts boast annual numbers of more than 450 inches. From Bend, visitors can drive to Mt. Bachelor resort in just 30 minutes or the Hoodoo Ski Area in less than an hour. Outside of the resorts, there are boundless backcountry trails for cross-country skiing to glide into pristine and untouched wilderness. With tons of snow, a plethora of winter activities in Central Oregon, and seemingly endless miles of terrain to explore, Bend and Central Oregon make the perfect ski getaway. Read on to discover how to make the most of your ski-cation in this winter wonderland.
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Our Favorite Sledding Hills in and Near Sunriver
The town of Sunriver sits on the edge of Deschutes National Forest, surrounded by tall Ponderosa pines and, as the name suggests, plenty of sunshine and the meandering Deschutes River. However, Sunriver isn’t just a great spot to spend sunny days on the water. The town gets an annual 50 inches of snow, about 20 inches more than the nearby city of Bend receives, on average. Central Oregon weather can vary heavily within relatively small areas, and Sunriver is a huge benefactor of this. As a result, snow in Sunriver falls fast and hard, and leads to the perfect opportunities to break out winter sleds. Whether it’s an old school tobogan or something a bit more modern, be sure to visit Sunriver and the surrounding area for plenty of sledding options.
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Get Holiday-Ready with Handmade, Local Gifts
When it comes to holiday shopping, it’s the thought that counts—the thought behind each and every gift that you carefully select for your friends and family, that is. And there’s no better way to shop thoughtfully than to shop locally-made. Here in Central Oregon, we’re surrounded by a wealth of beauty, natural resources and creativity, a dynamic combination that’s fostered a thriving community of artisans and makers. It’s a cinch to cross gift-giving off your to-do list thanks to this inspiring array of small businesses. Let’s go shopping!
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Ice Skating Rinks You Have to Try in Bend and Sunriver
Bend and Sunriver are two excellent winter destinations. The offering of winter activities in Central Oregon are immense. Snow typically falls fast and heavy and visitors get to experience a winter wonderland filled with snow capped Ponderosa pines and fresh powder. In such a winter wonderland, it makes sense that Bend and Sunriver would have a selection of ice skating spots. Whether guests choose to twirl on the ice, casually glide or just kick back with a hot cocoa while the kids play, a trip to the ice skating rink can help cap off any Central Oregon winter getaway.
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The High Desert Food Trail: Agriculture & Culinary Delights Await
A nibble, a nosh, or a feast: Visitors and locals alike can get a tasty sampling of the high desert by exploring the High Desert Food Trail, a self-guided journey through the region’s culinary and agriculture businesses. The trail aims to connect people to the many tastes of Central Oregon through experiences such as on-farm visits, stops at tasting rooms, artisan markets, restaurants and more.
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Finding the Best Lunch Spots in Bend, Oregon
As Bend grows, so do the tasty options for a great lunch at a great price. With so many restaurants new and established to choose from, the only question is where to begin. Lucky for you, we’ve made finding the best lunch in Bend a breeze.
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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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Notable Chefs at the Best Restaurants in and around Bend, Oregon
A little known fact that visitors are picking up on, Bend is a foodie paradise. There’s something about our creative, non-traditional attitude and emphasis on local ingredients that just makes great food. Luckily for visitors and locals alike, there are several chefs running Bend kitchens that constantly push boundaries, experiment, and create delicious and innovative dishes across a diverse array of cuisines.
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Best Shopping in Bend and Redmond, Oregon
Shopping in Central Oregon has evolved over time, thanks to an influx of outdoor enthusiasts, organic farmers, antique purveyors and entrepreneurs of all kinds moving in, and subsequently sharing their products with the community. This mixed bag of motivated individuals creates a marketplace full of locally sourced, handcrafted items that can’t be found anywhere else. In addition to small, local businesses, Central Oregon’s growth in population in recent years has garnered the attention of some larger retailers, who have opened up shop in Bend and Redmond. Shopping in Bend, Oregon and likewise, shopping in Redmond, Oregon, provides visitors with a look inside our local industries, while simultaneously providing opportunities to purchase from well known retailers. It’s also worth mentioning that shopping in Central Oregon and throughout the state is tax-free, offering shoppers a built-in excuse to buy whatever catches their eye.
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Top 5 Tours to Take in Bend, Oregon
Bend is a nature-lover’s paradise blended with a hop-head’s dream; nowhere else will you find this much craft beer and this many outdoor activities. The city’s been growing quickly, reaching 100,000 residents in 2020, and with the growth comes plentiful opportunities for adventure. From walking the very halls that brew your favorite beer to any number of adrenaline-inducing sports, we have you covered for the five best types of guided tours in Bend, Oregon.
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Top 5 Tours to Take in Sunriver, Oregon
Sunriver is an aptly named town; the idyllic community soaks up tons of Central Oregon sun and has the mighty Deschutes River meandering through. It’s tough to not feel the magic of Sunriver when rays of light first break over the not-so-distant Cascade Mountain peaks and dance on the tips of ponderosa pines in the surrounding Deschutes National Forest. Central Oregon tours are popular for visitors and locals alike, and for good reason. With four distinct seasons, Sunriver is primed and ready for exploration any time of the year. From snowmobiling to horseback riding, here are the best ways to discover Sunriver.
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The Scenic Waterfalls in Central Oregon
Is there anything more satisfying—anything more awe-inspiring—than gazing upon a thundering waterfall, its raging waters tumbling over ancient rock walls? Does it get any better than seeing a waterfall reach full boil in the midst of an otherwise quiet river as it crashes through a rock-lined canyon?
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Broken Top Crater, A Lake with a View
Broken Top is one of Central Oregon’s most iconic mountains – it’s jagged peaks are recognizable from miles away. Luckily for the adventure-bound folks, it’s also a very accessible peak with a unique reward at the top: a magnificent alpine lake.
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Girls’ Getaway in Bend: Retail & Spa Therapy Included
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?
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Fall is Prime Time for Central Oregon Fly Fishing for Steelhead on the Deschutes
It’s no accident that the fabled Oncorhynchus mykiss, aka steelhead trout, is dubbed the “fish of a thousand casts” It’s not uncommon for novice steelhead anglers to fish for years without ever tying into, let alone landing, one of these powerful and acrobatic sea-run rainbow trout. There’s also a reason why they keep trying.
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Central Oregon Campgrounds: Tumalo State Park
Forested setting: Check. Gentle flowing river to cool off in: Check. Toilets: Check. Showers: Check. Access to amenities in town: Check, check and check. Tumalo State Park is the state park in Bend’s backyard. It’s located outside the city limits but it’s just a couple of turns and a short, pretty drive from the middle of town.
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Winter Weekend – Getaway to Sunriver
When my wife suggested a winter weekend getaway to Sunriver, Oregon my immediate thought was, “Why? The world-class golf courses will be covered with snow.” By the time the long weekend was over, I thought, “Wow. Thank goodness the world-class golf courses were covered with snow.”
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10 Things Not to Miss in Central Oregon
Time and time again guests come into our Central Oregon Visitor Information Center in Sunriver and say, “We’re here for a few days. What should we do?” And it’s always the toughest question we get.
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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.
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Get Outdoors – Central Oregon Summers Shine
Want to start a debate at a Central Oregon brewpub? Ask a local which season is best: summer or winter? Mt. Bachelor might get all the press – it is the Pacific Northwest’s largest ski area after all. But you’d be hard pressed to find a better summer destination than Central Oregon.
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Central Oregon Mountain Biking Trails
Two-wheeled fun for everyone. From magazine spreads to filtered Instagram images, Central Oregon is making a name for itself in mountain biking. Consider this: More than 300 miles of linked singletrack (mountain biker talk for biking trails that are only wide enough for a single rider) is so close to town that many of the riders actually ride to the trails from town (or from Pine Mountain Sports, where a full fleet of Trek and Santa Cruz rentals are available.)
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Great Getaways: Newberry Country
When plunging into a multi-day adventure in Central Oregon, the number of choices can be well, overwhelming. There is just so much to do in this four-season playground that a traveler can be forgiven for suffering from a little indecision. One strategy is to break down the area by geography, clustering activities together that are within striking distance of a home base, be it a hotel, cabin, or RV parking spot.
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Visit Sisters, Oregon for Western Adventure
Take a small town with a slow pace of life and overlay an ever-expanding creative culture and a long-standing outdoor recreation tradition, and you have Sisters. In the shadow of the snowcapped Three Sisters, the town’s artistic vibe is a blend of art galleries, music with the famed – Sisters Folk Festival every September and crafts, the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show is world-famous.
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Great Getaway: Sisters, Oregon
When pulling into Sisters from the West you’re greeted by a main-street cowboy town filled with local shops, western storefronts and lots of charm. But as you reach the far end of that main street (it’s actually U.S. Hwy. 20,) something different emerges. There’s some upscale lodging, a brewpub, movie theater, and spa that gives Sisters a whole new attitude.
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Newberry Crater: Ancient Attraction is an Activity Hub
It’s hard to believe, but 25 years ago, the volcanic features that make up Newberry National Volcanic Monument weren’t protected. If it wasn’t for a group of concerned Central Oregonians, the monument wouldn’t exist. “In the late 80s, at the time, the collaborative process we see today for land-use planning just wasn’t as common.
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Beyond the Beer: Bend Craft Spirit Scene Forging Own Path
Central Oregon might be known for Craft Beer, but we’re also known for Craft Spirits. “You can and people do make an entire vacation out of touring Central Oregon and all we have to offer in the culinary world,” said Alan Dietrich, CEO of Bendistillery. Bendistillery opened in 1996 and has grown massively ever since.
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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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Hopless in Central Oregon: Experience Scenic Cideries and Vino with a View
In an area dominated by craft beer, you might be wondering is there anything else on tap? The answer is, ‘Yes’. Central Oregon is home to award winning cideries and wineries and with postcard-worthy views from their tasting rooms – you won’t be disappointed. Named after the Three Sisters, Faith Hope and Charity Vineyards is just over 30 miles from Bend. It’s hard to complain about the drive though when furry faces from the Alpaca farm nearby greet you right before you turn onto the property.
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Central Oregon Mountain Bike Trail Guide
The Central Oregon mountain bike scene is 300 miles of diverse singletrack through high alpine forests and sagebrush dotted deserts from Madras to La Pine, Sisters to Prineville. Bulletin newspaper reporter Mark Morical has ridden just about every one of the trails you’ll find on any mountain bike trail map – and he’s written about his experience.
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Airshow of the Cascades – Sky High Thrills for the Family
For 20 years, Madras has been home to one of the more unsung family events in the region, the Airshow of the Cascades. It’s Oregon’s second-largest air show, giving people a chance to get up close and personal to aviation history both on the ground and in the air. You’ll see vintage and high-tech aircraft doing stunts and flying through a wall of fire.
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Hiking Black Butte – Central Oregon’s Iconic & Majestic Cinder Cone
From a distance, Black Butte looks like it doesn’t quite match the picturesque alpine mountains that surround it. The volcanic rock that emerges above the tree line gives the impression of a hill constructed with loose stones that was carelessly dropped in the middle of the woods. Unlike the Cascades that puncture the horizon to the west and north, Black Butte can be hiked and enjoyed in under four hours.
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Accessible Adventure: Easy Hikes for Families near Bend, Oregon
There are so many great hikes in Central Oregon, it can be tough to choose where to start. For beginner hikers or families here’s a couple of easy to get to – and more importantly – easy to conquer starter-hikes. Flanking the Deschutes River near Bend’s Old Mill District, the Deschutes River Trail is a 3-mile loop that starts near Farewell Bend Park.
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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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Oregon Winterfest – The Perfect Cure to Shake Off Winter Blues
Every year around February, the lull of winter begins to creep in. You’re cold, everything’s gray despite the sun and thinking of Spring Break is starting to sound better than another day of shoveling your driveway. Luckily, every year around Presidents Day Oregon Winterfest comes along to slap the winter blues right out of us like a faceshot of fresh powder.
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Adventures Abound Starting at Sunriver Resort
Sunriver is the type of place that takes your breath away no matter what season it is. During the summer you can hop on a horse for your very own wild wild west experience. The team at Sunriver Stables will make you feel comfortable on your ride, even if you’ve never saddled up before. Whether you’re in a tube or a kayak, floating down the Deschutes River is a relaxing activity that’s fun for the whole family.
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Lava Caves Offer (dark) Glimpse into Central Oregon’s Volcanic Past
CENTRAL OREGON has been formed and shaped by the fire and molten lava of volcanic activity. This powerful force of nature has made the region a showcase for a variety of volcanic features. The lava tubes in Central Oregon are young according to geologic time. They appear almost as they did thousands of years ago when they were first formed.
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Deschutes River is a Central Oregon
Playground For AllYou can hear them before you see them. About 30 four-legged endurance athletes chomping at the bit for another chance to prove their worth and provide you with an ear-to-ear grin that will last an entire day.
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Pole, Pedal and Paddle Whenever You Want in Central Oregon
Every May in Bend some 3,100 people participate in the US Bank Pole, Pedal, Paddle multi-sport race. (And there’s still time to sign up for this year’s event, held on May 20th.)
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Why I love Mt. Bachelor – Olympic Skier Laurenne Ross
Mt. Bachelor is one of the most family-friendly mountains in the West. But it has also long been a training ground for some of the best skiers in the United States with the terrain helping produce local Olmpians Tommy Ford, Kiki Cutter, Mike Lafferty and most recently, Laurenne Ross.
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Casual Family Weekend in Sunriver
Imagine this: you’re riding your bike through a rolling meadow, the Cascade mountain range in the background, and the only sound is from the whir of a prop plane taking off against a crisp blue sky. Up ahead, your children pull carrots from their pockets and present them to a gathering of friendly horses in an adjacent pasture.
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Central Oregon Winter Adventures
When the snow flies, Central Oregon shines. All you have to do is choose your adventure. Mt. Bachelor - The model of a complete snowsports resort, Mt. Bachelor offers 360-degree lift-served groomed skiing and riding from its volcanic summit.
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Free Guided Snowshoe Tours: Educational Exercise at Mt. Bachelor
One of the unheralded aspects of Mt. Bachelor is the ski area is full of activities for everyone – not just thrill seekers on skis and snowboards. To add a little education to your exercise, the Deschutes National Forest and Discover Your Forest is offering FREE guided snowshoe tours at Mt. Bachelor through March.
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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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Lava Lands Visitor Center a Central Oregon Geologic Gem
In the late 1960s NASA looked for a place to send astronauts who were training for a mission that would change the world. But before the mission could happen, NASA needed a place to mimic what they believed those astronauts would find on the surface of the moon. Because, after all, nobody had been there before so nobody really knew what the surface of the moon was like.
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Sherar's Falls Scenic Bikeway
Oregon’s newest scenic bikeway traverses the strikingly scenic high desert canyon of north Central Oregon, known as River Canyon Country.
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8 Pictures That Will Have You Rethinking Some Life Decisions (Central Oregon Food Edition)
Is this plate from 5 Fusion and Sushi Bar art or food? (It’s food. Definitely food.)
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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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Get Your “Ah-Ha” Beer Moment at Sunriver Brewing Company
Central Oregon can claim more breweries than quite a few states. We’re not exaggerating. Our region has 30+ breweries. That shows how much we care about craft beer but, it can make it tough to choose where to taste local brews, we get it!
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Elk Lake Resort a Great Winter Getaway – And Getting There is Half the Fun
There’s a couple of ways to look at the annual winter closure of Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway: You can see it as cutting off your recreational access beyond the gate until the snow melts in the spring.
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Newport Market Mural-a Tribute to the Spirit of Bend
A picture is worth a thousand words. But the new hand-painted mural outside Bend’s Newport Avenue Market will be worth a million smiles.
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Sammies and Sandos: Central Oregon’s Best Sandwiches
Sometimes after a day full of adventure, all that you crave is a simple, yet delicious, stick-to-your-ribs sandwich. (And a beer, obviously.)
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Brew it Yourself at Bend’s Immersion Brewing
Central Oregon’s thriving craft beer scene is a hugely popular experience for visitors to the High Desert. You can drink it. You can take a brewery tour and learn about it. And now, you can brew it yourself.
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Mt. Bachelor is a True Family Ski Experience in Central Oregon
Three-hundred and sixty degree views of snow-covered peaks don’t come easy. Unless you’re in Central Oregon, in that case, they do! Mt. Bachelor is just a 30-minute drive from Bend or Sunriver.
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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.
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Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway: Pull Off For a Central Oregon Adventure
The Cascade Lakes Scenic byway is one of the prettiest drives in the U.S. But it might be the most recreationally rich road you’ll ever drive too. From Bend southwest to the Highway 58 junction, the Oregon Route 372 cuts through 66 miles unique volcanic formations and geological beauty that offers everything that makes Central Oregon an outdoor lover’s paradise.
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Grab a Pint & Catch a Game Central Oregon Style
Yes, Central Oregon is known as an outdoor adventure paradise where hiking, mountain biking and skiing are a way of life and the reason many people visit. But sometimes your team’s got a big game. And all you really want to do – even on your vacation – is find a great spot to watch it with a few more diehard fans.
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Bend Area Breweries: Where to Go and What to Get
It used to be our little secret: That along with the countless recreational opportunities in Bend and Central Oregon, there was a burgeoning craft beer scene. That trying to decide which brewpub to hit after a day skiing at Mt. Bachelor was a two chairlift ride discussion. There were options. And lots of good beer.
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Scenic Bikeways Showcase Central Oregon’s Backroad Beauty
Oregon’s official scenic bikeways are the first of their kind in the U.S – and Central Oregon is home to 6 of the state’s 11 most beautiful bike routes. An absolute summer must for road cyclists are riding the best of the best – our scenic bikeways. Every rider can find a ride to suit their style and mood, from family-friendly to adventurous.
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Backstory: Bend’s Historic Tower Theatre
The Tower Theatre occupies a proud spot in Bend’s vibrant downtown area. The theater is filled nearly every night with high-profile acts––it could be called Bend’s living room. But its lights nearly went dark for good.
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Bend Concert Season Heats up at Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Central Oregon’s iconic music venue, the Les Schwab Amphitheater in Bend, is bigger and better than ever before after undergoing a major renovation.
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Camp Abbot’s Important Role During World War II
Sunriver is one of the region’s oldest and most beloved destination resorts. Since the late 1960s, Oregon families have made memories here, riding bikes to the general store, learning to golf on the courses and swimming in the river and the resort’s pools.
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Central Oregon’s Moonscape
Many who come to Central Oregon say it looks like nowhere else they’ve visited. Sure, there are the mountain vistas and the Ponderosa pines, the picturesque rivers and the deep blue lakes. But to many, the most astonishing aspect is the lunarscape — the lava rocks, cinder cones and lava tubes that dot the region, betraying its geologic history.
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Seven Stunning Central Oregon Landmarks—and the Beers Named In Their Honor
Is there a more quintessential Central Oregon experience than spending a day outdoors—and topping it off with a locally brewed beer at one of the region’s many craft breweries?
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The Central Oregon Adventure 6-Pack
6 ADVENTURES…1 DAY….A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES. “You should do it,” they said. “Think about how cool it’d be,” they told me. “You get to do it during the work day, ya know,” they reminded me. So I said yes.
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Winter Ales: How Deschutes Popularized the Style-and How Breweries Have Followed Suit in Central Oregon
In the summer of 1988, Deschutes Brewery opened in a converted law office in downtown Bend. In the decades since, the brewery has produced one memorable beer after another—from Black Butte Porter and Mirror Pond Pale Ale in Deschutes’ earliest days to the hit Fresh Squeezed IPA, which became a staple on store shelves in 2013.
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Hooked on a Feeling: First Central Oregon Fly Fishing Trip a Success
Under blue skies scattered with beauty clouds, we hopped into a 21-foot fishing boat on the banks of Lava Lake.
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Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show Brings Fabric Artists to Central Oregon
Blankets keep you warm. Quilts tell a story. So imagine all the tales to be told at the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show on the second Saturday of July, when the streets of this small Central Oregon town are blanketed (pun intended) with the creative tapestries woven by thousands of quilters from around the world.