Exploring Bend, OR in Three Days

• Day 1: Start your day with a hike on the Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint. It offers stunning bird's eye views of the city and surrounding mountains. Next, head to the High Desert Museum, which features exhibits on the culture and history of this region. End your day with a delicious dinner at the 900 Wall, which serves up tasty Pacific Northwest cuisine.
• Day 2: Begin your day with breakfast at the Brewing Market, where you can enjoy artisanal coffee and scrumptious pastries. Next, indulge in a few hours of retail therapy at the Old Mill District which is located next to the Deschutes River. Take a stroll or bike ride on the Deschutes River Trail. End your day with a relaxing soak and massage at the McMenamins Old St. Francis School.
• Day 3: For your final day, explore the Smith Rock State Park. Trek the Misery Ridge Trail with its stunning views of canyons and rock formations. Next, go and grab lunch and beer at the Deschutes Brewery and Public House for some top-notch Oregon microbrews, and tasty appetizers. End the day with a drive on the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, where you will still see the beautiful mountain views.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint (2 hours, Free)
• High Desert Museum (2 hours, $20)
• 900 Wall Restaurant (2 hours, $40)
• The Brewing Market (1 hour, $10)
• Old Mill District (3 hours, Free)
• Deschutes River Trail (2 hours, Free)
• McMenamins Old St. Francis School (3 hours, $150)
• Smith Rock State Park (4 hours, $5)
• Deschutes Brewery and Public House (2 hours, $30)
• Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (2 hours, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: $255

Transportation

Travelers should expect to have their car for this trip as public transportation is limited or non-existent. An estimated daily car rental cost is around $50 depending on the type of car selected, plus gas. Total travel time is approximately 10 hours.

Useful tips

If you have more time, check out the Newberry Volcano National Monument or stop by Tumalo Falls; both located just outside Bend. If you have less time, you may have to prioritize what activities are most important to explore.

Airports

The closest airport to Bend, OR is the Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), located about 30 minutes north of town.