Digital Guides
Central Oregon
PRESENTED BY Visit Central Oregon
A land of high-desert beauty, infinite wild nature, star-lit skies, vibrant towns and cities and sunny days, this Northwest treasure rewards open-ended exploration.
Epic in scale, Central Oregon encompasses a sprawling swatch of high-desert country centered on Bend. Here, volcanic peaks line the horizon, wild rivers course through rugged landscapes, and every breath is scented with sage and pine. But it's also a place of warm welcome—from historic small towns to bustling, outdoorsy cities. This guide takes you across the region, with some thoughts for all seasons. If you're looking for a region that's made for unscripted road-trips, personal-best bike rides and rugged pursuits of all kinds, Central Oregon is prime territory.
At a Glance
Landmark
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Black lava flows from volcanoes that shaped the land, interrupting endless stretches of pine trees with the nearest butte rising over 500 feet above the tree line. The Lava Lands Visitor Center sits near the extinct volcano, a gateway to explore the Trail of Molten Land, Whispering Pines, and an underground mile-long lava tube.
Events
JUN Crooked River Roundup Rodeo
Sept Sisters Folk Festival
Nov/Dec Ski season opens
Culture
High Desert Museum
Book
Where the Crooked River Rises
Memento
A nostalgic bucket hat and socks from the world’s last Blockbuster.
Telling Stats
9,065 ft. peak elevation of Mt. Bachelor
35 Approximate number of breweries along the Bend Ale Trail150 Number of alpine lakes to explore
Cities + Towns
14 locations:
14 locations:
Bend
Nestled in the shadow of the Cascade Mountain range, this high desert oasis has something to offer visitors year-round.
Madras
A small city of nearly 8,000, enchanted by its outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and fascinating history.
Maupin
With a tiny population of just 500, this river town is mighty in spirit and its love for the water.
Prineville
The oldest city in Central Oregon has a lot to offer—high-quality eateries, craft beers, access to the Painted Hills, and year-round angling.
Redmond
Set on a high-desert plateau in the heart of Central Oregon, Redmond has long been known as “The Hub” because it's home to the region's main airport.
Sisters
Sisters may have all the hallmarks of a rough-and-tumble frontier town, but the city has earned acclaim for its arts culture, fresh dining, and family-friendly vibe.
Warm Springs
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs share their history and culture with visitors through restaurants, museums, and more.
Sunriver
About 15 miles south of Bend, this resort town gives visitors access to snow-capped Mt. Bachelor and the meandering Deschutes River.
La Pine
Basecamp here for access to the nearby Cascades, alpine lakes, Newberry Volcano, Mt. Bachelor and Willamette Pass Resort
Terrebonne
Surrounded by scenic high-desert landscapes—this outdoor town is the place for enjoying the views, from hiking trails to hot air balloon rides.
Tumalo
Just 15 minutes from Bend, you’ll find a little of everything that makes Central Oregon great in the tiny community of Tumalo.
Culver
When you want to get “off the beaten path” in Central Oregon, spend a weekend around Culver.
Shaniko
Once the “Wool Capital of the World” this ghost town is home to structures of a historic hotel, a jail, and a schoolhouse, plus modern-day events, including a vintage music festival, a bluegrass jamboree and historic Shaniko Days.
Antelope
A certified Dark Sky community, Antelope is the perfect base for stargazing, hiking, biking, and exploring Central Oregon’s hidden gems.
Itinerary
Friday
Morning
Breakfast at Brand 44° N
Afternoon
Hike Misery Ridge at Smith Rock State Park; then, feed the alpacas at Crescent Moon Ranch on your way back to Redmond for lunch at General Duffy's
Evening
Soak in McMenamins Old St. Francis School’s saltwater pool before beers at Deschutes Brewery and dinner at Zydeco Kitchen
Saturday
Morning
Cruise the Deschutes River trail to the Old Mill for breakfast and coffee at M’s Bakery
Afternoon
Summer/Fall: Ride the endless mountain-bike trails looping around Bend, starting at Phil's Trail Complex
Winter/Spring: Get some runs in at Mt. Bachelor
Evening
Dinner at Lake House in Sunriver at Caldera Springs followed by stargazing at the Sunriver Observatory
Sunday
Morning
Early morning tee time at Tetherow followed by breakfast on-site at The Row
Afternoon
Explore LaPine State Park followed by lunch at Century Commons in Sunriver
Evening
Take in the sunset views at Faith Hope Charity while enjoying a woodfired pizza
Bests
A curated list of city favorites–classic and new–from bars and restaurants to shops and experiences
Food + Drink
McKay Cottage
Bend
Breakfast, brunch and lunch spot across from the Deschutes River. Beloved for its generous plates, strong drinks and fresh baked pastries. themckaycottage.com
Zydeco Kitchen and Cocktails
Bend
Southern-inspired menu with plenty of seafood options, located right in the heart of downtown. zydecokitchen.com
Pine Tavern
Bend
Continuously operating since 1936, it’s the oldest restaurant in Bend. Look for a building downtown with Ponderosa pines growing out of it. pinetavern.com
Grace and Hammer
Redmond
Wood-fired pizzeria in a restored 1912 church. The thin-crust, sourdough base is topped with seasonal and local ingredients. graceandhammer.com
Brand 44° N
Terrebonne
A breakfast and brunch spot with a robust take on Western-style grub, from a deep list of Benedict variations to the John Wayne Casserole, a biscuit-based creation in a cast-iron skillet. brand44north.com
The Barn in Sisters
Sisters
A taphouse, kitchen and a handful of food trucks make up the Barn’s offerings. Laid back outdoor dining space, perfect with kids and dogs. thebarninsisters.com
The Lake House at Caldera Springs
Sunriver
Dine lakeside with Mt. Bachelor in full view, then roast your own marshmallows for post-dinner s’mores. sunriverresort.com
Club Pioneer
Prineville
The former saloon is an ode to the area’s logging history and wild west days—look out for historic artwork and artifacts around the restaurant. clubpioneer.com
Arts + Culture
Warm Springs Museum
Warm Springs
Exhibits and events showcasing the culture, history, and traditions of the three Tribes that comprise The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. warmsprings-nsn.gov
Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory
Sunriver
The largest public observatory in the nation, with over two dozen telescopes for viewing the cosmos. The Nature Center next door features native flora and fauna. snco.org
Erickson Aircraft Collection
Madras
One of the largest collections of vintage war planes in the nation. Features nearly two dozen rare, airworthy aircraft. ericksoncollection.com
A.R. Bowman Museum
Prineville
Vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and personal stories from early pioneers in Crook County. The museum is housed in a former bank built in 1910. crookcountyhistorycenter.org
Tower Theatre
Bend
An iconic landmark in downtown featuring a mix of concerts, ballet performances, musicals, and special film screenings. The nonprofit also hosts lectures and community events. towertheatre.org
Commons Cafe
Bend
One of the only surviving examples of early craftsman bungalows in the state. The home where the cafe resides was preserved by the city over the years and is now a popular cafe overlooking Mirror Pond. thecommonsbend.com
High Desert Music Hall
Redmond
A historic church turned into an indoor music, comedy, and community events venue. Known for its eclectic mix of music, including Americana, bluegrass, rock, and jazz. highdesertmusichall.com
In a Landscape
Multiple towns
Listen to live classical music by pianist Hunter Noack played on a grand piano but transmitted through wireless headphones. This event is held multiple nights throughout the summer in a variety of Central Oregon locales. inalandscape.org
Farmers Markets
Multiple towns
The season opens in May and continues through the fall. The Redmond Farmer’s Market is on Fridays at Centennial Park. Find farm-fresh veggies alongside artisan goods and crafts. Bend’s Northwest Crossing Farmers Market is every Saturday and Sisters is on Sundays.
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Bend
Mainstream music and comedy acts perform live along the Deschutes River. bendconcerts.com
Outdoors
The Golf Trail
Multiple towns
Nearly 30 golf courses total, including three on Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest” list.
Smith Rock State Park
Terrebone
Deep river canyons with more than a thousand bolted routes for rock climbers. Miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, and river otters abound.
White River Falls State Park
Maupin
A 90-foot waterfall over a basalt shelf just a short walk from the parking area. Visit in spring for the most roaring flow.
Lower Deschutes River
Maupin
World-class fly-fishing destination on the Lower Deschutes. Come for the Deschutes Redside trout April through June, steelhead in mid-July through early fall, and spring chinook salmon May through July.
Prineville Reservoir State Park
Prineville
Oregon's first certified International Dark Sky Park offers camping and water recreation with excellent stargazing opportunities. The lake has rainbow trout, catfish, bass, and crappie for fishing.
Mt. Bachelor
Bend
Ski and ride in the winter, lessons offered for ages 3+. Lift access to over a dozen miles of downhill mountain bike trails for all ability levels.
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
Multiple towns
Drive through Deschutes National Forest with panoramic views of Cascade peaks and high alpine lakes. The trip covers 66 miles and takes three to five hours.
Suttle Lake
Sisters
Alpine lake with miles of shoreline for splashing and relaxing. Stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes available for rent at Suttle Lodge and Boathouse.
Badlands Wilderness
Bend
Nearly 50 miles of trails to run, hike, or ride horseback through sandy soil covering fields of lava. A variety of wildlife species, including yellow-bellied marmots, elk, bobcats, and golden eagles.
Kid-Friendly
Crescent Moon Ranch
Terrebonne
Alpaca ranch off Highway 97 with a small gift shop. Purchase food to wander the ranch and feed show-quality alpacas.
Well Rooted Farms Produce and U-Pick
Bend
From locally grown meat and veggies to flowers and honey, the farm is a hands-on experience with a u-pick shed. Wander among rows of wildflowers to make your own bouquets in spring or choose your own gourd in fall.
Goodlife Brewing Company
Bend
Microbrewery with large outdoor lawn featuring a playscape, firepit, and food truck with kid-friendly options. Check in summer for outdoor movie nights.
Sunriver Village
Sunriver
During summer, the Village at Sunriver boasts miniature golf, bumper cars, bounce houses, climbing walls, a train for tykes, and power jump trampolines. Offers ice skating in the winter.
Wanoga Sno-Park
Bend
Popular spot for sledding and tubing. Miles of motorized and non-motorized dog-friendly Nordic trails. Pack hot cocoa and snacks.
Paulina Falls Trail
La Pine
Stunning waterfalls in Newberry National Volcanic Monument. A half-mile round-trip trail descends to the base of the falls for close-up views.
Redmond Caves
Redmond
Hike short trails to five lava tube caves easily visible from the trail system. Best in spring and summer. Flashlight and tennis shoes recommended.
July 4th Pet Parade
Bend
A heritage tradition in Oregon and one of the oldest parades of its kind in the country. Watch, or walk, the parade with thousands of locals and their pets. Dogs, pigs, horses, iguanas, chickens, snakes, and more. No cats allowed.
Shops
Old Mill District
Bend
Vibrant outdoor mall along the restored banks of the Deschutes River. Great local cafes and restaurants along with a mix of boutique stores and popular chains. oldmilldistrict.com
The Box Factory
Bend
This shopping area showcases the breadth of Central Oregon offerings, including niche stores like Modern Games, where you can peruse a vast selection of board games; Borgo Rosati for home goods and art; and Gear Fix, a beloved destination for high-quality used gear. Great spot for wine, brews and food too.
Dudley’s Bookshop Café
Bend
An independent bookstore and café with two locations in the heart of downtown and Bend's Old Mill District. Excellent curated book selection featuring local works. dudleysbookshop.com
The Stitchin’ Post
Sisters
Nationally renowned quilt shop. Holds classes and lectures in-person and online. Best known for hosting the annual Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show. stitchinpost.com
Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks
Sisters
A working blacksmith shop producing handcrafted ironwork, furniture, and art pieces made onsite. ponderosaforge.com
Penelope Soaps and Such
Madras
Small batch, locally crafted, eco-friendly soaps, lotions, and body products. The shop also offers creative workshops like candle-making classes for small groups. penelopessoapsandsuch.com
Rick Steber & Company – Makers
Prineville
A collaborative gallery and workspace with traditional Western‑inspired art, jewelry, saddle making, woodworking, and more. Run by popular, local author Rick Steber.
Redmond Antique Mall
Redmond
Features over 50 vendors offering Western memorabilia, vintage décor, and collectibles. redmondantiquemall.net
Two Gifty Girls
Redmond
Unique mix of home decor, boutique clothing, baby gifts, and locally made items. Don’t miss the gourmet snacks. twogiftygirls.com
Artists’ Gallery
Sunriver
Showcases local artists in a range of media, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and scarves. artistsgallerysunriver.com
Events
Canine Keg Pull (Feb)
Sunriver
From Yorkies to great dane’s, cheer on man’s best friend as they pull large beer cans, growlers, and kegs through a specially created snow-run in The Village at Sunriver.
Maupin Daze (May)
Maupin
Kick off summer with a 5K or 10K along the river, plus a day of family-friendly post-race fun.
WinterFest
Bend
The region’s largest winter celebration has it all: Live music, a snowboard and ski contest, ice carving artists, a family play zone and a marketplace full of local vendors and exhibitors.
Wild Ride Classic Car Show (APR)
Redmond
Held at Wild Ride Brewing in downtown Redmond. Grab a pint and admire a variety of classic cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Enjoy live music and a variety of food truck options, too.
Simnasho Tribal Market (MAY–Sept)
Warm Springs
Shop for authentic native arts and crafts, try traditional foods, and enjoy music, dance, stories and legend-telling. Open Saturdays and Sundays.
Crooked River Roundup Rodeo (JUN)
Prineville
Central Oregon's oldest rodeo kicks off in late June with a cattle drive through Prineville, a chili cook-off, and live music.
Prineville Rockhound Pow Wow (JUN)
Prineville
An 80-year tradition celebrating gem and rock enthusiasts. Rare and exotic stones, minerals, and fossils are available to buy. The free rockhounding trip is a must.
Munch & Music (JUL)
Bend
Free weekly concert series, July through August, in Drake Park near downtown. Features a rotating lineup of regional and national touring bands. Come early to grab a spot near the stage.
Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show (JUL)
Sisters
Started in 1975, the quilt show draws thousands of visitors from around the world. Traditional and contemporary creations are draped, hung, and flown around town.
Sisters Folk Festival (Sep)
Sisters
For three days, “all the town’s a stage,” as performers move across seven stages in town, from cafes and churches to parks and a 1,500-person tent.
Sunriver Oktoberfest (SEP)
Sunriver
A two-day celebration. Participate in fun runs, enjoy live music around town and taste world-class Oktoberfest-themed and European-inspired beers from award winning local breweries.
Bend Film Festival (OCT)
Bend
With screenings at theatres, music venues, and party sites around the city, the festival features carefully curated indie films and documentaries.
Guided Adventures
Whitewater Rafting
Maupin
From half-day to multi-day trips down the Deschutes or Owyhee Rivers, choose your own whitewater adventure.
Snowshoeing
Bend
Learn about Deschutes National Forest on foot with a naturalist-guided tour through the snowy forest. Hot Cocoa and snowshoes included.
Moonlight Canoeing
Bend
Paddle a high-elevation Cascade Lake under the moon and stars with a naturalist guide. Transportation, gear, and sweet treats included.
Rock Climbing
Terrebonne
Smith Rock State Park boasts thousands of technical climbing routes with various ratings. Private and group guides are available for all experience levels.
Horseback Trail Rides
Sisters
From one-hour rides to all-day excursions that include a fishing stop, there’s no shortage of trails to explore wide-open landscapes outside of the 130-year-old ranch.
Fly Fishing
Lower Deschutes
Fish for rainbow trout and steelhead along nearly 40 miles of private river access on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation side of the river. Single-day and multi-day camping trips are available.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Sunriver
Between Dillon and Benham Falls is a peaceful stretch of the Deschutes River providing calm water for a guided SUP tour. Equipment and expert guide included.
Bird Hunting
Maupin
Pheasant and chukar hunting trips on over 8,000 acres near the Deschutes River. Trips are completely customizable. The season runs from September 15 to March 31.
Mountain Biking
Bend
Book a half-day or full-day ride for yourself, a couple, or a small group. Expert riders will craft a personally tailored outing.
Lodging
Tetherow
Bend
Boutique resort with hotel rooms and rental homes available on an award-winning golf course. Short drive to Bend’s vibrant districts and Mt. Bachelor. tetherow.com
Sunriver Resort
Sunriver
Sprawling resort offering guestrooms, suites, and vacation homes. Multiple pools with waterpark features, pickleball courts, golf, trails throughout, and snow activities like horse-drawn carriage rides will keep everyone busy. sunriverresort.com
Juniper Preserve
Bend
Resort wellness destination with upscale accommodations. Pronghorn Golf Club offers world-class golf on site. juniperpreserve.com
Campfire Hotel
Bend
A camp-themed motor lodge with a saltwater heated outdoor pool and hot tub. Hosts nightly fire-pit hangs. Rooms include guitars and banjos for playing. campfirehotel.com
Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Spring Resort
Warm Springs
Soak in multiple pools filled with mineral-rich water from hot springs that bubble out of the ground at 128°F. Overnight accommodations include hotel rooms and camping in authentic teepees. kahneeta.com
The Lodge at Eagle Crest
Redmond
Large resort and golf course with five pools, sports centers, and a day spa. Stay in hotel rooms, suites, or multi-bedroom vacation rentals. eagle-crest.com
Black Butte Ranch
Sisters
Stay at one of more than 90 privately owned vacation homes ranging from budget-friendly lodge rooms to luxury custom homes—all with backdoor access to the expansive ranchlands. blackbutteranch.com
The Bunk House at Cross Keys
Madras
A rustic luxury hotel decorated with inspiration from Central Oregon’s cowboys, ranchers, and Native Americans. bunkhouseatcrosskeys.com
FivePine Lodge and Cabins
Sisters
Stay at a private, freestanding cabin tucked into a pine forest. On-campus amenities include a movie house, spa, and athletic club. fivepine.com
Brasada Ranch
Powell Butte
Enjoy a high-desert retreat with modern, upscale bungalows, cabins and suites. Sweeping Cascade Mountain views abound at this luxury getaway. Go horseback riding, golf, hike or just relax and enjoy the hot tubs and on-site spa treatments. brasada.com
