Bend, Oregon, is a destination that offers a blend of adventure, nature, wellness, and a local food scene. This sunny slice of Oregon is a year-round destination. Whether it's floating down the river in the summer, witnessing the changing leaves in the fall, or skiing in the winter, Bend offers something for everyone. This guide highlights restaurants with nourishing foods and activities that contribute to a happier, healthier life.
Plant-Based Dining and Good Vibes
Many restaurants in Bend offer gluten-free and vegan options.
Fix & Repeat: This restaurant embodies the Aloha spirit and is community-oriented. They serve plant-based options from smoothie bowls and cold-pressed juices to plant-fueled toasts and macro bowls. The name reflects the belief that whole foods can positively impact bodies, souls, and the planet through good habits.
The Pantry: Visit for lattes (the pistachio one is recommended) and healthy breakfast burritos. The pastries are also noteworthy.
Bend Breakfast Burrito: Voted "the best breakfast burrito in Bend" by locals, this spot offers pre-hike fuel.
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Chow: For brunch, Chow offers an artsy decor and an inventive menu. The menu ranges from the honey truffle fried chicken sando to scratch-made biscuits and gravy to healthy delicacies like the kale salmon salad.
Kanona Cafe: This cafe serves smoothies and craft coffee. Their ingredients are pure, unprocessed, and raw.
El Sancho: They offer tacos and margaritas with seasonal flavors. The concept is high-quality Mexican street food in a relaxed atmosphere with an outdoor patio.
Wild Rose Thai: This restaurant serves fresh, traditional Thai food served family style. It is accommodating for people who are gluten-free and vegan. Lunch is first come first serve, and dinner reservations are recommended.
Active Culture: A natural foods cafe with a location in Bend. They offer salads or grain bowls. The nachos are also a must-try.
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Spork: Head here for a fast, casual dinner that’s flavorful and perfect for gluten-free and vegan foodies. The menu’s loaded with global eats from chilaquiles to dan dan noodles to coconut curry. They also have a kids menu.
Dakine Grindz: Right next door to Kanona Cafe is this authentic Hawaiian shaved ice truck.
Local Brews
The Ale Apothecary: This brewery makes natural, barrel-aged beer using ingredients off the local land from Oregon farms.
Outdoor Adventures
Bend provides opportunities for outdoor activities.
Hiking: Green Lakes and Broken Hand are two popular hikes near Bend, Oregon, and Tumalo Falls is also worth visiting. In the summer and early fall, a day-pass wilderness permit is required.
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Summiting a Mountain: South Sister is known to be one of Oregon’s hikes. A permit is required to hike this trail.
Exploring Smith Rock State Park: This park is suitable for hiking in cooler weather or on cloudy days. Activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, extreme slacklining, and horseback riding are also available.
Lava Tubing: Explore the deep caves and lava tubes in Bend, Oregon, either solo or with a tour group. Lava tubes are underground tunnels formed by flowing lava that hardens.
Playing with Alpacas: Crescent Moon Ranch has alpacas.
Floating Down the Deschutes River: Rent tubes and float down the Deschutes. On concert nights, float outside the outdoor amphitheater to listen to the bands for free.
Seeing an Outdoor Concert: Walk along the Riverwalk from Downtown Bend to the outdoor Hayden Homes Amphitheater, which is situated along the Deschutes River.