My best friends live in Bend, Oregon, so I'm there A LOT. But I'm not always doing touristy stuff! So this list is … less bloggery and more tom foolery like a local.
Map
Sections
3
YOU HAVE TO EAT OR DRINK THIS
Do the most fun stuff
Box Factory - a rec, but also recs within a rec
YOU HAVE TO EAT OR DRINK THIS
Handmade pasta, the best foccacia you will ever eat in your entire life, insane cocktails, an awesome wine list … this restaurant is worth the trip to Bend alone.
BOSA Food & Drink
This Bend-made Chai tea is the most insanely delicious chai I have ever had! Most of the coffee shops in Bend serve it (good for them supporting local!) and it is so good as chai, in a red-eyed chai, and even in matcha!
Metolius Chai
If a Texan is recommending some tacos, you probably should try them? These are my fave, although tbf I haven't tried them since the Galveston location closed in 2025.
El Sancho Taco Shop
Do the most fun stuff
OK but this isn't a concert venue rec, it's a rec to FLOAT THE RIVER and/or anchor your paddleboard while a concert is going on to enjoy an amazing concert AND the Deschutes!!
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Obviously. Epic skiing. Park in the high school lot and save yourself the trouble, plus get ski-in, ski-out parking access!
Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort
Box Factory - a rec, but also recs within a rec
Destination
This is always a stop for us when we're in town! There are breweries and wineries and food trucks and secondhand shopping and it's so much fun!
Box Factory
Love the beer selection here, the fire pits and indoor-outdoor seating options are great, and the food trucks are delicious too.
Crosscut- Warming Hut No.5
We always stop in for a mystery box. It's a great deal and super fun. They keep inconsistent hours, so if the open sign is on pop in while you can!
