Ask an Oregon local, and they’ll likely name autumn as one of the best times to visit. The crowds thin as warm-weather tourists head home, and winter enthusiasts flocking to Mount Bachelor Ski Resort’s slopes just thirty minutes outside of Bend have yet to arrive.
Over the course of four days, I learned just how true this sentiment is. In early fall, the weather is near perfect, family-friendly activities throughout Bend, Redmond, and Sunriver are numerous, hotel prices have dropped from summer highs, and restaurant wait times are near extinct.
Taken together, you quickly realize the Bend area is a high desert gem just waiting for exploration.
Abundant Family-Friendly Activities
Throughout the fall, numerous activities await the entire family. On my most recent trip, I had the chance to check these off my “fall bucket list” and see firsthand why autumn in Central Oregon can’t be beaten.
Smith Rock Pumpkin Patch
Kinds of all ages will love their time at the Pumpkin Patch, but there’s much more than just pumpkins. The whole family will have a blast with its petting zoo, corn maze, tractor rides, and other games. Once you’ve had your fun, pop over to Smith Rock State Park for lunch or a quick walk.
Smith Rock State Park
One of the most unique state parks in America, Smith Rock offers excellent hiking, rock climbing, and views. If you like challenging hikes, choose Misery Ridge. But if you’re looking for a more casual walk, hike along the river and dip your toes into the water.
However you tackle Smith Rock, you’ll come away impressed by this geological masterpiece.
Bend Fall Festival
Bend kicks off the season with its Fall Festival, an event flush with food, drinks, activities, and booths to browse for presents or wall art. It’s a great time to engage with the community and learn about new happenings around Bend. If you’re thirsty, support another local business and sip a crisp IPA at Bend Brewing Company.
High Desert Museum
Fifteen minutes south of Bend, the indoor/outdoor High Desert Museum allows guests to learn more about Central Oregon’s History. Check out unique exhibits such as “Sensing Sasquatch,” an exploration of Sasquatch from the perspective of Indigenous groups. The museum partnered with Native artists to showcase Sasquatch connections and stories tribes have told for thousands of years.
Throughout the museum, find plenty of animals, insects, and reptiles that kids and adults alike will enjoy. My favorite — and I’m sure plenty of other guests’ — were the otters. As we watched them swim and frolic around, you couldn’t help but have the biggest smile on your face.
Alpaca Picnic
Sometimes, you didn’t realize you were missing something until it happened. For me, it was hanging out with alpacas. These fluffy goofballs are adorable, and the incredibly knowledgeable team at Paca Picnics provides history and education on the species, their sustainable fibers, and how to support Peruvian cultures in South America.
This is a great place to spend time with the family, on an afternoon date, or a group outing.
Warmer, Dry Days
Once you cross over the Oregon Cascades, the clouds dissipate, air dries out, and you’ll feel the warmth of the sun on your skin. This is one of the biggest reasons Central Oregon is perfect during the fall months. When Portland, Salem, Eugene, or even Seattle gets gloomy, head just a few hours east for more welcoming conditions without the crowds.
When I flew out of Seattle, it was pouring. However, by the time I landed at the Redmond Airport, the jacket was off, and I was basking in the sun.
Great Food and Drinks
Bend is a master class in the brewery scene. With 26 breweries throughout Bend, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one you don’t like. Local pints range from the well-known, nationally distributed Deschutes Brewery to the award-winning Monkless Belgian Ales and many others. With so many choices, closing your eyes and randomly picking one might be the best way to start!
But if you’re looking for more of a sit-down experience, the new Hawkeye and Huckleberry Lounge, with an upscale Cowboy theme, was delicious. Their filet steak, with a side of cornbread and potatoes, was mouthwatering. The Mediterranean-style Lady Bird also had views of the Deschutes River. The cocktails and appetizers were tasty, and my roasted, dry-aged Duck was pure perfection.
Limitless Lodging Options
From luxury hotels and standard hotels downtown to lodging tailored to outdoor enthusiasts like LOGE Camps, the Central Oregon region has something for everyone.
One spot that impressed me was Sunriver Resort. Just thirty minutes south of Bend, it’s home to world-class golfing, a full-service wellness spa, and was recently named the top resort in the Pacific Northwest, according to Condé Nast Traveler. It also has 40 miles of bike trails, an aquatic center, and savory dining options such as the Lodge Kitchen.
And just up the road from the resort is the Sunriver Observatory and Nature Center. Once the sun sets, telescopes come out, and guests enjoy scenes from the night sky our eyes can’t see. For families with younger kids or space lovers, this is a must.
