Planning the perfect trip to Bend requires a little local insight.

The city is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with year-round appeal.

Start with a stunning sunrise view from Pilot Butte.

Summer days are best spent floating the cool Deschutes River, while fall offers gorgeous, crowd-free hikes near Paulina Lake.

Winter shifts the adventure to unique high desert trails in the Oregon Badlands Wilderness.

Bend’s culinary scene is equally impressive.

Grab a legendary breakfast burrito from Los Jalapeños or settle in at local favorites like McKay Cottage.

Later, explore the charming shops in Downtown Bend and the Old Mill District, where retail meets riverside beauty.

Don't miss out on the local happy hour culture before enjoying dinner at a food cart pod or an upscale restaurant.

Central Oregon winter sports enthusiasts prepare for the return of the region's premier gear marketplace this October.

Central Oregon's vibrant food scene in Bend continues to evolve with exciting new restaurant openings and some notable closures in 2025.

A prime north Bend spot, formerly a 24-hour diner, is set to welcome a beloved chain known for hearty breakfasts and comfort food.

Anticipation grows as Elmer's Restaurants plans to open this fall off the highway, filling a void left by Shari's statewide shutdown last year.

That closure came with unpaid debts, underscoring the challenges in the industry, but Bend's culinary landscape remains resilient.

Originating from Portland over 60 years ago, Elmer's brings reliable dining to locals and tourists alike.

Meanwhile, the south side location stays vacant, fueling speculation on future developments.

2025 highlights include Burgerville's southeast debut, a spicy Indian spot on the west side, and sustainable sushi downtown.

Closures like Neighbor Rotisserie and upscale lounges make way for fresh vibes, from late-night pizza to izakayas.

Bend food enthusiasts celebrate these shifts, blending trends with local charm for diverse palates.

FAQ: What new Bend restaurants opened in 2025?

Standouts include Burgerville, Spiceland, and sustainable sushi spots adding flavor to the mix.

Which Bend restaurants closed recently?

Key ones are Neighbor Rotisserie, Nome Italiano, and chain locations like Shari's.

Where to find top breakfast in Bend?

Elmer's upcoming diner promises classic fare amid Bend's dynamic options.

Bend, Oregon is advancing traffic safety and efficiency with major new initiatives targeting road use and connectivity.

Red-light cameras will be installed at busy intersections after City Council approval, with Police Chief Mike Krantz highlighting the goal of encouraging safer driving habits rather than raising city funds.

The updated parking code introduces rules requiring vehicles in alternative fueling spots to be actively charging and restricts oversized commercial vehicles from parking in neighborhoods during key hours.

These measures are timed for rollout throughout 2025.

With an expected population increase of nearly 40,000 in the next 20 years, Bend is investing in improved infrastructure like the Midtown Crossings Project.

This includes a pedestrian bridge on Hawthorne Avenue and upgrades to the Franklin Avenue underpass over U.S. Highway 97 and the BNSF Railway.

Together, these moves aim to ensure safer, smoother travel for the growing community.

The Deschutes River in Central Oregon invites both residents and travelers to unwind with a peaceful float amid breathtaking scenery.

In Bend, most floaters launch from Riverbend Park, drifting through the city’s vibrant center before reaching Drake Park.

This relaxed two-hour trip is a beloved local pastime for families and friends seeking summer relaxation.

The Bend Park and Recreation District offers its convenient "Ride the River" shuttle, making it easy to return after your journey.

Over in Sunriver, organized floats begin at Harper’s Bridge and end at the Sunriver Marina, highlighting the community’s scenic beauty.

Many outings wrap up with live music, s’mores, and games, enhancing the experience.

Safety is essential—floaters must watch for hazards like Dillion Falls, wear proper gear, and stay aware of river conditions.

Floating the Deschutes remains a cherished way to savor Central Oregon’s warmth and natural charm.

Bend, Oregon is celebrated for its stunning scenery and strong outdoor culture.

The city is taking meaningful steps to make nature accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities.

Local innovator Geoff Babb developed the AdvenChair—an all-terrain wheelchair inspired by his own challenges after a stroke—which has opened up trail access for many.

Organizations like Wanderlust Tours now use the AdvenChair on guided trips, allowing more people to experience spectacular sites such as Smith Rock State Park.

The Bend Park and Recreation District is also enhancing Miller’s Landing Park with accessible benches, ramps, and shaded river areas to ensure everyone can enjoy the Deschutes River.

BlackStrap Industries is building an inclusive outdoor gear campus in Larkspur, opening in 2025, to foster community connection.

Affordable housing efforts like Thistle & Nest’s Ponderosa Commons will provide energy-efficient homes off SW Murphy Road, reflecting Bend’s commitment to equity and outdoor enjoyment for all.

Bend’s SURFEST 2025 brought McKay Park alive September 13-14, drawing river surfers from across the Northwest to compete at the Bend Whitewater Park for more than $10,000 in prizes.

The vibrant event, supporting the Central Oregon Surf Team Association (COSTA) and Bend Paddle Trail Alliance, highlighted Central Oregon’s growing surf scene.

Surfers showed off their skills on the energetic Deschutes River waves, thrilling a crowd of locals and visitors alike.

Community spirit was in full force, with live music, local food vendors, and colorful art displays encouraging connection beyond competition.

Founder Chip Conrad emphasized that SURFEST is about building a vibrant, supportive surf community.

Proceeds from the weekend benefit youth programs and river conservation, reinforcing a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.

The festival’s success cements Bend as a rising center for river surfing in the Pacific Northwest.