Explore Bend, Oregon on a Budget

A national trendsetter for all things outdoor sports-related, Bend, Oregon, is a western playground that attracts an international assortment of powder hounds, dirt divas, snow bunnies, and Peter Pans for climbing, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and more.

For those who prefer camping and Coleman stoves to honeymoon suites and Michelin-starred fine dining, it’s the ideal destination. However, costs can add up. Here are the best ways to stretch your dollar while you’re in town.

Drive in and Make Your Car Your Base Camp

With flights in and out of Redmond Airport from all over the west coast, arriving by air is an option; however, the added costs of either renting a car and transporting your gear, or renting gear once you arrive, can be significant. The least expensive way to experience Bend is to camp and bring your outdoor toys with you in your car.

Go for a Float at Bend’s Whitewater Park

One of the most popular activities in town is to grab a boogie board, surfboard, whitewater kayak, or floaty and head to the Bend Whitewater Park. Looking downriver, the far left channel is known as the Fish Ladder and is the best choice if you’re on an inner tube or floaty. For those in more technical crafts, check out the central channel.

It’s important to remember this is a free-flowing river. Wear shoes that secure to your feet and cover your skin to protect against the sharp lava rock lining the whitewater passages. For more safety tips, check the Bend Whitewater Park’s website.

If you aren’t a fan of getting wet, simply set up a lawn chair or a beach blanket and watch the action from the shore—it can be highly entertaining. Kids enjoy playing at the water’s edge beneath the whitewater park in McKay Park.

Tour the Town by Bike

Rolling around Bend on a townie, single speed, or gnarly old mountain bike is a favorite activity of locals and visitors alike. Check out the iconic Old Mill river walk spanning the east and west banks of the urban Deschutes River corridor (Farewell Bend Park to McKay Park). From there, ride into Drake Park to see Mirror Pond and historic downtown Bend.

Moreover, ride west to explore Galveston and Newport Street. Ride north to First Street Rapids Park and head east over the railroad tracks to discover the Larkspur Trail. Subsequently, in the summer when Bend thoroughfares are clogged with cars, the best way to see the area is by bike.

Pack Your Skates and Hit the Pavement

Pine Nursery Park in Bend’s northeast quadrant features a paved, 1.25-mile path that’s perfect for roller and inline skaters, skateboarders, and scooter enthusiasts. Interlaced with an off-leash dog park, pickleball courts, a fishing pond, soccer fields, and an expansive disc golf course, it’s a family-favorite destination in any season.

For expert skate terrain, drop in at one of two skate parks in Ponderosa Park located on the east side of town.

Night Ski by Moonlight at Hoodoo Ski Resort

A resort nearer to Sisters than Bend, the Hoodoo ski area offers the only night-ski sessions in Central Oregon, which are generally a fraction of the cost compared to daytime skiing.

The night-skiing atmosphere is friendly for families and all ages and experience levels, welcoming ski bikes, skiers, and snowboarders alike. Additionally, the parking lot has electrical hookups, allowing you to make reservations and stay in your camper van, car, or RV. Enjoy food and beverages in the Hoodoo lodge, along with live music and weekly events such as demo days and discount days.

Rock Out to a Concert While You Float the River

Experience summer tunes from the Deschutes River adjacent to Hayden Homes Amphitheater (previously Les Schwab Amphitheater), which features A-list headliners throughout the summer. It’s free to listen while floating by, unless you need to rent a paddle vessel—just ensure you don’t stop along the shore to avoid consequences from local authorities.

Float by on an inner tube for a quick auditory experience, or to enjoy the concert longer, bring your own paddleboard or kayak. Pro tip: Inflatable paddleboards fold up and can easily fit in any vehicle, making it easier to enjoy a picnic on the board during the concert.

Pick Up Discounted Equipment at the Gear Fix

If you didn’t arrive in Bend with outdoor equipment, you can likely find some reasonably priced options at the Gear Fix. This used gear shop not only stocks seasonal secondhand sporting goods but also includes ski tuners, a seamstress, a cobbler, and a bike shop to mend any broken gear. The Gear Fix is beloved by locals, much like Powell’s books in Portland.

Lay Your Weary Head at Bend’s Favorite Hostel

Located in the heart of town, with a shuttle service connecting guests to local outdoor destinations, the Bunk + Brew Hostel is both inexpensive and conveniently central for exploration on foot.

Furthermore, it offers food and tap carts, live music, and nonstop events onsite in the backyard. After a big day out, relax in the courtyard with staff or fellow travelers, just a few steps from your bunk. Take advantage of the shuttle for a trip to Smith Rock State Park, or venture up to Mt Bachelor for year-round adventures, including skiing, zip-lining, and downhill mountain biking.

Tap into Rotating Locals’ Nights

On any given night, one of Bend’s many breweries, tap houses, or pubs is likely to offer a discount for locals. Since there typically isn’t an ID or address check, visitors and tourists can often take advantage of these deals. Popular places like Silver Moon, GoodLife Brewing, and Deschutes Brewery offer discounted pints at least once a week.

Pop Into Popular Happy Hours

For cheap eats, McMenamins Old St Francis School, part of a regional microbrewery chain, boasts an extensive and classic food selection on its weeknight happy-hour menu, all within uniquely decorated surroundings. To enhance your experience, lounge on one of the many porches with wood-burning fire pits and inquire about the “secret rooms and broom closet.”

As a friendly conversation starter, asking locals, “What’s your favorite happy hour?” can lead to discovering hidden gems.

Seek Out Mud-Season Discounts

Mud season in an outdoor sports-oriented destination is the time of year when there isn’t enough sun to harden the wet earth or enough snow to ski, particularly in Bend during fall and spring. Since this period is viewed as less desirable for visitors, hoteliers and tour services often offer reduced prices, meaning you can enjoy the same great experiences for half the cost.

A Guide to Daily Costs in Bend, Oregon

Camping: $10-30
Hostel bed: $40
Hostel private room: $100
Basic room for two: $110-200
Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $75-200
Public transport ticket: Free*
Coffee: $4-6
Sandwich: $12-15
Dinner for two: $40-50
Beer/pint at the bar: $6

*Due to COVID, Central Oregon Public Transportation is operating fareless. Day tickets are normally between $5-10.