Your vacation in Bend promises to be unlike any other you have taken. Quiet and peaceful even during the high tourist season, our small mountain village offers an experience you rarely find in today’s crazy world! Close to skiing, beautiful hiking trails, and natural scenic attractions, there’s always something to do during your stay.
For those who have a natural abhorrence of crowds, we have provided this guide to the off the beaten path places to see in Bend that only locals know about—because we care, we like you, and we want you to make the magical memories you have always dreamed of when staying in one of our cozy and comfortable Bend Vacation Rentals vacation escapes.
Peterson Rock Garden and Museum, 7930 SW 77th Street, Redmond
Actually located between Bend and Redmond, the Peterson Rock Garden has been charming locals for years, and this year you’re going to be the one who is entranced! The rock garden began simply enough all the way back in 1935 when Rasmus Peterson started collecting rocks that were within a 35-mile radius of his property. The garden covers four acres and has a collection of miniature homes, castles, churches, and even some monuments, all built of local rocks. Colorful peacocks roam freely on the land, and in a fenced-area, cuddly and fuzzy alpacas graze happily, adding a touch of warmth to what could otherwise be considered a stark, although creative, scene. Our favorite part of this place to see in Bend is the miniature bridge built over the pond filled with lily pads, but you have to see it for yourself to discover what you love most!
Five Fusion & Sushi Bar, 821 NW Wall Street #100
Dining out can get pricey when you live in a tourist town, but we learned long ago there are two types of restaurants: the ones the tourists eat at, and the ones we locals can easily afford! And because we enjoy sushi on a regular basis, Five Fusion & Sushi Bar is where you’ll find us on a quiet Tuesday night! Open nightly from 4-9 (10 on Fridays & Saturdays), their Happy Hour deals last from 4-6 and are substantial, delicious, and very reasonably priced!
Arnold Ice Cave
Pretty much everyone who visits Bend has heard of the Lava River Cave, but not many research further to discover the Arnold Ice Cave. Located about 12 miles southeast of our hometown, it was created from a lava flow over 80,000 years ago and today is a magical place to visit, albeit a cold one. Average temperatures barely rise over freezing, and the ice that is an integral part of the cave creates a slippery situation for the hearty explorers who make their way to this hidden treasure. Closed from November 1 through April 15th for bat hibernation season, if this cool cave sounds interesting to you, you might want to plan your trip around this critical time period.
Offering Off the Beaten Path Hideaways for the Best Places to See in Bend
We know people have different expectations of the best way to vacation, and so our homes are designed for different likes. Hidden away in the Bend countryside or based in the bustling downtown area, our homes are destined to be exactly what you dreamed of—reserve yours today!