The Old Mill District is one of the easiest places to spend part of a Bend getaway. With shopping, restaurants, riverfront paths, concerts, and no sales tax, the Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon, gives you plenty to do in one walkable area.
What is the Old Mill District?
The Old Mill District is one of Bend’s most popular mixed-use areas, set along the Deschutes River near the center of town. Today, it is known for shopping, restaurants, riverfront paths, events, galleries, and the Hayden Homes Amphitheater, but the area has deep roots in Bend’s timber history. For nearly a century, timber production shaped the city, and the first major mill in the area, operated by Shevlin-Hixon Co., opened in March 1916.
You can shop for clothes, grab coffee, walk along the river, see a movie, catch a concert, or sit down for dinner without leaving the area. The Old Mill District also sits along the Deschutes River, with access to paved running and biking paths that connect to the larger Deschutes River Trail network.
Shop Till You Drop (Without Sales Tax)
Shopping in Oregon comes with one major perk—no general sales tax—meaning the price you see is the price you get. That makes the Bend Old Mill District a smart stop if you want to pick up clothing, shoes, gifts, outdoor gear, home goods, or a few things you forgot to pack. The district has more than 40 stores listed by the Old Mill District, with a mix of national retailers, local shops, and specialty businesses.
Grab a Bite or a Brew… Or Both
The Old Mill District is a strong dining area because you can make it casual, kid-friendly, date-night ready, or centered around a drink with a view. The district’s restaurant list includes riverfront dining, patio options, craft beer, seafood, burgers, sweet treats, and quick meals. The Old Mill District notes that restaurant hours vary, so it is worth checking the specific restaurant before heading over.
Anthony’s at the Old Mill District is a seafood restaurant with river views and a menu built around fresh seafood, Northwest dishes, and classic dinner options. It’s great for a nicer meal after shopping or before a show.
- Location: 475 SW Powerhouse Drive, Suite 900, Bend, OR 97702
- Phone: 541-389-8998
- Hours: 11:30 AM to 8 PM
- Make a reservation
Greg’s Grill is another popular Old Mill District option, with Northwest-style dining, river views, steaks, seafood, sandwiches, and a large patio area. It is a good pick when your group wants a sit-down meal without leaving the district.
- Location: 395 SW Powerhouse Drive, Bend, OR 97702
- Phone: 541-382-2200
- Hours: Monday–Thursday, 11:30 AM–9 PM; Friday–Saturday, 11:30 AM–10 PM; Sunday, 11:30 AM–9 PM.
- Menu
For something more casual, Cafe Yumm! is a good stop for rice bowls, wraps, salads, and quick meals. It works well for families, anyone wanting a lighter lunch, or a meal between shopping and walking the river.
- Location: 325 SW Powerhouse Dr, Ste 130, Bend, OR 97702
- Phone: 541-318-9866
- Hours: Monday – Sunday 10AM – 8PM
- Menu
If your group wants a drink, the area also has places where you can enjoy craft beer, cocktails, or wine before dinner. Bend is known for its beer scene, and staying close to the Old Mill District makes it easy to enjoy that part of town without building your whole night around driving from place to place.
Check Out Local Events
The Old Mill District in Bend hosts events throughout the year, including concerts, athletic events, festivals, First Friday art walks, retailer events, and seasonal happenings. The Old Mill District event calendar is the best place to check what is happening during your exact travel dates.
One of the biggest draws nearby is Hayden Homes Amphitheater, which brings major concerts to Bend during the warmer months. If there is a show during your trip, the Old Mill District is an easy place to grab dinner before the concert or meet up afterward.
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
- Location: 344 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend, OR 97702
- Phone: (541) 312-8510
- Calendar
Other Things to Do
The Old Mill District is one of those areas where you do not have to spend the whole time shopping. The Deschutes River Trail runs through the area, so you can walk, jog, or bike along the water before lunch or after dinner. It is a good option when you want something outside but do not want to drive to a trailhead.
Kids can walk along the river, grab ice cream, see a movie, or take a break from bigger outdoor outings. For couples, it is easy to turn the area into a date night with dinner, drinks, and a walk along the water. For groups, it gives everyone options without requiring separate drives across town.
Bring Your Finds Back to Your Rental
After a full day in the Old Mill District, coming back to the right rental makes the rest of the evening easier. Bend Vacation Rentals offers premium homes for travelers who want comfort, space, and useful amenities without an oversized price tag.
Many rentals include:
- Flat-screen televisions
- Cable television
- Internet or Wi-Fi
- Private hot tubs
- Outdoor decks and patios
- Gas barbecue grills
- Garages
- Gourmet kitchens with stainless steel appliances
- Luxury en suite bathrooms with soaking tubs
- Stunning views
Start Planning Your Vacation
The Old Mill District is worth making time for during your Bend getaway. Spend the day browsing shops, grabbing a meal, walking the river, or catching a show, then come back to a rental with the space and comfort you need. Book with Bend Vacation Rentals today!
