Bend travel guide

Bend travel guide

National Airports

Bend, Oregon, is served by the Roberts Field-Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), which is the primary airport serving Central Oregon, including the Bend metropolitan area. While it is officially located in Redmond, Oregon, approximately 16 miles north of Bend, it is commonly referred to as the “Bend Airport” due to its proximity to the city.

Roberts Field-Redmond Municipal Airport offers domestic flights to several major hubs, including Denver, Portland, Seattle, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, and San Francisco, among others. Airlines serving the airport include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

Travelers flying to or from Bend can utilize Roberts Field-Redmond Municipal Airport for commercial flights, with options for rental cars, shuttles, taxis, and rideshare services available for transportation to and from the airport.

Trains in Bend

Bend, Oregon, does not have a passenger train station or direct passenger train service. Passenger train service is limited in Oregon overall, with Amtrak providing only a few routes serving major cities like Portland and Eugene. Bend does not currently have a station on any of these routes.

If you’re looking to travel by train to or from Bend, you would need to consider alternative transportation options, such as buses, car rentals, or private vehicles. The lack of passenger train service is a significant gap in public transportation infrastructure for Bend and the surrounding area.

Buses in Bend

In Bend, Oregon, public transportation is provided by the Cascades East Transit (CET) system, which operates a network of bus routes within Bend and the surrounding region. Here’s some information about the bus system in Bend:

Route Network: CET operates several fixed bus routes in Bend, covering key areas such as downtown, residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, medical facilities, and educational institutions. The routes also extend to nearby communities and attractions.

Fares and Passes: CET offers affordable fares for its bus services, with options for single rides, day passes, and monthly passes. Reduced fares are typically available for seniors, students, and individuals with disabilities. Fare payment can be made in cash or by using a reloadable fare card.

Schedules and Hours: Bus schedules and operating hours vary depending on the specific route and day of the week. Generally, buses operate from early morning until evening on weekdays, with reduced service on weekends and holidays. Some routes may offer extended hours during peak times or special events.

Accessibility: CET is committed to providing accessible transportation for all passengers. Buses are equipped with features such as wheelchair ramps or lifts, priority seating for individuals with disabilities, and audio announcements.

Real-Time Information: Riders can access real-time bus arrival information through the CET website, mobile app, or by phone. This allows passengers to track the location and estimated arrival time of buses, helping them plan their trips more efficiently.

Transit Centers: CET operates transit centers in Bend where passengers can transfer between different bus routes. These centers also serve as hubs for connecting to regional and long-distance transportation services.

Special Services: In addition to fixed-route bus service, CET may offer other transportation services such as dial-a-ride or paratransit services for eligible individuals who are unable to use fixed-route buses due to a disability.

Overall, Cascades East Transit provides a convenient and affordable way for residents and visitors to get around Bend and the surrounding region. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or exploring the city, CET offers transportation options to meet your needs.

How to get to Bend

Getting to Bend, Oregon, can be accomplished through various transportation options depending on your starting point. Here are some common ways to reach Bend:

By Car: Bend is accessible by car via several major highways, including US Route 97, which runs north-south through Central Oregon. If you’re driving, you can plan your route using a GPS navigation system or online mapping service. Bend is approximately 160 miles southeast of Portland, 130 miles northeast of Eugene, and 300 miles southeast of Seattle.

By Air: The nearest commercial airport to Bend is the Roberts Field-Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), located in Redmond, Oregon, approximately 16 miles north of Bend. Roberts Field offers domestic flights to several major hubs, including Denver, Portland, Seattle, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, and San Francisco. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use rideshare services to travel to Bend.

By Bus: Public transportation options to Bend are limited, but you may be able to take a bus to nearby cities such as Redmond or Eugene and then use alternate transportation methods to reach Bend. Greyhound Lines operates bus services to Redmond from various cities across the United States.

By Train: Bend does not have a passenger train station or direct train service. Amtrak offers limited passenger train service in Oregon, with routes serving major cities like Portland and Eugene. If you’re traveling by train, you would need to take Amtrak to a nearby city and then use alternate transportation methods to reach Bend.

Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in Bend, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors. Use a ridesharing app to request a ride and get to your destination in Bend.

Carpooling: Consider carpooling with friends, family, or coworkers if you’re traveling from a nearby city. Sharing the cost of transportation and reducing the number of vehicles on the road can be a convenient and eco-friendly option.

Once you arrive in Bend, you can use local transportation options such as taxis, rideshares, or rental cars to get around the city and reach your final destination.

What is the best time to travel to Bend

The best time to travel to Bend, Oregon, depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Bend and what each offers:

Spring (March to May):

Spring in Bend brings milder temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and longer daylight hours.

This season is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the numerous parks and trails in the area.

Spring is also a great time for water activities like kayaking, rafting, and fishing on the Deschutes River.

Summer (June to August):

Summer is peak tourist season in Bend, with warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor events and activities.

This season offers excellent conditions for hiking, camping, rock climbing, and mountain biking in the nearby mountains and forests.

Summer is also a popular time for water sports on the Deschutes River and nearby lakes, as well as for attending festivals and outdoor concerts.

Fall (September to November):

Fall in Bend is characterized by cooler temperatures, colorful foliage, and fewer crowds compared to summer.

This season is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives to view the fall colors in the surrounding forests.

Fall is also a great time for fly fishing on the Deschutes River and for sampling seasonal beers at local breweries.

Winter (December to February):

Winter brings snow to the mountains surrounding Bend, making it a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Mt. Bachelor, located just a short drive from Bend, offers excellent downhill skiing and snowboarding, as well as Nordic skiing and snowshoeing trails.

Winter is also a great time to cozy up by the fireplace at a local lodge or brewery and enjoy the festive atmosphere of downtown Bend.

Overall, the best time to travel to Bend depends on your interests and what activities you’d like to experience. If you prefer warm weather and outdoor adventures, summer is the ideal time to visit. If you enjoy fall foliage or winter sports, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons or winter months. Regardless of when you visit, Bend offers something for everyone to enjoy year-round.

How to get around Bend

Getting around Bend, Oregon, can be accomplished through several transportation options. Here’s how you can navigate the city:

Driving: Bend is a car-friendly city with well-maintained roads and highways. Many residents and visitors prefer to travel by car, as it offers flexibility and convenience. If you’re driving, you can easily navigate Bend using GPS navigation systems or online maps.

Public Transportation: Bend has a public transportation system operated by Cascades East Transit (CET), which operates several fixed bus routes within the city and the surrounding region. CET offers affordable fares and convenient service to key areas such as downtown, residential neighborhoods, and shopping centers. Check the CET website for route maps, schedules, and fares.

Biking: Bend is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails throughout the area. Many residents commute by bike, and there are bike rental options available for visitors. Explore Bend on two wheels and enjoy the scenic trails and bike-friendly streets.

Walking: Downtown Bend and other areas of the city are pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and crosswalks making it easy to explore on foot. Walking is a great way to experience the city’s neighborhoods, parks, and attractions at a leisurely pace.

Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in Bend, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors. Use a ridesharing app to request a ride and get around the city.

Taxi: Traditional taxi services are available in Bend for those who prefer a more traditional transportation option. You can find taxi stands at various locations throughout the city or call a taxi company to request a ride.

Carpooling: Consider carpooling with friends, family, or coworkers to share the cost of transportation and reduce your environmental impact. Carpooling is a convenient option for commuting to work or attending events in Bend.

Overall, Bend offers a variety of transportation options to suit different preferences and travel needs. Whether you prefer driving, taking public transit, biking, walking, or using ridesharing services, you’ll find convenient ways to get around the city and explore all that Bend has to offer.

Accommodations in Bend

Bend, Oregon, offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets. Here are some options for lodging in Bend:

Hotels: Bend has numerous hotels ranging from budget-friendly options to upscale resorts. You can find familiar chain hotels as well as boutique hotels offering unique amenities and personalized service. Many hotels are conveniently located in downtown Bend or near popular attractions.

Vacation Rentals: If you prefer the comfort and privacy of a home away from home, consider renting a vacation home, condo, or apartment in Bend. Vacation rentals are available in various sizes and styles, offering amenities such as full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and outdoor spaces.

Resorts and Lodges: Bend is home to several resorts and lodges offering upscale accommodations and amenities. These properties often feature luxurious rooms, on-site dining options, spa services, and recreational facilities such as golf courses and swimming pools.

Bed and Breakfasts: For a cozy and personalized experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast in Bend. These charming accommodations offer comfortable rooms, homemade breakfasts, and attentive service in a home-like setting.

Campgrounds and RV Parks: Bend and the surrounding area offer numerous campgrounds and RV parks for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, you’ll find options with amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.

Hostels: Budget travelers and backpackers can find affordable accommodations at hostels in Bend. Hostels typically offer dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities, as well as common areas for socializing and meeting other travelers.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations: If you’re traveling with pets, many hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds in Bend are pet-friendly and welcome furry companions for an additional fee.

When booking accommodations in Bend, consider factors such as location, amenities, price, and guest reviews to find the option that best suits your needs and preferences. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or when there are major events taking place in the area.