The city of Bend has been reinventing itself since incorporating in 1905 — forming first as a timber town before becoming the year-round outdoor destination it is today. Nowhere is that transformation more evident than in the Old Mill District just south of downtown.
Occupying a former lumber mill whose century-old smokestacks are still visible, the Old Mill resides along the Deschutes River and is home to dozens of locally owned boutiques, easy river access, a beloved music venue and other attractions. A number of events welcome visitors all year long, including the Witches Paddle on Halloween and visits with Santa Claus throughout the holiday season.
Here are 10 top activities to enjoy on your next trip to the Old Mill District in Bend.
Outdoor Fun On and Along the Deschutes River
1. Part of Bend’s charm is how close nature can feel. Embrace that connection along the South Canyon Reach of the Deschutes River Trail. The 3-mile hiking trail begins as a wheelchair-accessible paved path along the river before narrowing and heading south through a ponderosa pine forest, crossing a footbridge and returning on a wide dirt path at the base of a rocky canyon.
2. Central Oregon sits along the Pacific Flyway, a major migratory route, which makes it a hot spot for bird-watching during spring and fall migrations. Spy mallards, raptors and other species in the wetlands around the Bend Whitewater Park and along the Deschutes riverbank. Visit the Ticket Mill for a brochure that lists the species you might see, as well as free loaner binoculars.
3. Bend is a famously bike-friendly city, so hop in the saddle with Wheel Fun Rentals. The outfitter is most famous for its four-wheel surreys, which seat up to eight, but it also rents tricycles, cruisers and e-bikes, as well as trailers for pets and children. Head out on one of the paved paths that line the Deschutes River, or sign up for a 90-minute guided tour.
4. Every summer, the Deschutes River becomes ground zero for aquatic fun in Bend. Rent kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards year-round, and sign up for summertime lessons, through local outfitter Tumalo Creek.
5. To hop in a tube and float the Deschutes River through the heart of the Old Mill, head a few blocks west to the Park & Float — where Tumalo Creek provides gear and round-trip transportation for the popular summertime experience.
Boutique Shopping, Live Music and Art Galleries
6. The Old Mill started largely as a shopping center and is today home to nearly 50 stores, many of which are locally owned. Start by finding your next favorite read at Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe. Afterward, see what’s new at Hello Sunshine, stocked with women’s accessories and gifts, and browse shelves full of fun fashions at Vanilla.
7. Just across the Deschutes River from the Old Mill sits Hayden Homes Amphitheater, an outdoor music venue that routinely welcomes acts from around the world between late spring and early fall. Expect rock and country acts, stand-up comedians and a variety of other performers.
8. Over the years, artists have enlivened the area in myriad colorful ways. Make an appointment to visit one of the area’s three art galleries, and keep an eye out for roughly a dozen murals that adorn everything from storefronts to nearby bridge tunnels. Each month, join the First Friday Art Walk for artist conversations in the on-site galleries, in addition to art displays and events in several Old Mill shops.
Local Coffee, Eats and Craft Cocktails
9. Whatever you’re in the mood for, choose among nearly 20 appetizing eateries. Start the day with bread and pastries at M’s Bakery, and fuel up at Sisters Coffee Company. Later on, cozy up with warm noodle soups and vermicelli bowls at Pho 88, try lomo saltado (Peruvian stir-fry) alongside Mexican classics at Hola! and stop by Stacks Dinner and Delicatessen for hearty sandwiches and other New York deli favorites.
10. Try local brews and craft cocktails in bars and tasting rooms throughout the Old Mill. Learn where the fish are biting from in-the-know locals while sipping Bend-made beers at Confluence Fly Shop, revel in a taste of the tropics at the atmospheric Rapa Nui Tiki Lounge and enjoy Prohibition-era cocktails at the elegant Lady Bird Cultural Society.
