If you’re planning a trip to Central Oregon, there’s one attraction you won’t find anywhere else in the world—the last remaining Blockbuster in Bend, OR. What was once a routine stop for Friday night movie rentals has become one of Bend’s most famous landmarks, drawing visitors from around the globe.
Whether you’re feeling nostalgic for the days of browsing movie aisles or simply looking for a unique stop during your vacation, here’s everything you need to know before visiting the iconic Blockbuster in Bend.
Why is the Blockbuster in Bend, OR the last one?
At its peak in the early 2000s, Blockbuster operated more than 9,000 stores worldwide. Renting a movie for the weekend was a tradition for millions of families. But as streaming services became more popular, video rental stores began disappearing, and Blockbuster filed for bankruptcy in 2010.
One by one, every location closed—except one.
The Blockbuster in Bend survived thanks to a loyal local customer base, dedicated ownership, and the city’s growing popularity as a tourist destination. In 2019, it officially became the last operating Blockbuster store in the world, turning an ordinary neighborhood video store into an international attraction.
What can you expect inside?
Walking into the Blockbuster in Bend feels like stepping back in time.
The familiar blue-and-yellow signs are still hanging overhead. Shelves are filled with movie cases, TV series, and family favorites, just like they were decades ago. While many visitors come simply to look around, the store is still a functioning video rental business serving local customers.
You’ll also notice plenty of nostalgic touches that transport visitors back to the days of Friday night movie rentals. Even if you haven’t rented a DVD in years, it’s hard not to smile while browsing the aisles.
Shop exclusive Blockbuster merchandise
One of the biggest draws of the Blockbuster in Bend OR is its exclusive merchandise.
Visitors can purchase T-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, hats, magnets, stickers, tote bags, socks, and other souvenirs featuring the famous Blockbuster logo. Many of these items are only available at the Bend store, making them a fun keepsake from your trip.
Purchasing merchandise also helps support the continued operation of this one-of-a-kind business.
Take the perfect photo
No visit is complete without taking a picture outside the iconic storefront.
The famous Blockbuster sign has become one of Bend’s most recognizable landmarks, and it’s a must-stop photo opportunity for movie lovers. Inside, you’ll also find nostalgic displays and memorabilia that make great backdrops for vacation photos.
Whether you’re sharing your trip on social media or creating a scrapbook, visiting the Blockbuster in Bend is one of those experiences you’ll want to remember.
See a piece of pop culture history
The Blockbuster in Bend has been featured by major news outlets around the world and was the subject of the documentary The Last Blockbuster.
What was once an everyday video store has become a symbol of a different era of entertainment—when families wandered the aisles together deciding what to watch instead of scrolling through streaming apps.
For many visitors, it’s not just about movies. It’s about reliving a favorite childhood memory.
How long should you plan for your visit?
Most visitors spend between 20 and 45 minutes exploring the store.
You’ll have plenty of time to browse the shelves, shop for souvenirs, take photos, and soak in the nostalgia before continuing your Bend adventure.
Because it’s located within the city, it’s an easy stop to add before or after lunch, brewery visits, shopping, or sightseeing.
Staying near the Blockbuster in Bend, OR
One of the benefits of staying at Bend Riverside Rentals is how easy it is to explore Bend’s most popular attractions without spending your entire vacation in the car. The Blockbuster in Bend is only about a 5-minute drive or 10-minute walk from the property, making it an easy stop during your day.
After visiting the store, head back downtown for dinner, take a walk along the Deschutes River Trail, or relax on your private patio or balcony overlooking the river. It’s a fun way to combine one of Bend’s most famous attractions with the outdoor beauty the city is known for.
Add the Blockbuster in Bend, OR to your itinerary
There are plenty of reasons to visit Bend, from hiking and mountain biking to breweries and river adventures. But the Blockbuster in Bend offers something completely different—a chance to step back into a piece of pop culture history that exists nowhere else.
Whether you grew up renting movies every Friday night or are introducing your kids to a video store for the first time, it’s a memorable stop that’s well worth adding to your Bend vacation.
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