High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum blends indoor and outdoor exhibits with wildlife encounters, Native American history, pioneer artifacts, and live raptor demonstrations. Kids can learn through play—crawling into a stagecoach, exploring nature trails, and watching otters frolic in a natural setting. It’s both educational and fun, making it a perfect all-season destination for families.
(10 minutes, 7.6 miles from Bend Riverside)
Address: 59800 S Hwy 97, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 382-4754
Website: https://highdesertmuseum.org/
Bend Whitewater Park
At Bend Whitewater Park, families can enjoy easy tubing and paddleboard rides in the “passageway” channel, while more adventurous riders can try the surfable whitewater channel (if they have experience). The multi-lane layout makes it easy to relax together or mix in a little playful challenge. It’s a great way to sample water fun without needing deep river skills.
(8 minutes, 2.7 miles from Bend Riverside)
Address: 166 SW Shevlin Hixon Dr, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 389-7275
Website: https://www.bendparksandrec.org/facility/bend-whitewater-park/
Shevlin Park & Tumalo Creek Trail
Shevlin Park offers shady walking trails through pine and aspen forest, with creek views, open meadows, and a fishing pond ideal for families. The flat and well-maintained Tumalo Creek Trail is stroller- and bike-friendly, and the park’s picnic areas make it ideal for multi-hour outings. It allows kids to roam, explore nature, and even spot wildlife in a peaceful woodland setting.
(11 minutes, 4.5 miles from Bend Riverside)
Address: Shevlin Park, 18920 Northwest Shevlin Park Road, Bend, OR
Website: https://www.bendparksandrec.org/trail/shevlin-park-trails/
Drake Park
Located in downtown Bend, Drake Park sits along Mirror Pond and features open lawns, paved paths, and an outdoor stage for community events. Families can bird-watch ducks, walk between nearby shops and cafés, and enjoy playground time or free concerts. Its central location makes it easy to combine with a scoop of ice cream or riverside dining.
(6 minute drive / 20 minute walk, 0.9 miles from Bend Riverside)
Address: 777 NW Riverside Blvd, Bend, OR 97701
Phone: (541) 389-7275
Website: https://www.bendparksandrec.org/park/drake-park-and-mirror-pond/
Mountain Air Trampoline Park & Free Spirit Ninja Play Course
For high-energy indoor play, Mountain Air Trampoline Park offers wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball, and ninja‑style obstacle courses, while Free Spirit features a climbing wall and yoga options for kids and parents alike. These venues provide a safe, supervised environment for kids to burn off energy—rain or shine. They’re especially popular when the weather outside isn’t cooperating.
Mountain Air: About 8 minutes, 2.1 miles from Bend Riverside
Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play: About 7 minutes, 2.8 miles from Bend Riverside
Websites: http://www.mountainairbend.com/
https://www.freespirityoganinjaplay.com/home
