Spring in Bend, Oregon feels like a reset.
Snow is still hanging on in the mountains, trails start opening up, and the Deschutes River becomes the center of everything. It’s one of the few places where you can ski in the morning and sit by the river in the afternoon—and somehow both feel right.
If you’re planning a trip, here are some of the best things to do in Bend this spring—and why staying at Bend Riverside Rentals puts you right in the middle of it.
1. Walk, bike, or float along the Deschutes River
In spring, everything in Bend seems to orbit the river.
The Deschutes runs right through town, with paved paths, parks, and viewpoints along the way. It’s one of the easiest ways to experience Bend without overplanning anything.
You can:
- Walk or bike the river trail
- Sit along the water and do nothing (a valid option)
- Start thinking about floating later in the season
Staying riverside means you don’t have to drive to any of it—you’re already there.
2. Spend time at Drake Park
Drake Park is one of Bend’s most recognizable spots, sitting right along Mirror Pond with open green space and river views.
In spring, it’s where people start coming back outside:
- Picnics on the grass
- Casual walks along the water
- Small local events and gatherings
It’s simple, central, and always worth stopping by.
3. Hit the trails as they open for the season
Spring is one of the best times to hike in Bend.
As the snow melts, lower-elevation trails open up first, offering:
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Cooler temperatures
- That early-season “everything is waking up” feeling
Popular options include:
- Pilot Butte for quick views
- Deschutes River Trail for something more relaxed
Hiking is basically a requirement here, but spring makes it easier.
4. Ski or snowboard at Mt. Bachelor (yes, still)
One of Bend’s advantages is that winter doesn’t fully leave.
Mt. Bachelor often stays open well into spring, which means you can:
- Ski or snowboard in the morning
- Be back in town by afternoon
Spring skiing tends to be more relaxed, with softer snow and fewer crowds compared to peak winter.
5. Explore the Old Mill District
The Old Mill District is where a lot of Bend’s activity lives.
Set along the river, it’s a mix of:
- Shops and restaurants
- Walking paths
- Event spaces and river access
It’s also home to the Hayden Homes Amphitheater, a major outdoor venue that hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
Even without an event, it’s an easy place to spend a few hours.
6. Check out spring events and local happenings
Spring in Bend brings a steady mix of events without the peak-season crowds.
You’ll find things like:
- Maker’s markets and craft fairs
- Live music and theater performances
- Food events and pop-ups
For example, spring markets, concerts, and performances run throughout April and May, giving visitors plenty of options without needing to plan far in advance.
There’s usually something happening—you just have to show up.
7. Visit the High Desert Museum
If you want something indoors (or just different), the High Desert Museum is worth it.
It focuses on:
- Local wildlife
- Regional history
- Interactive exhibits
It’s one of the better ways to understand the area beyond just “nice views.”
8. Take a scenic drive or day trip
Spring is ideal for exploring beyond Bend.
Nearby options include:
- Smith Rock State Park (dramatic cliffs and hiking)
- Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (as roads reopen)
- Waterfalls and volcanic landscapes nearby
Bend is surrounded by variety, and spring is when it starts becoming accessible again.
9. Experience Bend’s food and brewery scene
Bend has one of the highest numbers of breweries per capita in the country, making it a destination for craft beer alone.
Spring is a good time to explore it without long waits.
You’ll find:
- Breweries with outdoor seating reopening
- Restaurants with seasonal menus
- Casual spots that don’t require reservations
It’s less about planning and more about wandering into places that look good.
10. Walk to downtown Bend for food, coffee, and shops
One of the easiest spring activities in Bend is also one of the best—just walking downtown.
From Bend Riverside Rentals, downtown is close enough to reach without turning it into a whole outing. That matters more than it sounds like.
You can:
- Grab coffee and take it back to the river
- Wander into shops without a plan
- Find a place to eat without overthinking it
Spring is a great time for this because it’s busy enough to feel alive, but not so crowded that everything turns into a wait.
It’s low effort, flexible, and easy to repeat—which is usually a sign it’s worth doing.
Stay at Bend Riverside Rentals this spring
There are plenty of things to do in Bend this season. Between the river, trails, events, and everything opening back up after winter, the city naturally gives you enough to do—without forcing it.
And when you stay somewhere that puts you right in the middle of it, the rest tends to take care of itself. Book a riverfront stay with us today!
