Bars in Bend
Bend’s Bars as Community Hubs
Bend’s bar scene isn’t just about the drinks—it’s about fostering a sense of community. Many bars in Bend double as gathering places where locals and visitors connect over shared interests. Whether it’s trivia nights, live music, or charity events, these establishments bring people together in meaningful ways.
Why This Matters
Shared Experiences: Bars like McMenamins Old St. Francis School host events ranging from movie screenings to live performances, creating opportunities to mingle with the community.
Local Support: Bars often partner with local producers, featuring beers, spirits, and ingredients sourced from Central Oregon, which strengthens the local economy.
Inclusivity: Many of Bend’s bars, like Deschutes Brewery, are family-friendly during the day, welcoming patrons of all ages to enjoy their food and atmosphere.
Bend’s bars aren’t just places to grab a drink; they’re spaces to create connections and lasting memories, all while supporting the local culture.
Best Daytime Bars in Bend
Day drinking in Bend is a delightful experience, especially with its sunny days and scenic views. Whether you’re unwinding after a morning hike or meeting friends for a casual drink, these bars are perfect for daytime outings:
Crux Fermentation Project
Located in a former transmission shop, Crux offers a relaxed setting with a large outdoor lawn perfect for soaking up the sun. Their rotating beer list features innovative brews and classics alike.
Why It’s Great for Daytime: Stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and a family-friendly vibe.
Must-Try: Cast Out IPA, a hoppy favorite.
Good to Know: Grab a spot during "Sundowner Hour," where you can enjoy discounted beers while watching the sunset.
Immersion Brewing
As Bend’s only “brew-it-yourself” facility, Immersion Brewing offers a hands-on beer experience alongside a full menu of craft brews and tasty eats.
Why It’s Great for Daytime: The outdoor patio is shaded and pet-friendly.
Must-Try: The Hot Blonde, a jalapeño-infused beer with a hint of heat.
Good to Know: Perfect for groups looking for a fun and interactive experience.
Silver Moon Brewing
One of Bend’s oldest breweries, Silver Moon Brewing combines a laid-back vibe with a stellar lineup of craft beers.
Why It’s Great for Daytime: The outdoor patio features live music during the day.
Must-Try: Mango Daze Pale Ale, a fruity and refreshing option.
Good to Know: They often have food trucks on-site to complement their beer offerings.
The Lot
This food truck pod and beer garden is a quintessential Bend experience. The Lot features a rotating selection of food trucks and a variety of local craft beers on tap.
Why It’s Great for Daytime: Plenty of outdoor seating with shade and heaters for year-round comfort.
Must-Try: Pair any beer with a dish from one of the trucks, like Thai noodles or tacos.
Good to Know: It’s a great spot to meet up with friends after an outdoor adventure.
Why Cocktail Bars in Bend Are Perfect for Your Weekend Plans
Bend’s cocktail bars offer the ideal mix of relaxation, creativity, and vibrant atmosphere, making them a fantastic choice for weekend outings. Whether you’re winding down after an adventurous hike or celebrating a special occasion, Bend’s bars cater to a range of preferences and occasions.
Creative Cocktails That Wow
Bend’s bartenders are masters of their craft, creating innovative drinks that rival big-city cocktail scenes. Whether it’s a classic Old Fashioned or a seasonal drink with locally sourced ingredients, every cocktail is a unique experience.
Local Ingredients: Many bars, like The Dogwood Cocktail Cabin, incorporate regional spirits and fresh produce into their drinks for a true taste of Oregon.
Signature Creations: Bars like Velvet and San Simon are known for their one-of-a-kind concoctions that you won’t find anywhere else.
More on Why Cocktail Bars in Bend are Great
Relaxed and Welcoming Atmosphere
Unlike the fast-paced nightlife of big cities, Bend’s cocktail bars exude a laid-back charm that’s perfect for unwinding.
Intimate Settings: Many bars, like The Stihl Whiskey Bar, provide cozy, intimate environments ideal for connecting with friends or enjoying a quiet drink.
Outdoor Options: Bars like Crux Fermentation Project and McMenamins Old St. Francis School offer outdoor spaces where you can sip your cocktail while enjoying Bend’s stunning views.
Weekend Events and Entertainment
Bend’s cocktail bars often feature live music, trivia nights, or special happy hour menus on the weekends, adding an extra layer of fun to your visit.
Live Music: Venues like The Capitol frequently host live performances, making them a great choice for music lovers.
Seasonal Themes: Many bars craft weekend specials that highlight seasonal ingredients, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
A Perfect Pre-Dinner Stop
Many of Bend’s cocktail bars are conveniently located near top restaurants, making them an excellent choice for a pre-dinner drink or a late-night nightcap.
Plan a Route: Start with a cocktail at Velvet before heading to dinner at a nearby restaurant like Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails or Wild Rose Northern Thai Eats.
Stay for the Evening: With so many great options, it’s easy to make a full night out of Bend’s cocktail scene.
Bend’s cocktail bars combine creativity, charm, and community, making them a must-visit for anyone looking to elevate their weekend plans. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll find that these bars embody the best of Bend’s laid-back yet vibrant spirit.