Discover the Best Tours in Bend, Oregon
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Bend, Oregon, is a destination that offers more than just beautiful scenery—it’s a playground for adventure, a hub for craft beer and food lovers, and a haven for history buffs and culture seekers. Whether you're kayaking on the Deschutes River, exploring the vibrant downtown area, or hiking the rugged trails of the Cascades, Bend's tours bring out the best of this incredible region.
This guide is your go-to resource for finding the perfect tour to match your interests. We’ve covered everything, from guided outdoor excursions and brewery tours to specialty experiences like stargazing and photography workshops. Dive in and discover why Bend is one of Oregon’s most beloved destinations for exploration and fun.
Outdoor Adventure Tours in Bend, Oregon
1. Wanderlust Tours
Overview: Specializing in naturalist-led tours, Wanderlust Tours provides unique outdoor adventures year-round, including canoeing, kayaking, snowshoeing, caving, and hiking. Their tours focus on the ecology and geology of the Central Oregon landscape.
Highlights:
Moonlight and starlight snowshoe tours in winter.
Guided tours of local lava caves.
No prior experience needed for most activities.
Website: https://www.wanderlusttours.com
2. Adventure Tours Bend
Overview: Adventure Tours Bend offers a range of outdoor excursions tailored to all skill levels, including paddleboarding on the Deschutes River, guided hikes, and e-bike tours.
Highlights:
Family-friendly activities.
Expert guides with local knowledge.
Scenic e-bike tours showcasing Bend’s beautiful trails.
Website: https://adventuretoursbend.com
3. Cog Wild Bicycle Tours
Overview: A premier mountain biking guide service in Bend, offering half-day to multi-day guided tours and shuttles to popular trails.
Highlights:
Custom tours available for groups and skill levels.
Local guides provide insider trail tips.
Includes bike rentals and transportation.
Website: https://www.cogwild.com
4. Bend Kayak School
Overview: Provides kayaking lessons and guided tours on Bend’s rivers and lakes, catering to beginners and experienced paddlers.
Highlights:
Whitewater kayaking courses.
Focus on safety and technique.
Customized group lessons.
Website: https://www.bendkayakschool.com
5. Outriders Northwest
Overview: Experience Central Oregon’s wild terrains with guided off-road tours in Polaris RZR vehicles.
Highlights:
Adventures through desert landscapes, forests, and volcanic areas.
Family-friendly outings.
Includes safety gear and vehicle orientation.
Website: https://www.outridersnw.com
6. Bend Photo Tours
Overview: Guided tours for photography enthusiasts, visiting Bend’s most scenic spots while learning tips for capturing the perfect shot.
Highlights:
Private or small group options.
Focus on wildlife, landscapes, and night photography.
Led by professional photographers.
Website: https://www.bendphototours.com
7. Sun Country Tours
Overview: Known for thrilling whitewater rafting adventures on the Deschutes River, Sun Country Tours is a must for adrenaline seekers.
Highlights:
Family-friendly rapids.
Experienced guides ensure safety and fun.
Multi-day rafting trips available.
Website: https://www.suncountrytours.com
8. Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe
Overview: Offers paddleboarding and kayaking tours on the Deschutes River and Cascade Lakes, with options for beginners and advanced paddlers.
Highlights:
Rentals available for self-guided adventures.
Sunset and full-moon paddling tours.
Experienced guides enhance the experience.
Website: https://tumalocreek.com
9. Central Oregon Adventures
Overview: Specializes in snowmobile tours through the snowy landscapes of the Deschutes National Forest.
Highlights:
Well-maintained snowmobiles provided.
Stunning views of the Cascades.
Perfect for winter adventurers.
Website: https://www.coadventures.com
10. Bend Electric Bikes
Overview: Eco-friendly electric bike tours around Bend, perfect for exploring the city and nearby trails.
Highlights:
Bikes provided with adjustable speeds.
Scenic routes through parks and local landmarks.
Great for groups and families.
Website: https://www.bendelectricbikes.com
Food and Drink Tours in Bend, Oregon
1. Bend Food Tours
Overview: Guided walking tours showcasing Bend’s diverse food scene, including local eateries, markets, and specialty shops.
Highlights:
Tastings at multiple stops.
Behind-the-scenes insights into local cuisine.
Vegetarian options available.
Website: https://www.bendfoodtours.com
2. Bend Ale Trail
Overview: A self-guided tour of Bend’s world-famous craft breweries, featuring a passport program to earn rewards.
Highlights:
Over 20 participating breweries.
Flexible and customizable routes.
Perfect for beer enthusiasts.
Website: https://www.visitbend.com/bend-ale-trail
3. Bend Brew Bus
Overview: Guided tours of multiple breweries with transportation provided, ensuring a safe and fun beer-tasting experience.
Highlights:
Includes tastings at each stop.
Knowledgeable guides about Bend’s beer culture.
Private tours available.
Website: https://www.bendbrewbus.com
4. Bend Wine Tours
Overview: Personalized wine tours to Central Oregon’s best wineries and tasting rooms.
Highlights:
Knowledgeable guides.
Private and group options.
Wine tastings included.
Website: https://www.bendwinetours.com
5. The Local Pour
Overview: Offers guided tours of Bend’s craft beverage scene, featuring breweries, distilleries, and cideries.
Highlights:
Exclusive access to tasting rooms.
Small group settings.
Focus on locally sourced drinks.
Website: https://www.localpourbend.com
6. Eat Drink Bend
Overview: Curated walking tours featuring Bend’s best restaurants, bars, and cafes.
Highlights:
Includes food and drink pairings.
Seasonal offerings.
Great for foodies.
Website: https://www.eatdrinkbend.com
7. Bend Distillery Tours
Overview: Explore Bend’s distilleries with guided tours offering insights into craft spirit-making.
Highlights:
Tastings of gin, vodka, and whiskey.
Behind-the-scenes tours.
Learn about the craft of distillation.
Website: https://www.benddistillerytours.com
8. Bend Tasting Tours
Overview: Guided tours of breweries, distilleries, and wineries, offering a comprehensive look at Bend’s drink scene.
Highlights:
Tastings included at every stop.
Customizable itineraries.
Perfect for groups.
Website: https://www.bendtastingtours.com
9. Bend Chocolate Tour
Overview: A sweet adventure through Bend’s artisan chocolate scene, with stops at local chocolatiers.
Highlights:
Includes tastings and behind-the-scenes tours.
Focus on high-quality, locally made chocolates.
Website: https://www.bendchocolatetour.com
10. Bend Spirits Tour
Overview: A comprehensive tour of Bend’s craft spirits, featuring tastings at distilleries and cocktail bars.
Highlights:
Exclusive samples of small-batch spirits.
Learn about cocktail crafting.
Small group settings.
Website: https://www.bendspiritstour.com
These outdoor and food & drink tours showcase Bend’s natural beauty and culinary excellence, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor. Be sure to check each provider’s website for updated schedules and availability.
Unique and Specialty Tours in Bend, Oregon
Bend offers a variety of unique tours that go beyond the usual sightseeing and adventure options, catering to those looking for one-of-a-kind experiences. Whether you’re gazing at the stars, capturing stunning landscapes, or rejuvenating your mind and body, these specialty tours provide an unforgettable way to connect with Bend’s beauty and culture.
1. Stargazing Tours
Overview: Experience the magic of Bend’s dark skies with guided stargazing tours led by professional astronomers. Learn about constellations, planets, and celestial phenomena while viewing the stars through high-powered telescopes.
Highlights:
Stargazing locations in remote areas for the clearest views.
Guided talks on astronomy and local folklore.
Perfect for families, couples, and astronomy enthusiasts.
Website: https://www.wanderlusttours.com/stargazing
2. Photography Tours
Overview: Discover the best photo-worthy spots in Central Oregon with guided photography tours. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, these tours focus on improving your skills while showcasing Bend’s breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights:
Visits to iconic spots like Smith Rock, Cascade Lakes, and lava fields.
Instruction on techniques like composition, lighting, and astrophotography.
Private and group options available.
Website: https://www.bendphototours.com
3. Yoga Retreats and Wellness Tours
Overview: Bend is a hub for wellness-focused experiences, offering yoga retreats, guided meditation sessions, and spa day packages designed to help you relax and recharge.
Highlights:
Weekend yoga retreats in scenic locations like the Cascade Mountains.
Wellness tours that combine mindfulness practices with light hiking or paddleboarding.
Spa tours featuring treatments like hot stone massages and facials.
Website: https://www.tulamovementarts.com
4. Wine and Painting Tours
Overview: Blend creativity with relaxation on a wine and painting tour. Guided by local artists, these events allow you to create your own masterpiece while sipping on wine from Bend’s vineyards.
Highlights:
Outdoor or studio settings.
Art supplies and wine tastings included.
No prior painting experience required.
Website: https://www.paintingbend.com
5. Culinary Workshops
Overview: Dive into the art of cooking with hands-on culinary workshops that highlight local ingredients and flavors. Perfect for foodies looking to expand their skills.
Highlights:
Instruction by top local chefs.
Focus on farm-to-table cuisine.
Take-home recipes and tips.
6. Craft Beverage Tours
Overview: Go beyond beer with specialty tours focused on craft cideries, distilleries, and meaderies. Learn about the art of making these unique beverages.
Highlights:
Tastings of cider, spirits, and mead.
Exclusive access to production facilities.
Educational talks by master brewers and distillers.
Website: https://www.bendbeveragetours.com
7. Geology and Volcanic Tours
Overview: Explore Bend’s unique geology with guided tours of lava caves, volcanic landscapes, and ancient rock formations. Learn about the region’s fascinating volcanic history.
Highlights:
Lava tube explorations with all necessary equipment provided.
Visits to landmarks like Lava Butte and Newberry National Volcanic Monument.
Expert geological insights.
Website: https://www.wanderlusttours.com/geology
8. Horseback Riding Tours
Overview: Saddle up and enjoy the beauty of Central Oregon on horseback. Guided tours take you through scenic trails, meadows, and pine forests.
Highlights:
Family-friendly options for all skill levels.
Sunset rides and private bookings available.
Opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Website: https://www.bendhorserides.com
9. Fly Fishing Tours
Overview: Experience some of the best fly fishing in Oregon with guided tours on the Deschutes River and surrounding waterways.
Highlights:
All gear provided, including rods and flies.
Instruction for beginners and advanced anglers.
Opportunities to catch rainbow trout and steelhead.
Website: https://www.bendflyfishing.com
10. Hot Air Balloon Rides
Overview: See Bend from a whole new perspective with a hot air balloon tour, offering panoramic views of the Cascades, high desert, and lush valleys.
Highlights:
Sunrise flights with breathtaking views.
Professional pilots ensure a safe and memorable experience.
Photo opportunities galore.
Website: https://www.bendballoonrides.com
Testimonials from Past Participants
“Unforgettable Family Adventure!”
“Our family joined a guided hike and stargazing tour, and it was the highlight of our trip to Bend. The guide was so knowledgeable and kept everyone engaged, even our kids. Watching the stars from the high desert was magical—an experience we’ll cherish forever!”
“Incredible Brewery Tour”
“The Bend Brew Bus was hands down the best brewery tour we’ve ever done. The guide was fun, the breweries were top-notch, and we didn’t have to worry about driving. It’s a must-do for any beer lover visiting Bend!”
“Thrilling Whitewater Rafting”
“I was nervous about rafting for the first time, but the guides made me feel completely safe and confident. The Deschutes River was stunning, and the rapids were so much fun. This tour turned me into an adventure lover!”
Summer Tours in Bend, Oregon
Bend comes alive in the summer, offering a wide variety of tours that let you soak up the sun and explore the area's natural beauty. From water adventures to scenic hikes and cultural experiences, these summer tours highlight the best of Central Oregon.
1. Paddleboarding and Kayaking Tours
Overview: Glide across the calm waters of the Deschutes River or Cascade Lakes with guided paddleboarding and kayaking tours. These tours are perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
Highlights:
Sunset paddling tours for breathtaking views.
Wildlife spotting along the way.
All equipment provided.
Recommended Operators: Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe, Wanderlust Tours.
2. Whitewater Rafting Adventures
Overview: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Deschutes River. Guides ensure safety while leading you through exciting rapids and serene stretches.
Highlights:
Family-friendly options available.
A mix of thrilling rapids and calm waters.
Opportunities for swimming along the way.
Recommended Operators: Sun Country Tours, Ouzel Outfitters.
3. High Desert Hiking Tours
Overview: Discover Central Oregon’s diverse landscapes with guided hiking tours that showcase stunning views of mountains, rivers, and forests.
Highlights:
Learn about local flora, fauna, and geology.
Routes range from beginner-friendly to challenging treks.
Options include iconic locations like Smith Rock and Tumalo Falls.
Recommended Operators: Wanderlust Tours, Adventure Tours Bend.
4. Bike Tours
Overview: Explore Bend’s scenic trails and pathways on guided bike tours. Choose from mountain biking adventures or leisurely rides around town.
Highlights:
Expert guides tailor routes to your skill level.
Rentals and helmets included.
Options for e-bike tours for a relaxed experience.
Recommended Operators: Cog Wild Bicycle Tours, Bend Electric Bikes.
5. Brewery and Food Cart Tours
Overview: Bend’s vibrant food and drink scene shines in summer. Brewery tours and food cart crawls let you sample the best the city has to offer.
Highlights:
Outdoor patios and scenic stops.
Meet brewers and chefs to learn their craft.
Plenty of local flavors to savor.
Recommended Operators: Bend Brew Bus, The Local Pour.
6. Lava Cave Exploration
Overview: Escape the summer heat and explore the cool lava caves beneath Bend’s surface with a knowledgeable guide.
Highlights:
Learn about the volcanic history of Central Oregon.
Family-friendly and beginner-accessible tours.
Helmets and lights provided for safety.
Recommended Operators: Wanderlust Tours.
7. Photography Tours
Overview: Capture the beauty of summer in Bend with guided photography tours to the most picturesque locations in the region.
Highlights:
Instruction from professional photographers.
Sunset and golden hour tours for stunning shots.
Suitable for all skill levels.
Recommended Operators: Bend Photo Tours.
FAQs About Tours in Bend, Oregon
What is the best time of year for outdoor tours?
Bend offers incredible outdoor tours year-round, but the best time depends on the type of experience you're looking for. Summer and early fall are ideal for hiking, biking, and river tours due to warm weather and clear skies. Winter is perfect for snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobile adventures. Spring provides a mix of activities with fewer crowds and blooming wildflowers.
Are tours family-friendly?
Yes, many tours in Bend cater to families. Options like guided hikes, rafting trips, and stargazing tours are excellent for all ages. Be sure to check with the tour provider to confirm age requirements and suitability for young children.
Can I book last-minute tours in Bend?
While some tours allow same-day or last-minute bookings, it’s best to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or for popular experiences like whitewater rafting and stargazing tours. Contact the tour operator to confirm availability.
What should I bring on a guided hike or river tour?
For hikes, pack sturdy hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing. For river tours, bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes. Most tour operators provide necessary equipment but confirm in advance.
Are there private tour options available in Bend?
Yes, many tour operators offer private experiences, including photography tours, wine tours, and adventure outings. Private tours are a great option for families, groups, or those seeking a more personalized experience.
Can I find tours for beginners in Bend?
Absolutely! Many tours are designed for beginners, including introductory whitewater rafting, easy paddleboarding, and gentle hikes. Tour guides are experienced in accommodating all skill levels to ensure a fun and safe experience.
What’s unique about tours in Bend?
Bend’s tours often integrate its natural beauty with outdoor adventures. Unique offerings like stargazing tours, SUP yoga on the river, and geology-focused excursions highlight the area’s one-of-a-kind attractions.
Are pets allowed on tours in Bend?
Some outdoor tours, such as certain hikes or paddleboarding adventures, may allow pets. Always check with the tour provider in advance to understand their pet policy.