Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Sunriver

"Whether it is out on the water, sitting down for a cup of coffee, strolling along the paths at Drake Park, spending time viewing a small indie film in a boutique theater or savoring the delicious fare at the many locally owned, family run restaurants, some of which have been recognized by the James Beard association, there are many simple, beautiful and memorable ways to spend your time in my new hometown. And I am more than happy to share what I’ve discovered."

"Home to the famous Mirror Pond, Drake Park is likely one of Bend’s most popular parks for visitors and locals alike. They host several events throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule to see what will be around during your visit."

"A post shared by Christopher Gagne (@csgagne) on May 17, 2019 at 8:32pm PDT. The timings of Shevlin Park are from sunrise to sunset and this park is a place where one can find a number of hikers and trekkers on any given day. The area of the park is almost 1000 acres (404.7 hectares)."

"One of Bend’s oldest parks, Shevlin Park, was donated to the community in 1920. It is the perfect location for hiking, jogging, nature watching, fishing, and picnicking with the family. Let your little ones explore a slice of nature, walking along the creek on a warm summer day."

"While “beautiful” is certainly an adjective that describes Riverbend Park, it’s actually not the first one that comes to mind for me. “Convenient,” is how I’d describe this sprawling expanse of riverfront property along the Deschutes River Trail. The sandy beach in the middle of it is the most common spot for river floaters, kayakers, and SUPers to put in during the warm months. From there, you can paddle upstream toward Farewell Bend Park (which has a terrific playground), or drift downstream toward the amazing Bend Whitewater Park."

"If you are looking to rent a paddle board, you can pick one up at a handful of different locations, often right at the river: Tumalo Creek Paddle & Canoe, Parks & Rec rents at RiverBend Park and many more locations as well (click here for the entire list). And don’t forget to visit the high lakes with your board. Below is an image on the day of the Total Solar Eclipse on Hosmer Lake."

"Located on the Potomac River, Riverbend Park is also a popular spot among locals for hiking and trekking purposes. It has beautiful landscapes and a wide selection of flora and fauna. It provides solitude for hikers and trekkers who seek it."

"The Farewell Bend Park also serves as a boat launch area to access the Deschutes River for your float experience. However, there is a playground in the center of the park which features a lumber mill theme, sure to be a favorite of kids of all ages. The Deschutes River Trail runs along the park and is a favorite place for runners and perfect for a walk with your family."

"Farewell Bend Park is one of the most popular spots for hiking and trekking. It has a 3620 ft (1103.4 m) elevation. It is also a place where families like to plan a picnic to spend time with their loved ones surrounded by a scenic landscape."

"One of Bend’s newest parks, Riley Ranch Nature Reserve is the site of the oldest homestead in Bend’s city limits. Ovid B. Riley and his family farmed and raised cattle, building a number of cabins and outbuildings. Not only can you still see remnants of those buildings, but also a prehistoric rock shelter once occupied by natives of the area."

"A post shared by Stu Curtis (@sand_to_snow) on Oct 5, 2019 at 8:58pm PDT. Riley Ranch Nature Reserve is the last mention on our list and stretches 6.5 mi (10.5 km). The terrain is mostly mountainous and is a worthwhile experience."

"Once upon a time, Hollinshead Park in northeast Bend was a working ranch with horses and orchards, barns and outbuildings. Some of those buildings still stand today, including Hollinshead Barn (a popular site for events and weddings) and the caretaker’s cottage, which Bend Park and Rec opens up once a year for tours. Stroll the grounds on your own to check out some of the remaining structures like the restored outhouse and items from Dean Hollinshead’s family freight line business from the early1900s."

"The Deschutes National Forest is a United States National Forest located in parts of Deschutes, Klamath, Lake, and Jefferson counties in central Oregon. It comprises 1.8 million acres along the east side of the Cascade Range. In 1908, the Deschutes National Forest was established from parts of the Blue Mountains, Cascade, and Fremont National Forests."

"Whether grabbing a hearty, delicious sandwich on your lunch break or ordering a catering tray for your next party, Togo’s makes great food. Not in the mood for a sandwich?. Try one of their wraps or salads for a breadless alternative."

"One of Bend’s newest parks, Riley Ranch Nature Reserve is the site of the oldest homestead in Bend’s city limits. Ovid B. Riley and his family farmed and raised cattle, building a number of cabins and outbuildings. Not only can you still see remnants of those buildings, but also a prehistoric rock shelter once occupied by natives of the area."

"A post shared by Stu Curtis (@sand_to_snow) on Oct 5, 2019 at 8:58pm PDT. Riley Ranch Nature Reserve is the last mention on our list and stretches 6.5 mi (10.5 km). The terrain is mostly mountainous and is a worthwhile experience."

"This excellent museum, about 3 miles south of Bend, charts the exploration and settlement of the West, using reenactments of a Native American camp, a hard-rock mine and an old Western town. The region's natural history is also explored; kids love the live snake, tortoise and trout exhibits, and watching the birds of prey and otters is always fun. Guided walks and other programs are well worth attending – don't miss the raptor presentation."

"If the weather isn't ideal (it happens – it was cloudy, rainy, and cool the whole time I was in Bend in June!), downtown Bend has tons of cute shops to explore, and there's also the High Desert Museum you could visit. Sunset at Pilot Butte"