Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s high desert, Bend is a vibrant and dynamic city surrounded by snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and winding rivers. With endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and fishing, Bend is an adventurer’s paradise.
We're going a bit out on a limb here at That Oregon Life. This story began as a sort of "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives" compilation, but after a giant list of my own and a slew of recommendations from friends all over the state, we realized that wasn't going to work....
There’s a moment when you reach the top of the staircase at Lava River Cave and feel the air rising from below. It’s cold, steady, and carries that faint mineral scent that tells you this isn’t just another Oregon hike. It feels like standing at the edge of something...
Every town has a legend. Some have haunted bridges. Others have mysterious lights in the woods. Bend, naturally, has a rock in a parking lot that eats cars for sport. Locals call him B.O.B.Short for Big Obvious Boulder (and yes, the irony is part of the experience)....
Fall in Oregon isn’t just about pulling on a hoodie and grabbing a pumpkin spice latte. It’s about chasing crisp mornings, soaking in fiery sunsets, and making memories that stick with you long after the leaves are gone. If you want the ultimate place to dive...
Rancher Butcher Chef, also known as RBC, brings a refined edge to Bend’s Northwest Crossing neighborhood with a menu that’s rooted in sustainability and a deep respect for the land. This modern steakhouse brings a serious dedication to quality, hospitality, and...
Bend is getting its first-ever Burgerville, and the grand opening is set for Monday, June 23, 2025. Doors open at 7 AM, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 AM, but the real buzz is about all the free food they're giving away to the first 100 customers. Free Burgers...
Grace and Hammer is not your average pizzeria. It’s a sacred union of divine wood-fired pizza and history, wrapped up in a vibe that’s as charming as Redmond, Oregon itself. I had the absolute pleasure of visiting this spot one chilly January evening, and let me tell...
Flavorful food, huge portions, and friendly service, all at a good price. You can't ask for a better taco shop than Axel's! Axel's Taco Shop in Bend brings bold, authentic Mexican flavors to the table with a fast-casual twist. This little mom and pop spot has become a...
Ken's Artisan Pizza, a celebrated pizzeria from Portland, is expanding to Bend this November. The new spot will be located in the historic Downing Hotel building at 1033 NW Bond Street. Owner Peter Kost expressed his excitement about the new venture, stating, "We are...
If you're on the hunt for a super chill bakery experience in Bend, then be sure to check out The Sparrow Bakery Northwest Café And Bread Shop. This spot has become a local favorite, and it’s easy to see why. With melt-in-your-mouth hand made croissants and a wide...
Summer concert season is here, and there are some amazing artists headed to Oregon for July! We got to see Third Eye Blind rock it live last month in Bend and it was a blast. Now we're looking for more epic concerts to attend before the summer's end, and discovered...
Have you made plans yet for Independence Day 2024? I'm not the best at making plans ahead of time for the holidays, so seeing a list of local events I can attend with my family and friends is always helpful for me. If you're like me and are looking for something fun...