Arts, Culture and History Highlights of Bend

Anyone in the know knows that Bend, Oregon has become quite the happening town. Sure, their proliferation of outdoor activities first come to mind, however, informed travelers also know that the art scene in this increasingly attractive Pacific Northwest destination is going off. From museums and galleries, to concerts and theater, to murals, art walks and all kinds of other culturally-driven events and programs, Bend has much to offer all year long.

Learning about the early days in Bend, formerly called Farewell Bend, is a good place to start. The High Desert Museum combines culture, history and nature beautifully in an indoor/outdoor showplace that both children and adults enjoy. Find out about the Native American roots of Bend, its stories throughout the ages and the amazing array of wildlife that lives in the region. A visit here is sure to make you fall more in love with Bend, its way of life and traditions as well as its inhabitants, from both the human and animal worlds.

If you’re a real history buff, consider checking out the exhibits at the Deschutes Historical Museum as well.

As an old mill town that provided power to its residents from the might of the Deschutes River during the first part of the the twentieth century (and actually still does to some 200 households today), Bend is punctuated by many historical buildings, some listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Immerse yourself in this historic charm at the Old Mill District, an area along the Deschutes River once occupied by two lumber mills. After renovation of its historic buildings and careful development in the 1990s, the Old Mill District became one of the most popular attractions in Bend. Go there to shop, dine, stroll about and/or catch a performance at Les Schwab Amphitheater, an outdoor venue along the waterfront. Here’s something way cool and typically Oregonian:part of the restoration of the riverbanks area here gave way to a 12-station fly fishing course, the only one of its kind in the U.S. Note that in Oregon, fly fishing is more than a sport, it’s a way of life.

McMenamins Old St. Francis School also ranks as a unique and historic gathering place in Bend. Built on the grounds of a former Catholic school, these old buildings have been transformed into a hip hotel, restaurant and four bars. There’s even a brewery (but of course!) and a movie theater. This place–or rather these places–just ooze with ambiance, so try to check them out.

Pine Tavern, a beloved Bend restaurant established by two enterprising gals during the Depression, is also a must. How many places can boast a huge Ponderosa pine tree growing in the center of the dining room? Just one more reminder–in case you didn’t know or notice–that the forests surrounding Bend are all about the pines. Big ones at that! Pine Tavern’s sweeping patio on Mirror Pond helps you to notice this as well. For more intimacy, ask for one of their curtained booths. Oo là là.

For gallery going, know that you will find many along Wall Street, in the Old Mill District and in other locales around town. Pick up a Bend Gallery Guide from one of them or check out the Bend Gallery Guide website.

Combine history, culture and the arts at the Tower Theater. Opened in 1940, this historic property has stood out for decades not only for its iconic, forty-foot-tall, neon-lit sign but also for the top performances and movies that have been featured at this legendary venue. It took some doing, yet in 2004 the Tower Theater reopened its doors all beautifully restored. Today they showcase all kinds of acts, presentations, films and events. Try to take in a show here–or some other fun cultural happening–while in Bend.