Oregon Getaways for the Weekend
A perk of living in Bend is its easy access to a gamut of getaway locations that range from Portland and its quirky atmosphere to Ashland and its oenophilic culture. And while Bend may be a vacation hot spot itself, every person needs a change of pace, no matter how in love they are with their Central Oregon home. Using the guide below, find your next weekend getaway within the comfortable confines of Oregon.
Ashland
World-famous for the annual Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF), Ashland has grown from a sleepy community in the Rogue Valley to a flourishing city drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. If you make the trip between the months of March and October, be sure to attend a production at one of the repertory theaters and grab a quick bite to eat at one of their premiere restaurants like Larks or Mezcal. If you have time to spare, also try and stop by one of the wineries tucked away in the hills around the city.
In Sisters, you’ll feel like you entered a time capsule from the 1800s. With Wild West facades stretching throughout the main part of town, you’ll truly feel like a cowboy throughout your visit. With access to renowned outdoor destinations like Black Butte, Tam McArthur Rim and Suttle Lake, there’s an endless number of ways to fill your day with fun. When coming back from a hike, make sure to stop by the famous Sno Cap Drive In for a juicy double cheeseburger and delicious Oregon huckleberry milkshake.
Hood River
Sometimes regarded as the wind surfing capital of the West, Hood River has transformed into one of Oregon’s premiere destinations in the past decade. Countless restaurants and boutiques fill the streets in downtown Hood River, all overlooking the beautiful Columbia River below. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend apple picking or adrenaline-flooded weekend of windsurfing or paddle boarding on the river, Hood River caters to anyone looking to escape the monotony of their everyday routine.