It’s no secret we adore Bend, Oregon. This region of Central Oregon is the ultimate nature-lover’s playground, and also an oasis for Oregon onephiles and brewmasters. But Bend isn’t just for the 21-and-up crowd and elite athletes; its Old Mill District really is the ultimate family-friendly destination. With parks and playgrounds, trails and canoeing, restaurants and shops (and more!), this Oregon oasis on the banks of the mighty Deschutes really does have it all.
Bend, Oregon, is one of those towns that seems too perfect and beautiful to be real. But luckily for us, Bend truly is the real deal.
Old Mill District/Facebook
The center of this charming city is the Old Mill District, which is acclaimed for its outdoor recreation, vibrant dining scene, and dog-friendly spots. But the park’s best and most underrated feature is easily how family-friendly it is.
Old Mill District/Facebook
Located along the dramatic Deschutes, Riverbend Park provides year-round river access, open lawn for community activities and recreation, and miles of scenic paved and unpaved paths rife with wildlife and wondrous scenery.
Old Mill District/Facebook
In Bend’s Old Mill District, parents will be pleased to learn that many bike trails are kid-friendly…
Old Mill District/Facebook
…as are the kayaking adventures! Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe is a favorite adventure outfitter offering all sorts of family-friendly excursions along the Deschutes.
Old Mill District/Facebook
Kid-friendly adventures abound in town, too, with the Old Mill District home to its own cinema, toy store, and children’s art studio.
Wild Child Bend/Facebook Wild Child, 680 SW Powerhouse Dr #1003, Bend, OR 97702, USA
When the crew gets hungry, Flatbread Neapolitan Pizzeria is a family-friendly favorite in Bend known for its killer pies. Pizza is every kid’s favorite food group, after all.
Old Mill District/Facebook Flatbread Neapolitan Pizzeria, 375 SW Powerhouse Dr #130, Bend, OR 97702, USA
Pastini is another family favorite… because really, what kid doesn’t love spaghetti? (Or, you know, psketti.)
Pastini/Facebook 375 SW Powerhouse Dr #3436, Bend, OR 97702, USA
And for the literal cherry on top of your day at the Old Mill District, order a round of ice cream cones from Ben and Jerry’s!
Old Mill District/Facebook
So the next time you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly day trip in Oregon, Bend’s Old Mill District is the ultimate destination… for kids and grown-ups alike.
Old Mill District/Facebook
When was the last time you visited this lovely locale in Oregon… with your crew? Bend, Oregon, really is the ultimate family-friendly destination in the Beaver State.
Old Mill District/Facebook
Wild Child Bend/Facebook
Wild Child, 680 SW Powerhouse Dr #1003, Bend, OR 97702, USA
Flatbread Neapolitan Pizzeria, 375 SW Powerhouse Dr #130, Bend, OR 97702, USA
Pastini/Facebook
375 SW Powerhouse Dr #3436, Bend, OR 97702, USA
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Address: Old Mill District, 450 SW Powerhouse Dr, Bend, OR 97702, USA
