Vacation Blog

April 28, 2022

Horseback Riding Trails and Rodeos in Bend

If you love horses and the great outdoors, then Bend, Oregon is the perfect place for you to go horseback riding! There are plenty of trails to explore and the scenery is simply breathtaking. No, really! Why Bend for Horseback Riding? Bend is considered a destination for vacationers interested in horseback riding because of its vast trail system and incredible scenery. The trails are well-maintained and cater to riders of all levels of experience, from beginner to experienced. Additionally, Bend is home to a number of horseback riding outfitters and guides who can help you plan the perfect trip, whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride through the woods, or an adrenaline-pumping adventure. In addition, Bend – and Central Oregon, for that matter – is heavily steeped in the culture in and around horse riding in virtue of its heritage of ranching and wrangling. With that said, you can be sure to find your fellow cowboys and cowgirls in Central Oregon now and into the foreseeable future. Finally, the weather in Bend is ideal for horseback riding almost year-round. In the summer, the days are warm and dry, while, in the winter, the snow-covered trails make for a beautiful (and sometimes challenging!) ride. Horseback riding in Bend, Oregon could be the escape or new tradition your family has been needing! What to Expect on a Horseback Riding Trip When Visiting Bend When you go horseback riding in Bend, you can expect to be amazed by the scenery around you. The Cascade Range provides a stunning backdrop for rides through the Deschutes National Forest, and you’ll likely see plenty of wildlife along the way. Most horseback riding trips last around two hours, but longer rides are also available. Best Trails for Horseback Riding in Bend, Oregon There are plenty of great trails for horseback riding in Bend, but here are a few of our favorites: Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a beautiful, scenic route that winds through the Cascade Range. It’s perfect for a leisurely ride and offers stunning views of Mount Bachelor, Broken Top, and the Three Sisters. Here is a map to Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway Deschutes River Trail For a longer ride, try the Deschutes River Trail. This trail follows the Deschutes River for 22 miles and offers a variety of scenery, from forests to meadows. Here is the a map to Deschutes River Trail Tumalo Falls Trail If you’re looking for a challenge, try the Tumalo Falls Trail. This trail is steep and rocky in parts, but the views of Tumalo Falls are worth it. Here is a map for the Tumalo Trail System Smith Rock Trail Finally, the Smith Rock Trail is perfect for riders who want to explore Central Oregon’s famous rock climbing area. This trail is further away from Bend than the other trails – found in Terrebonne, Oregon, but it’s not too far, considering it’s a world-renowned state park. This trail takes you through the Crooked River National Grassland and offers incredible views of the Cascades. Here is the map to Smith Rock State Park. Trails Owned and Run By Ranches near Bend Let’s not forget the many ranches near Bend that offer trail rides. These rides are usually shorter and provide an opportunity to learn more about ranch life in Central Oregon. In addition, if you’re traveling with your own horses, this may be the best scenario, as many ranches also provide layover boarding and areas for your horses to move around a bit. Annual Horse Shows near Bend, Oregon If you’re interested in horseback riding and competition, Bend is also home to a number of annual horse shows. Here are a few of the most notable: Oregon High Desert Classics The High Desert Classics is held at the end of July, every year. Over 600 horses and 3000 kids gather at J Bar J Boys Ranch to compete for $150,000 in prizes on six of the last remaining grass footing rings in the United States. Thousands – families, riders, employees, vendors, and spectators – attend the event to enjoy horse and rider athleticism while eating a variety of cuisine and shopping at vendor booths located throughout the show village green. Beer and spirits are also supplied by local vendors Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo The Deschutes County Fair Rodeo is one of the oldest and largest rodeos in Oregon. It’s held every August and features a variety of cowboy-themed events, like bull riding, mutton busting (for the kids), and more. In addition to the rodeo events, local vendors come from all around Oregon (and sometimes further) to offer attendees food, drink, and shopping opportunities. Sisters Rodeo The Sisters Rodeo is held every second weekend in June and is one of the most popular rodeos in Oregon. It features all the classic rodeo events, like bull riding and barrel racing, as well as a number of other activities, like a pancake breakfast, a parade, and live music. We also have Sisters vacation rentals available for those interested in this rodeo. Crooked River Roundup Prineville, the cowboy capital of Oregon, hosts the Crooked River Roundup at the end of June. Thousands of people from all over the US come to little ol’ Prineville to watch or participate in rodeo events, like bull riding, barrel racing, horse racing, and much more! Stay with Meredith While Horseback Riding in Bend, Oregon Whether you’re interested in horseback riding for leisure or competition, Bend is the perfect place for a horseback riding vacation. From scenic trails to annual rodeos, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Bend. So, pack your saddle and head on out to Central Oregon for a horseback riding adventure you’ll never forget. And, when you’re based at a Meredith Lodging vacation home, you’ll have the perfect home base for all your Bend adventures – to which you can come back every year. Meredith Lodging offers a variety of vacation homes in Bend, Oregon, ranging from

April 27, 2022

Neskowin

Top Summer Activities to Enjoy While Staying in Neskowin

Neskowin is a beloved little beach town nestled in between Lincoln City and Pacific City, known for its long, walkable beach, breathtaking views, and relaxed vibe. Teaming with charm (throughout the village are handmade, painted signs reminding all visitors of the 5MPH speed limit), Neskowin offers great dining, a seasonal farmer’s market, and a real chance to feel away from it all. Are you ready to book a memorable summer getaway in this charming coastal town? Let us help you! We have a lovely selection of Neskowin vacation rentals to choose from. Once you have booked the perfect home that suits all your needs, take a look at our list of top summer activities to enjoy while staying in Neskowin: Nothing Screams Summer like Ice Cream from the Village Scoop Stop by the Village Scoop for a delicious scoop … or three … of Tillamook ice cream served in a homemade waffle cone. If your pup is along, they have treats for them, too! Open seasonally, please check for hours. Shop and Support Local Farmers at the Neskowin Farmer’s Market Enjoy a stroll through the stalls at Neskowin Farmers Market. Local artisans and vendors sell everything from fresh produce, local eggs and cheese, pastured meats, artisan bread and pastries, to original crafts, jewelry, and art. The market is open May 21 through October, on Saturdays 9 to 1. Try Beachfront Horseback Rides at Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides Just a few minutes up the road in Pacific City, Green Acres offers experienced horses for riders of all skill levels. Enjoy a picturesque one-hour ride that leads you onto the beach, into Bob Straub Park, up to the sand dunes, and ends back down at the ocean’s edge. You can also take a ride on a real-life camel! Come meet resident camels, Frank, and Calvin, at the Green Acres Coral. Go Fly a Kite at the Summer Kite Festival The Oregon Coast is the perfect place to fly a kite with its long and wide beaches, and steady ocean breeze. In fact, nearby Lincoln City hosts an annual summer kite festival, June 25-26 – a perfect opportunity to marvel at a kaleidoscope of color looping and darting through the coastal sky. Stop by Winddriven Kites & Toys to pick up a kite. Head to the beach, and let it soar! Hit the Trail at Winema Beach Get outside and explore the stunning scenery of the Oregon Coast. Winema Beach is a 1.9-mile loop that is good for all skill levels and offers fantastic views. Another popular trail is Proposal Rock – a 4.7-mile loop, good for all skill levels. This trail is known more as a beach walk, but is a lovely way to start the day, or end the day watching the sunset. Leashed dogs are allowed. Ready to explore the charming beach town of Neskowin? We are here to help! You can view our Neskowin vacation rentals collection online, or call our Reservations Team at 877.778.9055 to book your summer stay. We hope to see you soon! In the meantime, follow us on Social and post those vacay pics with the tag #STAYWITHMEREDITH.

April 27, 2022

Bend

Top Attractions and Activities Near Bend

Bend is one of Oregon’s most-loved vacation spots, and with nearly 300 days of sunshine per year, and endless attractions for the whole family, it is easy to see why! Nestled into the foothills of the majestic Cascades, along the Deschutes River, Bend beckons visitors all year long with its high desert beauty, laid-back charm, world-class winter sports, amazing shops and restaurants, and a wide selection of year-long outdoor activities to suit all ages and skill levels. Meredith Lodging has an extensive selection of Bend vacation rentals and Central Oregon vacation rentals. Ready to plan your next getaway? Check out our Top 5 Attractions in Bend to make your planning even easier: Play Up on the Mountain at Mt. Bachelor Ski and Recreation Area Mt Bachelor has something for everyone from world-class skiing to snowboarding, snow tubing, snow shoeing, and even dog sledding! The mountain also offers outstanding seasonal recreational opportunities, including scenic chair lift rides, hiking and mountain biking trails, and zip line rides. Sip, shop, and stroll the Old Mill District The Old Mill District is a mixed-use development based around the former spot of an old Bend sawmill. Locals and visitors alike love strolling through the Old Mill where you can drink and dine with a view of the Deschutes, shop at a variety of retail stores, enjoy live music at Hayden Homes Amphitheater, and explore the urban trails system that passes through the district. Explore the High Desert Museum Visit the High Desert Museum, located just outside of Bend. Kids of all ages can learn about the animals, geography, and culture of the high desert through interactive and engaging exhibits. Highlights include live animal exhibits, interacting with living history characters at the Miller Ranch, and visiting the 1904 sawmill where you can see how the early pioneers lived. Discover Tumalo Falls A hike to Tumalo Falls is a must when visiting Central Oregon. It’s one of Central Oregon’s best hikes! The Falls are easy to reach from town, and reward hikers with a view of stunning waterfalls. This 6.8-mile loop is rated moderate and provides picturesque views at every turn. Leashed pups can join in on the fun too! View the Lava Lands and Newberry National Volcanic Monument A visit to Newberry National Volcanic National Monument provides visitors with a unique chance to explore waterfalls, peaks, lakes, lava flows, and over 110 miles of trails. The scenery is truly unforgettable and will provide you with breathtaking views. Now is a wonderful time to plan your next vacation getaway to Bend! You can view our complete collection of Bend vacation rentals, Central Oregon vacation rentals, and Mt Bachelor Village vacation rentals online, or call our Reservations Team at 877.778.9055 to book your stay. We hope to see you soon! In the meantime, follow us on social and tag those vacay posts #STAYWITHMEREDITH.

April 27, 2022

Lincoln City

Top 3 Restaurants Near Olivia Beach

Olivia Beach is a popular and beloved oceanfront community known for its charming Nantucket style cottages and scenic ocean views. Guests of Meredith Lodging can enjoy access to exclusive amenities – a community park, fitness center, and seasonal pool. Many of our custom-built homes include chef’s kitchens, soaker-style tubs, private hot tubs, and front porches – perfect for a morning brew with a view! After checking-in and exploring your beautiful home away from home, head for a bite and beverage at some of our favorite dinner spots near our Olivia Beach vacation rentals: Dine with an Ocean View at Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill Visitors and locals love Kyllo’s Seafood & Grill. There is something for everyone on their menu – burgers, tacos, pasta, seafood, steak, wood fired pizza, and decadent desserts! We love their blackened wild king salmon kale salad and crispy maple miso brussels sprouts. Have dinner plans back at your cozy rental? Stop by the bar for their popular happy hour where you can enjoy a delicious craft cocktail as you watch the sunset. Great Mexican Food a Short Stroll Away at La Roca La Roca offers classic comfort Mexican dishes like carne asada tacos, smothered burritos, and sizzling fajitas in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Savor Oceanfront Dining at Fathoms Restaurant & Bar Perched above the Pacific at the Inn at Spanish Head, Fathoms Restaurant & Bar pairs sweeping ocean views with fresh Pacific Northwest flavors. Indulge in locally sourced seafood favorites like Dungeness crab cakes, perfectly prepared salmon, and creamy clam chowder alongside handcrafted cocktails and regional wines. Floor-to-ceiling windows create the perfect backdrop for a memorable brunch, sunset dinner, or relaxed evening overlooking the Oregon Coast. Ready to plan a memorable getaway to Olivia Beach? You can view our entire Olivia Beach Collection online or call our Reservations Team at 1-541-418-4555. We hope to see you soon! In the meantime, follow us on social and tag those vacay posts #STAYWITHMEREDITH.

April 26, 2022