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The Old Mill District: What to Know Before You Go

Sunset Over the River, Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon

Get to Know The Old Mill District

In Bend, Oregon, the Old Mill District is widely considered Central Oregon’s hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. This bustling commercial zone is known for its numerous shops and eateries and boasts an eclectic assortment of attractions, including breweries, art galleries, and concert venues – and it’s walking distance from Downtown Bend. Over the years, visitors and locals alike have enjoyed spending time in this enclave of commerce in an otherwise rural mountain region to find things to do when they aren’t hiking an alpine trail or floating down the delightful Deschutes River. Meredith Lodging, the area’s premium vacation rental management service, boasts a dazzling collection of rentals in both Sunriver and Bend within minutes of the Old Mill District. As such, we have composed a quick guide to how to spend your time in one of the beloved city’s most prominent places to visit.

Oregon Vacation Spots | Spending Time in the Old Mill District

As one of the Beaver State’s premier vacation spots, Bend, Oregon, is more than an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. Whether you are ready to get out of the backcountry or simply yearn for busy streets and things to do besides hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing, the Old Mill District will be waiting for you. Let’s delve into one of the area’s most popular hangouts!

Breweries, Restaurants, and Entertainment

The Old Mill District provides several options beyond its renowned retail offerings. For many, a trip to Central Oregon means exploring each nook, including what is in town. This thriving sphere of business has come a long way from the days of sawmills and loggers, but one thing is for sure, you will find plenty of things to do!

Breweries in the Old Mill District

One of the first things that come to mind when thinking about Bend is beer. And for good reason too – Bend is home to some of the best craft breweries in Oregon! In the Old Mill District, there are several fantastic options to choose from: The Tasting Room at Deschutes Brewery, Monkless Belgian Ales, Immersion Brewing, and Crux Fermentation Project. You can enjoy the shopping, trail, or live music of the Old Mill District and then go to the brewery or breweries of your choice! It’s certainly a tough question for a lot of folk!

Deschutes Brewery

Try Out Bend Ale Trail and Cycle Pub

For anyone who considers themselves a beer connoisseur, the Bend Ale Trail is a great place to sample some of the Pacific Northwest’s finest lagers, porters, and IPAs. And if you want to burn calories while you drink, Cycle Pub has a must-try experience that combines biking and beer.

Meanwhile, there are several restaurants such as Anthony’s for fine fresh seafood, Hola! for authentic Mexican-Peruvian cuisine, and Pastini for those craving carbs after a day of adventure.

Hayden Homes Amphitheater

Hayden Homes Amphitheater in the Old Mill District

After staving off your appetite, you may wish to consider heading over to the Hayden Homes Amphitheater for some live music. For those wanting a more tranquil or laid-back entertainment experience, there are three noteworthy art galleries; Lubbesmeyer Studio & Gallery, Tumalo Art Company, and Amejko Artistry to browse and peruse. And the Roundabout Art Route is a stunning complement to the local art scene that offers an inspiring way to discover Bend’s public art compendium.

Yoga, Spas, & Wellness Centers

Finally, if spas and fitness are your cups of tea, you will be delighted to find an impressive array of wellness centers, yoga studios, and gyms to get your blood flowing and realign your energy. Namaste.

Central Oregon Vacation Rentals in Bend and Sunriver

The Old Mill District presents an excellent option for shopping, eating, and everything in between. And while finding things to do in Bend, Oregon, is rarely a challenging prospect, it never hurts to add a few more. As you plan your next getaway, be sure to check out our sizable batch of Oregon vacation rentals that are sure to please. For more information or to check availability, please visit us online or call 877-778-9055 today!

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Top Places to Visit on Wall Street in Downtown Bend, Oregon

Wall Street, Bend, Oregon

Top Places to Visit on Wall Street in Downtown Bend, Oregon

Did you know that Bend is not only an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, but also boasts some amazing restaurants and shopping? Booking a Meredith Lodging Bend vacation rental will provide you with the perfect base to explore everything this beloved vacation destination has to offer. Ready to plan a Central Oregon getaway weekend? We have put together a few of our favorite stops for a relaxing afternoon strolling Wall Street:

Sip and Shop by Stopping By The Pantry

Before starting your shopping stroll, check-out the Pantry, Bend’s new mercantile-meets-coffee-shop! Offering coffee, classic espresso drinks, and specialties like Mint Cold Brew – Farmers Union Cultivator Blend cold brew with fresh mint. Try it straight up on ice, or sweet and creamy. Wall Street is about a 15-minute walk away, and provides you with stunning views of Drake Park. Prefer a shorter walk? Grab a coffee at Dudley’s Bookshop Café, conveniently located just a block off of Wall Street.

Discover your next favorite store for gifts and home décor at Lark Mountain Modern

Inspired by the stunning mountain scenery of Central Oregon? Lark Mountain Modern is the place to go to take a piece of Bend home with you. They carry wood wall signs, candles, decorative accents, kitchen and service ware, print images, and thoughtfully curated furniture.

Find fun Bend-inspired fashion at Jack and Millie and Hot Box Betty

Jack and Millie and Hot Box Betty offer carefully curated clothing, accessories, and home furnishings.

Shop for “me-time” gifts – for you or someone you love at Found

Looking for a gift for that someone special? Found is the place to find handmade jewelry, organic self-care products, and beautiful eco home goods.

Fuel-up at Drake, a Local Favorite

Getting hungry? Head to Drake for some late afternoon snacks or an early dinner. Locals and visitors flock to this classic neighborhood restaurant serving classic comfort food with a twist. We love the crispy Brussels sprouts, buttermilk fried chicken with hot honey and whiskey pickles, and the popular Drake burger.

Raise a glass to your successful day at The Good Drop Wine Shop

Ready to head back and relax at your cozy Meredith Lodging Bend vacation rental? Stop by The Good Drop Wine Shop on Minnesota Street, and peruse their large selection of wine from all over the world, as well as Napa Valley, Walla Walla, and the Pacific Northwest. Pick out the perfect wine to toast to another amazing day in Bend. Cheers!

Need more ideas for your trip? Learn more things to do in Bend from our Bend Area Guide!

Ready to enjoy a weekend of shopping, sipping and strolling down Wall Street in Downtown Bend?

Meredith Lodging has the perfect Bend vacation rental for you … from cozy cabins to large luxury homes! Take a look at our amazing selection of Bend vacation rentals.

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Mt. Bachelor Winter Fun – Snowboarding & Skiing in Oregon

Mt-Bachelor-Skiing-and-Snowboarding

Mt. Bachelor Winter Fun | Snowboarding & Skiing in Oregon

This winter, you and yours can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life by journeying to Central Oregon. Our welcoming community is home to a variety of wonderful seasonal activities, from hiking to shopping. The surrounding area is absolutely stunning and draws crowds of locals and tourists alike year after year. During the colder months, folks flock to the area’s ski resorts and trails for some good old fun in the snow! One of the best places in Oregon for winter fun is Mt. Bachelor, a renowned ski and snowboard resort.

When you visit, stay with Meredith Lodging, the premier vacation home company in Central Oregon and along the Oregon Coast. We offer a vast array of private vacation accommodations throughout Oregon’s most beloved communities and resorts. Our knowledgeable staff is standing by to help you find the most fitting vacation rental and plan a great trip! Keep reading to learn more about snowboarding and skiing in Oregon.

Chill Out and Enjoy Oregon’s Winter Fun

Each year, the Mt. Bachelor Ski Area winter opening day relies on the projected temperatures and snowfall of the winter months. You can follow their mountain report for more updated information before planning your visit. They are one of the country’s top winter fun-derlands; however, they offer year-round activities as well. For now, let’s focus on their winter season.

Come prepared for a good time! Make sure you and yours are bundled up in snowsuits, hats, gloves, and other winter gear. Folks are encouraged to bring their own snowboarding and skiing equipment, but Mt. Bachelor also has rentals available at the Gravity Sports Pro Shop. You can find all that you need for purchase before hitting the slopes!

As you get ready to take the lift, keep track of the lift and trail status, which is updated regularly. Your safety is of the utmost importance! That being said, if you are a newbie to snowboarding or skiing, please consider paying for lessons from talented instructors at the resort. Winter fun on the mountain is elevated when you follow good slope practices. Now, you are set for a fantastic day filled with epic jumps, turns, and declines!

Plan the Perfect Oregon Winter Getaway

Use our Bend Area Guide to get more ideas about things to do in Bend, all year around. After a day of winter fun at the Mt. Bachelor Ski Area, you can recharge at your Meredith Lodging vacation dwellings. From comfortable cabins to Fido-approved pet-friendly homes, there is something for everyone in our vacation inventory. Contact us by calling 877-778-9055 and book your winter stay today!

Celebrate the Holidays in Three Rivers, Bend, Sunriver or Sisters – and Stay with Meredith Lodging!

Sunriver Village Christmas

Considering booking a stay in Central Oregon for the upcoming holidays?

Meredith Lodging has an impressive array of vacation rentals in Sunriver, Bend, Sisters and Three Rivers to suit all your needs. From cozy cabins to luxury homes sleeping up to 14 guests, there is a Meredith Lodging Central Oregon vacation rental that will be perfect for your vacation. We would love to be your home base as you and your family celebrate beloved traditions and create some new magical memories this holiday season.

Once you arrive in Central Oregon, there are so many activities that will help you get in to the holiday spirit!


  • Start your holiday shopping early at Redmond’s own First Friday, November 5th from 4pm-7pm. There will be art on display, live music, and local artisans showing off their creations downtown on 5th, 6th & 7th Streets.

  • The 45th Annual Snowflake Boutique takes place at the Deschutes County Expo Center. Christmas decorations, home décor, sports team items, jewelry, metalworking and woodworking items, pets and wildlife gifts, western items, children’s items, clothing, and accessories will all be on display. Come stop by November 5th from 1pm-8pm and November 6th from 9am-5pm.

  • Deschutes County Old Fashioned Christmas. Explore a nostalgic holiday celebration complete with a variety of arts and crafts, antiques, food, activities and, of course, Santa! The event takes place November 13th from 9am-3pm and 10am-5p.m. on November 14th at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds. Admission is $5 with a canned food item.

  • Shop for gourmet food, arts, crafts, jewelry, clothing, woodcraft, music, photography, toys, Christmas décor and more at the 22nd annual Holiday Food & Gift Festival. There is also a large gourmet food area where you can sample and purchase a wide range of food items including tea, chocolates, pasta, soups, dips, meats, coffee, jams, shortbread, salsas, oils & vinegars, honey, sauces, and many more culinary delights. The event is held November 19th – 21st at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds.

  • Don’t miss this new, 1st time Holiday Light Experience at the Expo Center. Take an exciting walk-thru 100,000 sq ft with more than 3 million dazzling lights! You will pass through different light displays and end at Santa’s village. Go online to purchase tickets. This light-tastic event runs from November 19th – Dec. 31st.

  • The Visions of Sugar Plums Food/Bake Sale Extravaganza sponsored by Sunriver Christian Fellowship will be held in the beautiful Great Hall at Sunriver Resort. There will be every kind of baked good imaginable, including gluten free options, as well as amazing gifts for your holiday entertaining. There will also be a children’s activity table to keep little ones entertained while adults are shopping. This annual event is free, November 20th from 10am-3pm.

  • Be a part of the family fun on the canyon trail in Redmond this Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 25th! Fun is always encouraged for this great 5k or 10k tradition, plus a 1k for kids! Wear your best Thanksgiving costume for a chance to win a large pumpkin pie! The costume committee will be on the lookout for the most festive and creative costume and will be handing out pumpkin pies to multiple winners. Both runners and walkers are welcome! Start and finish will be at Sam Johnson Park and the trail is a combination of grass, pavement, and dirt. Check out the website for registration info.

  • Kick off the holiday season with the Tree Lighting ceremony in Sisters. This annual event takes place at Fir Street Park on November 26th from 5:30pm-6pm. You can also ring in the holidays with Sisters traditional downtown parade featuring the big guy himself, Santa! The parade takes place on Hood Avenue on November 27th from 2pm-3pm.

  • SunLife Farm and Ranch will host the very first official Bootah’s Pacific North Pole Claus Festival, a Central Oregon winter festival celebrating farming and the Christmas holidays, over three weekends beginning November 27th. The central gathering location of this premiere outdoor event is a two plus acre pine grove on the farm, transformed into a holiday village for attendees. The village experience brings artisan and farming vendors, entertainment, family fun activities and food. Expanding out into the surrounding 160 acres, attendees can enjoy treks up the Wonderland Trail to the Pacific North Pole.

  • Bend’s most beloved event is back! Head downtown to watch the annual Christmas parade. This year’s theme is “Christmas: Better Together,” because Christmas is ALWAYS better when shared with friends and family! The parade will take place at 12pm on December 4th.

  • Ready to say goodbye to 2021 in a unique and memorable way? Ring in the New Year with Wanderlust Tours’ Bonfire on the Snow, at midnight, under the light of the night sky’s twinkling stars. Cruising on snowshoes, your destination is a hand-carved amphitheater in the snow where a crackling bonfire awaits. The dreamy new year’s tour takes place December 31st from 9pm-1:30am.

Ready to book your Central Oregon vacation rental?

Find your perfect family holiday escape with Meredith Lodging! You can view our complete collection 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 post those vacay pics with #STAYWITHMEREDITH.



Check out our Bend Area Guide to learn more about the area.

Sleigh Rides in Central Oregon

Have you ever visited Central Oregon? Yes, they do have an amazing backdrop, lakes, hiking, warm and amazing weather all summer, but, here are two fun winter activities that may make you just have to take another vacation!

1) The Sunriver Resort Sleigh Ride (more information) 

Cozy up under warm blankets and take a horse-drawn sleigh ride along the Deschutes River. Weather permitting, sleigh rides are daily through Jan. 3.

2) Old Mill District Horse Drawn Carriage (more information)

The Old Mill District in Bend is already festive, and, now they added a horses and a carriage! And they are FREE! The carriage rides are offered between 1-4 p.m. on weekends through December.

Check out all of vacation properties in and around Sunriver, Oregon!

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