Bend Tours: Sightseeing in Central Oregon’s Best City

The city of Bend has a growing reputation as an outdoor mecca for adventure. Distinct seasons and diverse natural attractions welcome visitors to explore in new ways. To get started, check out these Bend tours and plan a day of sightseeing.

Best Bend Tours: Pick a Different Adventure Every Day

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Wanderlust Tours

Wanderlust Tours hosts Bend tours year-round. They offer guided trips of Bend, Sunriver and Sisters in Oregon. The company also helps guests customize their tour, which can include snowshoeing, craft beer and specific hiking trails.

In winter and fall, adventure seekers explore caves, a lava tube, winter landscapes and even enjoy bonfires on the snow.

Springtime welcomes everyone to kayak and see a volcano in central Oregon. Those vacationing in Bend during the summer and fall plan kayaking, hiking and canoeing trips.

Sun Country Tours

For action-packed guided trips, book a day with Sun Country Tours. This company hosts whitewater rafting, river tubing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) trips. Those who choose whitewater rafting ride down the lower Deschutes River and McKenzie River. For a calm day outdoors, try the Deschutes River floating tour or gently paddle around the Cascade Lakes.

In addition, Sun Country Tours offers summertime activities such as chairlift rides, ziplining, downhill mountain biking and sunset dinners. Read about the best hikes in Oregon for families.

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The Bend Brew Bus

Owned by Wanderlust Tours, The Bend Brew Bus helps visitors sample the area’s craft brew scene. The local pour tour goes behind the scenes of the region’s top facilities. Guests learn about the science behind making beer, ciders, wine and spirits. Guests also enjoy tastings from three businesses and light appetizers.

For something different, book the Prohibition Cave Tour. During this tour, visitors roam underground caverns that once distilled spirits illegally. Afterwards, the guide provides samples of Oregon spirits and shares interesting stories.

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Bend Photo Tours

Photographers and nature lovers alike enjoy trips provided by Bend Photo Tours. Plus, visitors can plan guided and self-guided sightseeing options, so they better customize their experience.

Those who take guided adventures may choose from Cascade Lakes, nighttime, Cascade Range helicopter, Bend helicopter, Smith Rock, and area rivers. Self-guided trips include driving tours, nighttime and parks. Plus, Bend Photo Tours provides a schedule, interactive map and pro tips to ensure great photos.

Hot-Air Balloon Tours

Hot-air balloon rides rank among the best Bend tours for dramatic scenery and natural beauty. Two companies offer balloon rides that ride over central Oregon.

I’ll Fly Away has four balloon options ranging in size, which carry up to six passengers. Guests can single ride or plan a special occasion such as a marriage proposal. The company also serves other scenic towns, including Willamette Valley and Redmond.

Big Sky Balloon Company launches from Smith Rock Ranch, which is 30 minutes north of Bend. On this ride, visitors can also plan for special occasions and private events. Regardless of the tour, riders get personal service from a local expert.

After a busy day, relax at these Bend vacation rentals and enjoy the comfort of home.