Historic Gilchrist Waterfront Resort – Gilchrist, Oregon
Best Bend Breweries for Family Friendly Getaways
Tour the Best Bend Breweries on Your Oregon Getaway
Bend Breweries are one of the biggest reasons families choose Central Oregon for an easygoing getaway. Known for creativity, variety, and welcoming atmospheres, breweries in Bend, Oregon, make it simple to enjoy outdoor adventure with relaxed dining and local flavor. With mountains, rivers, and trails surrounding the area, families can spend the day exploring and still enjoy an afternoon stop along the Bend Ale Trail.
What sets Bend Breweries apart are the family-friendly options. Outdoor seating, spacious patios, dedicated kids’ menus, and nearby parks create an environment where parents can enjoy a great beer while kids have room to play. From long-established favorites to newer breweries adding fresh styles, the Bend Ale Trail offers more than 30 stops, each with its own personality and appeal.
Popular family-friendly stops include 10 Barrel Brewing, located near Columbia Park, making it easy to combine lunch with playground time. Bend Brewing in the Old Mill District offers grassy outdoor areas and a menu that goes well beyond pub basics. Deschutes Brewery remains a must-visit for families, thanks to its lively atmosphere, approachable food, and history as one of Bend’s original breweries. For something a little different, Worthy Brewing adds a fun twist with its Hopservatory (for nighttime stargazing), while Crux Fermentation Project stands out for its open lawn, welcoming vibe, and easy-drinking beers.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Gilchrist, Oregon
After a day spent exploring Bend Breweries, having a comfortable place to return to makes all the difference. Staying at one of the coziest hotels in Gilchrist, Oregon, allows families to enjoy quick access to Bend while ending the day in a quieter, more relaxed setting. The Historic Gilchrist Waterfront Resort offers space to spread out, cabin-style lodging, and hot tubs with lakefront views.
Cabins and lodging options provide families and groups with flexibility, whether you are traveling with kids or planning a getaway with friends. Common indoor areas invite guests to gather, unwind, and play games. Choosing hotels in Gilchrist, Oregon, as your home base keeps the focus on comfort, convenience, and enjoying everything Central Oregon has to offer.
For families planning a getaway centered around great food, relaxed experiences, and spending time together, this region delivers a trip that feels fun, flexible, and easy to enjoy.
Explore the Best Things to do in Bend, Oregon
Best of What to Do in Bend This Winter
Winter brings a different rhythm to Central Oregon, and few places showcase it better than Bend. Snow settles into the mountains, mornings are quiet, and the list of what to do in Bend shifts toward outdoor adventure paired with cozy downtime. Whether you are planning a family trip or a longer winter escape, this area is a great destination.
One of the first answers to what to do in Bend during winter is usually skiing! Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is a major draw, offering skiing and snowboarding that locals recommend tackling midweek for shorter lines and easier access. For those looking for quieter options, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing around Wanoga or Meissner Sno Parks offer scenic trails that feel removed from the crowds. Winter hiking is also popular at lower elevations, especially along the Deschutes River Trail, where peaceful views make for a rewarding afternoon.
Not every winter day needs to revolve around snow sports. The Old Mill District remains one of the most popular attractions in Bend, Oregon, year-round. Shops, restaurants, and river views make it easy to spend an afternoon after time outside. Local bakeries and coffee shops are part of the experience, too. Spots like Backporch Coffee Roasters and Bellatazza Coffee are ideal for warming up and planning the rest of your day.
Bend’s craft beer scene is another highlight of winter visits. Brewery hopping adds a social element to fun things to do in Bend, Oregon, with Deschutes Brewery standing out as a longtime local favorite. Scenic winter drives through Central Oregon round out the experience, especially along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, where snowy landscapes make even a short outing feel memorable.
Where to Stay for Winter Adventures Near Bend
After full days of exploring Bend, Oregon, activities, having a place that supports both relaxation and togetherness makes a difference. Historic Gilchrist Waterfront Resort offers lakefront cabins that give families and groups room to unwind while staying close to Bend. Waterfront views, outdoor games, and shared gathering spaces create an easy balance between activity and rest.
For larger groups, the vacation home provides space for reunions or multi-generational trips where comfort matters. Among Gilchrist Oregon Hotels, the focus stays on making winter getaways feel welcoming, flexible, and easy to enjoy. Book your winter stay and start planning what to do in Bend today.
The Best Time to Visit Crater Lake This Year
Best Time to Visit Crater Lake National Park in Oregon
Crater Lake is one of the most iconic National Parks in Oregon, drawing travelers from across the country who want to experience its deep blue water and dramatic volcanic cliffs. If you are planning a mountain adventure, understanding the best time to visit Crater Lake can help you decide when to plan. There are so many great things to do in Central Oregon to add to your itinerary as well!
Summer offers the most complete access to the park. Rim Drive typically opens from July through October, depending on snowpack, giving visitors the chance to explore 30 scenic overlooks along the 33-mile route. This is also prime time for Crater Lake tours, including the narrated trolley departing from Rim Village. With full services available, summer is ideal for travelers who want to experience as many Crater Lake activities as possible in one trip. Arriving early in the day helps you avoid peak crowds, especially from mid-July through early September.
Fall brings cooler air and fewer visitors, making it a favorite for hikers tackling Garfield Peak or those seeking quiet viewpoints. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered mountain setting perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Ranger-guided snowshoe walks offer a memorable way to explore the park in peaceful conditions. Spring introduces changing weather and active wildlife, though access can still be limited due to lingering snow.
Comfortable Crater Lake Lodging Near the Park
Choosing the right home base enhances every season, and this Crater Lake lodging is the perfect central place to stay. Located within easy reach of National Parks near Portland and Central Oregon road trips, Historic Gilchrist Waterfront Resort provides space to unwind after full days of exploration with fantastic amenities. Guests enjoy access to lakes in Oregon for paddling and swimming, along with a pool and outdoor games for families and groups.
Whether you are touring the Crater Lakes Visitor Center, exploring things to do at Crater Lake, or extending your trip to Bend and Smith Rock, pairing the best time to visit Crater Lake with well-positioned lodging makes planning seamless. Book your next adventure and experience one of the most celebrated National Parks in Oregon, your way.