Old Mill District Tours and Activities

Old Mill District showing a bridge
Old Mill District featuring kayaking or canoeing and a river or creek
Old Mill District showing signage
Old Mill District featuring street scenes
Old Mill District featuring a square or plaza


Nature and society converge in one of Bend’s most charming neighborhoods, which features stunning views and a lively cultural scene.

Enjoy the beauty of Oregon and the bustle of Bend in the Old Mill District. Beautiful homes and gardens, coupled with a lively downtown atmosphere and stunning surrounding scenery, make this a perfect place to appreciate a pleasant neighborhood with a view.

Investigate pieces of Bend’s history that have been transformed for the modern world. Historic buildings, such as the red-brick mill that once housed the Brooks-Scanlon Lumber Company, are now shops and restaurants. Browse over 40 stores ranging from small boutiques to nationwide chains. Sample its varied dining options, from casual pizzerias to upscale gourmet restaurants.

Walk, run or bike along the four trails that snake through the neighborhood, ranging from 1 to 2.5 miles (1.6 to 4 kilometers) long. Note the commemorative signs along the routes that provide information about Bend’s logging history and notable local figures.

See a plethora of wildlife without leaving town. Watch a beaver or otter paddling down the Deschutes River. Look for an endangered Oregon spotted frog hopping along the marsh. The Ticket Mill provides complimentary binoculars to enhance your animal and bird-watching experience.

The Old Mill District has a packed calendar of events throughout the year. Take a festive horse-drawn carriage ride during the winter holidays. In July, watch dozens of colorful hot air balloons float toward the Cascade Mountains during the annual Balloons Over Bend festival. Don’t miss a summertime concert in the famous Les Schwab Amphitheatre. Big names ranging from Bob Dylan to the Dave Matthews Band and Willie Nelson have played on this riverside stage.

With its central location and natural atmosphere, the Old Mill District offers convenient fun and excitement. Enjoy the scenery by strolling to downtown Bend via the neighborhood’s walking paths, which connect to the city’s greater network of trails.

Plan a trip to see Old Mill District

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Best Lodging Options Near Old Mill District

Days Inn by Wyndham Bend

Days Inn by Wyndham Bend

2 out of 5
849 NE Third Street, Bend, OR
Days Inn by Wyndham Bend
Bend Inn & Suites

Bend Inn & Suites

2 out of 5
437 NE 3rd St., Bend, OR
Bend Inn & Suites
Hampton Inn & Suites Bend

Hampton Inn & Suites Bend

2.5 out of 5
730 SW Columbia Street, Bend, OR
Hampton Inn & Suites Bend
My Place Hotel - Bend, OR

My Place Hotel - Bend, OR

2.5 out of 5
550 SW Bond Street, Bend, OR
My Place Hotel - Bend, OR
Residence Inn by Marriott Bend

Residence Inn by Marriott Bend

3 out of 5
500 SW Bond Street, Bend, OR
Residence Inn by Marriott Bend
Cascade Lodge

Cascade Lodge

2 out of 5
420 SE 3rd St, Bend, OR
Cascade Lodge
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bend

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bend

3.5 out of 5
551 Sw Industrial Way, Bend, OR
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Bend
Hilton Garden Inn Bend

Hilton Garden Inn Bend

3 out of 5
425 Sw Bluff Dr, Bend, OR
Hilton Garden Inn Bend
Motel 6 Bend, OR

Motel 6 Bend, OR

2 out of 5
201 NE 3rd Street, Bend, OR
Motel 6 Bend, OR
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Old Mill District

Discover the charm of the Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon, where you can enjoy biking along scenic river trails, leisurely walks through picturesque spots, and vibrant area sightseeing. In the summer, catch live concerts and take a refreshing swim to beat the heat. With opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, there's year-round excitement waiting for you in this delightful destination.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Bend River Promenade, only 4.8km away, offering a mix of family-friendly stores and entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, visit The Village, located 14.8km away, featuring unique boutiques with local flair in a vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the scenic Tetherow Golf Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes. Alternatively, unwind at Bend Rock Gym, a fantastic recreation centre focusing on wellness and relaxation. For more golfing, River's Edge Golf Course offers beautiful outdoor settings for a refreshing game.

Adventure

Experience thrilling winter sports at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, located 30.6km from Old Mill District, where ski enthusiasts can enjoy pristine slopes. For a scenic hike, visit Benham Falls Trailhead, 14.5km away, or explore the adventurous Deschutes River Trailhead, 9.7km from the district, surrounded by nature.

Nightlife

Experience the charm of the Tower Theater, a cozy cinema just 0.14.5km from the Old Mill District, perfect for family outings or a romantic night out. For some excitement, venture 4.8km to Sun Mountain Fun Center, an arcadeAdventureZone filled with fun for the whole family.

Find the best attractions near Old Mill District

The Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon, offers a delightful mix of attractions for visitors, including an entertainment facility, a visitor centre, and scenic river views. This area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a vibrant city experience. Don't miss exploring the historic old mill, which adds a charming touch to your adventure in this picturesque location.

  • Hayden Homes Amphitheater: This vibrant outdoor venue, located only 322m from the Old Mill District, hosts a variety of concerts and events, offering a lively atmosphere perfect for family and entertainment. Enjoy the stunning views while experiencing local and national acts.
  • Downtown Bend Business Association: About 1.6km away, this visitor centre is a hub for family-friendly adventures and outdoor activities. Discover local shops, events, and eateries that showcase the spirit of Bend and its community.
  • Deschutes River: Located 1.6km from the Old Mill District, the Deschutes River is a scenic paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy activities like kayaking, fishing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Best time to go to Old Mill District

Visitor numbers around Old Mill District is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Old Mill District is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January31.8°F (-0.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February32.0°F (0.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March36.0°F (2.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May50.5°F (10.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.3°F (14.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July67.6°F (19.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August66.7°F (19.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September58.8°F (14.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October47.3°F (8.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
November36.5°F (2.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December30.2°F (-1.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Old Mill District

When visiting the Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon, there are several ways to save money. Enjoy free entry to the district and nearby attractions like Deschutes River, Drake Park, and Bend River Promenade. The best times to visit for lower accommodation prices are January and October to November, with Tuesdays being the most affordable days to stay. Avoid the pricier summer months, and consider booking your hotel, flights, and activities together through Expedia for added savings. Use their price filter to find the best deals on popular stays and experiences.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Old Mill District are January and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Old Mill District is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Old Mill District is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay in the Old Mill District with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.