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 neighbourhoods, 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.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Old Mill District

Bend Inn & Suites

Bend Inn & Suites

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

Campfire Hotel

3 out of 5
721 NE 3rd Street, Bend, OR
Campfire Hotel
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
Hampton Inn & Suites Bend

Hampton Inn & Suites Bend

2.5 out of 5
730 SW Columbia Street, Bend, OR
Hampton Inn & Suites Bend
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
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
Hilton Garden Inn Bend

Hilton Garden Inn Bend

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

The Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon, offers a variety of activities for visitors, including biking, skiing, and snowboarding. In the summer, enjoy concerts and explore the beautiful riverside trails. Don't forget to visit local attractions and gather tourism information to enhance your experience. This vibrant area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Shopping

The Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon offers a delightful shopping experience. Visit the Bend Farmers Market, only 1.6km away, for local produce and crafts. The Bend River Promenade, 4.8km away, features a mix of shops and entertainment. For a bit of a drive, explore options further afield.

Recreation

Experience the scenic Tetherow Golf Club, perfect for a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes just 4.8km away. For a blend of wellness and relaxation, visit Bend Rock Gym, located 1.6km away, offering a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy outdoor sports at River's Edge Golf Course, only 3.2km from the district.

Adventure

At Deschutes River Trailhead, embark on scenic hikes along the river, immersing yourself in the great outdoors, located 9.7km from Old Mill District. Enjoy skiing at Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, 30.6km away, offering thrilling slopes and a vibrant sports atmosphere. Explore the stunning vistas at Tumalo Falls, 20.9km from Old Mill District.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in the Old Mill District with a film at Regal Old Mill for a romantic evening. For a fun adventure, head to Sun Mountain Fun Center, where you can enjoy arcade games. Don't miss the Tower Theater for a unique cinematic experience nearby.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Old Mill District

The Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon, offers a delightful mix of attractions, including an entertainment facility, scenic river views, and a visitor centre. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, this vibrant area is perfect for adventure seekers. Don't miss exploring the historic Old Mill and the lively downtown Bend, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and activities.

  • Hayden Homes Amphitheater: Experience thrilling live performances in this vibrant outdoor venue, just 322m from Old Mill District. With its family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy concerts and events against the stunning backdrop of the Cascade Mountains.
  • Deschutes River: Just 1.6km away, the Deschutes River offers breathtaking scenery and a range of outdoor activities. Whether you're kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, it's a must-see for nature lovers.
  • Downtown Bend Business Association: Located 1.6km from Old Mill District, this visitor centre is your gateway to adventure. Discover local shops, eateries, and outdoor activities that cater to families and adventurers alike in the heart of Bend.

Best time to go to Old Mill District

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June58.3°F (14.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July67.6°F (19.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September58.8°F (14.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October47.3°F (8.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly 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

To save money during your visit to the Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon, consider travelling in January or October to November when prices are lower, and aim for a Tuesday stay, as Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter hotel options by budget and location, and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for potential savings. Additionally, look out for special offers, deals on hotels, and free nights to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • 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 choices based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To find the most affordable rates and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in the Old Mill District with your flights and activities through an Expedia package. This way, you’ll enjoy a more seamless travel experience while keeping costs down.

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