A Visit to This Oregon City Is a Must for Outdoor Adventurers
A local shares his favorite spots.
Jayde Silbernagel Creations
Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.
Peter Ducato; Photo by Luno
Meet the Insider: Peter Ducato, Founder at Luno
Location: Bend, Oregon
Peter Ducato is an avid outdoorsman that took his love for camping and spun it into a unique business that caters to car campers. Inspired by a rough night of sleep in his vehicle (we’ve all been there), he created a line of stylish modular mattresses and accessories made for the experience. Here he shares tips on his home town where his company Luno is based.
STAY
Cameron Moon
Campfire Hotel offers a retro‑camp experience with a social pool area, large fire pits, and plenty of communal areas perfect for gathering. For more of a luxe ranch experience just outside the city, check out Brasada Ranch. With epic views of the Cascade Mountains, upscale accommodations, farm-to-table dining, and a wide range of outdoor activities it’s a vacation in and of itself.
EAT
You can’t leave Bend without experiencing the food truck scene, and Americana is one of the best. They’re in Podski, a food truck lot located in between Old Mill and Downtown Bend, and are known for their smashburgers. It’s a great scene with outdoor/indoor vibes, a fireplace outside to warm up, plus there are other food trucks if burgers aren’t your thing. A Bend staple is Wild Rose. Though this Northern Thai is well-known for its robust Southeast Asian flavors and incredible cocktail menu. It’s my go to when having guests in town. It gets busy, so book in advance.
DRINK
MOT Photography
The title says it all at Crosscut-Warming Hut No.5. After a snowboard or skiing session at Bachelor, this warming hut and watering hole has a great big fire place in the center to enjoy company. Afterwards, branch out and explore the Box Factory right across the way. If you’re looking for a more local vibe, Commonwealth Pub is a great place that’s right off the mountain where live music is often played catering to a more laid back scene.
DO
Whitney Whitehouse/Visit Bend
You’ll definitely want to visit Mt. Bachelor, where in the winter it’s known for its ski, snowboard, or snow shoe touring. Tumalo is a favorite spot also. After a day on the mountain, visit Gather Sauna House to enjoy a sauna and cold plunge in the Deschutes.
SHOP
Lark Mountain Modern is stocked with a well-curated selection of everything from little gifts for friends and family to items you can put in your home. It’s worth a visit before leaving town.
