Find Things to Do in Bend, Oregon Over the 4th of July Weekend. And Cheers to celebrating Red, White and Blue with you, Central Oregon!

Last updated June 27, 2023

With traditions like the famed Pet Parade, picnics in Drake Park, floating the Deschutes and expansive Pilot Butte fireworks, it’s safe to say Central Oregonians know how to celebrate the Fourth of July. Wondering how to spend your weekend? We’ve got you covered – here’s our list of ways to maximize your time these next few days:

1. Float the River. Grab your crew, some tunes, and rent tubes from Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe to spend the next two hours relaxing in the refreshing Deschutes River. We should warn you – there is a short whitewater section through the Bend Whitewater Park under Colorado Ave. featuring a series of 12 drops which is a blast(!), but folks have an option to get out and walk around if they prefer a calmer ride.

2. Wheel Fun Bike Rentals. It’s their name for a reason – cruising along the river in one of their four-wheeled surreys with up to nine of your friends or rolling on your own in a Deuce Coup is wheely fun! Starting in the Old Mill District, riders have easy access to McKay Park, Drake Park, Mirror Pond, First St. Rapids Park, Sawyer Park, and even Archie Briggs Canyon, which offers stunning views of Mount Washington and Black Butte to the northwest and the Deschutes River far below. 

3. Greg’s Grill Happy Hour. Situated along the Deschutes River trail, the patio at Greg’s Grill has prime happy hour real estate. Come for the Grilled Cajun Prawns and stay for the Steak Frites and Sesame Seared Ahi. Select wines, draft beer and well drinks are $6. 

4. Savory Spice. Fourth of July and backyard BBQs go hand-in-hand, so before you head home swing by Savory Spice next to Confluence Fly Shop and scoop up a few of their 400+ spices, blends and sauces. Their spices are ground fresh in small, weekly batches which guarantees your culinary creation will surely demand a second helping.

5. Catch a concert. Hayden Homes Amphitheater boasts a jam-packed line up of more than 50 top-notch musicians this Summer. Nestled along the banks of the Deschutes River with Cascade Mountain views along the horizon, Hayden Homes Amphitheater offers a one-of-a-kind concert going experience. Lucky for us, alt-country stars Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit take over town Saturday, July 1 featuring hits “24 Frames,” “Cover Me Up” and “How to Forget,” along with special guest Deer Tick!

This is pretty great list, and though, the Old Mill District and Central Oregon offers so much more! Choose your own adventure – have fun – stay hydrated – be kind – and we look forward to celebrating the Red, White and Blue with you in Bend, Oregon.