At Fly and Field we all love the fact that we get to call beautiful Bend, OR home. In addition to being located within striking distance of many of our state’s most beautiful and productive Trout and Steelhead fisheries, Bend itself is home to an astounding array of quality local businesses and activities. The prevailing community of outdoor enthusiasts, craft breweries, delicious food, and great music create the ideal atmosphere for enjoying summer. As a thank you to the community we love we’ve put together our own list of the best Bend has to offer this summer.
Coffee- Backporch Coffee Roasters
Just down and around the corner from the shop, Backporch Coffee Roasters is our go to stop for the morning caffeine fix. Whether you’re headed to the river or on the way to work, Backporch is open for all but the earliest of risers (6:30 during the week, 7:00 on weekends). Family owned Backporch has been providing top quality coffee to residents and visitors of Bend since 2006, with an emphasis on freshness, quality, and paying proper tribute to the farmers who grow their beans. It’s tough to beat the delicious coffee, friendly atmosphere, and sustainable approach Backporch takes to serving Bend’s community.
Breakfast- Big O Bagels
In the chaos that often consumes the morning of a fishing trip, having a quality local option for a quick eat on the way out of town is something we value deeply here at Fly and Field. The folks at Big O Bagels share the same passion for the outdoors that drives the Bend community. They feel that the best way to fuel an adventure is with one of their fresh bagels or bagel sandwiches, and we tend to agree with them. With East, West, and South Bend locations Big O has got your adventure covered regardless of where you’re headed, try an Eye Opener breakfast sandwich on the way out of town, or stop by and pick from their assortment of lunch bagel options during the week.
Stop on the Way Home
There is no better way to end a day of fishing than with a cold brew and good food. Fortunately, Central Oregon is home to more than its fair share of breweries and restaurants to satisfy cravings after a long day on the water. We’ve taken the liberty of organizing them by fishery, keep them in mind on the next drive back to town.
Crooked River- 10 Barrel East
Just a short jaunt to the North on the way back from the Crooked River will land you at 10 Barrel Brewing’s East Location. A complete pub with full menu and 20 beers on tap is sure to quench the thirst and hunger developed in a day of fishing the desert tailwater East of town.
Fall River/Upper Deschutes- Sunriver Brewing
Ideally located just North of Century Drive, Sunriver Brewing’s Pub in downtown Sunriver is the perfect place to stop before heading North on 97. With an emphasis on locally sourced, high quality foods, and a full selection of Sunriver taps, there’s no better place to make a quick stop or enjoy a nice family dinner after sight fishing the Fall or tossing dries to Brookies and Rainbows on the Upper Deschutes.
Metolius- Three Creeks Brewing
Three Creeks Brewing embraces the small town atmosphere of Sisters, OR, and uses top quality ingredients to provide delicious food and beer in a welcoming environment. Just South of highway 20 on the East side of Sisters, there’s no need to wait until getting back to Bend when you’re headed back from the beautiful Metolius.
Lower Deschutes- La Posada
La Posada offers authentic Mexican food that is sure to satisfy after a hot day on the Lower Deschutes. Grab an ice cold horchata and enjoy a chicken burrito or an order of shredded beef tacos. Beware of the self serve peppers, they are not for the faint of heart.
Activities in Town
Every now and then we’ve all got to take a break from fishing to enjoy some of the other attractions that make Central Oregon such a special place. For those looking to enjoy a relaxing day around town, Bend has an incredible number of activities and opportunities to keep everyone happy. Here are some of our favorite things to do around town in the summer.
Float Through Town
Grab a paddle board, kayak, or tube and join the flotilla of happy river-goers enjoying the beautiful Deschutes through as it winds its way through Bend. There’s no better way to cool off on a hot summer day, and the happiness of everyone on the river is contagious. One of our favorite stretches is from Riverbend Park down to Drake Park, just be aware of the safe passage route through the wave park!
High Desert MuseumThe High Desert Museum, located just South of town and East of highway 97, offers an in depth look at the natural and cultural history of the high desert that defines much of Central Oregon. Exhibits allow visitors to see and learn about the plants and wildlife of the high desert environment, while providing an interactive experience of the historical human presence in high desert environments. The Museum is a must-visit for those looking to learn and immerse themselves in the beauty that is Central Oregon.
Live MusicWe consider ourselves very fortunate to live in a place that offers an incredible variety of live music venues and events year-round. The summer months bring in large profile performances to Oregon’s largest outdoor music venue,Les Schwab Amphitheater, while venues like the Volcanic Theater and Domino room provide an intimate environment for the various genres and artists that pass through Bend. Even better, free live music is often an option with events like the Bend Munch and Music series of free concerts in Drake Park. Every Thursday through August 16 head to Drake park to grab a bite to eat and enjoy live music from touring artists.
Happy Hour
When it comes to finding a good deal in Bend look no further than Goodlife Brewing’s happy hour. Goodlife offers $1 off of all drinks and $3 off of their extensive menu of pub grub every Monday through Friday from 3-6 (excluding locals night). For even more deals head to their bierhall on Thursdays for locals night, $3 Pints and $7 Growlers speak for themselves. Goodlife brews some spectacular beers, and offers a wide array of quality food options in a comfortable laid back atmosphere. They’re located across the street from the shop, so the next time your in swing over and grab a Sweet As Pale Ale or 29er Brown Ale. Goodlife fully embraces the adventurous spirit of Bend, and we love the generous hours and prices they provide for top quality beverages during the week.
Special Occasions
Whether enjoying a group dinner with family and friends or a romantic evening with that special someone, Ariana Restaurant has offered an unmatched fine dining experience to inhabitants of Central Oregon since 2004. Chefs Andres and Ariana Fernandez display mastery of their craft through their use of Pacific Northwest ingredients, which has earned the restaurant national recognition as a Top 100 Restaurant in America in both 2014 and 2016. For the ultimate Central Oregon dining experience, Ariana cannot be beat.
Late Night Hang-out
For the serious fishing trips that wear you out and leave you coming back into town when most places are closed, head to Cascade West for a beer and some reasonably priced pub food at nearly any hour of the night. Lots of space and multiple bar games make it a great place to watch a sporting event or shoot some pool.