Summer is in full swing in Bend, OR. The daytime temperatures are heating up, each weekend hosts concerts, festivals, and activities at the Les Schwab Amphitheater, and there is so much to do you just might be overwhelmed with choices. The truth is, you can't go wrong. Whether you choose to mountain bike at Phil's Trail everyday or hang out and read at Dudley's Bookshop Cafe, we're quite certain you're going to love Bend. 

So here, for your enjoyment (and mine), I'm putting together what I think is the perfect summer day. Please keep in mind that this is a REALLY difficult task because there is so much to do and it cannot all be done in one day! I strongly advise planning your second trip before you come on your first because you probably won't be able to get it all done. 

First off, breakfast at Jackson's Corner. If you're staying anywhere near downtown Bend, it's a short walk to the cutest neighborhood restaurant who prides themselves on serving seasonally inspired items that are sourced locally and organically whenever possible. They open their doors at 7AM so you can get an early start to your packed day. 

After filling the body with coffee and fresh eats, head out on the Cascade Lakes Highway to your next destination: Benham Falls. Bring your camera, hike around, and enjoy being out in the forest. Bring your pup to the trail too! (Don't forget to clean up after him/her!) Dogs do need to be leashed throughout the summer on these trails, but they will love being outside with you!! Read the posted information along the trails to learn about the area and watch for professional kayakers cruising down the river. 

As the afternoon starts to warm up, you're going to be ready to cool off. It's time to head down to a different part of the Deschutes River. First, a Wanderlust Tours favorite lunch stop is Pihuamo's Tacos on S Hwy. 97 (also called 3rd Street). It's quick, inexpensive, and has some seriously delicious tacos and burritos. Drive on down to the river with your floating device and jump in! Here are full instructions and safety on how to float the river. 

After you dry out, the Wednesday Farmer's Market is a great place to taste and purchase all the most delicious fresh fruit of summer. It's conveniently located directly next to Drake Park which provides for people (and duck) watching and walking along the peaceful river. 

Next up, dinner at Wild Rose -- amazing Northern Thai food in a cute, eclectic restaurant. My personal favorite is the Kow Pad Boo (fried rice with Dungeness crab) and Thai iced tea. If it's the First Friday of the month, downtown is the place you want to be to walk around after dinner. 

And the icing on the cake: Moonlight Canoe Tour. End your perfect Bend day with a canoe tour under the light of the moon or stars, any night of the month. You'll learn about the surrounding area, look for wildlife in the forest, and enjoy hot cocoa or beer from Deschutes Brewery, and dessert from Sparrow Bakery. 

 Hope you have an amazing sumer! Tell me how it goes! 

Written by Casey
Marketing Mngr at Wanderlust