Top 10 things to do in Bend, OR (off the beaten path)
Lots of changes this Fall at my house. My daughter is leaving for the University of Oregon, my son just got his drivers license, and my husband is changing careers. What does that mean for Cowgirl Cash? More time and energy for this Mama to spend making Cowgirl Cash the must see stop on every visitors list. A place where you know you will find something rare, handmade, and reasonably priced. My buying criteria is...is it authentic? practical? beautiful? Enough about the shop. What should a visitor to Bend do and see? Other lists will send you to Elk Lake, Mt. Bachelor, the High Desert Museum and 10 Barrel. This list is meant to get you outside of the box.
El Sancho: This restaurant is the inspiration for even writing a top 10 thing to do list in Bend at the end of the summer. I want people to say "Cowgirl Cash" sent me here. The tacos are amazing and come in all types. Try the chili and cheese. The margarita "pitchers" are served in big Mason jars. I love that there is very little packaging and garbage at this restaurant. Outside seating is pleasant and plentiful. 335 NE Dekalb. Think Bend High Land.
Juniper Swim and Fitness: This community center has made my list many times. What a resource, what a gift, what fun. Spin classes, lap swimming, yoga. This place is filled with young and old. Everyone appears so happy to be part of the good energy that surrounds this place. It is the heart of our community. I may a bit partial because I have enjoyed Juniper for 40 years. I've also sampled private clubs and private yoga studios. I keep coming back to good ol' Juniper.
A few Westside businesses are venturing to the eastside. Soon to open is Backporch Coffee on Greenwood. "can't wait"! I have enjoyed the Doughnut at the corner of 8th and Greenwood. Rockin' Daves is my go to for the best bagels and a killer breakfast or lunch. Fresh healthy food and a fun vibe.
After all of this food, or if you are looking for the best sunset watching spot. Drive to the base of Pilot Butte. Follow the signs off of Hwy 20 and head to the State Park parking. You can hike the road or the path. It's a pleasant walk and the view at the top gives you the lay of the land. See how Bend is nestled at the base of the mountains before it hits the high desert. You can learn the names of your Cascade Mountain peaks up there too.
If you plan to visit Sunriver or South Century Drive on a return trip from Crescent Lake or Cultus Lake. Maybe try to hit the Second Tern thrift shop. 17377 Spring River rd. This place is packed with stuff (a lot of it is good) and people. This store has limited hours and all proceeds support the Sunriver Nature Center. It is open only Friday and Saturday until 3! Good luck.
Finally, make your way to Brooks St when you are in Bend. Crows Feet Commons has expanded into an additional space across the alley. They have the historic house for coffee and beer and the corner space near the breezeway for bikes and skis and service. It's an awesome combo and they are the best neighbors! Cowgirl Cash continues to buy Western Vintage. We also love second hand jewelry. The turquoise coming in has been amazing. Look for more fabric and an addition of a skirt to our Lucky Lady dress line. Is that 10?
Please stop in and say "hi". Tell us you read our blog and you will be rewarded. Prizes for all who help make us grow.
Thank you xo.
rebecca
