Top Things To Do In Redmond, Oregon In Summer
Central Oregon is becoming more and more popular for both summer and winter activities. While Bend and Sisters get most of the attention, we’ve found there are plenty of great things to do in Redmond, Oregon as well.
Our nomad “home base” is shifting toward Redmond these days, so we’ve had the chance to explore this high desert wonderland a bit more. When some out of town visitors recently asked us for recommendations, we thought we’d put together a blog post of the best things to do in and near Redmond (with a focus on summer activities).
>> Need a place to stay? Here’s a listing of best hotels and vacation rentals around Redmond, Oregon
Things to do in Redmond, Oregon
Explore Downtown Redmond
Redmond’s downtown is an up-and-coming destination in Central Oregon. You’ll find a variety of great eateries if you head toward SW 6th Street. There are several highly rated Mexican restaurants in town, as well as charming coffee shops, breweries, pizza places – even sushi and a couple food trucks. Check out Herringbone bookstore and rent a bicycle to explore more of the surrounding area.
Play in a Park
Redmond has a great series of city parks that families and athletes will especially enjoy. Gather for a BBQ, play some pick up soccer, go for a walk, or drop off the teens at the skate park. Dry Canyon, in the center of Redmond, has a nice 3.7 mile path to walk, jog, bike, or blade. The park also features a dog park, tennis, pickle ball, softball, and disc golf.
Coming soon: The city of Redmond’s urban renewal funds are going toward a new 5.3-mile trail along the canal near Odem Medo Road and Highway 97.
Float Down a River
The easiest place for visitors to go tubing without booking a tour is in Bend, as they have a cheap shuttle that will take you and your inner tube back to your starting point. But there are several spots along the Deschutes River, like in Tumalo and Eagle Crest, where you can float independently if you’re willing to coordinate vehicles or walk yourself back. If you want to float without the hassle, go with a tour.
Make sure to choose a nice hot summer day for your inner tubing adventure in Central Oregon. The water is pretty cold year round!
Rent Bicycles
A great way to enjoy parks like Dry Canyon and neighboring outdoor adventures is to rent bicycles. Bicycle rentals of all kinds can be found at a couple shops in downtown Redmond as well as at nearby resorts like Eagle Crest.
Go Camping in a State Park
Both Tumalo State Park and Smith Rock State Park have campgrounds within easy driving distance of Redmond, Oregon. Both campgrounds have tent and RV campsites as well as showers and access to the river. Tumalo also has seven yurts available. Note that a State Park pass is required in addition to the campsite fees – $5 for vehicle parking each day, or $30 for an annual pass.
Keep an eye out for eagles, falcons, deer, otter and beavers while you’re there!
Hike, Mountain Bike, or Rock Climb at Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is the best place near Redmond, Oregon to adventure in the great outdoors. The stunning river canyon is lined with cathedral-like rock walls. Home to thousands of rock climbing routes, experienced climbers can scale the cliffs independently, or you can hire a climbing guide who will provide all the necessary gear and coaching.
Miles of trails can be conquered by foot, mountain bike, or even by horse. Follow the flat riverside trail around the rock formations, or summit “Misery Ridge” for a spectacular view from the cliffs.
What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Oregon?
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What you need to know about Oregon travel right now
Other River Sports
White water rafting, Stand Up Paddle-boarding, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are just a few of the other possible activities available to you in Redmond, Oregon. Some of these can be done in town, at Eagle Crest Resort, or in the nearby towns of Tumalo or Terrebonne.
Whatever your interest in the great outdoors, summer is a great time to enjoy Redmond and get a little off the beaten track in Central Oregon. If you have recommendations to add, please let us know in the comments!
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Being from this area, I can attest to how neat the high desert is. There is a hike about 20 minutes from Redmond called Steelhead falls, which is a lovely place to go swimming or just admire the beauty.