When you think about great American vacation towns, Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, or San Diego might come to mind. But what about Bend, Oregon? Unlike the previously mentioned cities, saying, "I'm off to visit Bend," is likely to get you a quizzical look as if to say, "Where the heck is Bend?" lest you mention the state where it resides.

While Bend, Oregon might not be a place you have to worry about booking lodging months in advance for, nor is it the hotspot that Miami and other big towns are, its central location in Oregon, where it transitions from the Ponderosa Pine forest to the Great Basin high desert plateau, is an ideal vacation spot for active folks or families that want to cram as much fun into a getaway as they can.

Though you won't have easy access to some huge theme park, raceway, or gambling mecca, you will be able to enjoy the site of Pilot Butte, a volcano that is located within the city's boundaries. Bend is a youthful town that is growing into its own within the tourism industry. And don't worry about Pilot Butte. It's extinct.

A Short History

Founded just a century ago in 1905 around a community of 300 residents, Bend was originally a crossing point on the Deschutes River where it got its economic start as a logging town. Its name comes from "Farewell Bend," the name used by early pioneers to indicate the spot in the Deschutes River where it was shallow enough to be crossable on horseback. After a development company was founded, a community began to form.

Modern Day Tourism

Today, Bend is considered a gateway for access to many outdoor activities which include mountain biking, hiking and camping, fishing, rafting, and rock climbing just to name a few.

Although Bend still relies partly on its logging roots, producing wood products, tourism is one of its largest sectors. The local ski resort brings in vacationers from all over the west coast. Other tourist attractions include a well-known microbrewery, the Cascade Lakes (providing great viewing of the Three Sisters volcanoes), and the Bend Film Festival.

The local ski resort is one of the most profitable tourist destinations in the city, which helps support businesses providing lodging in Bend, Oregon. Though because of its seasonal nature, the ski resort isn't quite the city's largest employer. That distinction goes to the healthcare industry and the local hospital.

Nevertheless, tourism is a very large part of Bend's economy and in large part responsible for the town's success.