15 Best Things To Do In Redmond, Oregon

In the heart of Central Oregon’s high desert, Redmond grew from a modest railroad stop into one of the region’s most endearing towns. Long before its streets were laid, the Deschutes River carved life through this dry plateau, sustaining Native peoples who gathered at its banks for food, trade, and ceremony. When settlers arrived in the late 19th century, they found a rugged but promising landscape, where sagebrush plains could be transformed into farms and ranches with the help of irrigation. The town that emerged in 1910 bore the hallmarks of the American West—railroads, homesteads, and the unyielding work of pioneers.

Yet Redmond was never only about survival. It became a place where community mattered as much as cattle or crops, where county fairs, roadside curiosities, and local theaters stitched together the fabric of daily life. Over time, landmarks like Smith Rock, the “birthplace of American sport climbing,” and the Peter Skene Ogden Viewpoint, with its historic bridges, turned Redmond into a gateway for exploration. Even folk art gems like Petersen Rock Garden or working ranches like Crescent Moon speak to the creativity and resilience that define the area.

Redmond is a beloved travel destination for many, and these are a few things to do in Redmond for first-time visitors.

1. Sam Johnson Park

In the heart of Redmond, Sam Johnson Park reflects both the city’s growth and its commitment to community life. Named after Sam Johnson, a former Redmond mayor known for his civic leadership, the park has long served as a gathering ground for residents. What began as a modest recreation area has, over the years, transformed into a central hub for festivals, youth sports, and family outings.

Historically, Redmond’s development was tied to agriculture and the arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century. As the town expanded, so did the need for public spaces where neighbors could come together outside of work and school. Sam Johnson Park answered that call. From playgrounds to ball fields, its grounds reflect decades of investment in creating a shared civic identity.

Today, with upgraded facilities and wide open green spaces, the park remains a vital part of Redmond’s story. It is a place where history is not locked in stone or glass but lived daily—in community celebrations, children’s laughter, and the continuity of public life in Central Oregon.

2. Smith Rock State Park

Towering above the Crooked River, Smith Rock State Park is both a geological wonder and a cradle of modern American rock climbing. The dramatic cliffs, carved from volcanic tuff and basalt, have stood for millions of years, long before human settlement. Native peoples revered the landscape, relying on the river for sustenance and viewing the rock formations as markers in a broader spiritual geography.

Modern history placed Smith Rock at the center of outdoor recreation. In the 1980s, it became the birthplace of sport climbing in the United States, as pioneering climbers bolted routes that would soon attract adventurers from around the world. But even before its fame in climbing circles, the park had been a natural landmark for settlers moving through Central Oregon in the 19th century, its spires rising as a dramatic backdrop to the high desert.

3. Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint

Set along the Deschutes River, Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint preserves a landscape that has long shaped life in Central Oregon. The falls take their name from Doctor Cass A. Cline, a homesteader and early dentist in the region who settled nearby in the late 19th century. For generations before his arrival, the river and its falls sustained Native communities, providing salmon runs, water, and a natural gathering place in the high desert.

In the early 20th century, the falls became part of Redmond’s agricultural story, as irrigation projects diverted river water to support the growing farming community. Yet the scenic beauty of the site was never lost, and by the mid-century, the area was designated as a state scenic viewpoint to preserve public access. Families picnicked under cottonwoods, anglers cast lines into the river, and travelers paused to take in the thundering waters that had marked the land for centuries.

4. Wild Ride Brewing

Though craft beer is a modern chapter in Redmond’s story, Wild Ride Brewing is rooted in Oregon’s longer tradition of innovation and gathering. When it opened in 2014 in a renovated lumber warehouse, it carried forward the history of Central Oregon’s timber industry, repurposing a space once tied to the backbone of the local economy.

Brewing itself has deep ties to Oregon’s settler past, when small breweries supplied logging camps and frontier towns in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Wild Ride builds on that heritage, creating a communal taproom where locals and visitors gather much as they once did in saloons and social halls. Its presence also reflects Redmond’s revival in the 21st century, as the city reshaped itself from an industrial hub to a vibrant community with a growing culinary and craft scene.

The brewery’s story is not only about beer but about continuity—about how places evolve without losing their communal heart. Each pint poured at Wild Ride connects the city’s industrial history to its modern spirit of creativity and togetherness.

5. Petersen Rock Garden & Museum

Built by Danish immigrant Rasmus Petersen in the 1930s, the Petersen Rock Garden & Museum is one of Central Oregon’s most unusual landmarks. Petersen, who settled in the region in the early 20th century, spent decades collecting colorful rocks, crystals, and fossils from across the West. He transformed his land into a whimsical garden of miniature castles, bridges, and patriotic monuments, all constructed by hand from his finds.

The garden reflects both personal vision and cultural history. Immigrants like Petersen shaped Oregon’s communities, bringing with them traditions of craftsmanship and self-sufficiency. His work became a local attraction during the Depression era, when families sought affordable diversions along the developing highway routes. For many, visiting the rock garden was an introduction to the geological richness of the high desert.

Though weathered with age, the site remains a piece of folk art history—part curiosity, part celebration of Central Oregon’s natural treasures. Petersen’s creation stands as a reminder of how individuals, through persistence and imagination, leave lasting imprints on the cultural landscape.

6. Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center

The Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center carries forward a tradition nearly as old as the county itself: the annual county fair. Agricultural fairs began in Central Oregon in the early 20th century, showcasing livestock, crops, and crafts at a time when farming was the heartbeat of the local economy. As Redmond grew, so did the scale of its fairgrounds, culminating in the construction of the modern Expo Center, which opened in 1999.

More than a venue, the fairgrounds represent continuity. Each summer, thousands gather to celebrate the same values of hard work, community, and rural heritage that defined earlier generations. Rodeos, concerts, and carnival rides add layers of entertainment, but at its core, the fair remains about honoring the land and the people who shaped Central Oregon.

7. Juniper Golf Course

Set against the backdrop of the Cascade Range, Juniper Golf Course is more than a sporting venue; it is part of Central Oregon’s broader history of land use and recreation. The high desert, once dominated by sagebrush and ranchland, saw a wave of golf course development in the mid-20th century as irrigation and tourism reshaped the region. Juniper, established in Redmond, carried forward this trend, offering locals and visitors alike a way to experience the desert landscape in a new form.

The course takes its name from the hardy juniper trees that have dotted the Central Oregon plateau for centuries—trees that Indigenous peoples and early settlers alike relied upon for firewood, shelter, and tools. Building a course here was as much about showcasing the land’s natural beauty as it was about sport. Over time, Juniper grew into a centerpiece for community events and regional tournaments, cementing its place in the cultural and recreational life of Redmond.

8. Odem Theater Pub

The story of the Odem Theater Pub echoes the evolution of small-town theaters across America. Originally opened as a neighborhood cinema, the space later reinvented itself as a theater-pub—a model that became popular in the Pacific Northwest in the late 20th century, blending movies with dining and craft drinks. This reinvention reflects Redmond’s growth, as residents sought modern entertainment while preserving the communal feel of a local cinema.

Theater-pubs have their roots in the 1920s and 30s, when movie houses became central to small-town life. Families flocked to matinees, teenagers to Friday night shows, and theaters doubled as community gathering spots. Odem carried that spirit into the present by adapting to contemporary tastes without losing its historical role as a cultural anchor.

9. Redmond Cinemas

Small-town cinemas like Redmond Cinemas trace their roots to the early 20th century, when motion pictures became a communal ritual across America. In Redmond, theaters provided more than entertainment—they were among the first places where neighbors gathered to share the same stories, projected larger than life. As the town grew through the postwar years, the cinema adapted, adding screens and modernizing facilities to keep pace with changing tastes.

Even as the rise of streaming altered moviegoing habits, Redmond Cinemas has remained a fixture. Families still make it a weekend tradition, students fill the seats on opening nights, and older residents recall earlier eras when the theater was one of the few cultural anchors in town. It reflects the resilience of local cinemas: adjusting to new technologies while keeping alive the communal experience of watching stories unfold together.

10. Crescent Moon Ranch

At the edge of Redmond, Crescent Moon Ranch preserves a much older story—that of ranching in Central Oregon. For more than a century, this high desert region has sustained cattle, sheep, and horses, shaping both its economy and identity. Crescent Moon continues that tradition in a more specialized way, as one of the area’s most visited alpaca ranches.

Alpacas, native to the Andes, were first introduced to North America in the late 20th century, and Central Oregon’s dry climate proved ideal for them. Crescent Moon Ranch quickly became a leader in breeding and fiber production, drawing visitors who wanted to learn about these gentle animals and the heritage of ranch life. For children, it became a field trip favorite; for travelers, a stop that connected them to both the region’s agricultural roots and its evolving industries.

11. Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint

Perched above the deep basalt canyons of the Crooked River, the Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint honors both geology and history. The park is named after Peter Skene Ogden, a fur trapper and explorer who roamed the Oregon country in the early 19th century. His expeditions for the Hudson’s Bay Company helped chart much of Central Oregon, though the land itself had long been home to Indigenous peoples who knew its rivers and canyons intimately.

The site’s modern significance is tied to its bridges. In the early 20th century, the Crooked River High Bridge, a marvel of engineering for its time, was built to connect Redmond with the wider region. Later, a newer span carried Highway 97 traffic, leaving the historic arch bridge as a monument to Oregon’s era of expansion. From the viewpoint, visitors look across layers of stone shaped by ancient lava flows, reminders of the volcanic forces that created the high desert.

12. Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards

Set in the shadow of the Three Sisters peaks—nicknamed Faith, Hope, and Charity—this vineyard represents the more recent agricultural evolution of Central Oregon. While wheat, hay, and cattle dominated the region for generations, Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards reflects the diversification that began in the late 20th century. As wine culture spread across Oregon, entrepreneurs recognized that the high desert’s warm days and cool nights could nurture certain grape varieties.

The vineyard’s history is tied not only to its wines but to its role as a community gathering spot. Concerts, weddings, and festivals have turned it into a social hub, blending agriculture with culture much like county fairs once did. Its very name echoes the religiously inspired titles of the mountains that dominate the skyline, linking modern viticulture to the landscape’s deeper identity.

In a region once defined solely by ranches and timber, Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards illustrates how Central Oregon has embraced new forms of cultivation and hospitality—without losing sight of the land’s enduring presence.

13. Beyond the Ranch Antiques

Tucked into downtown Redmond, Beyond the Ranch Antiques reflects the town’s agricultural and pioneer heritage in a quieter way—through the artifacts of everyday life. Antiques have long been a way communities preserve memory, and in Central Oregon, shops like this one hold fragments of the region’s past: ranch tools, homestead furniture, and curiosities from Redmond’s mid-century boom years.

The tradition of antique trading in small towns stretches back to the postwar years, when secondhand stores became repositories of both necessity and nostalgia. Beyond the Ranch ties into that history, curating items that speak to Redmond’s own story of settlers, ranchers, and families who built lives in the high desert. Each object on its shelves carries a lineage, reminding visitors that history is not only told in museums but also in the everyday goods people once used and cherished.

14. Redmond Antique Mall

The Redmond Antique Mall amplifies this tradition, offering a larger collective of vendors whose wares capture decades of Central Oregon’s cultural evolution. Antique malls emerged in the late 20th century as cooperative spaces, where multiple collectors brought together their finds under one roof. For Redmond, the mall became a gathering point for both residents and travelers interested in exploring the tangible remnants of the past.

Here, visitors might uncover Depression-era glassware, farm equipment from the early 1900s, or mid-century décor from the town’s growth years. Each piece tells a small part of the broader history of Central Oregon’s transition from frontier outpost to modern community.

15. Wanderlust Tours

Founded in the early 1990s, Wanderlust Tours has become a gateway into Central Oregon’s wild landscapes, blending modern eco-tourism with the region’s deep natural history. Long before outfitters guided visitors through lava tubes, alpine lakes, and snowshoe trails, these lands were traversed by Native peoples who understood the rhythms of the high desert and the Cascades. Wanderlust carries forward that tradition of interpreting the land—though now for travelers seeking both adventure and education.

The company grew during a pivotal era, when outdoor recreation in Oregon was shifting from rugged, self-guided exploration to curated experiences designed for a wider audience. With professional naturalists leading the way, Wanderlust helped highlight the geological and ecological stories of Central Oregon: the ancient lava flows, volcanic peaks, and rivers that shaped settlement and continue to define the region today.

For Redmond, Wanderlust Tours represents how tourism has diversified beyond fishing, farming, and timber. It is part of the town’s modern identity as a launching point for discovery, where visitors step into landscapes that hold both timeless beauty and centuries of human connection.

Conclusion

The story of Redmond is written in stone, soil, and community. From the volcanic cliffs of Smith Rock to the quiet beauty of Cline Falls, the land tells of ancient forces that shaped the high desert. Layered onto that landscape are the human stories—pioneers carving farms from sagebrush plains, artisans building whimsical rock gardens, and neighbors gathering year after year at the Deschutes County Fair. Each landmark is a reminder that Redmond’s history is both rugged and deeply personal, shaped as much by community spirit as by nature’s grandeur.

Modern life here still carries the echoes of the past. Breweries in old lumber warehouses, ranches that open their gates to visitors, and outfitters guiding explorers through lava tubes all connect yesterday’s resilience with today’s creativity. Redmond has grown from a stop on the rails into a destination of its own, but it has never lost its authenticity.

To visit these places is to see Redmond whole: a town where heritage and adventure walk side by side. In every park, fairground, and canyon view, Redmond offers not just attractions but a living chronicle of Central Oregon’s enduring spirit.

Interactive Map Of The Best Things to Do in Redmond, Oregon

Where to Stay in Redmond, Oregon

Redmond, Oregon, sits in the heart of Central Oregon’s high desert — a gateway to Bend, Sisters, and the Cascade Mountains. Known for its scenic beauty, craft beer scene, and easy access to outdoor adventures, Redmond offers accommodations for every traveler, from resort lovers to road trippers.

1. Downtown Redmond

Best for: First-time visitors, dining, and convenience
Downtown Redmond is lively and walkable, packed with local breweries, cafés, and small shops. Staying here puts you close to Centennial Park, the Redmond Caves, and weekend markets. Boutique hotels and renovated motels offer affordable comfort with character. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants serving local craft beer and Pacific Northwest cuisine. It’s the best area for travelers who want to be in the center of everything.

2. Near Roberts Field Airport (RDM)

Best for: Business travelers and early flights
Located just north of the city center, this area offers reliable chain hotels and efficient amenities. Perfect for short stays or anyone catching early flights, it’s close to Highway 97 for quick drives to Bend, Smith Rock, and Sisters. Hotels here often include free breakfast, parking, and airport shuttles — making it a convenient and stress-free choice.

3. Smith Rock State Park Area (Terrebonne)

Best for: Adventure seekers and nature lovers
Just 15 minutes north of Redmond lies Terrebonne, home to world-famous Smith Rock State Park — a mecca for rock climbers and hikers. Rustic lodges, cabins, and ranch-style retreats offer sweeping canyon views and starlit nights. This area suits travelers seeking peace and proximity to the outdoors. Even if you’re not climbing, the hiking trails and sunrise views make it worth the stay.

4. Eagle Crest Resort

Best for: Families and resort comfort
Eagle Crest is a full-service resort community west of Redmond, featuring golf courses, pools, hiking trails, and spa services. Vacation rentals and resort villas are surrounded by juniper trees and panoramic mountain views. It’s ideal for families or couples looking to unwind while staying near major Central Oregon attractions. With multiple dining options and recreation for all ages, it’s one of Redmond’s most popular upscale stays.

5. South Redmond / Highway 97 Corridor

Best for: Road trippers and budget travelers
If you’re passing through Central Oregon, the south side of Redmond offers affordable motels, inns, and campgrounds just off the highway. It’s a practical choice for travelers planning day trips to Bend, Tumalo Falls, or the Cascade Lakes. Many properties are pet-friendly and close to gas stations, supermarkets, and local diners.

6. Cline Falls & Tumalo Area

Best for: Riverside retreats and outdoor relaxation
A short drive from Redmond, this scenic area along the Deschutes River is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape. Lodges and cabins here offer riverside decks, fishing access, and close proximity to Cline Falls State Park. It’s a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts who want tranquility without sacrificing access to Redmond’s dining and shopping.

Tips for Choosing Where to Stay

• For convenience: Downtown Redmond offers walkability and easy dining access.
• For outdoor adventure: Stay near Smith Rock or Cline Falls.
• For relaxation: Eagle Crest Resort delivers all-inclusive comfort and amenities.
• For budget trips: The Highway 97 corridor has solid, affordable options.
• Getting around: Redmond is car-friendly, with quick access to Bend (20 min), Sisters (25 min), and the airport (5 min).

How Many Days to Visit Redmond, Oregon

Days	Ideal For	Suggested Activities
1 Day (Quick Stop or Layover)	Road trippers, short visits	Explore Downtown Redmond — browse local shops, enjoy coffee at a craft café, and walk through Centennial Park. Visit Cline Falls State Park for a riverside picnic and scenic views before dinner at a local brewery.
2 Days (Weekend Escape)	City + nature mix	Day 1: Explore downtown and the Redmond Caves. Day 2: Take a short drive to Smith Rock State Park for hiking or photography. End your trip with local craft beer and sunset views over the high desert.
3 Days (Balanced Getaway)	Adventure + relaxation	Day 1: City exploration and local dining. Day 2: Full day at Smith Rock — hike Misery Ridge Trail or go rock climbing. Day 3: Visit Eagle Crest Resort for golf, spa, or pool relaxation, then enjoy dinner in downtown Redmond.
4 Days (Extended Stay)	Outdoor lovers & families	Add a half-day excursion to Tumalo Falls or Bend for river trails and dining. Visit Petersen Rock Garden, enjoy stargazing, or try kayaking on the Deschutes River. Families can spend time at Redmond’s Dry Canyon Park or the Fairgrounds.
5 Days or More (Central Oregon Base)	Regional exploration	Combine all the above with day trips to Sisters, Mount Bachelor, and Cascade Lakes. Enjoy local farmers’ markets, scenic drives, and craft breweries. Use Redmond as your hub for discovering Central Oregon’s outdoor adventures.

✅ Tips

• Best time to visit: May–October for clear skies and outdoor fun.
• Perfect for: Hikers, nature photographers, and families.
• Getting around: Car recommended; attractions are spread across scenic routes.
• Stay areas: Downtown (walkable), Eagle Crest (resort-style), or near Smith Rock (for adventure access).

Top 5 Things to Do in Redmond With Children

1. Explore the Redmond Caves Recreation Site

Kids love the thrill of walking through lava tubes and caves. Some of the caves are large enough to enter and explore, so bring headlamps or flashlights, sturdy shoes, and a sense of curiosity.

2. Ride & play at Redmond Bike Park / Pump Tracks / Skate Parks

For active kids who love biking or skating, the pump tracks and dirt jump trails (plus local skate parks) are great for burning energy and practicing new moves.

3. Visit the High Desert Museum (a short drive away)

This museum offers interactive exhibits on wildlife, local history, art, and nature. Outdoors, there are animals and structures to explore. It blends education and fun really well for kids.

4. Go to Petersen Rock Garden & Museum

This quirky garden built from rocks, petrified wood, and minerals features miniature rock structures and roaming peafowl. It’s visually fascinating for kids who like unusual art or nature.

5. Splash, play, and picnic in Sam Johnson Park / Centennial Park splash pad & playground

These parks offer inclusive playgrounds, water features, climbing structures, and open space — ideal for younger kids or a relaxing break between adventures.

How to Get to Redmond

By Air (Flying In)

The main airport serving the city is Redmond Municipal Airport (Roberts Field – RDM), just about two miles from downtown.
It’s served by Alaska, American, Delta, United, and Avelo Airlines, offering direct flights to major West Coast hubs such as Seattle, San Francisco, Denver, and Salt Lake City.

Once you land, you’ll find plenty of ground options:

• Car rentals are available directly in the terminal.
• Rideshares like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, with designated pickup zones.
• Taxis and local shuttles connect RDM with Bend, Sunriver, and surrounding towns.
• Private car and group shuttles can be pre-booked for added comfort.

By Car (Driving In)

Redmond sits at the crossroads of U.S. Highway 97 (north–south) and Oregon Route 126 (east–west).

• From Portland, expect a scenic 2.5- to 3-hour drive through mountain passes.
• From Eugene, it’s roughly three hours via Sisters and U.S. 20.
• From California (Klamath Falls), plan for about three hours north on U.S. 97.

To reach the airport by car, take the Yew Avenue exit off Highway 97 and head east for about two miles.

By Bus or Shuttle

Cascades East Transit operates regional buses connecting Redmond with Bend, Sisters, and Prineville.
If you fly into Portland or Eugene instead of Redmond, long-distance bus or shuttle services connect to Central Oregon several times per day.
Private companies such as Enviro Shuttle, Shuttle Oregon, and Destination Transportation provide shared or private transfers to resorts and nearby cities.

For Local Movement

Redmond’s downtown is compact and bike-friendly. Many hotels lend bicycles, and the Dry Canyon Trail cuts through the heart of town — a convenient car-free corridor connecting parks, cafes, and neighborhoods.

Where to Eat in Redmond

Restaurant	Address	Phone	Notable Dish / Specialty
One Street Down Cafe	124 SW 7th St, Redmond, OR 97756	(541) 647-2341	Breakfast & lunch classics, cozy café vibe
Brickhouse Steakhouse	412 SW 6th St, Redmond, OR 97756	(541) 526-1782	USDA prime steaks, wild seafood, upscale dining
The Hideaway Tavern	507 SW 8th St, Redmond, OR 97756	(541) 526-5989	Gourmet sports bar fare—burgers, pizzas, creative pub food
Terra Kitchen	509 SW 6th St, Redmond, OR 97756	(541) 604-8883	Farm-to-table, coastal Mediterranean flavors, seasonal menu
Fiesta Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant	905 SW Rimrock Way, Suite 202, Redmond, OR 97756	(541) 548-1595	Mexican classics—tacos, enchiladas, regional specialties
Aiwa Asian (Lunch & Dinner)	150 NW 5th Street, Redmond, OR	(541) 527-1380	Asian cuisine—sushi, noodle bowls, fusion dishes
Madaline’s Grill & Steakhouse	2414 S Highway 97, Redmond, OR	(541) 548-9964	Steaks, seafood, hearty American & Mexican dishes
Mo’s Egg House	950 SW Veterans Way, Redmond, OR 97756	(541) 527-4314	Breakfast & brunch favorites—omelettes, pancakes, benedicts
Baldy’s Barbeque	343 NW 6th St, Redmond, OR 97756	(541) 923-2271	Barbecue & smoked meats—ribs, brisket, pulled pork
Cascades Lakes Brewery Pub at 7th Street	855 SW 7th Street, Redmond, OR 97756	(541) 923-1795	Pub menu & craft beer; burgers, flatbreads, casual dining

Redmond Vs Neighboring Cities Comparison

Metric	Redmond, OR	Bend, OR	Sisters, OR
Population (2023 estimate)	~ 37,009	~ 104,557	~ 3,000
Area & Geography	High desert region, land area ~18.64 sq mi	Larger city footprint, more urban amenities & growth	Small town, compact, in scenic mountain foothills
Growth Trends	One of the faster-growing cities in Central Oregon region	Also growing, drawing many new residents for outdoor lifestyle	Growth slower; many residents value preserving small town character
Housing Costs	Lower compared to Bend; more affordability relative to neighbors	Higher housing demand; prices in premium zones escalate	Housing more limited; many properties premium because of charm / views
Median Age & Demographics	Younger median than Sisters; mix of working families & newcomers	Balanced demographics; robust mix of ages	Older average age; many retirees / second-home owners
Commute & Accessibility	Commutes moderate; serves as a hub between other cities	Some longer commutes for those on outskirts or crossing city	Short local commutes; many residents travel to Redmond/Bend for services
Role / Identity	“Hub” city in Central Oregon — service center, transportation, commerce	Regional anchor for culture, tourism, entertainment, and services	Gateway to recreation, artisan & rural community character
Strengths	More affordable, strategic location, room for growth, service infrastructure	Greater amenities, more cultural / entertainment offerings, stronger draw	Scenic, peaceful, strong community feel, lower population density
Challenges	Infrastructure strain with fast growth, limited high-end services	Higher cost of living, congestion, land pressures	Smaller tax base, limited resources for big projects, fewer services locally

Best Tips to Visit Redmond, Oregon

1. Time your outdoor plans around the high desert light

Redmond’s sun is intense and the golden hour hits hard. Plan photography, hikes, or balloon rides around sunrise or sunset — not mid-day — to avoid harsh shadows and overexposure.

2. Always pack for temperature swings

Desert climate = chilly mornings, hot afternoons, cool nights. A light puffer and breathable layers will save you from freezing at dawn and sweating at noon.

3. Carry a flashlight and gloves — volcanic terrain is rough

Whether exploring caves or rocky trails, the lava terrain can tear up sneakers and scrape hands. Gloves and a small flashlight or headlamp come in handy way more than you’d think.

4. Learn to “linger local”

Skip rushing between attractions — Redmond’s charm is in chatting with brewers, baristas, and market vendors. Locals often drop real travel intel that never appears online.

5. Expect no cell signal in the canyons

Download offline maps before heading out — even close to town, signal can disappear near cliffs, rivers, or inside lava tubes.

6. Use the backroads, not just Highway 97

Side routes like SW Helmholtz Way or NW Canal Blvd show off farmland, river bluffs, and views of the Cascades — perfect for a “slow drive” day.

7. Sunscreen, hat, water — even in winter

The elevation (over 3,000 ft) and thin desert air mean UV levels stay high year-round. Locals treat sunscreen like a daily accessory.

8. Plan one “reset” activity

Desert air is dry and altitude mild — take one afternoon for a float, a slow walk in Dry Canyon, or yoga outdoors. It resets your energy and beats altitude headaches.

9. Shop early or late — not mid-day

Downtown shops and markets often close early or take mid-day breaks. Visit before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m. for better service and fewer crowds.

10. Keep cash for small-town honesty boxes

Farmstands, antique sheds, and rural food stalls still use cash or Venmo notes. A few singles or fives let you grab fresh produce or handmade crafts on impulse.

FAQ

1. Is Redmond, Oregon a good place to visit (compared to Bend)?

Many travelers wonder whether staying in Redmond vs Bend is better. While Bend is often more tourist-oriented, Redmond offers lower lodging costs, quieter streets, and easier access to desert landscapes. Locals and past visitors sometimes say: “Redmond is more chill, just less to do,” but for travelers wanting a relaxed base, it can be ideal.

2. What’s the best time of year to visit Redmond, Oregon?

Redmond is in the high desert, so summers are warm and dry, winters bring cold and snow. You’ll get the most comfortable conditions and best outdoor access in late spring to early fall. Expect mild days, cool nights, and less chance of storm closures.

3. How much sun, rain, or snow does Redmond see annually?

Redmond gets very little precipitation — about 8 to 10 inches of rain per year. Snowfall averages around 24 inches annually.

4. What kinds of altitude, terrain, and signals should travelers expect around Redmond?

Redmond sits at roughly 3,000 feet elevation (≈ 3012 ft). The terrain includes lava tubes, cliffs, volcanic rock, and desert canyon areas. Be prepared for cell signal dropouts in deep canyon zones, lava tubes, or remote trails.

5. Are there unique architectural or historic hotels in downtown Redmond?

Yes — the New Redmond Hotel (built 1928) is a renovated landmark in downtown Redmond. It blends historic architecture (Georgian style) with modern upgrades.

6. Does Redmond, Oregon have its own airport, and what airlines serve it?

Yes — Roberts Field (Redmond Municipal Airport / RDM) is Redmond’s airport and also serves the nearby Bend area. Several regional carriers provide service from Redmond to West Coast destinations.

Tags

• Trip Ideas