Farewell Bend Park
Scenic urban park along the Deschutes River, featuring a unique playground, boardwalks, and stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Farewell Bend Park
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic urban park along the Deschutes River, featuring a unique playground, boardwalks, and stunning views.
"This is the true beauty of Oregon! Thank you so much for preserving this!"
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Plenty of picnic areas and shelters make it ideal for a family meal with river views. Bring your own food and drinks!
Wildlife Spotting 🐵
Keep an eye out for ducks, birds, and other local wildlife along the river and wetlands. Early mornings are best!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Deschutes River Boardwalk
Along the riverfront
Stroll or bike along this scenic path, offering stunning river views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Lumber Mill Playground
Central park area
A unique, themed playground that sparks imagination for kids, featuring climbing structures and slides.
Bill Healy Bridge Views
Connecting to Old Mill District
Capture picturesque shots of the river, mountains, and the city skyline from this iconic pedestrian bridge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Plenty of picnic areas and shelters make it ideal for a family meal with river views. Bring your own food and drinks!
Wildlife Spotting 🐵
Keep an eye out for ducks, birds, and other local wildlife along the river and wetlands. Early mornings are best!
Bike or Walk 🚴
The park is connected to Bend's trail system, making it perfect for a bike ride or a leisurely walk.
Capture the Sunset 🌅
The western-facing views offer beautiful sunset opportunities, especially from the bridges.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Plenty of picnic areas and shelters make it ideal for a family meal with river views. Bring your own food and drinks!
Wildlife Spotting 🐵
Keep an eye out for ducks, birds, and other local wildlife along the river and wetlands. Early mornings are best!
Bike or Walk 🚴
The park is connected to Bend's trail system, making it perfect for a bike ride or a leisurely walk.
Capture the Sunset 🌅
The western-facing views offer beautiful sunset opportunities, especially from the bridges.
Limited Parking 🚘
Parking can fill up quickly on weekends. Consider arriving early or using ride-sharing services.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Farewell Bend Park for its stunning natural beauty, family-friendly amenities, and scenic riverfront. Many highlight the peaceful atmosphere, excellent walking trails, and the unique playground as major draws. While parking can be a challenge on busy days, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a must-visit spot in Bend.
"First time in town and we absolutely loved it! 10/10! The people we talked too. The beautiful sunset. The wildlife and happiness of genuine human beings. I mean we have been to Ontario.... Which gives Oregon a horrible name! GIVE IT TO IDAHO ALREADY! This is the true beauty of Oregon! Thank you so much for preserving this!"
Kydd Karma
"Awesome trail. Great views. Easy 1.33 mile loop.
Great artwork. Clean restrooms and plenty picnic areas."
Lizzy Carter
"Very peaceful park on the river. Great place for the family. Plenty for the kids to do, as well as for the adults to see and take it. Beautiful place. Im getting to appreciate the beauty of Oregon as Ive only been here a few times."
Special Ed Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Farewell Bend Park is located at 100 SW Reed Market Rd, Bend, OR. It's easily accessible by car, bike, or on foot from downtown Bend and the Old Mill District. Parking is available but can be limited on busy days.
While direct bus routes might vary, the park is well-connected to Bend's extensive trail system, making it a great destination for cyclists. You can also consider ride-sharing services if parking is an issue.
While Farewell Bend Park is a great spot to enjoy the river, tubing directly from here might require planning. The river shuttle service typically starts later in the season. Some visitors suggest parking at Drake Park and arranging transport to Riverbend Park for a float.
If parking is full, consider biking to the park as it's part of a larger trail network. Alternatively, you could have one person drop off the group and then find parking further away or use a ride-share.
Yes, Farewell Bend Park is adjacent to the Old Mill District, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and other recreational areas along the Deschutes River.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Farewell Bend Park is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. Enjoy the amenities and natural beauty for free!
The park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours for facilities like restrooms may vary. It's a great spot for both sunrise and sunset viewing.
No advance booking is required for general park access. However, if you plan to use picnic shelters for a large gathering, it's advisable to check with the city of Bend for any reservation policies.
General park rules apply. You're welcome to bring picnics, non-motorized watercraft (like kayaks and paddleboards), and dogs on leashes. Alcohol and amplified music may be restricted.
Yes, Farewell Bend Park features paved walking paths and accessible facilities, making it a welcoming space for visitors of all abilities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, biking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and playing at the unique lumber mill-themed playground. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular on the Deschutes River. 
Absolutely! The bridges, river views, mountain backdrops, and sunsets offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Old Mill District skyline is also visible.
Yes, it's a fantastic family destination with a fun playground, open green spaces for running around, and the river for observing wildlife like ducks.
Dogs are welcome at Farewell Bend Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet.
The park's wetlands and river attract various bird species, including ducks, and you might also spot fish in the river.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining establishments directly within Farewell Bend Park itself. However, the adjacent Old Mill District offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.
The park has numerous picnic shelters and open grassy areas perfect for a picnic. Many spots offer lovely views of the Deschutes River.
While specific grilling rules can vary, it's generally best to check with the City of Bend Parks and Recreation for current regulations regarding open flames or BBQs in public parks. Picnic shelters are available for use.
Yes, there are typically water fountains available within the park for refilling water bottles, especially near restrooms and the playground area. Staying hydrated is key, especially during warmer months.
The Old Mill District, just a short walk or bike ride away, boasts numerous dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to all tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Evenings are particularly stunning with moonrise potential.
The Bill Healy Bridge, the Deschutes River with its reflections, the unique playground structures, and the surrounding natural landscapes are all highly photogenic.
Drone usage in parks is often regulated. It's essential to check the latest City of Bend Parks and Recreation guidelines regarding drone operation to ensure compliance.
The bridges offer elevated perspectives of the river and the Old Mill District. Walking along the riverbanks also provides intimate shots of the water and surrounding nature.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and general shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive river views, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the playground, the park provides ample open space for running and playing, making it easy to keep kids entertained. The Deschutes River offers gentle areas for exploration, and spotting ducks and other wildlife is a guaranteed hit with younger visitors. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many designated picnic areas. The paved paths are stroller-friendly, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for families. It's an ideal spot for a casual afternoon outing or a full day of exploration.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Runners
The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for all fitness levels, and the constant river views provide a motivating and beautiful backdrop. Early mornings are particularly pleasant for a run or walk, offering cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. You'll share the paths with locals enjoying their morning exercise and dog walkers. The park's connection to Bend's extensive trail system means you can easily extend your outing for a longer workout.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1Beyond the river, the park's diverse flora and fauna provide ample subjects. The unique playground also offers interesting architectural shots. Whether you're seeking landscape, wildlife, or urban-nature fusion photography, Farewell Bend Park delivers. Remember to be respectful of the environment and wildlife while capturing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Deschutes River
For those looking to float the river, planning is key. While the park itself is a great access point, understanding the shuttle services and parking logistics is important. Some visitors suggest parking at Drake Park and arranging transport to Riverbend Park for a seamless tubing experience, especially if the dedicated shuttle isn't yet operational.
Remember to be mindful of river conditions and safety. While many areas are calm, rapids can exist, and currents can be strong. Always prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings when enjoying the Deschutes River. The park's design ensures that the river is a focal point, inviting visitors to connect with this vital natural resource.
Family Fun at the Playground and Beyond
Beyond the playground, the park offers ample green space for running, playing games, or simply enjoying a family picnic. The gentle slopes and open fields are perfect for a game of frisbee or a leisurely stroll. The boardwalks and paved paths are also ideal for strollers and young children learning to ride bikes.
The park's natural setting also provides educational opportunities for families. Spotting ducks and other wildlife along the riverbanks can be a delightful experience for children, turning a simple park visit into a mini nature expedition.
Photography Opportunities
+1For the best shots, aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset. The soft, warm light can transform the park into a magical scene, highlighting the colors of the sky and water. Evenings can also offer the chance to capture a beautiful moonrise over the river.
+1 The park's diverse elements, from the vibrant playground to the tranquil riverbanks, ensure a range of photographic possibilities, whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone. While the park is beautiful year-round, consider the seasons for different photographic moods. Spring brings new growth, summer offers lush greenery, fall provides vibrant foliage, and winter can blanket the park in serene snow.
Remember to check local regulations if you plan to use a drone for aerial photography, as restrictions may apply. 
Social
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