Is There an Airport in Bend?
While Bend doesn't have its own major airport, don't worry—getting there is still easy. The nearest airport is Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), located about 20 miles north of Bend in the town of Redmond. It’s the closest airport for commercial flights and serves as the primary gateway for air travelers visiting Bend.
Flights to Bend, Oregon
Redmond Municipal Airport is well connected with direct flights from major hubs like Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Denver. Airlines such as Alaska, Delta, United, and American Airlines operate flights to and from Redmond, providing travelers with a convenient way to fly into Central Oregon. Once you land at RDM, Bend is just a short 25-30 minute drive away.
Getting to Bend from Other Cities
If you're traveling by road, Bend is accessible from many nearby cities, including Portland, Eugene, and Seattle. Here’s a breakdown of the best routes:
Portland to Bend
One of the most popular ways to reach Bend is by driving from Portland. The fastest route to Bend, Oregon from Portland is via US-26 E and US-97 S. The journey takes about 3 hours and offers scenic views of Mount Hood and the Cascade Mountains. It’s a straight and easy drive, making it one of the best options if you prefer the flexibility of traveling by car.
Seattle to Bend
For those coming from Seattle, the drive to Bend is around 6 hours via I-5 S and US-97 S. Though longer than the Portland route, this scenic drive takes you through forested areas, high desert, and mountain passes.
Other Driving Options
- San Francisco to Bend: If you're coming from San Francisco, the drive is about 8-9 hours via I-5 N and US-97 N.
- Eugene to Bend: From Eugene, the drive to Bend is approximately 2.5 hours via OR-126 E.
No matter which city you’re traveling from, Bend is relatively easy to reach by car, offering beautiful vistas along the way.
Bend Car Rentals and Transportation Options
Once you arrive in Bend, you’ll want to explore all the amazing natural areas surrounding the city, so having transportation is key. Here are some options for getting around:
Bend Car Rentals
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Bend and its surroundings. You can rent a car at Redmond Municipal Airport when you land, or you can find multiple Bend car rental companies within the city. Renting a car allows you the freedom to drive to nearby attractions like the Cascade Lakes, Smith Rock, and the Deschutes National Forest.
Public Transportation
If renting a car isn't your style, Bend has a public transit system run by Cascades East Transit (CET). The buses serve the city of Bend and nearby communities like Redmond, Sunriver, and Sisters. While convenient for getting around town, public transportation won’t take you to more remote outdoor locations.
Ridesharing and Taxis
Services like Uber and Lyft operate in Bend, making it easy to catch a ride to and from the airport, restaurants, or local attractions. Traditional taxi services are also available, although they tend to be less common than ridesharing options.
Getting Around Bend by Bike or Foot
Bend is an incredibly bike-friendly city with plenty of bike lanes and scenic paths. Renting a bike is a great way to explore Bend's downtown and nearby parks, especially during the warmer months. Numerous bike rental shops offer mountain bikes, cruisers, and e-bikes for those looking to explore the area on two wheels.
Bend’s downtown area is also highly walkable, making it easy to explore the local shops, cafes, and breweries on foot. You can stroll along the beautiful Deschutes River Trail or wander through Bend’s charming Old Mill District.
Tips for Getting to Bend and Getting Around
- Plan for Bend's Weather: Bend's high desert climate means you'll experience big temperature swings between day and night, especially in the winter and spring. Always check the weather forecast and pack accordingly for outdoor activities.
- Winter Travel Caution: If you're traveling to Bend during the winter, especially from Portland or Seattle, make sure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires. The mountain passes can get icy, and snowy conditions can slow down your drive.
- Outdoor Adventures Await: If you're planning to explore outside of the city limits—whether hiking, biking, or skiing—renting a car will give you the flexibility to get out to all the amazing outdoor destinations Bend has to offer. For longer road trips, make sure your rental car has enough space for your gear.
- Local Events: Bend is known for its vibrant cultural scene, hosting events like the Bend Film Festival, local concerts, and seasonal festivals. If you plan to visit during a busy event period, book your accommodation and transportation in advance.
In Conclusion
While Bend doesn’t have its own airport, getting to Bend is straightforward thanks to Redmond Municipal Airport just 20 miles away. Whether you’re flying directly into RDM or making the scenic drive from Portland, Seattle, or other cities, Bend’s stunning landscapes and outdoor activities make it well worth the journey. Once you're in town, Bend car rentals, public transit, biking, or ridesharing will make it easy to explore this outdoor paradise.
By planning ahead, choosing the right transportation, and checking out the fastest routes to Bend, Oregon, you’ll be set to enjoy everything this Central Oregon gem has to offer!