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Tag: Unique Places To Visit In Oregon

See Oregon’s First International Dark Sky Place + Sunriver Observatory

Posted on by Ben Rueter

Oregon is a beautiful part of the country. Just take a look around from the lush forests, the towering mountains, and the sparkling rivers. But remember to take some time to look up when you are in Oregon. The night sky is just as beautiful as you can see close to the ground. The best way to do that is visiting Oregon’s First International Dark Sky Place + Sunriver Observatory. It’s a fantastic place to visit when you stay with Village Properties at Sunriver. Here is what you need to know about Oregon’s First International Dark Sky Place + Sunriver Observatory.

What Is The Sunriver Observatory?

It is an astronomical observatory operated by the not-for-profit Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory in Sunriver. It has twenty-three telescopes.

What Can You See At The Observatory?

According to the observatory website, you can see “crystal clear views of the moon and various planets, to star clusters and nebulas, the observatory’s views will amaze first-time stargazers and amateur astronomers alike.”

What Events Are Planned At The Observatory? 

There are events at the observatory, like the Exclusive Star Party. The event allows you to explore constellations through a laser-guided tour. You’ll see views of planets, the Moon, galaxies, and meteorites. The tour is one hour long.

See The Night Sky

It’s a special treat when the sun sets and the sky is clear in Oregon. You’ll have one of the best views at Oregon’s First International Dark Sky Place + Sunriver Observatory. Book directly with Village Properties at Sunriver to access many more terrific Oregon sights. We feature some of the best amenities and rooms in the Sunriver and Bend, Oregon, area. Have the best time possible by booking directly with us. To hear more about our accommodations, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.

You Need To See Paulina Falls, East Lake, And More In Oregon

Posted on by Ben Rueter

Central Oregon is one of the most gorgeous and picturesque places in the United States. That’s true due to the number of nature attractions and the variety you can experience thanks to the lush forests but bubbling streams, expansive lakes, glimmering caves, and towering waterfalls. Village Properties at Sunriver is in the heart of many outstanding natural attractions in Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which include Paulina Falls, Lava River Cave, and more. Don’t pass over seeing Paulina Falls, Lava River Cave, and more.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument was created within the boundaries of Deschutes National Forest, which covers more than 54,000 acres of lakes and lava flows. There is so much to explore in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument that you can spend multiple days hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, boating, swimming, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and more. We’ll highlight some hot spots here that you shouldn’t miss.

Lava River Cave

If you visit during a hot day, you should head straight into the Lava River Cave. Year-round, the cave is a cool 42 degrees. The cave is a mile-long lava tube that takes about an hour and a half to explore. Because this is a popular natural attraction, there are timed reservations, which are available online. Each time slot allows access to Lava River Cave for 2 hours.

Paulina Falls

Those interested in a shorter adventure but just as impressive should cool off in the mist of the Paulina Falls. The trail to the falls is less than half a mile long, and you can see the falls from the bottom or on top. Most of the way to the falls is paved, making it very accessible to see this sight.

Paulina & East Lake

Together these two lakes are referred to as twin lakes. Paulina is the larger of the two lakes, with a depth of 250 feet. In East Lake, the average depth is 67 feet. A unique thing about these lakes is that neither lake receives water from a river or stream. Instead, both lakes rely on rain, snow, and hot springs for water. Motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed, so you can rent a boat and fish or enjoy the scenery.

Witness Some Of The Best Views In Oregon

We are positive you will not regret visiting Paulina Falls or any of these attractions in Central Oregon. To be clear, you should visit more than one of these places when you stay with Village Properties at Sunriver to get the best nature viewing experience. In addition, we feature some of the best amenities and rooms in the Sunriver and Bend, Oregon, area. Have the best time possible by booking directly with us. To hear more about our accommodations, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.

What’s The Best Time To Visit Sunriver, Oregon?

Posted on by Tony Kinney

Sunriver is the ultimate destination for relaxation, outdoor adventures, and memorable experiences. Enveloped in the heart of the majestic beauty of Central Oregon, Sunriver offers a retreat like no other, whether you’re seeking a thrilling vacation or a peaceful escape. Once you’ve decided to plan your getaway with Village Properties at Sunriver, perhaps you’re wondering when is the best time to visit. Considering Sunriver gets 300+ days of sunshine annually, there isn’t a wrong time of year to book your stay. However, here are the benefits of a summer or fall vacation to Oregon.

Visiting Sunriver In Summer

Summer is an energetic and exciting time to experience Sunriver’s natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. With abundant sunshine, refreshing water activities, and an array of exciting events, it’s no wonder why so many visitors choose to spend their summer here. Immerse yourself in the unique scenery and celebrate these lively community events you can only find in Oregon.

  • Cool off and play in SHARC. SHARC is the Sunriver Homeowners Association Recreation Center and is the premiere aquatics, recreation, and event center in Sunriver. Our vacation rentals in Sunriver include free SHARC passes!
    • SHARC admission is dependent on their capacity! Please check the SHARC website for a status update before your visit or call 541-585-5000.
  • Spend the weekend watching balloons fly over the trees at Balloons Over Bend. Hundreds of hot air balloons rise over one weekend from the early morning to late at night.
  • For art admirers out there, you will not want to pass by the Sunriver Art Fair. It’s a tremendous opportunity to see and support some of the finest local art. The Children’s “Make & Take Craft Bags” also makes this a popular event for families with children.
  • Try dipping your toes into the Deschutes River.
  • Paddleboard and swim in the nearby Cascade Lakes
    • Todd Lake
    • Sparks Lake
    • Devil Lake
    • Elk Lake
    • Hosmer Lake
    • Lava Lake & Little Lava Lake
    • Cultus Lake & Little Cultus Lake
    • Crane Prarie Reservoir
    • North & South Twin Lakes
    • Wickiup Reservoir
    • Devils Lake

Visiting Sunriver In Fall

If you’re looking for a more serene experience, Sunriver in the Fall is a hidden gem that offers a relaxing oasis in the Pacific Northwest. As the heat of summer subsides, and the kids head back to school, this is a perfect opportunity to experience the attractions Sunriver offers, minus the crowds and high temperatures. Here are some lovely reasons to visit Sunriver, OR, in the fall.

  • Enjoy the combination of sunshine and crisp air at Sunriver’s renowned golf courses.
  • Try seeing the amazing splay of colors from horseback. Sunriver Trail Rides is a great way to try horseback riding and get a different perspective. Another stellar option is Todd Creek Horse Camp. Set along the Cascade Highway, it’s a chill and beautiful horseback tour through some of the best views near Sunriver.
  • An exhilarating activity to try in the fall is ATV and Off-Roading near Sunriver. There are numerous offroading trails like the East Fort Rock OHV Trail System or Edison Butte OHV Trail System. You can travel these trails all day if you like ranging from 20 miles to more than 300 miles of dirt to move on.

Book Your Stay In Sunriver, Oregon, Now

Whether you prefer the vibrant energy of summer or the serene tranquility of fall, you will not want to miss some of the attractions that only happen during these seasons. It’s no wonder why Sunriver is legendary as a summer vacation destination – some things to consider for the season are: it’s wildfire season (smoke may affect your travel or experience) and also that the warmer temperatures could be an issue for vulnerable populations (old, young)


Experience why Sunriver is a popular summer destination and the best time to visit, or discover why fall is an equally enticing time that captures the hearts of visiting travelers. Book your stay with Village Properties at Sunriver and embark on an unforgettable journey in Sunriver this summer or fall, with no shortage of delightful experiences. In addition, we feature some of the best amenities and rooms in the Sunriver and Bend, Oregon, area. Have the best time possible by booking directly with us. To hear more about our accommodations, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.

3 Free Things To Do in Sunriver, Oregon

Posted on by Tony Kinney

Vacations don’t have to be expensive for you and your family. One way to keep your costs down is to find a place with free family attractions. Central Oregon has plenty of free things to do in the Sunriver, Oregon, area. You can easily find them when you stay with Village Properties At Sunriver. We have affordable vacation rentals that are great for groups or families. Try visiting these fun free things to do in Sunriver, Oregon.

Free Summer Concerts

Turf Tunes is a summer concert series held at the John Gray Amphitheater at SHARC.  Experience live music from nationally recognized musicians for free on select Sundays in June and July.  SHARC also features one premiere musical act via a ticketed concert during the summer lineup.

Another free concert series is the Starry Nights Summer Concert Series in The Village at Sunriver outdoor mall starting at 6:30 pm every Thursday, July-August.

Turf Tunes and Starry Nights Summer Concert Series are both excellent ways to enjoy free entertainment during your Sunriver vacation.

Fort Rock Park

You can plan a picnic at Fort Rock Park. This nearby park has many amenities and activities to entertain you and your family. These amenities include a ballfield, barbecue grills, basketball court, horseshoe, pavilion, picnic tables, playground, restrooms, volleyball, and tennis/pickleball courts.

Benham Falls Trail

For the adventurous type, you can explore the beautiful scenery along the Benham Falls Trail. This is a relaxed trail along the Deschutes River, where you can see the ranging, unique landscape of the ancient lava lands through the Deschutes National Forest. Get up close to the waterfalls and feel the cool mist. The trail is filled with ponderosa pines and plenty of shade. Combined with the waterfalls and the shade, this is a beautiful way to stay cool and enjoy the sights.

Free And Fun

As you can see, there is a lot to do and see that won’t break the bank. With so many fun free things to do in Central Oregon, you will rest easy at the end of the day at your vacation rental through Village Properties At Sunriver. We feature some of the best amenities and rooms in the Sunriver and Bend, Oregon, area. Have the best time possible by booking directly with us. To hear more about our accommodations, reach out to us at 1-844-458-4433. Or book with us online.

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