Memorial Day in Sunriver

Will you be spending Memorial Day in Sunriver? Great! We’ve got a list of local happenings for you. Whether you want to hang out up at the mountain, walk through nature or spend some time down in the Village at Sunriver, you’ll find something that fits.

Saturday, May 26th:

Saturday Bird Walks at the Sunriver Nature Center: Head out to the Sunriver Nature Center and Oregon Observatory on Saturday with Tom Lawler, expert local birder and nature photographer to discover the habitats of local birds. On this walk, you will be introduced to a variety of species that are found in the wetlands, meadows and forests that surround the Nature Center. Bring your binoculars and a bottle of water and wear some comfortable walking shoes. Expect to see lots and to walk approximately three to four miles along different trails. Do not bring a stroller or dog please. This walk is from 8:30am – 10:30am. Early registration is encouraged and will cost $5.

Kids Day in May at the Village at Sunriver: After you finish your nature walk, get the kiddos ready for some fun and games in the village. From 11am – 4pm the Village at Sunriver will be hosting a variety of activities for all ages. Visit the petting zoo or jump until you can’t jump any longer in the inflatable bounce houses. Test your hands and feet at climbing the rock wall and fuel the adventure with some cotton candy. The event is free for all, activities cost $1 each. To top the day off, portions of the proceeds benefit nonprofit organizations in South Deschutes County.

Stargazing at the Oregon Observatory at Sunriver: Why not end the day with a full circle. Head back over to the Sunriver Nature Center and Oregon Observatory for some stargazing once the sun drops. From 8pm – 10pm, the observatory will open their doors to the public and offer guided constellation tours and expert assistance. There’s no better place to view the night sky than the Oregon Observatory at Sunriver. They will open for night viewing on Saturday nights only in April & May so mark your calendars. And of course, it is weather dependent. Admission for Evening Program is $10 for adults, and $8 for children under 12.

Snow Beach at Mt. Bachelor: If you’re more interested in heading up to the mountains than staying around the village, Mt. Bachelor has got just the thing for you. 10 Barrel Snow Beach is a fun-filled couple of hours with all of the games you love to play at the beach, but the games are bigger, better…. and, in the snow! Play some GIANT cornhole or croquet. Participate in the dunk tank and so much more! There will be games, beer and live music. Just head up to the West Village Base Area and you won’t  be able to miss this fun filled event.

Sunday, May 27th:

Dog Day in May at the Village at Sunriver: Did you bring your doggie with you? Great, here’s an adventure that you and your bud will definitely want to experience together. The Village at Sunriver is hosting Dog Day in May on Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. Enter the Bark of Life 5k Poke Dog Walk/Run in the morning, followed by dog focused events in the village all day. Does your dog have some unique tricks or great talents? Enter him into the amateur dog talent contest! There will also be lots of dog related vendors offering canine products and services.

Memorial Day in Sunriver is special for lots of reasons. Take advantage of the events in the area, plan your own adventures your way, or enjoy the awesome deck and BBQ at your Village Properties vacation rental. Stock up on some traditional BBQ food, soak up some relaxation and make some memories!

Still planning your Memorial Day adventures? Let us help. Call our team of Sunriver experts today.

Your A-Z List of Things To Do In Sunriver

There is no shortage of things to do in Sunriver, but it can be difficult to find all of the amazing activities and sights. That’s where our A-Z guide comes in. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of things to do in Sunriver that is sure to keep you busy no matter how long your stay is!

YR = Year Round
Sp = Spring
S = Summer
F = Fall
W = Winter

Art (YR) – From roundabout art in Bend, to a plethora of art galleries throughout the area, there is not shortage of unique and local art to be enjoyed in Sunriver and beyond.

Beer/Breweries (YR) – Known as “Beertown USA”, Bend and the surrounding communities are a hot spot for beer lovers. With well over 20 breweries and counting, the area is home to some of the best beers in the nation. Beer is such an attraction in the area that there is even a Brewery passport you can work on filling up with the Bend Ale Trail. As a guest of Village Properties at Sunriver, you will receive a discount to the Bend Brew Bus, a service that will take you and your crew to breweries in the area.

Cross Country Skiing (W) – Take in scenes that you can only see in the Deschutes National Forest. Cross Country Skiing is a peaceful and rewarding activity that is available at the Mt. Bachelor Nordic Center or from any of the areas many Sno-Parks.

Dog Sledding (W) – Central Oregon is home to Oregon Trail of Dreams, owned by Rachael Scdoris, her husband Nick and her father, Jerry. Rachael is a world-renowned athlete and had her first Iditarod finish in 2006. Stay warm in the sled while a real dog sled team takes you on an unforgettable winter adventure.

Elevation (YR) – With the Cascade mountains nearby, you can easily gain some elevation in Central Oregon. In the winter, see some epic views and speed down the mountain from the top of Mt. Bachelor on the Summit Express lift. In the summer, Mt. Bachelor offers scenic chairlift rides on the Pine Marten Lift. From mid-mountain you’ll be able to see some breathtaking views. Or, head up in the evening for dinner at the Pine Marten Lodge with sunset views.

Floating the Deschutes (Sp, S, F) – When the days are long and warm, visitors and locals alike love floating the Deschutes River. There are several great spots to put-in throughout Central Oregon. We share just a few of many ideas here.

Golf (Sp, S, F) – With more than two-dozen golf courses, Central Oregon is a must-visit destination for golf-enthusiasts. Be sure to visit a nearby course on your stay, or even plan an entire vacation surrounding golf. As a guest of Village Properties at Sunriver, you will receive discounts at a select few courses in the region.

High Desert Museum (YR) – Discover the natural world and cultural history of the West’s High Desert through artful exhibits, alluring animals, engaging programs and meaningful history at the High Desert Museum. Open all year, this is a fantastic activity for the whole family.

Ice Skating (W) – Ice skating is a necessary family tradition in the winter. The Village at Sunriver offers a newly remodeled Ice arena for this activity. With skate rentals and even a viewing area for those that don’t want to brave the ice, you won’t be sorry you chose this activity.

Jazz (F, W) – Jazz at the Oxford, that is. Jazz at the Oxford brings world-class artists to the area over 5 separate weekends in the fall and winter. Enjoy fine dining and incredible music in a tranquil setting.

Kayak (Sp, S, F) – With the Deschutes River and too many gorgeous lakes to count, kayaking is a favorite activity in the Sunriver area. If you are visiting and want to try a kayak out, Village Properties guests will receive a discount on kayak and gear rentals at some great local businesses.

Lakes (Sp, S, F) – If kayaking isn’t your cup of tea, simply visiting the lakes for some photo opps is still necessary if you’re in Sunriver. The high mountain lakes are stunning and often make you feel as if you’re standing in a postcard.

Mt. Bachelor (YR) – Mt. Bachelor has an activity for every season. From biking, hiking, site-seeing or disc golf in the warmer months to skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, sled dog rides, snowblast tubing and more in the winter, you will find an activity for everyone up at the mountain.

Nature Center (YR) – A non-profit and educational organization, the Sunriver Nature Center offers hands-on activities, programs and exhibits that will keep the kiddos engaged and interested in the natural world.

Oregon Observatory (YR) – Your gateway to an expanding world of information and natural sciences. The Oregon Observatory at Sunriver offers daytime and nighttime viewing options as well as lots of programs and special events. Be sure to check with the Village Properties staff to see if we can offer you any special deals.

Paddle (Sp, S, F) – As mentioned in the Kayak section above, there are tons of options for paddling your kayak, canoe or even a paddleboard. Regardless of which method of paddling you choose, it’s worth doing while visiting the area. Check out your options at Good 2 Go Food and Fun or Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe. Both great companies will offer guests of Village Properties at Sunriver great discounts.

Quiet (YR) – Picture the snow falling outside and all you hear is the crackling of a fire in your vacation rental. Imagine lying on the shore of the Deschutes River and all you can hear is the water streaming by you, some birds chirping and a light breeze in the trees. No matter what time of year you visit, you’re sure to find some peace and quiet to help you relax and rejuvenate.

Relax (YR) – Sunriver and the surrounding areas offer beauty, nature and more to help you feel rested. Whether you go out for a long walk in the forest, a dreamy paddle on the river or a speedy ride down the mountain on your skis, you’re sure to feel a sense of rejuvenation after visiting the area. If a massage or pedicure sounds more appealing, be sure to check out Sage Springs.

Sledding (W) – There are plenty of winter activities that we could mention here. We chose sledding because it’s an activity that is truly fun for the whole family. Especially at Wanoga Sno-Park.

Tubing (W) – Sno-blast tubing is the name and Mt. Bachelor is the place to go to experience an 800 foot ride, full of rollers. Fun for all ages!

Unplug/Unwind (YR) – Why not come to Central Oregon for a true escape. Come to the quiet, relax and unplug. Turn the phone off and don’t look at your laptop. Instead, bring a book, kick up your feet and let the unwinding begin. Check out Sage Springs, a local club and spa to reserve a massage and/or a pedicure to help you out.

Visit (YR) – So, you came to Central Oregon with your family. Maybe it’s not the best time to unplug. But, it’s the perfect time to visit. Take the time to reconnect with those that you’re with. Walk in nature and just be together. Bond over a cup of coffee while watching the deer stroll through the forest. Visiting with those that you love while in Sunriver is easy.

Walk/Bike (YR) – No matter what Mother Nature is offering you, the miles of paved trails in Sunriver offer endless options for walking and biking. Many of our vacation rentals are in close proximity to the Village at Sunriver and other attractions. The paved trails of Sunriver offer you walking or biking as an option for getting around.

EXplore (YR) – Sunriver and the surrounding areas offer an endless amount of options for exploring. From lakes and rivers to caves and mountains. From the forest and hiking trails to fishing and sightseeing, the options are never-ending. Be sure to check with the Village Properties staff if you have any questions about our area. Our staff is local and very knowledgeable about the area and all it has to offer.

Yoga (YR) – In Sunriver, Sage Springs offers Yoga classes all year round. This beautiful club and spa will not disappoint. Or, grab your mat and take a short walk to enjoy some yoga on your own out in nature.

Zesty food (YR) – There is no shortage of dining options in Sunriver. The area is home to several talented chefs that share their expertise with many tasty restaurants. Remember, Village Properties at Sunriver guests will receive discounts to some of these local restaurants.

Your Guide to October Events in Central Oregon

Our goal at Village Properties is to provide you with just the right home in Sunriver while giving you plenty of ideas of things to do in the area. Check out our list of October events in Central Oregon as you plan your trip to the area! We hope you enjoy your stay.

Here Are a Few of Our Favorite October Events in Central Oregon:

Bend Fall Festival | October 6 – 8

bend fall festivalOne of our favorite October events in Central Oregon is the Fall Festival. As the light slants and softens, bringing the harvest in its wake, our thoughts turn to the coziness of the fall season. Celebrate with the delights of The First Interstate Bank Bend Fall Festival 2017. All the traditions that you love about this event will be there – pumpkin carving, gourmet food and wine, a harvest market, and outstanding music. New this year is the Fall Into Fashion Area, highlighting a carefully selected group of creators, retailers, and reps for both clothing and accessories which will be featured in street fashion shows.

Prepare to have your appetite whetted by the crispness of the season and an outstanding collection of vendors and do a little holiday shopping in the most unique marketplace in Central Oregon.

Friday, October 6th (5pm – 11pm)
Saturday, October 7th (11am – 11pm)
Sunday, October 8th (11am – 5pm)

Sandhill Cranes | October 12

Join the Sunriver Nature Center for a fascinating introduction to the origins and travels of three Pacific Flyway Sandhill Crane subspecies that breed and migrate through Oregon. For over 20 years, Dr. Gary Ivey of the International Crane Foundation has been actively involved in ecological research, habitat management, and conservation efforts aimed at Sandhill Cranes. Dr. Ivey will provide an intimate look at the unique natural history of this bird and its status throughout Oregon.

The lecture will take place in the Pozzi Building at Sunriver Nature Center.

Project Ponderosa Fall Seedling Sale | October 13- October 22

Project Ponderosa was founded in 2005 by Sunriver resident Lee Stevenson to promote student environmental engagement and Ponderosa Pine restoration in Sunriver, Oregon and the upper-Deschutes River ecosystem. Since the project’s inception, over 8,000 seedlings have been potted and maintained by students at Three Rivers School and La Pine High School and more than $10,000 has been raised to support non-profit organizations both locally and internationally.

Ponderosa Pines are a hardy, majestic native conifer but have been historically heavily logged. However, they are significantly more resistant to disease, mountain pine beetles, drought, and wind damage than Lodgepole Pines. They are also fire resistant when mature, due to their thick cinnamon-colored bark. Planting Ponderosa Pines helps to restore forest diversity in the Sunriver ecosystem while preserving the Sunriver community’s “Tree City USA” catchphrase.

Sunriver Nature Center is proud to support Project Ponderosa through a biannual Ponderosa Pine seedling sale and educational opportunities throughout the year. The fall 2017 seedling sale is scheduled for Friday, October 13 through Sunday, October 22 (closed Monday and Tuesday) at the Nature Center. Seedlings will be available in various sizes and prices will range from $8 to $30. Detailed planting instructions will be provided with all seedling purchases and can be viewed here.

Mushroom Foraging Field Trip | October 20

The Central Oregon Mushroom Club will lead a field trip in search of wild and edible mushrooms in the local area. On this field trip, participants will receive an introduction to fungi diversity and learn to identify different types of mushrooms in the forest. Instruction will also be provided on how to ‘hunt’ and collect mushrooms as well as how to identify mushrooms that are safe for eating.

The field trip is limited to 20 people (adults only, no pets please) and pre-registration is required. Please meet at the Nature Center parking lot by 9:30 am. Individuals are responsible for their own transportation to the National Forest. Individuals planning to collect mushrooms must first obtain a free Forest Products Free Use Permit from the U.S. Forest Service office in Bend. Each participant should bring this permit to the field trip. In addition, each individual should bring a wide-bottomed container (bucket, basket) and a sturdy knife or small garden trowel for mushroom collection.

If you’re looking for fun October events in Central Oregon, this one can’t be beat.

FUNgi Day and Mushroom Show | October 21

Join Sunriver Nature Center and the Central Oregon Mushroom Club for a special day dedicated to appreciating and understanding fungi! Mushroom fun for the whole family includes:

  • Guided mushroom walks at 11 am and 1 pm (weather permitting)
  • Mushroom display showcasing a variety of local fungi
  • Meet a local mushroom expert – The Central Oregon Mushroom Club will be ready to answer all of your questions!
  • Identification Station – Bring your fungi specimen or photo for identification
  • Children’s activities and crafts
  • Education stations with information and resources for mushroom enthusiasts of all levels

Transplanting Forest Seedlings: Workshop and Field Trip | October 22

Lee Stevenson, founder of Project Ponderosa, will lead a hands-on workshop at the Sunriver Nature Center. Participants will learn how to identify and transplant a variety of native forest seedlings, including Grand Fir, White Fir, Mountain Hemlock, Snowbush, Manzanita, Mahala Mat, Kinnikinnick, Indian Paintbrush, and more. Information will also be shared about where to find these native species locally and how to successfully collect and transplant them into your own yard.

The first half of the program will be held at the Sunriver Nature Center and then the group will travel to one or more locations within 10 miles of Sunriver for plant collection. Please bring your own pots/containers and shovel if you have one. Participants should also obtain a free Forest Products Free Use Permit from the U.S. Forest Service office on Deschutes Market Road in Bend so they can collect transplants during the field trip portion of the program.

This program is limited to 12 participants and early registration is recommended.

The Secret Garden by The Sunriver Stars | October 26 – October 29

Sunriver Stars is an all-volunteer Community Theater group with several October events in Central Oregon. All positions from the Artistic Director on down are non-paid positions and, as such, require a strong commitment to the work at hand.
For the start of the 2018 season Sunriver Stars will present a fun and upbeat adaptation of the 1911 novel of the same name by Frances Hodgson Burnett, produced with permission by Pioneer Drama.

There will be a dinner show on Saturday, October 28th. Ticket purchase includes a reserved seat and dinner before the show. Refreshments will be available for purchase at all shows. $10 for kids and $15 adults. You may purchase tickets here.

Show Dates and Times:
Thursday, October 26th – 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:00 PM)
Friday, October 27th – 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:00 PM)
Saturday, October 28th – 7:00 PM
Sunriver Stars is offering dinner show tickets (limit 50) for this performance – your ticket purchase includes a reserved seat and a sumptuous dinner (see menu) before the show.

  • For those with Dinner Show tickets, doors open at 5:30 PM
  • For all other ticket holders, doors open at 6:00 PM

Sunday, October 29th – 3:00 PM (doors open at 2:00 PM)

  • All performances are presented at:
    The Door at Three Rivers in the Sunriver Business Park
    56885 Enterprise Dr, Sunriver, OR 97707

Sunriver’s Tasting Dinner Featuring Bendistillery | October 27

Finally, another of our favorite October events in Central Oregon this year, Sunriver’s October Sunriver Tasting Dinner will feature Bendistillery! At this tasting dinner, you will have the unique opportunity to learn about the inspiration, history, and techniques that were used to craft these spirits and learn why they are a Northwest favorite. The dinner will feature a gourmet autumn-themed five-course meal, specially prepared by the Sunriver’s award-winning culinary team and paired with cocktails featuring spirits from Bendistillery. The tasting dinner will take place at Carson’s American Kitchen, located in the Main Lodge at Sunriver. Cost is $84.37 per person. You can check it out here!

These are just a few of the October events in Central Oregon this year. We hope you enjoy your stay!

Halloween in the Village | October 31

The Village at Sunriver is excited to present Spooktacular fun on Halloween!  Kids of all ages are welcome to enjoy trick or treating with the village merchants ans how off their favorite costume during the costume contest where winners will receive frightfully fun prizes.  Join us for bounce house fun, a cupcake walk, ghoulish games at our spooky Halloween party. Event starts at 4pm and continues until 6pm, free of charge.

Exploring the Village at Sunriver

You might say that the Village at Sunriver is the cultural and activity hub of the community. This shopping center extraordinaire offers not only fabulous boutique shopping, but also great dining, recreation, bike and ski rentals, groceries, as well as live entertainment and events. As a guest or long-term resident of Village Properties, you’ll be able to receive discounts at many of the establishments located there. Go here for a list of participating businesses. Then read on for a sampling of what you’ll find exploring the Village at Sunriver.

Dining

There are a number of dining establishments located at The Village. Whether you fancy exotic cuisine, an international feast, a decadent dessert or just a simple burger, you’re sure to find something to your liking. Below are a few of the offerings you have to choose from.

Sunriver Brewing Company
Since its launch on July 4, 2012, this family-owned pub has provided great service, great food and brewed its own awesome craft beer.

Brewed Awakenings
Discover coffee roasted in-house from frothing to pouring. Friendly and skilled staff know the art of creating that perfect cup of coffee with a smile.

Cafe Sintra
Indulge in delicious breakfast and lunch dishes that pay tribute to Portuguese cuisine. The warm atmosphere and friendly service make Cafe Sintra the perfect place for gatherings.

El Caporal
Family owned since 1997, El Caporal offers quality Mexican dishes and reliable customer service.

Hot Lava Bakery
Choose from a wide variety of traditional bakery items, including donuts and pastries, and coffee and sandwiches.

Marcello’s
A family run, family friendly Italian restaurant offering dining by the fire, on the patio, in the lounge or in your home, via carry-out.

Blondie’s Pizza
Pizza, pasta and calzones, sandwiches, and fresh salads. Gluten-free available, and free delivery after 5pm.

The Village Bar and Grill
This long standing neighborhood restaurant and local watering hole offers American cuisine and family dining with a casual atmosphere.

Shopping

Whether you consider yourself a seasoned shopper who keeps your eyes on the latest trends, or you’re more of a browser who enjoys leisurely strolling the mall, you are bound to enjoy the interesting shops on display in the Village’s quaint alpine setting.

Artists’ Gallery Sunriver
Premier gallery displaying fine arts from local artists.

Flowers at Sunriver
Exceptional service, gifts and high quality fresh flowers in traditional and contemporary floral designs.

Sunriver Books and Music
An independent bookstore with a full selection of books sure to delight readers young and old.

The Closet
The Closet offers a personalized shopping experience for everything from camisoles and leggings, to a fun outfit for a night on the town.

The Wooden Jewel
The Wooden Jewel showcases their unique blend of designer jewelry and wood art.

Additionally, several shops cater to the sports minded.

Sunriver Sports
Sunriver Sports is a full service, summer and winter sporting hard and soft goods store. They offer a wide range of activewear in addition to bike rental in the summer and skis in the winter.

Cascade Guides and Outfitters Fishing Guides
Cascade Guides and Outfitters is the only Orvis Endorsed Outfitter in Oregon, which therefore means they meet the rigorous standards in the fly fishing industry. They also offer a variety of river and lake trips with professional guides, a selection of fly fishing schools and accommodations and a full range of rental equipment to fishers of all types and ages.

Village Bike & Ski Shop
Village Bike and Ski is the premier bicycle and ski rental, repair and sales shop in Sunriver, with a staff that knows local trails and can recommend rides for all skill levels.

Recreation at Village at Sunriver

The Village at Sunriver also offers activities geared to the whole family, including:

  •      Ice skating
  •      Bumper cars
  •      Alpine train
  •      Mini golf
  •      Outdoor cinema
  •      Rock wall
  •      Bouncy house

The Village at Sunriver is an ideal spot for gathering with friends and family. Come for shopping as well as new fun activities reflective of the Central Oregon lifestyle. When booking your family vacation, be sure to contact Village Properties for the perfect vacation rental and local merchants discounts. Give us a call at 877-859-5346 for more information and to book your stay in Sunriver.

Skip to content