The 10 Best Things to Do in Redmond, Oregon
- River Run Lodge
- Jan 26
- 7 min read
Redmond, Oregon provides easy access to Central Oregon’s most well-known landscapes while keeping travel simple within a compact city layout. Canyon viewpoints, river scenery, paved trail systems, and regional attractions are all reachable with short drives or short walks, allowing visitors to experience major highlights without complex planning.
Key experiences include Smith Rock State Park for iconic canyon scenery, Dry Canyon Trail for in-city walking and biking, Downtown Redmond and Centennial Park for dining and parks, and River Run Lodge, located on the Deschutes River in Redmond near Eagle Crest, for scenic events and destination-style gatherings. Nearby waterfalls, museums, and scenic drives round out the experience, making Redmond a practical base for short stays, family trips, group travel, and regional exploration.
1. Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park defines the area’s outdoor identity through dramatic rock formations, hiking trails, and internationally known climbing routes. The park’s canyon setting creates one of the most recognizable landscapes in Central Oregon and remains a primary draw for both first-time and repeat visitors. Smith Rock State Park provides canyon scenery, hiking, and climbing near Redmond.
2. Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint
Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint introduces waterfall and river scenery along the Deschutes River corridor. The short access and natural setting make it a high-impact stop that fits easily into short visits and half-day itineraries. Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint features waterfall access and river views near Redmond.
3. River Run Lodge (Scenic Wedding Venue & Event Destination)
River Run Lodge adds a destination-style experience focused on scenic gatherings and events, set on the Deschutes River near Eagle Crest with elevated river canyon views. The venue offers approximately 7,000 square feet of total event space, including a large outdoor deck of about 3,000 square feet, and can accommodate up to 175 to 200 guests for weddings and group events. This capacity and setting position River Run Lodge as a key regional venue while keeping guests close to Redmond’s parks, trails, and attractions. River Run Lodge serves as a scenic riverfront venue supporting weddings, retreats, and group travel in Redmond.
River Run Lodge
Address: 730 Blue Heron Dr, Redmond, OR 97756
Phone: (541) 504-4501
4. Dry Canyon Trail
Dry Canyon Trail provides in-city access to paved walking and biking paths that follow a scenic canyon corridor. This trail system supports daily recreation for locals and low-effort outdoor time for visitors who want views without long drives. Dry Canyon Trail supports walking, biking, and canyon scenery within Redmond.
5. Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center
The Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center anchors Redmond’s role as a regional event hub. The complex hosts fairs, concerts, rodeos, and trade shows that attract visitors throughout the year and add seasonal energy to the local calendar. Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center hosts large-scale events and regional gatherings in Redmond.
6. Juniper Golf Course
Juniper Golf Course contributes to Redmond’s recreational mix by offering public golf with open views and high desert surroundings. The course adds a relaxed outdoor option that complements trail use and sightseeing. Juniper Golf Course offers public golf with Central Oregon scenery.
7. Downtown Redmond & Centennial Park
Downtown Redmond and Centennial Park form the walkable community core, combining dining, local shops, green space, and casual gathering areas. This area supports short outings, evening strolls, and easy access for visitors staying in town. Downtown Redmond connects to Centennial Park as a central social and park district.
8. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway extends Redmond’s reach into alpine lakes, forested areas, and mountain viewpoints. This route supports half-day and full-day scenic drives that expand the experience beyond city limits. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway provides access to alpine scenery and mountain lakes from Redmond.
9. High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum adds cultural and educational depth through exhibits focused on regional wildlife, history, and Indigenous cultures. The museum balances outdoor-focused itineraries with indoor learning and family-friendly exploration. High Desert Museum educates about Central Oregon natural history and culture.
10. Petersen Rock Garden & Museum
Petersen Rock Garden & Museum offers a distinctive roadside attraction built around hand-crafted stone structures and extensive rock collections. Its visual character and relaxed pace make it a memorable stop for families, photographers, and visitors seeking something uniquely local. Petersen Rock Garden & Museum features stone architecture and mineral displays near Redmond.
What are the best things to do in Redmond, Oregon?
Redmond, Oregon, offers direct access to Central Oregon’s most recognizable outdoor landmarks while maintaining a walkable, small-city layout. Smith Rock State Park anchors the area with dramatic canyon scenery and world-class climbing, while Dry Canyon Trail provides in-city walking and biking with elevated views. Downtown Redmond and Centennial Park support dining, green space, and casual gathering, and River Run Lodge adds a scenic venue experience for events and destination-style visits.
Nearby highlights expand the experience without long drives. Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint introduces waterfall and river scenery, the High Desert Museum adds regional history and wildlife education, and the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway connects Redmond to alpine lakes and mountain viewpoints. Petersen Rock Garden & Museum offers a quieter, locally distinctive stop that appeals to families and photographers. Redmond functions as a compact base for state parks, waterfalls, museums, and mountain terrain.
What should first-time visitors do in Redmond?
First-time visitors benefit from experiencing Redmond’s defining features that show both the landscape and the local culture. Smith Rock State Park introduces Central Oregon’s geology, Downtown Redmond highlights the community core, and the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center reflects the region’s role as an event hub. Petersen Rock Garden & Museum adds a uniquely local roadside attraction. Redmond is known for high desert scenery, outdoor landmarks, and regional events.
What can you do in Redmond in one day or a half day?
Short visits work best when activities are clustered close together. A half day can include Downtown Redmond, Centennial Park, and a section of Dry Canyon Trail for walking and views. A full day allows time for Smith Rock State Park in the morning and a relaxed afternoon at Juniper Golf Course or Petersen Rock Garden. Redmond supports efficient itineraries with minimal driving.
How many days do you need in Redmond, Oregon?
2 days is a practical length for most visitors to experience Redmond without rushing. One day can focus on Smith Rock and Downtown Redmond, while a second day allows time for Cline Falls, Dry Canyon Trail, and either the High Desert Museum or Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. Longer stays support deeper regional exploration. Redmond functions as a base for short regional trips.
What are the best outdoor activities in Redmond?
Outdoor activity in Redmond centers on accessible trails, parks, and nearby natural landmarks. Smith Rock State Park supports hiking and climbing, Dry Canyon Trail provides paved walking and biking routes, and Juniper Golf Course offers mountain-view golfing. These options create a mix of high-energy and low-impact outdoor recreation. Redmond offers trail systems, canyon landscapes, and golf.
Where can you see waterfalls, rivers, and scenic drives near Redmond?
Water features and scenic drives add visual variety to Redmond trips. Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint highlights a waterfall along the Deschutes River corridor. The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway connects Redmond to alpine lakes and mountain viewpoints. Regional river access supports fishing and casual river viewing. Central Oregon includes waterfalls, rivers, and scenic highways near Redmond.
What can you do in Redmond without hiking or heavy activity?
Low-impact experiences in Redmond emphasize scenic viewing and casual exploration. Downtown Redmond and Centennial Park provide flat, walkable green space. Petersen Rock Garden allows visitors to explore at a relaxed pace. The High Desert Museum offers indoor and outdoor exhibits without physical strain. Redmond accommodates visitors seeking easy and accessible activities.
What are the best things to do in Redmond by season?
Seasonal changes shape how visitors experience Redmond. Summer supports trail use, golfing, and regional drives. Winter shifts focus to indoor attractions and nearby snow recreation accessed from Central Oregon resorts. Spring and fall provide mild conditions for parks and scenic viewpoints. Redmond supports year-round tourism based on seasonal conditions.
What are the best things to do in Redmond with kids and families?
Family activities in Redmond emphasize open space, interactive learning, and short travel distances. Centennial Park supports playgrounds and casual recreation. The High Desert Museum provides wildlife and educational exhibits. Petersen Rock Garden appeals to children through visual exploration and outdoor structures. Redmond offers family-friendly parks and learning attractions.
What are romantic and couples activities in Redmond?
Couples often prioritize scenery and relaxed pacing in Redmond. Smith Rock State Park and Cline Falls provide dramatic backdrops for shared experiences. Downtown Redmond supports casual dining and evening walks. River Run Lodge adds a scenic setting that emphasizes atmosphere and views. Redmond supports romantic experiences through landscape and ambiance.
What are group activities and social things to do in Redmond?
Group experiences in Redmond benefit from flexible venues and shared outdoor space. The Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center hosts concerts and large gatherings. Dry Canyon Trail and Centennial Park allow groups to walk and socialize. Downtown Redmond supports dining and casual meetups. Redmond facilitates group activity through parks and event spaces.
What should wedding guests do in Redmond, Oregon?
Wedding guests in Redmond benefit from nearby, low-commitment activities that fit between scheduled events. Downtown Redmond, Centennial Park, and Petersen Rock Garden allow casual exploration. Smith Rock and Cline Falls provide short scenic outings. River Run Lodge anchors scenic event experiences while keeping guests close to town. Redmond supports wedding guest itineraries with short, flexible activities.
What are free, cheap, and budget-friendly things to do in Redmond?
Budget-friendly options in Redmond focus on parks, trails, and public spaces. Dry Canyon Trail and Centennial Park are free to access. Downtown Redmond offers window shopping and community events. Scenic viewpoints such as Cline Falls provide high visual value with minimal cost. Redmond includes low-cost outdoor and public attractions.
What are accessible, walkable, and car-free things to do in Redmond?
Walkability in Redmond centers on Downtown Redmond, Centennial Park, and Dry Canyon Trail, which provide paved paths and short distances between attractions. These areas support visitors without a car and those with mobility considerations. The compact city layout reduces reliance on long drives. Redmond supports accessible and walkable visitor experiences.
What are the best day trips from Redmond, Oregon?
Day trips from Redmond expand access to Central Oregon’s broader landscape. Smith Rock State Park remains the closest major destination, while Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, High Desert Museum, and Mount Bachelor add alpine and cultural options. Bend offers additional dining and riverfront amenities for comparison. Redmond serves as a regional gateway to Central Oregon attractions.