Why is Bend being recognized across the United States as one of the best places to live? I hope I can enlighten you all to the beauty of this gem that is also my home.
Recreationally, Bend and the surrounding areas have so much to offer. Surrounded by mountains, Bend is located in Deschutes County in the High Desert of Central Oregon. The terrain is mostly desert with thousands of acres of protected USFS lands closeby. This provides for excellent hunting and fishing. Deer, elk, antelope and turkey hunting are popular here and bring in many hunters from all over the U.S.
The many local lakes offer an abundance of boating, fishing, and water-skiing opportunities. Central Oregon also boasts an elaborate system of underground caves for spelunking (caving) as well as several unparalleled settings for camping or sightseeing.
For obvious reason, this area is home to a high number of outdoor enthusiasts. Mt. Bachelor and Mt. Hood are but a short drive from Bend and offer some of the best snow and cross country skiiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in the country.
Just a little to the north of Bend is the City of Redmond, the hub of Central Oregon. Redmond is home to the legendary Smith Rocks State Park which offers world-class rock-climbing and hiking.
We also have 21 public and private courses in Bend and the surrounding areas, offering unparalleled golfing. Thousand of acres of BLM protected lands give the dirt bike or ORV enthusiast miles and miles of trails to enjoy.
In any season, there is always plenty to do here. These recreational opportunities are just ONE of the many reasons I choose to live and work here.
Now, I'd like to take a minute and tell you about what kind of community this is.
I've lived all over. Big cities, little cities, country farm, and "somewhere in the middle". Bend is the best area I've ever lived in, hands down. Why, you ask? It's simple -the quality of life here. Bend is a very giving city, offering everyone the chance at something better. For instance, our United Way raises well over $1,000,000.00 every year. Not bad for a community of just 75,000. Our churches, non-profit and community funded programs reach out to those in need and make a difference. Our community gets involved, with our children, with our seniors and with our families.
The people here are friendly, genuinely friendly. It wouldn't be uncommon to meet someone at the grocery store and by the end of the check-out, to exchange phone numbers. This is the kind of place where people still believe in something good. There is pride in this city and it is evidenced by so many things. Clean air, great water and good schools. Our local governments get and stay involved. When there is a job to be done, this community gets it done. Bend is full of hard working folks who exhibit pride in what they do and where they live.
Central Oregon also has a vibrant cultural component. We are lucky to have so many artists from all walks of like who actively participate here. Downtown Bend is alive with Art, Music, Food and Festivals. Our city hosts many events each year including the Pole Pedal Paddle, Cascade Music Festival, Balloons over Bend, and the Bend Film Festival. At any time of the year, there is ALWAYS something fun to do. There are plenty of stores to shop at the Cascade Village, Old Mill district, Bend River Promenade and Factory Outlet Mall. After a day on the town, you could enjoy a wonderful dinner at one of our award winning restaurants or try something new at one of our famous breweries.
I could write so much more about Bend but if you truly want to know what makes this community such a great place, come visit and you'll find your own reasons. As this city continues to grow, so do the opportunities for others. If you are retiring, raising a family, opening a business or just want a great place to live...come visit beautiful Bend, Oregon. We have something for you.
If you are planning to relocate to Bend, please give me a call. I would love to introduce you to the Central Oregon lifestyle.
