Bend’s tours pack serious value for curious travelers. This welcoming Oregon town delivers excellent guided experiences that bring its outdoor splendors and local culture to life.
The standout offerings include fascinating lava tube cave excursions that reveal the region’s volcanic heritage. Local chocolate-making demonstrations satisfy both sweet cravings and cultural interests, while the night sky photography tours open up a whole new perspective on Central Oregon’s pristine dark skies.
For craft beer fans, brewery tours shine with generous tastings and behind-the-scenes access. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the intimate half-day sessions with seasoned local shooters who know every prime angle in town.
Let’s look at the best tours worth your time and money in Bend.
Good To Know
- Chocolarte Tour with wine hot chocolate and sampling, showcasing chocolate-making in a 3-hour experience starting in downtown Bend.
- Night Sky Private Photo Tour with professional photographer guidance for capturing stunning night sky imagery.
- Guided Lava Tube Cave Tour exploring Bend’s volcanic past through moderately challenging terrain.
- Craft Brewery Tours with complimentary tasting flights at up to three local breweries in a 2.5-hour guided experience.
- Private Half-Day Photo Tours led by a professional photographer to capture the high desert vistas of Bend.
Chocolate Tour Including Wine Hot Chocolate and Samples
One of the top-rated tours in Bend is the Chocolate Tour Including Hot Chocolate and Samples. This 3-hour experience takes participants on a delightful journey through the world of chocolate.
The tour starts at 1849 NE 2nd St and showcases the art of chocolate-making, from the origin of cacao to the final product. Guests will enjoy hot chocolate and a variety of chocolate samples as they learn from the knowledgeable and passionate hosts.
The tour also offers an opportunity to make your own chocolate bars, adding a hands-on element to the experience. For those over 21, there’s even a wine pairing option to enhance the tasting.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and interactive learning environment. Reviewers rave about the hosts’ expertise and the tour’s overall uniqueness, making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting Bend.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Chocolate Tour Including Wine Hot Chocolate and Samples Review
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Night Sky Private Photo Tour
For those seeking a unique way to capture the stunning night sky in Central Oregon, the Night Sky Private Photo Tour is an exceptional choice. Operated by the Cascade Center of Photography/Bend Photo Tours, this tour offers a flexible start time and is limited to 1-2 people, ensuring a personalized experience.
The professional photographer guide will assist participants with camera settings, helping them to take breathtaking images of the high desert landscape and clear night sky.
The tour includes a local guide to ideal photography locations, as well as gratuities, making it a hassle-free experience. Pickup from hotels within Bend city limits is provided, and the tour operates daily from 8:30 PM to 11:30 PM, January 1, 2020, to July 21, 2025.
With an overall 5.0 rating on Viator and Tripadvisor, the Night Sky Private Photo Tour is a must-try for anyone looking to capture the beauty of Central Oregon’s night sky.
Read our full review: Night Sky Private Photo Tour Review
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Bend Oregon Guided Lava Tube Cave Tour
The Bend Oregon Guided Lava Tube Cave Tour provides adventurous visitors a chance to explore the hidden wonders of the region’s volcanic past. This moderate-difficulty tour leads guests through a lava tube cave, offering a glimpse into the forces that shaped the area’s dramatic landscape.
The tour includes essential equipment like helmets and headlamps, as well as snacks and water, all provided by an award-winning naturalist guide.
With a maximum group size of 12 travelers, the experience offers an intimate encounter with the underground world. However, the tour may not be suitable for everyone, as it involves uneven terrain, scrambling, and a short crawl.
Participants must be at least 5 years old, wear closed-toed shoes, and sign a waiver prior to departure. Feedback from previous guests highlights the knowledgeable guides, but also notes the potential challenges for older or less mobile individuals.
Read our full review: Bend Oregon Guided Lava Tube Cave Tour Review
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Craft Brewery Tours With Complimentary Tasting Flights
Bend, Oregon is renowned for its vibrant craft beer scene, and visitors can enjoy this local culture through the Craft Brewery Tours with Complimentary Tasting Flights. These 2.5-hour tours offer an insider’s look at Bend’s thriving brewery landscape, with stops at up to three different establishments.
Priced at $99 per person, the tours include alcoholic beverages and the guided experience itself.
The tours depart from the Pine Tavern Restaurant at 2:30 PM and return to the same location, accommodating a maximum of 4 travelers. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tours aren’t wheelchair accessible but are suitable for most participants.
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from over 6 reviews, the Craft Brewery Tours provide a laid-back and enjoyable way to discover Bend’s craft beer culture.
Read our full review: Craft Brewery Tours With Complimentary Tasting Flights Review
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Private Half-Day Photo Tours
Though Bend, Oregon is renowned for its craft beer scene, visitors can also enjoy the region’s natural beauty through the Private Half-Day Photo Tours.
These tours offer a unique opportunity to explore stunning vistas and prime photo locations in the area’s high desert, led by a professional local photographer. The tours are private and flexible, allowing you to customize the itinerary based on your preferences.
During the four-hour tour, you’ll receive guidance and expertise from the photographer, who’ll provide photographic tips and discuss camera settings and location options at the start.
The tour is operated exclusively for your party and includes a complimentary companion. While not wheelchair accessible, the tours are accessible for most travelers, with pickup from hotels within Bend city limits.
The pricing starts at €175.77 per person and can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, subject to availability.
Read our full review: Private Half-Day Photo Tours Review
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Food Truck and Brewery Tour With Complimentary Tastings
One of the best ways to experience Bend’s thriving food and craft beer scene is through the Food Truck and Brewery Tour with Complimentary Tastings. Priced at $99 per person, this 3-hour activity takes you on a journey through the city’s vibrant culinary and brewing culture.
The tour includes beer flight tastings and snacks, providing a well-rounded exploration of Bend’s local flavors. The tour starts at the Pine Tavern Restaurant, with an option for pickup, and concludes at the same meeting point.
Along the way, you’ll visit the 10 Barrel Brewing West Side Bend location. The experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though not recommended for pregnant travelers, with a maximum of 4 travelers per tour.
Positive reviews highlight the personable tour guides and their knowledgeable recommendations of the local food and beer scene. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, this tour is a convenient and enjoyable way to discover Bend’s vibrant culinary offerings.
Read our full review: Food Truck and Brewery Tour With Complimentary Tastings Review
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Central Oregon Private Photo Tour With Local Guide – Bend
Why not capture the stunning landscapes of Central Oregon through a personalized photo tour led by local guides?
Bend’s Central Oregon Private Photo Tour offers just that – a full-day or half-day experience tailored to nature enthusiasts with basic camera skills. Led by professional photographers, these tours allow you to customize your itinerary and choose your start time, ensuring you make the most of the region’s magical light.
The tour includes a local photographer, local taxes, and the option to bring a companion for free. Pricing starts at €341.78 per person, with a fuel surcharge for destinations outside Bend.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Pickup is provided from hotels within Bend, and you’ll discuss camera settings and location options upon arrival at the Cascade Center of Photography.
Tours are designed for small groups or solo adventurers, guaranteeing a personalized experience as you capture Bend’s breathtaking landscapes.
Read our full review: Central Oregon Private Photo Tour With Local Guide – Bend Review
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Bend Street Photography Private Tour
Explore the vibrant streets of Bend, Oregon, on a private street photography tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. This three-hour experience is ideal for photography enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to professionals.
You’ll have the opportunity to capture the unique architecture, local characters, and scenic vistas that make Bend a popular destination.
The tour includes pickup from select hotels and ends back at the meeting point, 125 NW Oregon Ave. A private tour ensures you’ll receive personalized attention from your guide, who’ll share insider tips and help you hone your photography skills.
The local taxes and gratuities are included, but you’ll need to bring your own camera.
With operating hours from 7 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week, you can choose a time that works best for your schedule.
Wheelchair accessibility and stroller-friendly features make this tour accessible to most travelers. And if your plans change, you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Read our full review: Bend Street Photography Private Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most tours don’t have age restrictions, but some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the tour operator to know if there are any age limits for their specific tours.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own camera equipment on tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions or safety concerns regarding specific equipment.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Most tours are wheelchair accessible, allowing guests with mobility needs to fully participate. Visitors should check with the tour operator in advance to ensure accommodations are available and the route is suitable for their needs.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Most tour companies accommodate dietary restrictions, offering options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Guests should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking to ensure the proper accommodations are made.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy varies by tour operator, but many allow free cancellations up to 24-48 hours in advance. Some may charge a fee for late cancellations. It’s best to check the specific policy when booking a tour.
The Sum Up
Bend, Oregon offers a variety of engaging tours, from chocolate and wine tastings to night sky photography and craft brewery excursions. Whether you’re interested in exploring the region’s natural wonders or sampling its culinary delights, there’s a tour that caters to your interests. With knowledgeable local guides and curated experiences, these tours provide an excellent way to discover the best of what Bend has to offer.