The Gorgeous Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon, is a must-see for any visitor to the state. The district is home to several historic buildings and businesses and a beautiful riverfront park.
The area was once an industrial center, and the old buildings have been intelligently repurposed into trendy shops, restaurants, galleries, and event venues. The atmosphere is electric, and there is always something new to see and do.
Even if you’re not a shopper, the Old Mill District is worth visiting for its history and beauty. Soak up the sun on the banks of the Deschutes River, stroll through the art galleries, or simply watch people from one of the many outdoor cafes. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on this gem of a destination.
Read on to learn more about the Old Mill District, its history, and its many attractions.
Old Mill District History
The Old Mill District is located in Bend, Oregon, just east of downtown. The district is home to various shops, restaurants, galleries, and event venues. Many of the buildings in the area are repurposed from their original industrial use.
The district got its name from the old mill that used to stand on the site. The mill was built in 1916 and was one of the first sawmills in Central Oregon. It operated for almost 50 years before it was closed in 1983.
In 1984, the city of Bend purchased the property and began redeveloping it into the vibrant district it is today.
Hiking in Old Mill District
Many trails are located in and around the Old Mill District, making it a great place to hike. One of our favorites is the River Trail, which follows the Deschutes River through the district.
The trail is easy to follow and provides stunning views of the river and mountains. It’s a great place to get some fresh air and exercise.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Old Mill District is worth exploring. With its rich history, beautiful setting, great shops, and restaurants, it’s easy to see why this area is such a popular destination. So next time you’re in Bend, make sure to check out the Old Mill District.
Birds Watching in Old Mill District
Photo by Delaney Van on Unsplash
Best Places in Old Mill District
There are many great places to visit in the Old Mill District. Here are just a few of my favorites:
Radiant Day Spa
Radiant Day Spa is located at 520 SW Powerhouse Dr. Suite 627, Bend, OR 97702-1295 Old Mill District. Radiant Day Spa is a place where you can go to feel relaxed and refreshed. The spa is located in the Old Mill District, already a beautiful and serene setting.
Once you step inside, you are greeted by a warm and friendly staff dedicated to making sure you have a wonderful experience. The spa offers various services, from massages to facials to body wraps.
They also have a relaxation room where you can sit and enjoy some herbal tea before or after your treatment. They have a fantastic massage at Radiant Day Spa, and we would recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing experience.
Deschutes Brewery and Public House
Deschutes Brewery and Public House are among the best places in the Old Mill District. This spot has something for everyone, from the great beer to the wood-fired pizzas.
The brewery offers a variety of tours, tastings, and events, making it the perfect place to learn about beer making. The pub also features a rotating selection of seasonal beers, making it a great place to try new flavors.
The food menu features wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. There’s something for everyone at Deschutes Brewery and Public House. Whether you’re looking for a great meal or a fun night out, this is your place.
McMenamins Old St. Francis School
McMenamins Old St. Francis School is one of the best places in the Old Mill District. The former Catholic school building was renovated and now features a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and a hotel.
The unique atmosphere and history of the building make it a great place to visit. You feel like stepping back in time when you walk through the doors. The vintage furniture, mosaics, and paintings all think you are in a different place and time.
The bathrooms are attractive, with cleverly designed tile work and historic photos. In addition to the hotel, several meeting rooms and event spaces are perfect for weddings, conferences, or other gatherings.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and they go out of their way to make sure your experience is epic. Whether you are looking for a unique place to stay or just want to explore an exciting piece of history, McMenamins Old St. Francis School is worth a visit.
The Cascade Outdoor Sculpture Garden
The Cascade Outdoor Sculpture Garden is one of the best places in the Old Mill District. The garden is home to various sculptures historical created by local artists and international artists.
The garden is also a great place to relax and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. The Cascade Outdoor Sculpture Garden is open to the public, and there is no charge for admission.
Whether you are looking for a place to appreciate art or simply want to spend some time outdoors, the Cascade Outdoor Sculpture Garden is a great choice.
Five Star Hotel
In the Old Mill District, a few five-star hotels stand out. The Hilton Garden Inn Bend is one of them. With beautiful views of the Cascade Range, it’s the perfect place to stay while enjoying all that Bend has to offer.
The Hampton Inn Bend is another excellent choice, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to the Deschutes River. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, the SpringHill Suites Bend is an excellent option.
With its stylish décor and spacious suites, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge after a long day of exploring Bend. No matter your budget or preferences, there’s a five-star hotel in the Old Mill District perfect for you.
Top Rated Schools
The Old Mill District in Bond, Oregon, is home to some of the top-rated schools in the state. One of these schools is the Deschutes River Montessori School, a public charter school that serves students in grades K-8.
The school overlooks the Deschutes River, and it features a variety of unique amenities such as an on-site farm and garden, a ropes course, and a zipline.
The school’s curriculum is based on the Montessori method of education, which emphasizes hands-on learning experiences. Students at the Deschutes River Montessori School are allowed to explore their interests and learn at their own pace.
As a result, they often develop a strong sense of self-confidence and independence. The school focuses on environmental stewardship, and all students participate in weekly service projects. The Deschutes River Montessori School is truly a one-of-a-kind educational experience.
Conclusion
The Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon, is a beautiful and historic area that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay, somewhere to eat, or just want to explore, the Old Mill District is worth a visit.
With its stunning scenery, friendly people, and variety of activities, it’s no wonder that the Old Mill District is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oregon.
The Old Mill District is not only a great place to live but also an excellent investment. With its convenient location, variety of housing options, and a strong sense of community, the Old Mill District will continue to grow in popularity.
The Bernard Real Estate Group is experienced in handling real estate transactions in the Old Mill District and would be happy to help you find the perfect home for your needs. Contact me today to learn more about the Gorgeous Old Mill District in Bend, Oregon.
Photo Resources on Wikipedia / Public Domain / Old Mill District
