Top 10 Places Locals Recommend Visiting in Redmond Oregon

Redmond is a hidden treasure that we often say makes a great base to explore the rest of Central Oregon. With its blend of outdoor adventures, natural attractions, and small-town charm, it’s a destination that has something for everyone.

To help you uncover the best this region has to offer, we went on a mission to gather the top recommendations from the people who know it best: the locals. We surveyed Redmond residents about their favorite spots and activities, resulting in a list of the top 10 places you won’t want to miss when visiting Redmond Oregon.

Local’s Top 10 Redmond OR Places

Consider this your insider’s guide to make the most of your trip while roaming Redmond and Central Oregon. These are listed in order of popularity.

1. Smith Rock State Park

The place that gets the most recommendations from Redmond locals is Smith Rock, a renowned rock climbing destination with scenic hiking trails, suitable for all skill levels.

Read next:
Smith Rock State Park Hiking
Where to stay near Smith Rock

2. Steelhead Falls Trail

Steelhead Falls is picturesque hiking spot along the Crooked River, offering stunning waterfall views and an opportunity to relax in nature.

Read next: 
Easy Steelhead Falls Hike

3. Cline Falls

Near Eagle Crest, Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint is tranquil area with beautiful waterfalls and a river, perfect for hiking, picnics, and cooling off on a hot day.

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Easy Cline Falls Walk

4. High Desert Museum

While it is about half an hour from Redmond, the engaging High Desert Museum is certainly one of Central Oregon’s best attractions. Showcasing the natural and cultural history of the high desert region, the museum provides family-friendly exhibits and live demonstrations.

5. Downtown Redmond

Downtown Redmond is only getting more charming and trendy. The downtown area has a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, parks, and street art. For free entertainment, enjoy a leisurely stroll, hunt for murals and statues, and do some window shopping.

Read next:
Best Things to do in Redmond
Where to Eat in Redmond
Best Breweries in Redmond

Peter Skene Ogden Lookout

Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic viewpoint and picnic area has an impressive view of basalt cliffs and the river canyon below. Signs share the history of how the bridges were built on site, which boggles the mind.

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Peter Skene Ogden State Viewpoint 
Beautiful State Parks and Landmarks Near Redmond

Lake Billy Chinook

Photo credit: Ipoellet, via Wikimedia Commons

A scenic reservoir surrounded by rugged terrain, Lake Billy Chinook in the Cove Palisades State Park is ideal for boating, fishing, and enjoying Central Oregon’s great outdoors.

Read next:
Best Day Trips from Redmond

General Duffy’s Waterhole

Back in the heart of Redmond, this popular local brewery, annex, and expansive grounds is known for its live music, food carts, and relaxed atmosphere for drinks and entertainment.

Read next:
Breweries to Try in Redmond

Rooftop at SCP Redmond

Locals love the Rooftop Restaurant and bar at the SCP Redmond Historic Hotel. Its scenic views make this a great place for drinks or grabbing brunch with friends.

Read next:
Best breakfast in Redmond
Best places to eat in Redmond
Where to stay in Redmond

Redmond Dry Canyon Trail

This scenic trail for hiking and outdoor activities, offering beautiful natural views, is one of the best features in the city of Redmond. The mostly flat, paved parkway winds 4 miles North to South through town and connects several of the great city parks.

See the Redmond City Park map here

Read next:
Hikes and walks in Central Oregon

Visiting Redmond: Local Recommended Honorable Mentions

Now that we’ve covered the top 10 places in and around Redmond Oregon that locals recommend, here’s a quick list of honorable mentions. While not as popular as the places above, there are so many places worth checking out near Redmond:

• Metolius River Headwaters
• Lava Tubes 
• Crescent Moon Alpaca Farm 
• Redmond Caves 
• Wild Ride Brewing
• Peterson Rock Gardens
• Pine Mountain Observatory 
• Radlands Hiking and MTB Trails 
• Borden Beck Wildlife Preserve
• Redmond Splash Pad / Centennial Spray Park
• Redmond Skating Rink
• Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery
• Sahalie/Koosah Falls 
• Sisters Oregon
• Odem Theater Pub
• Tower Theater

We hope this list of local Redmond recommendations helps with your trip when visiting Redmond Oregon! Let us know if we missed any great places in the comments.

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