Sustainable holiday gift ideas in Bend, Oregon
December 21, 2023
10 minute readThere’s something so fun about exploring a city through its boutiques, farmer’s markets, gift shops, and thrift stores. Whether you’re on a quest for the perfect gift or feeling a little self-indulgent, shopping in Bend promises a treasure trove of must-haves and unique finds.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect piece of locally made art, a cozy hoody with the iconic Bend logo, or a new mountain bike, chances are good that you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. So add some time for shopping when you are in Bend so you can find whatever’s on your wishlist.
Did you know there’s no sales tax in Oregon? We’re one of five states with no general statewide sales tax (Alaska, Delaware, Montana, and New Hampshire are the other four). If you’re considering a major purchase like a sleek road bike, high-end computer, or a fully decked-out camper van, think Bend and relish the savings from tax-free shopping.
Downtown Bend offers a shopping escapade like no other. In the heart of the historic district is a wonderful mix of art galleries, boutiques, gift and specialty stores. Each month, you can admire the work of local artists as you sample fine wine during the First Friday Art Walk. And if fresh produce and local goods catch your fancy, the Bend Farmers Market is a must-visit from May through mid-October. Absorb the charming downtown vibe, enjoy lunch at a delicious delicatessen, and discover exactly what you’ve been looking for, all over a panoramic view of Mirror Pond with a Cascade peak backdrop.
Spend a day of open-air shopping in Bend’s Old Mill District, a nod to the city’s deep-rooted timber heritage. The Old Mill District is a thriving shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. Explore over 40 shops from top-of-the-line apparel stores, local boutiques, and big-name stores, all while surrounded by miles of paved trails with spectacular views of the Cascade mountains. It’s where history and shopping intertwine, set against the stunning backdrop of Bend’s natural charm.
NorthWest Crossing is a community designed on the principles of new urbanism – pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods integrated with retail businesses. The neighborhood offers dining, art, and a wonderful shopping experience brimming with boutique stores, artisanal products, and local businesses. And if you time your visit right, Saturdays in summer months offer a bustling farmer’s market, where you can shop for fresh produce and handcrafted goods.
The Cascade Village Shopping Center offers a variety of city shopping but with the beauty of Bend. Located off of Highway 97 and features an outstanding collection of famous name stores like Best Buy, Trader Joe’s, Ross, and World Market, to name a few, plus unique local shops and eateries, the Cascade Village Shopping Center is the place to find whatever you may be looking for.
Discover great deals from well known brands at the Bend Factory Stores. Get a smoking deal at unbelievable prices on name brand goods, including Columbia Sportswear, Nike, Eddie Bauer, Carters Kids, and Coach to name a few. The stores are conveniently located on south Highway 97.
Bend certainly has some fabulous neighborhoods and shopping districts to explore, where you’ll stumble upon that perfect find, or even delightful surprises you never knew you needed. Beyond the where, let’s delve into the what: from outdoor gear and vintage treasures to stylish attire and more.
If you’re looking for that special something to remind you of your magical Bend vacation, there are plenty of souvenir shops that make it easy to bring home those vacation memories with a gift or keepsake.
For unique and eclectic handmade goods created by Central Oregon artists, head over to The Workhouse and FOUND Natural Goods. You’ll find jewelry, pottery, stationary, clothing, home goods, and much more, all made by local artists. It’s an easy way to support the local community and take home a few one-of-a-kind mementos.
Or, put a Bend on it. Find the iconic logo on a cozy hoodie, pint glass, sticker, or coffee mug at The Bend Store and Cascade Cottons are great stops for wearable souvenirs, stickers, mugs, and stationery. Or stock up at our Bend Visitor Center, where you’ll find an excellent selection of souvenirs, guidebooks, and local art.
Or, how about taking a pilgrimage down memory lane by visiting the very last Blockbuster ever? Not only can you still rent DVDs, but you can shop for nostalgic merchandise like a “Be Kind Rewind!” ballcap, t-shirts for the whole family, and even an adult onesie in the classic blue and yellow colors.
Attention all bargain hunters! Are you on the hunt for a ski jacket but hate paying retail? How about adding to your collection of Halloween outfits? Heck, you might even score the next Antiques Roadshow big ticket item. Bend’s thrift stores are the perfect place for shoppers on a budget, those hunting for unique, local souvenirs and gifts, or who want to keep stuff out of our landfills.
For high-quality consignment clothing, there’s nothing better than perusing the racks at Cosa Cura and Revival Vintage. If a new-to-you snowboard, bike, or waterproof layer is on your list, check out Gear Fix for an ever-changing inventory of used outdoor gear. Latitude 44 brings the powder stoke by selling a top-notch selection of used winter sporting goods. If you’re not sure what you want, or you want it all, Goodwill, REgroup Thrift Store, and the Humane Society Thrift Store house loads of donated items with proceeds going to deserving causes.
Clothing stores in Bend, Oregon, are full of stylish possibilities, from new and used apparel to women’s, men’s, and kid’s clothing. You’ll find loads of locally owned boutiques and name-brand department stores offering unique pieces to keep you looking good, comfortable, and dressed for outdoor success.
Take a stroll with your friends, and a credit card, through downtown Bend, where you’ll find small high-end boutiques like Revolvr and Hot Box Betty to activewear retailers like Patagonia and Outside In. Or head to the Old Mill District for name-brand stores as well as charming boutiques like Vanilla and Hello Sunshine—you’ll find everything from the perfect little black dress to a new puffy jacket.
To go with all the fantastic outdoor recreation in Bend are outdoor shops galore! From well-known retailers like REI, Sportsman’s Warehouse, and DICK’S Sporting Goods to locally owned shops, you’ll be able to find the perfect toy to go with your outdoor adventures.
Seeking stylish yet practical outdoor attire? Downtown Bend boasts local gems like Mountain Supply and FootZone, showcasing a selection of top brands. Or shop from some favorite well-known brands with standalone stores, like Black Diamond, Fjallraven, and Stio.
If sports equipment is what you’re after, you’re in luck! For cycling enthusiasts, places like Pine Mountain Sports, Sunnyside Sports, and Project Bike have an array of two-wheeled delights. As winter sets in, Powder House, Tactics, and Skjersaa’s become the go-to spots for skis, snowboards, and snowy adventures. Water lovers can drift towards Tumalo Creek, the hub for kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes. And if fly fishing calls your name, swing by Bend Fly Shop, Confluence, and Fly and Field for everything you need.
Explore several toy stores in Bend, Oregon, that offer educational, creative, and down-right fantastically fun toys for kids of all ages. Leapin Lizards, located downtown, is locally owned, has been voted our best toy store for years, and has a fantastic selection of toys. Or stop by Learning Express Toys, where they provide kids and kids at heart an interactive shopping experience where you can demo games, hang out in their Airfort, or have a tea party.
There are a handful of kid’s clothing stores in Bend carrying apparel and accessories for kids of all ages. Hopscotch Kids sells ridiculously adorable, high-quality, and practical clothing for children of all ages. Stop by their Galveston location for anything from dresses, sweaters, shoes, strollers, and toys. For the more budget-conscious shopper, nothing beats Stone Soup. To meet the needs of growing Bend families and visiting families, they carry a fantastic selection of name-brand, high-quality, used kid’s clothing and accessories.
From artisan creations and memorable souvenirs to top-tier outdoor equipment, Bend’s vibrant neighborhoods and welcoming businesses are eager to guide you to your perfect find. Happy shopping!