Discover Accessible Central Oregon: A Guide to Inclusive Travel
Central Oregon is renowned for its scenic landscapes, welcoming community, and outdoor adventures. Bend, in particular, has been one of the fastest growing cities for the last number of years – for good reason, too. The outdoor recreation possibilities are endless with the mountains, rivers, trails and parks all around. Bend also offers outstanding options in terms of food, drink, and culture.
For travelers with disabilities, it's essential to know that many hotels and attractions in this region are accessible and welcoming. This guide provides an overview of accessible options in Central Oregon, to help you plan an inclusive and enjoyable trip.
Cities in Central Oregon
Outside of Bend you will find other cities like Redmond, Sisters, and Sunriver, each offering something unique and exciting. Some of the top considerations to stay for your visit are:
- Bend: Known for its vibrant downtown, numerous parks, and proximity to the Deschutes River, Bend is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a range of accessible accommodations and activities.
- Redmond: Located just 17 miles north of Bend, Redmond is famous for its beautiful parks and historic downtown. It serves as a great base for exploring Central Oregon, offering accessible hotels and public spaces.
- Sisters: Located 22 miles north of Bend, this charming town is known for its unique Western-themed downtown, arts and crafts scene, and proximity to the Cascade Mountains. Sisters is a peaceful retreat with accessible options for travelers.
- Sunriver: A resort community 17 miles south of Bend, Sunriver is perfect for those looking for a mix of outdoor activities and relaxation. It offers accessible resort accommodations, golf courses, and paved trails.
- Tumalo: A small community between Bend and Redmond, Tumalo is known for its rural charm and the beautiful Tumalo State Park, offering accessible picnic areas and river access.
Is Central Oregon Wheelchair-Friendly?
Yes, Central Oregon is wheelchair-friendly with numerous accommodations and attractions that are accessible. Hotels in Bend, Redmond, and Sisters, for example, offer accessible rooms and amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Additionally, many attractions and activities offer accessibility throughout the grounds and facilities. Whether you are exploring museums, parks, or participating in adaptive sports, Central Oregon provides an inclusive environment for everyone.
Accessible Hotels in Central Oregon
Finding the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable stay. Central Oregon offers several hotels with accessible features that ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Element Bend
Element Bend is a modern hotel that combines sustainability with accessibility, offering ideal accommodations for travelers with disabilities. Located near shops, restaurants, and local attractions, this hotel ensures convenience and comfort. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast and an accessible fitness center, making it an excellent choice for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Accessibility Details:
- Roll-in shower
- Shower grab bars
- Shower seat
- Toilet grab bars
- Bed height of 23 inches
- Turning space of 60+ inches in bedroom and bathroom
- Space under bed of 7 inches
- Door width of 36 inches into bedroom and bathroom
GrandStay Hotel & Suites - Sisters, Oregon
GrandStay Hotel & Suites in Sisters, Oregon, offers a comfortable and welcoming environment with a strong focus on accessibility. Nestled in the charming town of Sisters, this hotel provides easy access to local attractions, outdoor activities, and a quaint downtown area filled with shops and restaurants. Guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast, a pool and spa with an accessible lift, and a range of outdoor activities. The hotel ensures a memorable stay with rooms designed to cater to the needs of travelers with disabilities, providing both comfort and convenience.
Accessibility Details:
- Roll-in shower
- Shower grab bars
- Shower seat
- Toilet grab bars
- Bed height of 27 inches
- Door width of 36 inches into bedroom and bathroom
- Turning space of 60+ inches in bedroom and bathroom
- 27 inches of space under sink
Home2 Suites by Hilton Bend
Home2 Suites by Hilton Bend offers modern, stylish accommodations with a strong emphasis on accessibility. Located close to downtown Bend, this hotel provides easy access to nearby attractions and dining options. There are rooms available with either a roll-in shower or accessible bathtub, so there are options for whichever suits your needs best. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast and an outdoor pool equipped with a lift, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for everyone.
Accessibility Details:
- Roll-in shower or accessible bathtub
- Shower grab bars
- Shower seat
- Bed height of 26 inches
- Turning space of 60+ inches in bedroom and bathroom
- Door width of 32 inches into bathroom
- Door width of 36 inches into bedroom
- Space under bed of 7 inches
Hotel Peppertree Bend, BW Premier Collection
Hotel Peppertree Bend, BW Premier Collection, is a contemporary hotel offering top-notch accessibility features for travelers with disabilities. Conveniently located near popular attractions, shopping, and dining options, the hotel ensures guests enjoy both comfort and accessibility. Guests can relax in the well-appointed rooms and take advantage of amenities such as complimentary breakfast, a swimming pool with a lift, and full-bar onsite.
Accessibility Details:
- Roll-in shower
- Shower grab bars
- Shower seat
- Toilet grab bars
- Bed height of 31 inches
- Turning space of 60+ inches in bedroom and bathroom
- Door width of 36 and 37 inches in the bedroom and bathroom, respectively
- 27 inches of space under sink
Accessible Things to do in Central Oregon
known for outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes, Central Oregon is a perfect place to get outside and enjoy nature. Here are some accessible things to do during your stay.
Oregon Adaptive Sports
Oregon Adaptive Sports (OAS) is the premiere adaptive sports organization in the Pacific Northwest, offering year-round programs for individuals with disabilities. Their mission is to create access to high-quality outdoor recreation experiences such as skiing, cycling, golf, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and mountain biking.
- Staff Assistance: Push and assist wheelchair users, guide and assist with reduced mobility, perform transfers
- Adaptive Equipment: Bicycles, ski equipment, golf equipment, seat width of 22 inches with seatbelts and support features.
Riverbend South Access
Riverbend South Access in Central Oregon is a serene spot along the Deschutes River, ideal for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. The area provides beautiful river views, well-maintained trails, and ample wildlife-watching opportunities. It's a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in a picturesque setting.
- Floor: Uneven stone, sand, dirt, small gravel, slip-resistant
- Parking: 4 accessible spaces out of 300, obstacle-free near the entrance
High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum in Central Oregon offers an engaging and educational experience for all visitors. This museum provides a deep dive into the natural and cultural history of the region, featuring live animal exhibits, historical artifacts, and interactive displays. With a commitment to accessibility, the High Desert Museum ensures that all visitors, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy and learn from its offerings.
- Entrance: Ground level, automatic push button door, 76 inches wide, with contrast marking
- Space: Indoor, no steps, clear of obstacles, more than 60 inches of free turning space
- Guidance for Disabilities: Closed captioning/subtitles on screen for hearing disabilities, tactile exhibits for visual disabilities
- Bathrooms: General bathrooms with designated accessible toilet stalls
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Hayden Homes Amphitheater is an iconic outdoor concert venue in Central Oregon, offering an array of live music and events. It also happens to be quite accessible! Check out their upcoming event schedule to see if they have something that interests you during the dates of your visit and see the accessibility details below.
- Entrance: Ground level, smooth asphalt flooring, slip-resistant
- Assistance Available: Push and assist wheelchair user, guide and assist someone with reduced mobility, perform transfers (ie. lifting a guest from a wheelchair to a vehicle), golf cart shuttle av
- Paths and Trails: Accessible with a gentle slope of 2 degrees
- Seating: Chairs with backrests and cushioned seating, benches (18 inches high, 80 inches long, 18 inches deep, no backrest)
- Guidance for Disabilities:
- Visual: QR codes or links available
- Hearing: Hearing loop, sign language (ASL) services
- Bathrooms: General bathrooms with designated accessible stalls, 36-inch wide doors, lever handles, and more than 60 inches of free turning space. Sinks are 32 inches high with free space underneath (28 inches high, 84 inches wide, 18 inches deep), lever handles.
- Parking: 12 designated accessible parking spaces out of 300 total, obstacle-free near the entrance
Dining Options in Central Oregon
A getaway is not complete without indulging on some of the local cuisine. Bend, in particular, is known for it's outstanding craft beer. So, if you like beer, you'll certainly be in the right place. Here are some dining options to consider.
Ski Inn Taphouse Hotel - Located in the heart of Sisters, the Ski Inn Taphouse Hotel combines cozy accommodations with a welcoming dining experience. Their on-site taphouse offers a variety of local craft beers and ciders, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Central Oregon. The menu features comfort food favorites such as hearty burgers, fresh salads, and delicious appetizers, making it a great spot for both hotel guests and visitors alike.
Deschutes Brewery Public House - Located in downtown Bend, Deschutes Brewery Public House is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. They offer a variety of craft beers brewed on-site, along with a menu that includes pub favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
10 Barrel Brewing Co. - Another favorite in Bend, 10 Barrel Brewing Co. offers a great selection of house-brewed beers and a diverse menu featuring wood-fired pizzas, hearty salads, and delicious pub fare. Their rooftop patio is perfect for enjoying a meal with a view.
McMenamins Old St. Francis School - This unique dining option in Bend is housed in a converted Catholic schoolhouse. McMenamins offers a range of craft beers, wines, and spirits, along with a menu that includes everything from classic pub food to more refined dishes like steaks and seafood.
Bos Taurus - For a fine dining experience in Bend, Bos Taurus is an excellent choice. This modern steakhouse offers a variety of premium cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. It's perfect for a special night out.
Jackson's Corner - A cozy spot in Bend, Jackson's Corner is known for its farm-to-table approach, offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a variety of pizzas, pastas, and salads, along with a great selection of local beers and wines.
Wild Ride Brewing - Located in Redmond, Wild Ride Brewing is a popular spot for craft beer lovers. They offer a wide range of beers brewed on-site, along with a rotating selection of food trucks that provide diverse and delicious meal options.
Sisters Coffee Company - In the heart of Sisters, Sisters Coffee Company offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for breakfast or lunch. They serve a variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and light meals, making it a great spot to relax and refuel.
Plan Your Accessible Trip to Central Oregon
Central Oregon is now a Destination Verified partner of Wheel the World, meaning that Central Oregon has dedicated resources to ensure people with disabilities can visit their beautiful area and find detailed information on accessibility. This includes hotels, things to do, restaurants, and more!
Travel to Central Oregon with confidence knowing that you can fully experience everything it has to offer. Are you ready? Find your accommodation and activities below.
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