Looking ahead to another exciting year of traveling, you may be starting to budget for your time in Sunriver. It seems like the costs continue to rise year after year from everything from travel options to attractions and activities. By budgeting the cost of an Oregon vacation ahead, you are able to have an idea of what to expect when you visit the area. Take a look at how you can budget for a trip to Sunriver in 2025:
Plan to Visit During the Off Season
One of the best ways to look ahead at budgeting for a trip is to find out when the cost is at its lowest. This is where an off season comes in play for travel destinations. Off seasons can be at different points of the year when local attractions of activities are not at their peak. For Sunriver, we are most popular during the summer season when all of the outdoor activities are at their best. Sunriver is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, so do not let limit yourself to just the summer season when you visit. The fall season is fantastic to visit and offers daily highs in the mid 70s on average until later in the season. This makes it perfect to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. The local trails continue to remain open so you will find there is plenty to explore and see.
The winter season is also on the slower side. When there is less demand in town, you will find that prices will be lower than usual including lodging. The winter season can be busier around the local ski slopes where you will find visitors skiing and snowboarding. If you enjoy winter sports, you can easily budget ahead. Bring your own gear to save on the overall cost of going down the slopes.
The spring season is the final part of our off season where the snow has melted. The trails can be muddy but are still enjoyable; just make sure to bring the right gear. The rivers will also be flowing at their highest, providing some great rafting experiences. By visiting during the off season, you will find lower costs on lodging and activities, helping your budget.
Explore the Summer Season
Visiting Sunriver in the summer season is always an option as well. This peak season is when Sunriver will see our highest amount of visitors in the area. Sunriver is most popular for aquatic activities with local sports such as windsurfing and sailing being very popular. The weather is absolutely beautiful and will encourage you to spend countless hours outdoors. While some of these activities such as sailing can be more expensive in the summer, you can still find plenty of free or lost cost activities to help with your budget.
Enjoy the local rivers by kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, or canoeing down the river. Simply relax in a river tube and float on down the river as you soak up the sun. Explore the trails that are perfect for hiking. Paved paths are great for mountain biking. The rivers are open for fishing at designated spots where you can try to reel up a fish. Many of these activities require items that you can always rent here in town. However, you can save on the overall cost by bringing them from home if you already own them. This is perfect for those driving to Sunriver and have bigger vehicles to haul the gear.
Traveling to Sunriver
Speaking of driving to Sunriver, your transportation is always a part of budgeting for your trip. Sunriver is located in Oregon, making it harder to reach if you do not live in the Pacific Northwest. If you do, you can easily take a short drive to our destination. Driving is always the cheapest option and lets you have more room for your gear and equipment to bring with you.
Driving also prevents you from having to rent a vehicle, saving even more on your overall costs. If you do need to fly into the area, you can always fly into Sunriver Airport. This is a privately owned airport, so your options for flights will not be expansive. For the most options, you can fly into Redmond, a local airport that serves all major airlines. Book your flight in advance and car rental in advance to save on potential price increases that can happen closer to your trip.
Time to Book in Sunriver
There is no better time to start budgeting and preparing for your time in Sunriver. Our vacation rentals can keep you close to the fun and offers plenty of exciting amenities helping you save on your overall costs for the trip. Book today and come enjoy Sunriver!
Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, Sunriver is a beautiful vacation destination that offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, charming local shops, and family-friendly activities. Surrounded by stunning forests, the Deschutes River, and the majestic Cascade Mountains, Sunriver is an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. First-time visitors will discover that this small, inviting town is brimming with unique experiences, ensuring that every moment of your vacation is filled with wonder. Check out the top Sunriver, Oregon attractions below.
Outdoor Adventures
Sunriver is a nature lover’s dream come true, offering countless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or simply want to relax and take in the scenery, Sunriver’s natural beauty will not disappoint.
Hiking and Exploring Sunriver Trails
The expansive forests and scenic landscapes surrounding Sunriver make it an incredible hiking destination. First-time visitors should start their journey at Lava Lands Visitor Center, where they can explore the Lava Butte trail. This moderately easy hike will reward you with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding lava fields and dense forests. The area has interpretive signs along the trail that share fascinating information about the volcanic history of Central Oregon, making it both a visually and educationally enriching hike.
For those looking for more adventure, Benham Falls Trail is a must-see. This trail leads hikers alongside the Deschutes River, providing stunning views of the cascading falls as well as beautiful wildlife sightings. It’s a relatively short hike, making it perfect for families or those with limited time.
For visitors looking for a challenge, Tumalo Falls should be at the top of your list. This breathtaking 97-foot waterfall is surrounded by an easy-to-moderate trail, and it provides fantastic photo opportunities. It’s a popular spot among locals, and visitors who take the time to experience it will leave with unforgettable memories.
Biking the Sunriver Trails
With over 35 miles of paved biking paths, Sunriver is one of the best places in Oregon for cycling. It’s an easy and affordable way for first-time visitors to explore the area. Locals and visitors alike rent bikes and pedal through scenic trails, including paths that weave through the Sunriver Resort, along the Deschutes River, and even to nearby Lava Lands.
One of the best spots to experience the town’s bike trails is the Sunriver Loop Trail, a gentle, family-friendly route that allows cyclists to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. You’ll pass towering trees, picturesque riverside vistas, and natural landscapes that make Sunriver such a special place.
If you’re a more experienced biker or prefer mountain biking, Phil’s Trail Complex is a true Sunriver favorite. These rugged trails are filled with technical rock gardens, switchbacks, and sharp turns through the forest, offering the ultimate mountain biking adventure.
Water Sports
If you’ve always wanted to experience the Deschutes River from a new perspective, kayaking or paddleboarding is a must. The river runs through Sunriver and provides countless opportunities to explore its calm waters. First-time visitors are encouraged to rent a paddleboard or kayak from one of the local shops, many of which are conveniently located along the river.
The Riverbend Park to Drake Park route is one of the most popular spots for a leisurely float. It’s peaceful and perfect for those new to water sports, offering fantastic views of the surrounding nature. Whether you’re solo or with friends and family, floating the Deschutes River is a relaxing way to take in Sunriver’s stunning beauty.
For more adventurous visitors, try paddling around Sparks Lake, another local gem just a short distance from the main town. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or even go rafting, enjoying views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains as you glide across the water.
Top Sunriver, Oregon Attractions
Sunriver is known for its stunning natural landscapes and the endless recreational opportunities it offers, but the town also has many attractions that will help you get to know its unique charm.
The Sunriver Nature Center and Observatory
The Sunriver Nature Center is one of the most popular Sunriver, Oregon attractions. Located just outside of town, this center is home to a wide array of exhibits on the local flora, fauna, and ecosystems. The center has a variety of educational displays, many of which include live animals that call the Sunriver area home, such as owls, raptors, and reptiles.
Families especially love the interactive exhibits and nature walks that are available. The Observatory on-site is a favorite among stargazing enthusiasts, as Sunriver is one of the best places in Oregon for celestial viewing. At night, the observatory hosts public stargazing events where visitors can peer through high-powered telescopes to catch a glimpse of distant galaxies, planets, and stars.
The High Desert Museum
A short drive from Sunriver, the High Desert Museum offers a deep dive into the region’s cultural and natural history. This museum features interactive exhibits on everything from the history of Central Oregon’s Native American tribes to the wildlife and environment of the area. The wildlife encounters with local creatures like owls, otters, and hawks are a highlight for children and adults alike.
The museum also includes fascinating outdoor exhibits, such as historic homesteads, wildlife enclosures, and nature trails that are perfect for a day of exploration and education.
The Village at Sunriver
For a relaxed, enjoyable day, the Village at Sunriver offers a variety of locally owned shops, art galleries, and restaurants to explore. Here, you can find unique gifts, hand-crafted goods, and outdoor gear to take home as souvenirs. For a memorable shopping experience, stop by Bend Soap Company for locally made soaps or The Workhouse for beautiful, rustic furniture and decor.
The Village is also home to great restaurants and cafes, making it a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner. First-time visitors will appreciate Sunriver Brewing Co., a local favorite for craft beer lovers. It offers a cozy atmosphere and a variety of delicious brews. For a laid-back breakfast or brunch, try The Village Café, known for its fresh coffee and tasty menu.
Family-Friendly Fun in Sunriver
Sunriver is a fantastic destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep children entertained. From hands-on learning experiences to outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of fun things for families to do together.
Sunriver’s Kids Activities and Programs
While visiting, families with kids can take advantage of the many programs and activities offered at local centers. The Sunriver Nature Center offers engaging educational programs for children, including nature walks, bird-watching lessons, and crafts. It’s a great way to combine learning and fun for kids of all ages.
Many families also enjoy the Sunriver Observatory, where kids can participate in interactive science programs that allow them to learn about stars, planets, and the wonders of the universe. These programs are designed to keep young minds engaged and curious.
Visiting the High Desert Museum with Kids
The High Desert Museum is another favorite for families, especially for those with children. Its interactive exhibits and live animal displays are perfect for kids who love learning about wildlife and the environment. The museum often hosts family-friendly events and workshops, making it a great destination for an educational family outing.
Relaxing and Unwinding in Sunriver
Sunriver is not just about adventure; it’s also the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peaceful environment. After a day filled with outdoor activities and exploration, unwind in one of the many serene spots that the town offers.
Relax at a Local Spa
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a soothing massage or spa treatment at one of the local spas. Mirror Pond Wellness and The Spa at the Oxford both offer top-notch services, from rejuvenating facials to deep-tissue massages, using locally sourced ingredients. These spas are perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Evening Stargazing in Sunriver
Sunriver is known for its dark, star-filled skies, making it one of the best places to stargaze in Oregon. The Sunriver Observatory offers great public stargazing events, or you can simply head to Lava Lands for a quiet evening under the stars. Locals and visitors alike love the serene atmosphere and the chance to witness some of the clearest skies in the country.
Your Private Retreat with Arrived
When planning a visit to Sunriver, you’ll want to stay somewhere comfortable, private, and close to all of the action. Arrived offers a variety of vacation homes that suit the needs of first-time visitors, from cozy cottages for two to large homes that can accommodate up to 18 people.
Arrived properties are thoughtfully designed with vacationers in mind, offering everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Many of our homes feature state-of-the-art kitchens, so you can save time and money by preparing meals during your stay. These kitchens are fully stocked with appliances, cookware, and flatware, making it easy to prepare anything from a quick breakfast to a family dinner.
Our vacation rentals in Sunriver come with spacious bedrooms, plenty of closet space, and cozy bedding to ensure everyone gets a good night’s rest. Many homes also have private bathrooms, so no one will have to fight over bathroom time. Master bedrooms often feature private bathrooms with Jack and Jill sinks, adding extra convenience for families.
For relaxation, many of our homes have private patios or backyards with BBQs, where you can enjoy meals outside, and some even come with hot tubs—ideal for stargazing after a busy day exploring the area. With many homes offering incredible views of the surrounding forests, mountains, and Deschutes River, you’ll have a tranquil space to unwind.
Arrived’s vacation homes are also perfect for families, as many of our homes are pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure. With over 50 homes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect rental to suit your needs.
Book Your Stay with Arrived Today
Sunriver offers a wealth of activities, dining options, and local experiences that let you embrace the town like a local. Whether you’re hiking the trails, enjoying the craft beer scene, or relaxing in a cozy rental, Sunriver has something for everyone. To make your visit even more enjoyable, stay in one of our comfortable, spacious Sunriver vacation rentals with Arrived. Book your stay with us today and start planning your unforgettable Sunriver getaway!
Now is the perfect time to get up off the couch and explore the beautiful scenery in Sunriver. Our town is the perfect location to take yourself on a solo trek. The abundance of activities in Sunriver will keep you busy throughout your stay. Here are some great Sunriver activities for solo travelers:
See What the Outdoors Are All About
Perhaps one of the biggest draws for visitors to Sunriver is the beautiful scenery we have in the area. Many solo travelers head to the outdoors for some hiking, biking, golfing, rafting, and much more. Many of these activities are even more fun to do when on your own. When you go hiking, you will not have to worry about anyone else keeping up with you. We recommend heading out during the summer if you plan on spending most of the time with these Sunriver activities for solo travelers.
Go Stargazing
Take advantage of the clear skies by going stargazing at night. This is a great activity to do on your own as you can spend as much time as you want peering into the night sky. Sunriver Observatory is your one stop location for prime stargazing. This facility has the biggest collection of telescopes available for the public in the whole country. Try to find some shining stars or maybe even catch a meteor shower!
Take on Mt. Bachelor
You can find the best skiing in Oregon when you visit nearby Mt. Bachelor. This local peak is a simple 25-minute drive from our vacation rentals. In fact, Mt. Bachelor has the highest elevation for skiing in the entire Pacific Northwest. You can ski without having to worry about someone else lagging behind. Feel free to bring your own equipment, but it is probably easier to pack light and instead stop by the rental shop on the mountain where you can check out all the gear you need. This also includes introductory lessons if you need a refresher. Lift tickets are available by the day, making it even easier to head to Mt. Bachelor on a whim.
Your Key to a Great Solo Adventure
Prepare for an incredible solo adventure when you choose to visit Sunriver, Oregon. These activities and many more await the lucky solo traveler who comes to stay with us. Take a look at our available rentals online including smaller condominium rentals that are perfect for the single traveler looking for a getaway.