20 BEST Things to Do in Sunriver, Oregon, the Whole Family Will Love
20 BEST Things to Do in Sunriver, Oregon, the Whole Family Will Love
Sunriver, Oregon, is a premier destination for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deep connection with nature. Nestled in the high desert of Central Oregon, surrounded by Ponderosa pines and the majestic Cascade Mountains, Sunriver offers an idyllic escape with something for every age and interest.
From thrilling outdoor escapades to cozy indoor fun, the sheer variety of things to do in Sunriver ensures a memorable trip for everyone.
Fun Family Things to Do in Sunriver According to Locals
And for the ultimate family experience, don’t forget about your homebase. When you’re looking for the best Oregon hotels to stay during your trip, consider somewhere that’s centrally located, has plenty of onsite amenities for the whole family, and, of course, a great view never goes awry.
So, are you ready to explore the 20 best things to do in Sunriver that the whole family will love? Whether you're planning a summer vacation filled with biking and watersports or a winter retreat focused on skiing and fireside warmth, Sunriver delivers.
1 | Biking on Sunriver's Extensive Path System | With over 40 miles of paved pathways completely separated from vehicle traffic, biking is the #1 activity for families in Sunriver.
The bike paths connect The Village at Sunriver, Fort Rock Park playgrounds, Sunriver Nature Center, restaurants, pools, and beyond. Scenic routes wind past Deschutes River views and gorgeous Ponderosa pine forests.
Bikes are truly the preferred mode of transportation here; families bike to dinner, the market for snacks, morning coffee runs, and just for the pure joy of riding in this safe, beautiful environment.
WHERE: Village Bike & Ski, 57100 Beaver Dr, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 593-2453
2 | Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic & Recreation Center (SHARC) | SHARC provides year-round aquatic fun! This massive indoor/outdoor facility features thrilling water slides, a lazy river, lap pools, hot tubs, recreation pools, and kiddie areas perfect for toddlers. (And despite the name, day passes are available for non-residents.)
The facility operates year-round regardless of outdoor weather, with both indoor heated pools and outdoor summer attractions. During summer, outdoor amenities expand operations, but don’t worry, during winter, indoor pools are heated and welcoming.
Pro Tip: Arrive early during peak summer days to secure spots.
WHERE: 57250 Overlook Rd, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 585-5000
3 | Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory | Sunriver Nature Center offers exciting educational experiences featuring live birds of prey, amphibians, snakes, and interpretive exhibits about Central Oregon's high desert ecosystem.
Afterwards, walk the nature trails around the lake and explore botanical gardens that showcase native plants, while learning about the unique geology and wildlife of the region.
Picnic tables and benches make perfect spots for scenic lunches. The adjacent Oregon Observatory at Sunriver provides world-class stargazing experiences with telescopes and expert guides.
Pro Tip: The center operates year-round, but hours vary by season, so be sure to check before you go.
WHERE: 57245 River Rd, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 593-4394
4 | Float the Deschutes River | Rent single or tandem kayaks, or a family-friendly canoe, and spend a peaceful afternoon paddling past lush riverbanks.
Popular floats range from two to four hours, with numerous access points available, as well as several rental companies offering shuttle services for one-way trips. The scenic float passes beautiful riverside homes, Ponderosa pine forests, and you’re likely to spot various wildlife, including otters, eagles, and deer.
WHERE: Sunriver Marina, 17440 Deschutes Rd, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 593-3492
5 | Hike to Benham Falls | The trail to Benham Falls is one of the most popular family hikes near Sunriver.
The well-maintained path follows the Deschutes River through a volcanic landscape to Benham Falls, where the river rushes through a narrow lava rock channel, creating powerful rapids.
The trail is about two miles one-way with relatively flat terrain that's manageable for families, though watch younger kids on the final descent to the viewing platforms and multiple viewpoints give you great spots for photos of the falls.
WHERE: Benham Falls East Trailhead, Forest Rd 9702, Bend, OR 97702 | WHO: (541) 383-5300
6 | The Village at Sunriver | The Village at Sunriver is a central hub, offering everything you need, from vacation groceries and gear rentals to meals, shopping, and entertainment, within a walkable open-air mall setting.
A fire pit creates a gathering spot for families, Artists' Gallery Sunriver features local artwork, and hosts Second Saturday celebrations, which are popular amongst locals and feature appetizers and beverages.
WHERE: 57100 Beaver Dr, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 593-8704
7 | Oregon Observatory | The Oregon Observatory is one of the largest public observatories in the Pacific Northwest.
With multiple powerful telescopes, it offers an incredible opportunity for families to gaze at planets, stars, and galaxies. Public viewing nights provide guided tours of the night sky, a truly unforgettable and educational experience.
WHERE: 57215 River Rd, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 593-4442
8 | Fort Rock Park | Fort Rock Park provides Sunriver's premier playground and picnic area for families with young children.
The park's central location is accessible by bike or short drive from most Sunriver neighborhoods. There’s plenty of shade for the hot summer days, and the open design makes it easy for kids to run free while parents can still keep an eye on them.
Pack a picnic, play frisbee, let kids burn energy on playground equipment, then bike home through the pine forests; it's the perfect Sunriver afternoon.
WHERE: 57530 Hoodoo Ln, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: N/A
9 | Lava Lands Visitor Center & Lava Butte | Just a short drive from Sunriver, the Lava Lands Visitor Center, part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, is an educational and awe-inspiring experience.
Hike to the top of the Lava Butte cinder cone for panoramic views, or explore the Lava River Cave, Oregon's longest lava tube, for a cool subterranean adventure (reservations often required for cave access).
WHERE: 58201 S Hwy 97, Bend, OR 97702 | WHO: (541) 593-2421
10 | Sunriver Brewing Company | Sunriver Brewing Company creates a family-friendly brewpub atmosphere where parents enjoy award-winning craft beers while kids devour pizzas and burgers.
The spacious restaurant accommodates families with a casual vibe, outdoor patio seating, and a menu beyond typical bar food.
Pro Tip: Try flagship beers like Rippin and Fuzztail Hefeweizen.
WHERE: 57100 Beaver Dr Bldg 4, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 306-5154
11 | Horseback Riding | Sunriver Trail Rides offers guided trail rides through pristine Central Oregon forest landscapes for all experience levels.
The trails wind through diverse terrain, showcasing Central Oregon's natural beauty. Sunset rides provide particularly memorable experiences with golden light filtering through the trees. Young children enjoy short pony rides, while families embark on 1-2 hour guided trail rides through Ponderosa pine forests with mountain views.
WHERE: Deschutes National Forest, 57215 River Rd, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 241-0018
12 | Mini Golf & Ice Skating at The Village | Changing seasonally, there’s so much to see and do at The Village, you’ll never have the same experience twice!
Summer brings special events, including concerts, art walks, the Alpine Express trackless train ride for kids, and outdoor entertainment, while winter features ice skating on the outdoor rink, holiday light displays, and the popular K9 Keg Pull event.
WHERE: 57100 Beaver Dr, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 593-8704
13 | Sunriver Marina & Water Sports | Sunriver Marina is the headquarters for Deschutes River adventures, offering kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, and raft rentals, plus guided river float trips.
You can book a guided experience down the river or explore at your own pace, and the helpful marina staff provides river maps, safety equipment, and shuttle services.
Pro Tip: The adjacent Rio Sol serves Latin American cuisine and craft cocktails with scenic river views, perfect for post-float dining.
WHERE: 17400 Deschutes Rd, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 593-3492
14 | High Desert Museum | Located 15 minutes from Sunriver near Bend, the High Desert Museum ranks among Oregon's premier natural and cultural history institutions. This world-class museum combines indoor exhibits with outdoor wildlife habitats showcasing otters, raptors, porcupines, and other native animals.
Indoor galleries explore Native American cultures, pioneer history, wildlife ecology, and natural history through engaging, interactive exhibits, while its outdoor trails wind past animal habitats where daily presentations and feedings provide up-close encounters.
The museum operates year-round with extensive programming, including ranger talks, birds of prey demonstrations, and seasonal events.
WHERE: 59800 S Hwy 97, Bend, OR 97702 | WHO: (541) 382-4754
15 | Mt. Bachelor | Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort, just 35 minutes from Sunriver, is one of the most iconic venues for winter sports with 4,300+ acres of skiable terrain, 360-degree skiing around the volcanic peak, and the Pacific Northwest's longest ski season.
Enjoy an excellent ski school, childcare facilities, terrain parks, and trails suiting all ability levels from first-timers to experts. The summit sits at 9,065 feet, offering stunning Cascade Mountain views.
If you’re visiting during the summer, operations include scenic chairlift rides, disc golf, hiking, and mountain biking.
WHERE: 13000 SW Century Drive, Bend, OR 97702 | WHO: (541) 382-1709
16 | Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway | The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway offers one of Oregon's most spectacular scenic drives, winding through high Cascade forests past crystal-clear alpine lakes with snow-capped volcanic peaks as a backdrop.
The 66-mile paved loop passes numerous lakes perfect for swimming, picnicking, fishing, and photography. Popular stops include Sparks Lake, Elk Lake, Lava Lake, and Cultus Lake.
Pro Tip: Pack a picnic, bring fishing gear, and allow a full day to stop frequently and soak in the alpine beauty.
WHERE: Starts near Bend, Oregon (Highway 372) | WHO: N/A
17 | Sunriver VR | Sunriver VR brings cutting-edge virtual reality gaming to The Village. Choose your own adventure with VR experiences ranging from zombie battles to cooking challenges. castle defense games, space flight simulations, and more.
The immersive technology creates shared experiences where families compete or cooperate in virtual worlds. Sunriver VR is the perfect rainy-day activity or evening activity after outdoor adventures.
WHERE: 56805 Venture Ln. Suite C, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (503) 407-8936
18 | Goody's Candy & Ice Cream | Make some sweet memories at Goody’s in The Village! This old-fashioned candy shop and ice cream parlor features extensive selections of chocolates, saltwater taffy, bulk candy, fudge, and hand-dipped ice cream.
Generous ice cream portions, milkshakes, and sundaes satisfy post-bike-ride cravings, and the candy selection includes local Oregon favorites and specialty confections.
WHERE: 7100 Beaver Dr. Building 22, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 593-2155
19 | Golf at Sunriver Courses | Sunriver Resort's championship golf courses, Meadows, Woodlands, and Crosswater, rank among the Pacific Northwest's finest.
The Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed courses wind through Ponderosa pine forests with Cascade Mountain backdrops and Deschutes River views. While serious golfers appreciate the challenging layouts, the courses also offer junior programs, clinics, and welcoming atmospheres for all skill levels.
WHERE: 17600 Center Dr, Sunriver, OR 97707 | WHO: (541) 593-4402
20 | Day Trip to Crater Lake National Park | Crater Lake National Park, America's deepest lake formed in a collapsed volcanic caldera, sits just under two hours from Sunriver, making it perfect for memorable day trips.
The impossibly blue water surrounded by 2,000-foot cliffs creates one of America's most stunning natural wonders. During the summer, visitors can explore the full 33-mile scenic loop with multiple viewpoints, hiking trails, and boat tours to Wizard Island.
Winter transforms Crater Lake into a snowy wonderland with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing around the rim.
Pro Tip: The park's high elevation means cool temperatures even in summer, so bring layers.
WHERE: Crater Lake National Park, Rim Village, CRATER LAKE, OR 97604 | WHO: (541) 594-3000
Things to Know Before Your Sunriver Family Vacation
When to Visit:
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Summer (June-August): Peak vacation season brings warm, dry weather, averaging in the 70s-80s, perfect for all outdoor activities. Bike paths buzz with families, SHARC reaches capacity early, and The Village hosts events. Book accommodations months in advance and expect premium rates. All activities operate on full schedules. This is peak family vacation time when schools are out.
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Fall (September-October): Shoulder season offers cooling weather in the 60s-70s, changing aspens adding golden hues to pine forests, and reduced crowds with better accommodation rates. Cascade Lakes remain accessible, outdoor activities continue comfortably, and restaurants see shorter waits. Early October is ideal before the first snow closures affect mountain roads.
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Winter (November-March): Winter transforms Sunriver into a snow-covered wonderland. Mt. Bachelor ski season draws winter sports enthusiasts, while Sunriver's bike paths become cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, and the Village's ice skating rink operates, and holiday events create festive atmospheres.
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Spring (April-May): Spring brings unpredictable weather as winter transitions to summer. Early spring may still see snow, while late May approaches summer conditions. Waterfalls run highest from snowmelt, wildflowers bloom, and wildlife is active.
Helpful Tips:
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Stay Central: The Pines at Sunriver is conveniently located near the region's most popular attractions while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
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Bring or Rent Bikes: Bikes are essential for the full Sunriver experience. If bringing your own ensures proper fit and familiarity, but quality rentals are readily available if flying in. Reserve rental bikes in advance during peak summer season.
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Pack for Temperature Swings: High desert climate creates dramatic temperature variations. Summer days reach the 80s-90s while nights drop to 40s-50s. Layer clothing and pack sweatshirts, even for July visits. Sunscreen is essential as high elevation intensifies UV exposure.
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Book in Advance: Popular activities like the Oregon Observatory programs, horseback riding, and golf tee times can book up quickly. Reserve 1-2 weeks in advance during peak season to secure preferred times.
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Plan Flexible Itineraries: The weather in the Pacific Northwest is notoriously fickle, especially as the seasons are changing. So, it’s always a good idea to have some backup options when you have outdoor activities planned.
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Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be spotty in parts of Sunriver and completely absent in nearby wilderness areas. Download offline maps or use physical trail maps before venturing to remote areas.
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Respect Wildlife: Deer wander freely through Sunriver neighborhoods. Maintain distance, never feed wildlife, and supervise young children around animals. While generally docile, deer can become aggressive if cornered or during fawning season.
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Check Operating Hours: Many attractions operate seasonally or with reduced winter hours. Always verify hours in advance before visiting.
Going, Going, (Ore)gon!
Sunriver delivers that rare combination of outdoor adventure, family-friendly fun, and genuine relaxation that creates memories that last far beyond the trip home. Whether you're hiking to Benham Falls, earning Junior Ranger badges at Lava Lands, hitting the slopes at Mt. Bachelor, or just grabbing ice cream at Goody's after a long bike ride, Sunriver makes it easy to unplug and actually spend time together.
Ready to start planning? From food guides to hidden gems, get more travel tips and inspiration on the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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