Vacation Blog

When everyday life becomes routine, it’s time to start planning your next thrilling getaway. There’s no better place to seek adventure than Sunriver, Oregon! With stunning natural landscapes and endless outdoor activities, this resort community is the ideal choice for any vacation. Check out the fabulous shops and restaurants in the Village at Sunriver, get out and explore miles of picturesque hiking trails, or enjoy the skiing thrill of your life at nearby Mt. Bachelor. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. If you are searching for the best things to do in Sunriver, these should be at the top of your list. Once you’ve learned about all of the best things to do in Sunriver, you’ll need to find the perfect accommodations for your stay. Meredith Lodging offers an exclusive selection of luxury vacation rentals in Sunriver and the surrounding area. Make sure to take advantage of our current specials and contact us to book your stay. We can’t wait to welcome you! Top 10 Things to Do in Sunriver, Oregon There are so many amazing things to do in Sunriver, and you won’t experience them all in one day. Here are a few ideas to get you started: 1. Enjoy the Great Outdoors Whether you are visiting in spring, summer, fall, or winter, Sunriver offers boundless outdoor recreation year-round. During the summertime, visitors can enjoy hiking, rafting, road cycling, golfing, caving, and a plethora of water sports. Hit Some of the Many Sunriver Bike Trails Get your heart racing with a mountain biking adventure, take the whole family out for a scenic bike ride. Here are some of the most notable trails: Fishing and Fly Fishing Sunriver Drop a line in many of the fishing spot in Sunriver, Oregon. Here are some we love to recommend: Rivers and Streams Lakes Kayaking, Canoeing, or Floating Deschutes River The Deschutes River in Sunriver may be floated, canoed, or kayaked via a variety of popular routes. For a fun-filled day on the river, pick from the following launch and return locations. If you’re putting in or taking out at Harper’s Bridge on the south side of the river, floaters should do so near Harper’s Bridge. The Sunriver Resort Marina may also be utilized as a launching/takeout point; however, it is possible that access fees will apply. Things to Do in Sunriver During the Winter There are also plenty of things to do in Sunriver, Oregon, in winter, as the area is a prime destination for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snow tubing, and snowshoeing. There’s a lot to talk about, so you can find out more here.   2. Splash at the SHARC Water Park Are you looking for something fun to do with the kids? Take them to the Sunriver Homeowners Aquatics and Recreation Center (SHARC). This premier aquatics facility boasts an indoor/outdoor waterpark and tons of family fun. Take a dip in the pool, float down the lazy river, or race down the waterslides at lightning-fast speeds. The facility even has a disc golf course, a basketball court, and a fitness center. Make sure to check their calendar to see a list of current and upcoming events. From blacklight snow tubing to the annual spring Mud Run, they feature a wide array of family-friendly activities throughout the year. 3. Stargaze at the Oregon Observatory at Sunriver Whether you are planning a romantic date or a fun night out with the family, a visit to the Sunriver Observatory is a must. Our region’s elevation and location makes it a prime destination for stargazing, and this facility boasts the largest collection of public telescopes in the country. Fix your eyes on the sky and prepare to be amazed by the out-of-this-world views. If you are lucky, you may even spot a meteor shower! 4. Browse the Local Shops A perfect afternoon is in store when you wander through the boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores at the Village at Sunriver. Enjoy a personalized shopping experience at The Closet, find prehistoric fossils at Sunriver Rock and Gem, or browse through the trendy clothes at Village Threads. After you’ve shopped to your heart’s content, stop into one of the nearby breweries and unwind with a cold craft beer.   5. Indulge in the Delicious Cuisine Are you craving fresh seafood? How about authentic Mexican cuisine? From fine dining to cozy cafes, Sunriver has it all. Stop into the Hot Lava Bakery for a fresh, made-from-scratch pastry. Then, enjoy a traditional Latin-inspired meal and a margarita at El Caporal. If you are in the mood for Italian cuisine, Marcello’s offers some of the best pizzas and pastas around. They will even make your dish to order. Finally, make sure to stop by Goody’s for one of their premium ice cream cones or hand-crafted chocolates. 6. Visit the Sunriver Nature Center With exciting exhibits and native wildlife, The Sunriver Nature Center is definitely worth the visit. The kids will love all of the hands-on exhibits, and they may even get a close up look at porcupines, Great Horned Owls, otters, beavers, and raptors. The grounds also include scenic hiking trails and the only botanical garden in Central Oregon. Other not-to-miss attractions at the Nature Center include the Cosmic Crater exhibit, the Lake Aspen Loop, and the Creature Cave. 7. Hit the Slopes at Mt. Bachelor When it comes to skiing destinations, few places can compare to Central Oregon. Located just 25 minutes from Sunriver, Mt. Bachelor boasts the highest skiable elevation in all of Oregon and Washington! With varied terrain and powder-fresh snow, it’s no wonder that so many families choose to spend their winters skiing and snowboarding here. Other winter activities offered at the ski resort include snowshoeing, dog sledding, and snow tubing. In the summertime, guests can enjoy mountain biking, disc golf, hiking and more. 8. Explore Miles of Scenic Hiking Trails There are simply too many beautiful hiking trails to count near

Are you newly engaged? When it comes to beautiful destinations, few places can compare to Lincoln City, Oregon. With dramatic landscapes and breathtaking ocean views, there’s not a more romantic place to say “I Do!” But before you toss the bouquet and ride off into the sunset, you’ll need to find your perfect venue. From oceanfront settings to rustic vineyards, these Lincoln City wedding venues are guaranteed to impress. If you are searching for Lincoln City wedding venues, make sure to request our complimentary Vacation Guide.  Our local guide is full of valuable information about the best activities, events, and attractions in Lincoln City. It’s a great tool to have on hand when you are planning a wedding! 5 of the Best Places to Get Married in Lincoln City, Oregon 1. Lincoln City Beaches If you’ve always imagined a fairytale beach wedding, now is the chance to make your dreams come true! Lincoln City boasts miles of pristine shoreline and plenty of gorgeous photo backdrops. The beautiful coastal setting and dramatic mountain views are sure to leave you and your guests with lasting memories. If you are interested in hosting a beach wedding along the Oregon Coast, keep in mind that the beaches are open to the public. There are many Oregon beaches to choose from! You can contact the Coastal Region Office at 541-563-8500 for information about special use regulations. Then, browse through our luxury beach rentals in Lincoln City and find the perfect accommodations for your wedding weekend! 2. The Oregon Coast Aquarium What could be more romantic than saying your vows underwater? The Oregon Coast Aquarium provides a one-of-a-kind setting for your special day. Walk down the aisle while hundreds of colorful fish and sharks swim all around you and your guests. Once you’ve tied the knot, you can celebrate with your family and friends in one of the event spaces. Whether you prefer a formal reception dinner or a casual get-together, the possibilities are endless. Plus, your guests can tour the exhibits or enjoy private visits with the seals, sea lions, and seabirds. Check out their website for more information about weddings. 3. Pelican Brewery Not your average brewpub, Pelican Brewery is a fantastic venue for couples who are interested in a beachfront location with dramatic ocean views. This Pacific City venue boasts a large fireplace, an outdoor patio, multiple event spaces, and spectacular views of Haystack Rock. Host your ceremony on the beach while you listen to the sound of waves crashing along the shore. Then, enjoy a memorable reception dinner in one of their indoor or outdoor venues. Be sure to reserve one of our Pacific City vacation rentals during your stay. Many of them are a short walk or drive from Pelican Brewery! 4. Connie Hansen Garden This is a great option for couples who are interested in an intimate wedding or elopement. Connie Hanson Garden is located in the heart of Lincoln City and offers an enchanting garden setting for your special day. Hold your ceremony on the patio or in the Scotton Morning Garden surrounded by beautiful flower beds. The Garden House can accommodate up to 40 people for both weddings and receptions. It’s also important to keep in mind that the gardens are open to the public at all times. 5. J. Wrigley Vineyards Just a short drive away in Sheridan, J. Wrigley Vineyards is one of the most beautiful wedding venues near Lincoln City, Oregon. This venue offers a private setting and panoramic views stretching as far as the eye can see. A rustic barn provides the perfect backdrop for your ceremony, while lush vineyards and rolling hills offer stunning photo opportunities at every turn. After the ceremony, head over to the tasting room and enjoy an unforgettable reception dinner with your loved ones. Say “Yes” to Meredith Lodging! Now that you are ready to start planning the wedding of your dreams, you’ll need to find the perfect place to stay. If you are searching for accommodations in the area, we invite you to book your stay with Meredith Lodging. We offer a wide array of upscale vacation rentals along the Oregon Coast and would love to host you during this happy time in your lives! Whether you are searching for a romantic beach cottage, a spacious family retreat, or a luxury oceanfront home, we are sure to have the perfect property for your wedding weekend. Check out our current specials and then contact us at 800-224-7660 to book your stay. We look forward to seeing you soon!

No trip to Lincoln City is complete without a visit to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Located in Newport, the aquarium offers animal encounters and tours, educational programs, diving, and so much more. Whether you decide to browse through the exhibits, kiss a seal, or swim with the sharks, we guarantee that this will be an experience you won’t soon forget. Here are some of the best things to do at the Lincoln City Aquarium! If you plan to spend a day at the Lincoln City aquarium, you’ll want to check out the local shops and restaurants nearby. Be sure to download our complimentary Vacation Guide for a complete list of area attractions. It’s full of local tips about the best places to eat, attractions to see, and things to do on the Central Oregon Coast. Top 3 Things to Do at the Lincoln City Aquarium 1. Browse the Oregon Coast Aquarium Exhibits With 15 different exhibits, there are so many ways to explore at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Visitors can see beautiful moon jellyfish, giant octopuses, otters, sharks, birds, starfish, and many other species of fish and underwater plants. There is even an exhibit that displays replicas of real artificial reefs caused by shipwrecks around the world. Make sure to visit the “Passages of the Deep.” These underwater tunnels provide a stunning 360 degree view of creatures swimming all around you. With so much to see and do, it is easy to lose track of time. 2. Swim with the Sharks Are you looking for a more interactive experience? Dive in! At the Oregon Coast Aquarium, you can literally swim with hundreds of fish and sharks. Your professionally trained guide will lead you through the entire diving experience to make sure that you have a safe and unforgettable time. Make sure to call the aquarium ahead of time to make a reservation. The once-in-a-lifetime experience includes your admission, behind-the-scenes tours, a dive into the 26 ft. Halibut Flats Exhibit, and a dive into the Open Sea Exhibit. As you are immersed underwater, you’ll see a wide variety of colorful fish. You may even spot sharks swimming by that are up to 10 feet in length! 3. Kiss a Seal or Sea Lion If you decide to sign up for one of the animal tours, don’t forget to bring your camera! This 45-minute program begins with a short briefing and an animal training session. Guests will have the chance to ask questions before receiving a kiss from one of the California Sea Lions or Harbor Seals! This program is held every Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. If you would like to learn more about the aquarium, you can also sign up for one of the behind-the-scenes tours. These are offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 12:30 p.m.   Oregon Coast Aquarium Hours of Operation The aquarium is open 364 days a year, excluding Christmas. From September through late May, they are open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. From late May through early September, they are open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Oregon Coast Aquarium prices range from $22.95 for adults to $14.95 for children aged 3-12. Admission for young adults (aged 13-17) and seniors is $19.95, while infants aged 2 and under are always free. Interactive experiences can be purchased for an additional fee. Don’t forget to stop by the Oregon Coast Aquarium gift shop to browse for unique souvenirs! Book Your Stay With Meredith Lodging After a fun day at the aquarium, come relax and unwind in one of our luxurious vacation homes. Meredith Lodging offers a wide array of high-end properties up and down the Oregon Coast, and many of Lincoln City vacation homes are just a short drive from the Oregon Coast Aquarium! Our extensive selection of vacation homes includes cozy condos, beachfront homes, large family homes, pet-friendly options, and more. No matter which you prefer, we are sure to have the perfect property for your stay. Each of our homes and condos features the very best amenities and they are minutes from all of the exciting attractions in Lincoln City. Explore our available properties and book your stay today. Don’t forget to take advantage of our amazing deals and specials. We can’t wait to hear all about your adventures at the Oregon Coast Aquarium!  

When you picture the perfect vacation, what comes to mind? Long walks on the beach, fresh ocean air, unforgettable meals, and time well spent with family and friends all fit naturally into a Lincoln City getaway. This beloved stretch of the Oregon Coast blends scenic beauty with vibrant local culture, outdoor adventure, and easygoing coastal charm. From miles of sandy shoreline and scenic hiking trails to shopping, dining, and hands-on arts experiences, Lincoln City offers something for every travel style. Whether your plans lean toward relaxation, exploration, or a little of everything, the hardest part of your visit will be deciding where to start. When you stay with Meredith Lodging, you’ll be perfectly positioned to experience it all. Our Lincoln City vacation rentals offer comfort, convenience, and coastal style, making your beach escape feel effortless from arrival to departure. There are so many fun things to do in Lincoln City, Oregon, and you can experience all of them when you book your stay with Meredith Lodging. We offer a wide array of luxurious vacation rentals along the Oregon Coast. If you are planning a trip to Lincoln City, we would love to help you find your perfect home-away-from-home. No matter which of our lodging options you choose, we guarantee that your vacation will be one for the books! Top 10 Things to Do in Lincoln City, Oregon 1. Relax at the Beach When it comes to beautiful beaches, no place can compare to the Oregon Coast. In Lincoln City, you’ll discover miles of pristine shoreline and inspiring ocean views. The area is also a prime destination for surfing, whale watching, deep sea fishing, crabbing, clamming, and more. Lounge on the beach, catch some waves, or simply sink your toes into the sand and soak up the sun. The fresh sea breezes will transport you to a state of pure bliss! 2. Enjoy Entertainment at Chinook Winds Casino Resort The Chinook Winds Casino is your one-stop-shop for year-round entertainment. The facility features over 1,100 slot machines, a 1,000-seat bingo hall, a high-stakes lounge, and an enormous Convention Center. Test your luck at the poker table, enjoy a variety of table games, or play a game of Keno. The Convention Center also hosts many concerts and performances throughout the year that are suitable for many ages. 3. Explore Lincoln City’s Dining Scene When you visit Lincoln City, you won’t be hungry for long. From fine dining to casual seafood shacks, there are hundreds of excellent dining options to choose from. Dig into the fresh catch of the day at Blackfish, enjoy authentic Thai cuisine at Thai Bay, or grab a quick bite to eat at Grand Central Pizza. Make sure to request our complimentary Vacation Guide for a complete list of great restaurants in the area. 4. Take a Class at the Lincoln City Culinary Center The Lincoln City Culinary Center offers cooking demonstrations and hands-on classes led by professional chefs. These experiences highlight seasonal ingredients and regional flavors, making them a fun and interactive activity for couples, families, and food lovers alike. 5. Visit the Lincoln City Farmers & Crafters Market The Lincoln City Farmers & Crafters Market showcases local produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and artisan products. Live music and a welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite stop during market season, and it’s a great place to support local makers while picking up something unique to bring home. 6. Dive into the Oregon Coast Aquarium Did you know that you can go swimming with sharks at the Oregon Coast Aquarium? An underwater adventure like no other awaits you at the aquarium in Lincoln City. Dive into the water and swim with the fish, explore the exhibits, or kiss a sea lion! The Aquarium is open almost every day of the year and is definitely one of the area’s must-see attractions. 7. Learn the Art of Glassblowing If you would like to explore Lincoln City’s arts scene, then we highly recommend visiting the Jennifer Sears Glass Art Studio. Learn about glassblowing from local artisans, or watch as the glass masterpieces come to life before your very eyes. You can even sign up for a lesson and blow your own glass. During the class, an experienced artist will help you create your own floats, bowls, paperweights, hearts, or votive candleholders. The studio is open every day, but classes are offered Wednesdays – Sundays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 8. Shop at the Lincoln City Outlet Mall Hit the beaches looking your best! There are many great places to shop in Lincoln City, but one of our favorite places is the Lincoln City Outlet Mall. From children’s apparel and jewelry to footwear and furniture, this outdoor shopping center offers a variety of quality items at a discounted price. Shop for the top brands, find the perfect new addition to your wardrobe, or search for unique gifts for friends and family back home. No matter what you are looking for, you are sure to find it here. 9. Go Hiking Outdoor enthusiasts will love all of the great hiking options in our area. The Oregon Coast is filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and they are all just waiting to be explored. One of the most scenic hikes is the Cascade Head Trail. This trail offers stunning views of the craggy islands, estuaries, and a cove filled with sea lions. Another one of our favorites is the Drift Creek Falls Trail. At the end of this hike, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of a cascading waterfall. 10. Treasure Hunt during Finders Keepers “Finders Keepers” is a Lincoln City tradition that is cherished by visitors and locals alike. Between mid-October and May, you can search for blown glass floats along the stretch of shoreline from Road’s End to Siletz Bay. Nearly 3,000 floats are hidden along the beach each year, and they are all created by local artists. Come take a stroll along the shore and see if you can spot one.

If you are in the mood to get outdoors and enjoy some fresh air and exercise, here are some great hiking options in the Central Oregon Coast area: Hiking Trails in Lincoln City You’ll Love! 1. Cascade Head (South Trailhead) Length: 6 miles Directions: From Lincoln City, travel north on Hwy 101. Just north of the Salmon River, turn west on Three Rocks Road. After 2 miles, take the left fork and park in Knight Park. The trailhead is across the street. The trail crosses through private and US Forest Service property and over a narrow winding road. Please use caution and respect private property. 2. Cascade Head (North Trailhead) Length : 5.75 miles Directions: From Lincoln City, travel north on Hwy 101. About 2.4 miles north of they Salmon River, turn left on Cascade Head Road (USFS Road 1861.) Continue 4 miles, bearing left when the road forks. The upper trailhead is marked by a small parking lot sign. At the upper viewpoint, the trail drops steeply to connect with the lower trail. 3. Hart’s Cove Length: 2.7 milesSeason: July 15 to December 31 This trail traverses steep hillsides to a grassy meadows that overlooks the Pacific Ocean Directions: From Lincoln City, travel north on Hwy 101. After the junction of Hwy 101 and Hwy 18, travel north 3.3 miles to Forest Service Road 1861, west of Hwy 101. The trailhead is located at the end of the road, approximately 4 miles. 4. Drift Creek Falls Length: 1.5 miles This trail has a unique feature of a 240 foot suspension bridge that overviews a 75 foot free flowing waterfall with a birds eye view of the surrounding tree canopies. Directions: From Lincoln City, travel south on Hwy 101. Off Hwy 101 south of Lincoln City, north of Salishan, travel east on Drift Creek Road, right on South Drift Creek Road 1/4 mile. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 17. Stay on Forest Service Road 17 to trailhead, approximately 10 miles.

Are you dreaming about your next action-packed winter getaway? There’s no better place to play in the snow than Central Oregon! Nestled in the Deschutes National Forest and surrounded by snow-capped mountain ranges, Sunriver is a winter wonderland just waiting to be explored.  From skiing at Mt. Bachelor to ice skating at the Village, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Sunriver, Oregon in winter. Check it out and start making your plans to visit! After you learn about the best things to do in Sunriver, Oregon in winter, be sure to sign up for our newsletter to be notified about current happenings in Oregon. You’ll be the first to know about new rentals, vacation packages, and special offers at Meredith Lodging. 5 of the Best Winter Activities in Sunriver, Oregon! From skiing and snowmobiling to ice skating and dog sledding, you won’t run out of fun things to do in Sunriver, Oregon in winter. Here are some of our top recommendations to help you plan your next vacation! 1. Spend a Day at Mt. Bachelor in Bend, Oregon With over 4,300 acres of diverse terrain, the skiing and snowboarding thrill of your life awaits you at Mt. Bachelor. The ski resort is located just 25 minutes away from Sunriver and boasts the highest skiable elevation in all of Oregon and Washington. From the bunny hill to the most challenging double black diamonds, there truly is something for everyone. They also offer lessons, snow tubing, sled dog rides, cross-country skiing, and more during the winter months. No matter which activity you prefer, this is one stop you won’t want to miss! 2. Ice Skate at the Village at Sunriver If you are searching for the best places to go ice skating in the area, look no further than the Village at Sunriver. The rink has been recently updated and features a modern sound system and skates for rent in all sizes. While you’re there, make sure to take a ride around the Village on the Alpine Express Train. It’s Central Oregon’s only trackless train experience that the whole family can enjoy. 3. Snowshoe at Swampy Lakes Bundle up! One of the best ways to explore our region is on a pair of snowshoes. There are countless places to go snowshoeing near Sunriver, but one of our favorites is the Porcupine Snowshoe Loop at Swampy Lakes. The loop is approximately 4 miles and winds through frozen forests and snow-blanketed fields. There are also wood-fired warming shelters that you can stop into along the way. 4. Enjoy a Sleigh Ride Is there anything more magical than a sleigh ride through the Central Oregon countryside? Whether you are planning a romantic evening with your special someone or a fun family outing, this is the perfect winter activity for any occasion. When you take a sleigh ride at the Sunriver Resort, you will see breathtaking views of the Deschutes River. We also recommend the free horse-drawn carriage rides at the Old Mill District, which are offered every December. 5. Visit SHARC Aquatic Center No matter what time of year you visit, the SHARC aquatics center is definitely a must-see attraction. Sunriver’s premier waterpark offers year-round activities that the whole family can enjoy. Take a break from the snow and splash with the kids at the indoor water park. The facility also features a seasonal winter tubing hill with three runs of varying steepness. On select nights, you can even go snow tubing on runs that are lit up with glow sticks and black lights. Check out their website for more information about admission and hours of operation. Plan Your Winter Getaway With Meredith Lodging After a thrilling day in winter wonderland, come warm up in one of our luxurious Sunriver vacation rentals. Meredith Lodging offers a wide array of privately-owned vacation homes and condos throughout Sunriver. Each of our accommodations features top-notch amenities and are just minutes from the best attractions. We even offer pet-friendly options for guests who are traveling with their four-legged friends! No matter which of our lodging options you choose, we guarantee that your stay will be an unforgettable one. In addition to endless winter activities, Sunriver offers premium spa services, excellent restaurants, and a variety of boutique shops. With gorgeous mountain views a variety of attractions, it’s the ideal choice for your next winter vacation. Make sure to take advantage of our current specials and book your stay. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Have you ever visited Central Oregon? Yes, they do have an amazing backdrop, lakes, hiking, warm and amazing weather all summer, but, here are two fun winter activities that may make you just have to take another vacation! 1) The Sunriver Resort Sleigh Ride (more information)  Cozy up under warm blankets and take a horse-drawn sleigh ride along the Deschutes River. Weather permitting, sleigh rides are daily through Jan. 3. 2) Old Mill District Horse Drawn Carriage (more information) The Old Mill District in Bend is already festive, and, now they added a horses and a carriage! And they are FREE! The carriage rides are offered between 1-4 p.m. on weekends through December. Check out all of vacation properties in and around Sunriver, Oregon!