As one of the unique sceneries that Central Oregon’s high desert offers visitors, Sunriver is one of those rare places that somehow manages to be relaxing, adventurous, family-friendly, and romantic all at once. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Sunriver always has something new to offer. Tons of experiences define our community’s magic, and we bet there are at least a few things that even the most experienced visitors haven’t done yet. Consider this your ultimate bucket list guide to the highlights every traveler and local should hit at least once.
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory
Connect with Sunriver’s unique natives that inhabit the area’s gorgeous land and sky. Then go above and beyond by exploring our stars and the universe! The Sunriver Nature Center is a peaceful place to learn about local wildlife, native plants, and the fragile high desert ecosystem. During the day (but especially come evening), head next door to the Sunriver Observatory, one of the best stargazing spots in the Pacific Northwest. With minimal light pollution, the Milky Way often steals the show.
Get free daytime tickets through the Village properties at Sunriver Guest Perks Program.
Bucket list bonus: Time your visit with a public star party for guided telescope viewing.
The Village at Sunriver
No trip is complete without wandering The Village at Sunriver. This charming hub is where you’ll find boutique shopping, casual dining, ice cream shops, and seasonal events and activities. It’s the perfect place to stroll after a bike ride or grab a coffee before heading out for the day.
Through Village Properties at Sunriver’s Guest Perk Program, get discounts and freebies at select shops, including:
- The Village Bar and Grill
- Your Store Sunriver Clothing
- The Creator Lab Art Studio
- Village Bike and Ski Rentals
- And More!
SHARC Aquatic Center
Traveling with kids—or just a kid at heart? SHARC (Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic & Recreation Center) is a must. With seasonal outdoor pools, year-round indoor pools, water slides, hot tubs, and lazy rivers, it’s fun in any season. In summer, the outdoor area feels like a mini water park set against mountain views.
Every stay with Village Properties at Sunriver has SHARC entry included, either with homes that have SHARC Passes or through the Guest Perks Reimbursement Program.
Horseback Riding with Sunriver Trail Rides
Slow things down and see Sunriver from a new perspective on horseback. Sunriver Trail Rides offers guided rides through forests and meadows along the Deschutes River. It’s peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly memorable—even for first-time riders.
For those visiting from December to February, their horse-drawn sleigh rides through the snow are an unforgettable way to enjoy Sunriver’s outdoors.
Get your horse-drawn sleigh ride included in your stay through Village Properties at Sunriver’s Guest Perk Program.
Take a Snow Day at a Sno-Park or Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort
Winter in Sunriver is pure magic. As soon as the first snowflake sticks to the ground, Sunriver becomes a true winter wonderland. Spend a day snowshoeing, sledding, or cross-country skiing at a nearby Sno-Park, or go big with downhill skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor, just a 23-minute drive away. Bluebird days here are the stuff of legend, especially with its 4,000 acres of skiable terrain and 360-degree mountaintop view.
Visitors staying with Village Properties at Sunriver can get their ski passes included with their booking.
Visit the High Desert Museum
One of Central Oregon’s crown jewels, the High Desert Museum blends history, wildlife, and interactive exhibits into a uniquely immersive experience. From indoor galleries to outdoor animal habitats, it’s educational without ever feeling boring—and it’s just as enjoyable for adults as it is for kids.
Guests booking lodging through Village Properties at Sunriver can get tickets to the High Desert Museum included with their stay for their entire group!
Walk the Benham Falls Trail
For an easy but stunning hike, don’t miss the Benham Falls Trail. This mostly flat path follows the Deschutes River and showcases powerful rapids, lava rock formations, and classic Central Oregon scenery. It’s perfect for walking, biking, or a sunset stroll.
Village Properties at Sunriver guests can get daytime parking passes included with their stay for this and other National Forest attractions!
Enjoy a Beverage at Sunriver Brewing
After a day of adventure, reward yourself at Sunriver Brewing Company. Known for its award-winning craft beers and elevated pub food, it’s a local (and nationwide) favorite for a reason. Grab a seat on the patio, order a pint, and toast to a day well spent.
Visitors can get any single Sunriver meal included with your stay when you book through Village Properties at Sunriver.
Spelunking at Lava River Cave
Grab a flashlight and your sense of adventure! Lava River Cave is one of the most unique adventures near Sunriver, and it’s an absolute must-see. This mile-long lava tube stays chilly year-round and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s volcanic past. Available only from May to September, be sure to check open times.
Please note that the park requires Timed Reservation Tickets for parking in addition to recreation parking passes. Village Properties at Sunriver guests can get recreation parking passes included with their stay for this and other National Forest attractions!
Tip: Dress warm, even in summer. The cave keeps an average temperature of 42 degrees Fahrenheit.
Explore Lava Lands Visitor Center
Pair your cave adventure with a stop at Lava Lands Visitor Center. Explore exhibits that explain how volcanic activity shaped the Central Oregon and Sunriver landscape, and the short interpretive trails offer sweeping views of ancient lava flows and nearby peaks.
Village Properties at Sunriver guests can get daytime parking passes included with their stay for this and other National Forest attractions!
Stargazing in a Hot Tub
Few things feel more “Sunriver” than soaking in your vacation rental’s hot tub under a sky full of stars. With crisp mountain air and minimal light pollution, this simple pleasure often becomes a favorite memory, especially after a long day outdoors.
Make sure you book a vacation rental with a hot tub that isn’t under cover to enjoy this simple Sunriver pleasure!
Float or Paddle the Deschutes River
If you’re visiting in summer, floating the Deschutes River is non-negotiable. Rent a tube or kayak and enjoy a gentle, scenic float through Sunriver. Some vacation rentals even come with float equipment and river access! It’s relaxing, refreshing, and the perfect way to cool off on a warm afternoon.
Village Properties at Sunriver guests can get their river rental delivery or even a full float adventure included with their stay through the Guest Perks Program!
One Destination, Endless Memories
Sunriver isn’t just a place you visit; it’s a place you experience! From lava caves and snowy peaks to lazy river floats and star-filled nights, these bucket list moments capture the heart of what makes Sunriver unforgettable.
Whether you’re checking off every item or savoring just a few, one thing’s almost guaranteed: you’ll be planning your return before you leave.
Turn your trip into an unforgettable adventure! Book your vacation rental with Village Properties at Sunriver and get exclusive activities, discounts, and freebies included with every stay.
