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Hiker at Death Valley's Colorful Artist's Palette

Death Valley is often described as one of the harshest places in the U.S., but for us, it became one of the most unexpectedly fun and memorable stops of our trip. We found an old abandoned campground that still had traces of its past life — and it became our home base for an entire week.<figure id="figure-4ec0wqxavmeaa9pu3"><img id="4ec0wqxavmeaa9pu3" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2216323674/photo/badlands-formation-near-zabriskie-point.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=3LxHOnNhLcrZJsqCAdizwIDpMHzgEvdVUlMD6Bvmvg0=" alt="Badlands Formation Near Zabriskie Point" title="Badlands Formation Near Zabriskie Point" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2216323674/photo/badlands-formation-near-zabriskie-point.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=3LxHOnNhLcrZJsqCAdizwIDpMHzgEvdVUlMD6Bvmvg0=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>&nbsp; Our Abandoned Campground Hideaway Tucked away from the main roads, the campground had just a few other campers scattered around, giving us plenty of space and quiet. We parked where the old pool used to be, which turned into a giant open lot for the kids. They spent hours zipping around on remote control cars, scooters, and rollerblades, laughing until the desert sun dipped behind the mountains.&nbsp; Exploring Death Valley’s Wild Variety One of the things that surprised us most about Death Valley was how different each area felt — almost like visiting several destinations in one park.Badwater Basin – A surreal white expanse of salt flats, stretching out as far as the eye can see. The ground sparkled in the sunlight, and walking out into the basin felt like stepping onto another planet. Zabriskie Point – Rolling, golden-colored badlands that looked painted with shades of cream and honey. We arrived just before sunset, and the light made the ridges glow. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – Towering waves of sand, perfect for climbing, sliding, and taking in panoramic views. The wind reshaped the dunes constantly, so no two visits looked the same. Artist’s Palette – A drive through canyons splashed with bright pinks, greens, and purples from mineral deposits. It’s the kind of place that makes you pull over every few minutes just to stare. Dante’s View – A sweeping overlook from high above the valley, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the salt flats and surrounding mountains. Cooler air, endless views, and a perfect spot to just breathe it all in.<figure id="figure-c3qz5g99rsmeaaas0m"><img id="c3qz5g99rsmeaaas0m" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2203801739/photo/stunning-panoramic-shot-of-the-atacama-desert-in-chile-showcasing-rugged-terrain-and-distant.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ctXM1fVBSP4OHjOLvt3aRVovs5iYzpsb-DlEAs8ofXk=" alt="Stunning panoramic shot of the Atacama Desert in Chile showcasing rugged terrain and distant mountains" title="Stunning panoramic shot of the Atacama Desert in Chile showcasing rugged terrain and distant mountains" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2203801739/photo/stunning-panoramic-shot-of-the-atacama-desert-in-chile-showcasing-rugged-terrain-and-distant.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ctXM1fVBSP4OHjOLvt3aRVovs5iYzpsb-DlEAs8ofXk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Why We Stayed a Week Originally, we thought we’d just pass through Death Valley for a night or two. But the mix of quiet desert mornings, adventurous day trips, and evenings under some of the clearest starry skies we’ve ever seen made it impossible to leave.Every day brought a different adventure — from exploring alien-like salt flats to watching the kids race their RC cars in the abandoned pool lot. It was the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, and by the time we finally packed up to go, we knew we’d be back someday.

Beyond Bend: Death Valley

After weeks of exploring California’s busy coastal cities, we were ready for a little breathing room. Joshua Tree, California, with its wide-open desert spaces and slower pace, turned out to be the perfect place to pause, recharge, and enjoy some quiet.&nbsp; Boondocking Under the Stars We found a boondocking spot just outside of town — a vast stretch of desert dotted with a few other campers. It was peaceful, remote, and exactly what we needed after a month of urban energy.Days were spent reading books in camp chairs and nights were all about the campfire. The desert sky put on a show every evening, and we used a stargazing app to point out constellations, planets, and even the occasional satellite drifting by.<figure id="figure-maqcvhkajdmea9kmpn"><img id="maqcvhkajdmea9kmpn" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1287456867/photo/clear-night-sky-with-milky-way-and-huge-amount-of-stars.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=hxLEyuiZnRFuHUH8_XrKsnLfRqDYFHiU664bqQKJ2Hc=" alt="Clear night sky with milky way and huge amount of stars." title="Clear night sky with milky way and huge amount of stars." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1287456867/photo/clear-night-sky-with-milky-way-and-huge-amount-of-stars.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=hxLEyuiZnRFuHUH8_XrKsnLfRqDYFHiU664bqQKJ2Hc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>&nbsp; A Quick Visit to Joshua Tree National Park Of course, we had to check out Joshua Tree National Park. The otherworldly trees were fun to see in person, and the rock formations were impressive — but to be honest, it didn’t blow us away.Still, the park is worth a visit if you’ve never experienced a desert ecosystem up close. Just make sure to pack plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes.&nbsp; Our Favorite Find: Pioneertown The highlight of our Joshua Tree stop wasn’t in the park at all — it was the old western movie set town nearby. With its weathered wooden storefronts and dusty streets, it felt like stepping into another era.We wandered through quirky little shops, took plenty of photos and grabbed some of the best tacos of our trip.<figure id="figure-n4mx60lvz3mmea9t7mb"><img id="n4mx60lvz3mmea9t7mb" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1322599404/photo/church-in-pioneertown-california.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=4L0xnlM5tGcLjGqi117KV2CXmJN-dyy69Cw3sPO3JPA=" alt="Church in Pioneertown, California" title="Church in Pioneertown, California" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1322599404/photo/church-in-pioneertown-california.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=4L0xnlM5tGcLjGqi117KV2CXmJN-dyy69Cw3sPO3JPA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>A Perfect Pause Between California and Nevada Joshua Tree ended up being the perfect in-between stop on our way from California to Las Vegas. It gave us space to rest, a few memorable adventures, and some of the clearest night skies we’ve ever seen. Sometimes, it’s not the main attractions that make a place special — it’s the little moments, like finding constellations over a campfire or stumbling onto a piece of Hollywood history in the middle of the desert.If you’re planning a similar trip, check out our favorite road trip gear and RV essentials to make the most of your stop.

Beyond Bend: Joshua Tree

On our road trip south, we decided to make a stop in Palm Springs, California — a desert city famous for its sunshine, mid-century architecture, and quirky roadside attractions. In just one day, we managed to pack in fun for the kids, retro charm for us, and plenty of delicious treats.<figure id="figure-7c7fn8b37nmea8qszi"><img id="7c7fn8b37nmea8qszi" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2220599546/photo/palm-springs-welcome-sign.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=pop8QVk7wFNzf1swl1P2xRAfYBlAPpHLUKc4pByYO8c=" alt="Palm Springs Welcome Sign" title="Palm Springs Welcome Sign" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2220599546/photo/palm-springs-welcome-sign.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=pop8QVk7wFNzf1swl1P2xRAfYBlAPpHLUKc4pByYO8c=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>&nbsp; A Festive Visit to the Pee-wee Herman DinosaursOur first stop was the iconic Cabazon Dinosaurs, made famous in the movie Pee-wee’s Big Adventure. We happened to visit at Christmas time, so the giant dinosaurs were dressed for the season — complete with Santa suits painted right onto their massive bodies.Mike and the kids braved the climb inside the dinosaur, while I decided to stay outside (my claustrophobia had other plans). To my surprise, they were even more impressive than I expected — kitschy, colorful, and pure roadside Americana.<figure id="figure-h4p033osolmea8spr2"><img id="h4p033osolmea8spr2" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2173417312/photo/landmark-of-a-trex.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=xnwvzlYzKLmXt9Nr-r-PywXtDbKzrq3dRKLleoQhmjA=" alt="Landmark of a TREX" title="Landmark of a TREX" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2173417312/photo/landmark-of-a-trex.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=xnwvzlYzKLmXt9Nr-r-PywXtDbKzrq3dRKLleoQhmjA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>&nbsp;Cruising the Mid-Century NeighborhoodsAfter the dinosaurs, we took a drive through Palm Springs’ mid-century modern neighborhoods. With the sun lighting up the pastel-colored doors and clean architectural lines, it felt like stepping back in time.We made a point to find Elvis Presley’s former home, a sleek retro gem surrounded by swaying palm trees. Even if you’re not an Elvis fan, it’s worth the drive just to see the perfectly preserved style that Palm Springs is so famous for.<figure id="figure-63krclriumea8trfz"><img id="63krclriumea8trfz" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/918256124/photo/mid-century-modern-homes-in-palm-springs-southern-california-usa.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=YETSmnEvi0pGkr6FKktSV-fmgMelOuN9Eukx7XEJp34=" alt="Mid-century modern homes in Palm Springs, Southern California, USA" title="Mid-century modern homes in Palm Springs, Southern California, USA" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/918256124/photo/mid-century-modern-homes-in-palm-springs-southern-california-usa.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=YETSmnEvi0pGkr6FKktSV-fmgMelOuN9Eukx7XEJp34=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>&nbsp; Coffee Break at KoffiPalm Springs has no shortage of coffee shops, but we stopped at Koffi, and it was absolutely worth it. The coffee was strong and smooth, the pastries were fresh, and the real gem was the back courtyard — a peaceful spot with seating surrounded by greenery, perfect for sipping in the warm winter air.&nbsp; Shopping on Main StreetWe spent the afternoon strolling up and down Palm Canyon Drive, the main shopping street in Palm Springs. The sidewalks were lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and vintage stores full of treasures. The vibe was relaxed, the shop owners friendly, and the winter sunshine made it impossible to feel rushed.&nbsp; Ending with Ice Cream at Lappert’sNo day trip is complete without dessert, so we ended at Lappert’s Ice Cream. The kids went straight for colorful, fun flavors, while I opted for a creamy coffee ice cream. We sat outside with our cones, soaking up the last bit of perfect January weather before heading back on the road.<figure id="figure-8o9he3a8wrmea8vob0"><img id="8o9he3a8wrmea8vob0" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1667743948/photo/palm-springs-california.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=J1Lm0_yHqrq__jmJ5Fm9EF1o8Z0eAf66UkNs-zGVD-Q=" alt="Palm Springs, California" title="Palm Springs, California" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1667743948/photo/palm-springs-california.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=J1Lm0_yHqrq__jmJ5Fm9EF1o8Z0eAf66UkNs-zGVD-Q=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>&nbsp; Why We Loved Palm Springs in WinterPalm Springs in January is about as perfect as it gets — blue skies, comfortable temperatures, and a slower pace that makes it easy to enjoy every stop. From kitschy dinosaurs to mid-century elegance, it’s a city that offvintage stores full of treasures. The vibe was relaxed, the shop owners friendly, and the winter sunshine made it impossible to feel rushed.

Beyond Bend: A Day in Palm Springs

There’s something magical about the Bend Fall Festival that keeps our family coming back year after year. It’s the one event we circle in red on the calendar every October — a full day of music, food, crafts, and the cozy, joyful energy that only Bend in the fall can bring.&nbsp; Arriving in the Heart of Fall By the time we arrive downtown, the crisp autumn air is just cool enough for a light sweater, and the streets are alive with the hum of conversation and music. The scent of kettle corn drifts between artisan booths while leaves crunch underfoot. It’s the perfect fall day every single year — not too hot, not too cold.&nbsp; All-Day Entertainment We stay from morning to night, soaking in the variety of concerts on the main stage. Whether it’s local bands or traveling artists, the music sets the tone for the day. The sound carries over the crowd, blending with laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the chatter of happy festival-goers.&nbsp; Food Trucks &amp; Flavorful Finds One of our favorite parts? The endless lineup of food trucks. From smoky BBQ to gourmet grilled cheese, spicy Thai noodles to sweet crepes, there’s something for everyone. The only challenge is deciding which one to choose for lunch… and which to save for dinner.&nbsp; The Beer Garden &amp; Oktoberfest Vibes The Bend Fall Festival conveniently overlaps with Bend Oktoberfest, so the beer garden is always buzzing. We make a point to stop at Bend Brewing Company for their newest seasonal beer — usually something rich and malty with a hint of fall spice — and, of course, a giant pretzel. From there, we head to the Oktoberfest stage, where lively German folk music makes you want to dance (or at least sway along with your pint).&nbsp; Pumpkin Crafts for the Kids Our kids’ favorite spot is always the craft area. Every year, they dive right into the pumpkin decorating tables, paintbrushes in hand, completely focused on creating their masterpiece. It’s a sweet break in the middle of the day, and we always leave with two very proud artists and two very colorful pumpkins.&nbsp; Shopping the Artisan Booths If you love handmade goods, this festival is a dream. The artisan market seems to go on forever — rows of booths with everything from hand-poured candles and rustic woodwork to jewelry, leather goods, and locally made jams. It’s the perfect place to start holiday shopping or pick up a unique souvenir.&nbsp; The Magic of the Bend Fall Festival What makes this festival so special isn’t just the activities — it’s the atmosphere. Everyone is relaxed, happy, and there to soak in the best of the season. As the sun sets and the music plays into the evening, the string lights glow over the streets, and we’re reminded why this is our favorite fall tradition.&nbsp; Tips for Visiting the Bend Fall Festival – Arrive early to find parking close to the event. – Bring cash for artisan booths and food trucks — some vendors don’t take cards. – Wear comfortable shoes for walking all day. – Dress in layers for the changing temperatures. – Don’t miss the Oktoberfest stage for live German folk music and seasonal beer.

Why the Bend Fall Festival is Our Family’s Favorite Autumn Tradition

Looking down on Mirror Pond on the Deschutes River in Bend Oregon lined with autumn colored trees

Bend, Oregon in fall is pure magic — golden leaves, crisp mountain air, and events that bring the whole town together. Nestled between the Cascades and the high desert, Bend offers an unbeatable mix of outdoor adventure, local culture, and seasonal charm. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer autumn escape, here’s your guide to making the most of it.<figure id="figure-tc9r0fll2mea78jp3"><img id="tc9r0fll2mea78jp3" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1415877076/photo/beautiful-autumn-foliage-reflected-in-still-lake-water-in-new-england.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=rXdUQCuArfqbWHjC0lwFP8v5zVBrT6t6ID2rT89ah5w=" alt="Beautiful autumn foliage reflected in still lake water in New England" title="Beautiful autumn foliage reflected in still lake water in New England" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1415877076/photo/beautiful-autumn-foliage-reflected-in-still-lake-water-in-new-england.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=rXdUQCuArfqbWHjC0lwFP8v5zVBrT6t6ID2rT89ah5w=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Start Your Morning at the High Desert Museum The <a data-mce-href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=the%20high%20desert%20museum&amp;form=EX0050&amp;pc=ARPL&amp;ptag=7630207&amp;filters=local_ypid:&quot;YN873x128463474&quot;&amp;shtp=GetUrl&amp;shid=7fae36c0-1025-4cb5-b2cf-cc1e88840dd6&amp;shtk=SGlnaCBEZXNlcnQgTXVzZXVt&amp;shdk=VGhpcyBvbmUtb2YtYSBraW5kIE11c2V1bSByZXZlYWxzIHRoZSBuYXR1cmUgb2YgdGhpbmdzIGluIHRoZSBXZXN04oCZcyBIaWdoIERlc2VydCB0aHJvdWdoIGFydGZ1bCBleGhpYml0cywg4oCm&amp;shhk=Bf6fcGDCEMyvmzeniUZCnOBczz6rqbPuAhg%2B8%2BjfbHk%3D" href="https://www.bing.com/search?q=the%20high%20desert%20museum&amp;form=EX0050&amp;pc=ARPL&amp;ptag=7630207&amp;filters=local_ypid:&quot;YN873x128463474&quot;&amp;shtp=GetUrl&amp;shid=7fae36c0-1025-4cb5-b2cf-cc1e88840dd6&amp;shtk=SGlnaCBEZXNlcnQgTXVzZXVt&amp;shdk=VGhpcyBvbmUtb2YtYSBraW5kIE11c2V1bSByZXZlYWxzIHRoZSBuYXR1cmUgb2YgdGhpbmdzIGluIHRoZSBXZXN04oCZcyBIaWdoIERlc2VydCB0aHJvdWdoIGFydGZ1bCBleGhpYml0cywg4oCm&amp;shhk=Bf6fcGDCEMyvmzeniUZCnOBczz6rqbPuAhg%2B8%2BjfbHk%3D">High Desert Museum</a> is the perfect starting point for your Bend fall adventure. Here, you’ll step into the history, art, and wildlife of Central Oregon. In October, the walking trails are framed by fiery fall colors, making it just as beautiful outside as inside.Expect to see live raptors, hands-on pioneer exhibits, and rotating art installations. Before you go, grab a hot coffee from their café and browse the gift shop for locally made souvenirs.Go Underground in the Lava River Cave One of the most unique things to do in Bend in fall is to explore the Lava River Cave — a mile-long lava tube formed thousands of years ago. The cave stays at a brisk 42°F year-round, so bring a jacket and good shoes.With a flashlight or headlamp (rentals are available), you can wander through incredible rock formations while learning about the area’s volcanic past. Fall is the perfect time to visit since summer crowds have thinned out.<figure id="figure-6k9vo2wy3omea79gxl"><img id="6k9vo2wy3omea79gxl" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1219812694/photo/icelandic-lava-tunnel-as-tourist-attraction.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=zmInm09FQg0P_uX37aAbR9Dqh8YCtI6orwxqdv02_w4=" alt="Icelandic Lava Tunnel as tourist attraction" title="Icelandic Lava Tunnel as tourist attraction" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1219812694/photo/icelandic-lava-tunnel-as-tourist-attraction.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=zmInm09FQg0P_uX37aAbR9Dqh8YCtI6orwxqdv02_w4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Celebrate the Season at the Bend Fall Festival Downtown Bend comes alive each October during the Bend Fall Festival. Picture streets lined with artisan booths, live music, pumpkin carving contests, and the scent of cinnamon and kettle corn in the air.Kids will love the craft stations and games, while adults can browse local art and sample seasonal eats from food trucks. It’s the perfect way to soak in Bend’s autumn vibe.Raise a Stein at Bend Oktoberfest For a different kind of fall celebration, Bend Oktoberfest delivers on flavor and fun. Enjoy stein-holding contests, live polka bands, German eats, and of course — Bend’s famous craft beer.Many local breweries debut special seasonal beers, from smooth Märzens to pumpkin-infused ales. Pair one with a warm pretzel and you’ve got the perfect fall evening.<figure id="figure-r259z7dh3amea7acl4"><img id="r259z7dh3amea7acl4" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2211781237/photo/friends-celebration-toast-with-pints-of-beer-in-pub-beer-garden.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=FbG9Xme3ywG_f2fGciw5evx8LoWBx2uFwJIVfOJUe1A=" alt="Friends celebration toast with pints of beer in pub beer garden" title="Friends celebration toast with pints of beer in pub beer garden" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Where to Stay in Bend in Fall Bend offers cozy cabins, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals perfect for autumn. Look for a spot with a fireplace or hot tub to unwind after your day’s adventures.<ul><li>Tips for Your Bend Fall Trip Pack layers — Bend’s fall weather can shift from sunny afternoons to chilly nights.</li><li>Bring comfortable walking shoes for museums, caves, and festivals.</li><li>Book Oktoberfest tickets and cave tours in advance, as spots fill quickly. &nbsp; Bend in fall is the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and cozy seasonal fun. Whether you’re exploring the High Desert Museum, venturing into the Lava River Cave, or sipping craft beer at Oktoberfest, you’ll find memories waiting around every corner.</li></ul>

A Perfect Fall Getaway in Bend, Oregon

A Oceanside sunset at the beach draws people to it to walk and relax

After days of road-tripping along the California coast, we pulled into Oceanside RV Resort not entirely sure what to expect — but within minutes, we knew this would be one of the most relaxing and memorable stops of our trip.The resort itself felt like a hidden gem. Tucked beneath swaying palm trees, it had a clean, laid-back vibe with a beautiful pool and hot tub area that became our evening go-to spot. Watching the sunset melt into the sky through the palms while soaking in the hot tub? Pure magic.<figure id="figure-a4jxdtfl8hmdvy6aqq"><img id="a4jxdtfl8hmdvy6aqq" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1357722932/photo/palm-trees-against-beautiful-sunset-in-los-angeles-california.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Vyny8I9pNr9ZtVeZvAsPAFibP68xjkTJR36Lsgk1AzA=" alt="Palm trees against beautiful sunset in Los Angeles, California" title="Palm trees against beautiful sunset in Los Angeles, California" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1357722932/photo/palm-trees-against-beautiful-sunset-in-los-angeles-california.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Vyny8I9pNr9ZtVeZvAsPAFibP68xjkTJR36Lsgk1AzA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Oceanside’s location was perfect — close enough to the beach that we could ride our bikes straight to the sand. And of course, we had a mission: donuts.Our first donut stop was Parlor Donuts, and wow — they lived up to the hype. Flaky, buttery, layered, and topped with all kinds of sweet, creative flavors. They quickly became Mike’s favorite donuts of the entire trip, and naturally, he left with a T-shirt to commemorate the experience.The next morning, because one donut stop is never enough, we headed to Sidecar Donuts &amp; Coffee. Totally different vibe — more classic and artisanal — but still delicious. After fueling up, we headed out for the day to explore Historic San Diego.<figure id="figure-wcyoc1ovhmdvy9ij1"><img id="wcyoc1ovhmdvy9ij1" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2164406439/photo/full-frame-shot-of-donuts-for-sale-in-store.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Ia8QXawHV9rI5CAUYGyMkMxNFQgmubanKn3jICyUCm0=" alt="Full Frame Shot Of Donuts For Sale In Store" title="Full Frame Shot Of Donuts For Sale In Store" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2164406439/photo/full-frame-shot-of-donuts-for-sale-in-store.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Ia8QXawHV9rI5CAUYGyMkMxNFQgmubanKn3jICyUCm0=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>That afternoon was one of the highlights of the whole trip. The vibrant colors, lush tropical plant life, and festive atmosphere made Old Town San Diego feel like a celebration. We wandered through shops full of handmade crafts, spices, hot sauces, and bright pottery, stopping to snack on flavorful bites along the way. We picked up a few souvenirs — and of course, some bottles of hot sauce that made it all the way home.On our way home, we stopped for tacos and ate them while we watched the sun set over the water.<figure id="figure-ly7w31rllkmdvybocz"><img id="ly7w31rllkmdvybocz" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1213586620/photo/old-town-san-diego-ca.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=EX78PmgTrRVa2zlpM0Nb84FP22YHD9y1RjRTbSwLNbg=" alt="Old town, San Diego, CA" title="Old town, San Diego, CA" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>The whole Oceanside stop had this perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. We swam, soaked, biked, snacked, shopped, and soaked up the sun — exactly the kind of trip that reminds you why life on the road is so worth it.

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