Happy Birthday North Bend, Oregon!
North Bend, Oregon is home to some of our area’s most beloved natural attractions as well as a lovely downtown filled with unique quaint shops, antique stores and restaurants. Since it turns 117 this month, we thought this would be the perfect time to shine a spotlight on this welcoming community on Oregon’s Adventure Coast!
First, a little history. The City of North Bend was founded in 1903 by shipping tycoon Louis J Simpson and was named to reflect its location on the north bend of the Coos bay. Though the city is 117 years old, it had been occupied by multiple Native American communities for thousands of years before European settlers arrived 400 years ago. Today, North Bend is home to the Coquille Indian Tribe’s government and home to the famous McCullough Memorial Bridge which has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of its design and cultural and economic importance.
What to do in North Bend? Whether you’re seeking adventure, nightlife, shopping or just want to unwind, you’re sure to enjoy your time here. The area brims with stunning landscapes and amazing activities and attractions for kids and adults alike. While we can’t list EVERYTHING to do in this post, here are a few highlights you might want to consider this summer:
Explore North Bend’s McCullough Memorial Bridge To get a true feel for North Bend’s unique history, head to the North Bend Information Center before embarking on a historic walking tour of North Bend . On your tour, feel free to browse the unique local shops like Painted Zebra , Petal to the Metal , Books by the Bay , Fat Cat Antiques, Mossy Rose, and many others. Other shopping options in North Bend include the Pony Village Mall , The Myrtlewood Factory , and Ko-Kwel Gifts at The Mill Casino * Hotel & RV Park.
Ride the Oregon Dunes No visit to North Bend would be complete without an adventure on the Oregon Dunes . We have the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America- perfect for camping, off-road ATVing, sandboarding and hiking. The largest riding area on the Oregon Dunes is between Spinreel Campground and Horsfall Road, just a few miles north of North Bend and Coos Bay. Vehicles are available to rent with advanced reservations.
A Picnic at Simpson Park This popular park was named after North Bend’s founder, Louis J. Simpson and known for its superb scenic views and its close proximity to the bay. It features a playground, a covered picnic area and restrooms, and is perfect for families looking for a picturesque lunch break. Simpson Park is also home to Oregon’s Merci Train BoxCar . After World War II, ‘’Forty and Eight’’ or ‘’French Gratitude Train’’ cars were given to the U.S. to show France’s gratitude for the help received during the war and seal the French-American friendship.
Run wild at the Mill Casino Looking for some thrilling casino action? Or perhaps you’re simply after an entertaining evening? The Mill Casino has your back! The newly reopened casino has implemented stringent sanitation and social distancing protocols to keep visitors safe so you can relax while you play. You’ll find more info here .
Reset in nature on the North Spit Trail Located only 3 away from North Bend, this hiking trail requires a moderate level of fitness and offers visitors spectacular views. It would be the ideal day trip if you’re up for a walk along the beautiful Oregon coast. Spanning open sand dunes, wetlands, and forested islands, the incredible landscapes will take your breath away. If you’re a beach lover, you’ll enjoy your time walking along unspoiled beaches stretching over miles. Fantastic memories guaranteed!
The best time to visit is between May and October. However, if you visit during winter and if you’re lucky to arrive after a storm, chances are you’ll be able to see the Sujameco shipwreck which sank in 1929 as storms sometimes reveal the ship due to shifting sands. The Sujameco was the victim of treacherous weather as it was trying to cross Coos Bay bar on a stormy night of March 1929 and is one of several shipwrecks on the Oregon Coast. You’ll find more info here .
Enjoy bird spotting on the Bluebill Trail This is an excellent spot if you’re looking for peace and quiet, love wildlife spotting and enjoy lush nature walks. The trail loops around a stunning lake and will take you through salal bushes, grassy meadow areas and shoreline forests. The area harbors a lot of hummingbirds along with multiple species of fish, insects and other birds. More information about the trail here .
Watch the sunset on a beach Horsfall beach has plenty of space to sit back, relax and enjoy the sunset at the end of a busy day. You can also take a short drive to Charleston to explore Bastendorff Beach and Sunset Bay State Park. Why not even bring a picnic so you can gaze upon the stars while listening to the relaxing sound of waves crashing on the beach?
Where to eat? What are you in the mood for? Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, fresh seafood, flavorful Mexican or even sushi, there’s a restaurant to accommodate your taste here in North Bend. We’ve listed some options for you below- consider ordering takeout and dine alfresco!
Back Alley Pub & Grill - NB - Dine-in, takeout food and wine! New online ordering and payment portal available: https://northbendlanes.ordereze.net/ 11am-9pm (541) 756-0572
Cafe Mediterranean - NB - Dine-in or take-out 11am - 8pm. (541)756-2299
Ciccarelli’s Restaurant - NB - Dine-in for dinner only , 4-close, Tuesday-Saturday, take-out of full menu still available. The Coffee Shop will be open from Tuesday-Saturday 9-3. (541) 751-1999
Hilltop House Restaurant - NB - Dine-in. Reservations highly recommended! (541) 756-4160
Liberty Pub - NB - Dine-in and take-out. Please read their requirements on their Facebook page. (541) 756-2550
Momiji’s Sushi - NB - Take-out or delivery available with call ahead order (541) 808-2133
Vinny’s Smokin’ Good Burgers - NB - Dine-in or take-out of regular menu. Phone: (541) 756-2221
Visit our Dining Page to see the full list of restaurants in Coos Bay, North Bend and Charleston, Oregon.
If the weather isn’t cooperating during your visit, don’t worry! There are plenty of fabulous indoor activities to enjoy like throwing a strike at North Bend Lanes , get your game on at Joey’s Arcade & Soda Bar , or playing some of the hot slot machines at The Mill Casino !
Want to plan your own itinerary? Explore our Coos Bay & North Bend Downtown Walking Maps by clicking here. Find a mapped list of restaurants, public spaces, retail and entertainment, in our walkable downtowns.
