Stargazing Wonders at the Oregon Observatory
Explore the cosmos at the Oregon Observatory, where stargazing meets education under the stunning Oregon night sky.
The Oregon Observatory, a premier stargazing destination, invites tourists to explore the cosmos through powerful telescopes and educational programs. Nestled in the serene landscapes of Sunriver, this observatory is a haven for astronomy enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With a range of programs designed to engage all ages, the observatory promises a memorable experience under the starry skies of Oregon.
A brief summary to Oregon Observatory
- 57245 River Rd, Sunriver, Oregon, 97707, US
- +1541-593-4394
- Visit website
- Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Check the observatory's website for specific event schedules and special programs.
- Arrive early, especially during weekends, to secure your spot for evening stargazing sessions.
- Dress warmly as temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer.
- Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the celestial sights.
- Consider participating in daytime programs to enhance your evening viewing experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Medford, take I-5 North towards Portland. Exit onto OR-62 East towards Klamath Falls. Continue on OR-62 and merge onto US-97 North. Follow US-97 for about 30 miles, then take the exit for Sunriver. Follow signs for Sunriver and then take River Rd to reach the observatory at 57245 River Rd, Sunriver, OR 97707. Total driving time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
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Public Transportation
From Ashland, take a Greyhound bus to Bend. Once in Bend, you can transfer to the Cascade East Transit bus (Route 7) that goes to Sunriver. Disembark at the Sunriver Village stop, and from there, you will need to walk about 1.5 miles to the observatory at 57245 River Rd, Sunriver, OR 97707. Note that the total travel time may exceed 3 hours, and bus fares vary, so check the Greyhound and Cascade East Transit websites for current schedules and prices.
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Carpool or Rideshare
If you prefer not to drive alone, consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft from Bend to the Oregon Observatory. The ride will take around 30 minutes and typically costs between $25 to $40, depending on demand and time of day. Make sure to confirm the pickup location in Bend.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, you can bike from Bend to the Oregon Observatory. The distance is approximately 25 miles via the deschutes river trail to Sunriver, followed by River Rd. Make sure to plan for safety, wear a helmet, and bring plenty of water and snacks. This trip can take around 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace.
Discover more about Oregon Observatory
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic & Recreation Center
1.4 km
Explore endless aquatic fun and relaxation at the Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic & Recreation Center in Oregon, a perfect family-friendly destination.
Visit Central Oregon
1.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures of Central Oregon, from Sunriver's charm to the Cascade Mountains' majesty.
Cascade Lakes Welcome Station (Ranger Station)
13.0 km
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Central Oregon Landwatch
19.9 km
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Sun Country Tours
20.0 km
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Riverbend Park
20.2 km
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Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room
20.6 km
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AD Glass and Design
20.7 km
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Old Mill District
20.7 km
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Lady Bird Cultural Society
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Mill Works Pub
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Bend Whitewater Park
20.9 km
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Evoke Winery - Bend
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Boyd Cave
21.0 km
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Jackson's Corner - Old Bend
21.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory
0.0 km
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Sunriver Resort
1.3 km
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Besson day use
1.3 km
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Cardinal Landing Bridge
1.5 km
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Rock Quarry
5.2 km
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Lava River Cave
6.4 km
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Newberry National Volcanic Monument
7.8 km
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Lava Lands Visitor Center
7.8 km
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Lava Butte Lookout
8.2 km
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Lava Butte
8.2 km
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Big Eddy Day Use Area/Trailhead
10.7 km
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High Desert Museum
12.4 km
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Deschutes National Forest
12.4 km
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Virginia Meissner Sno-Park
12.7 km
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Wanoga Snow Play Area
13.3 km
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Essential places to dine
KFC
19.2 km
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Wendy's
19.4 km
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The Original Pancake House
19.8 km
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Bangers & Brews - Westside
20.4 km
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The Hook & Plow Bend
20.5 km
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Nome Italiano
20.5 km
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Washington Dining & Cocktails
20.7 km
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Anthony's at the Old Mill District
20.7 km
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Greg's Grill
20.8 km
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Pastini
20.9 km
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Brother Jon's Public House
21.3 km
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Ariana Restaurant
21.3 km
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BOSA Food & Drink
21.4 km
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Big Ski's Pierogis
21.4 km
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Trattoria Sbandati
21.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bend Factory Outlet Stores
19.1 km
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Good Bad Rad Vintage
19.5 km
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Brave Collective
20.5 km
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Hello Sunshine
20.7 km
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francesca's
20.7 km
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Gathered Wares
21.7 km
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Faveur Eclectic Unique Boutique
22.0 km
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Soul Bella Boutique
22.0 km
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Expedition Club & Supply
22.0 km
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Lotus Moon Boutique
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Simply Bend Souvenirs
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Paper Jazz
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Clementine Urban Mercantile
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Lulu's Boutique
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Scout and Pine
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The Outfitter Bar and BBQ
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Wall St Bar
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Pour House Grill
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Peppertree Pub (located inside Best Western)
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Cascade West Grub & Alehouse
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Cabin 22
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The Flamingo Room
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Volcanic Theatre Pub
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The Hideaway Tavern
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Rapa Nui Tiki Bar
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Reed Pub Co
21.0 km
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Crosscut- Warming Hut No.5
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River Pig Saloon
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West Side Tavern
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