Why Make Redmond Your Winter Basecamp
A cozy, scenic, and relaxed place to spend the season
Redmond settles into winter beautifully. Light softens over the high desert, trails quiet under clear skies, and the nearby mountains invite spur-of-the-moment snow days. The season pulls you outside, then offers plenty of warm, welcoming spaces to land when the day winds down. For travelers who want a slower winter rhythm with room to explore, celebrate, and take in the season, Redmond fits naturally.
Here are a few things we love about our city in the winter.
A Festive Downtown
Downtown Redmond keeps the holidays bright without feeling overwhelming. Centennial Park glows each evening, storefronts along 6th Street dress up for the season, and shops like Herringbone Books, Welcome Home, and Desert Prairie make for easy browsing and gifting. Add a stop for something sweet at Sweet Oasis Chocolate Shop or a warm drink from one of many nearby cafés, and you’ve got the makings of a relaxed winter outing.
Minutes From the Mountains
Redmond sits close to two major ski areas, Hoodoo and Mt. Bachelor, as well as several sno-parks, making it easy to jump into winter adventures. Snowshoeing routes like Upper Three Creek lead to the Jeff View Shelter with wide views of Broken Top and the Three Sisters, while cross-country skiers can take in Mount Bachelor from the Tumalo Mountain Winter Route.However you like to play in the snow, there are plenty of ways to get your winter fix. Just remember that conditions can change quickly, so check reports and pick up any required Sno-Park passes online or at local retailers. When the day wraps up, you can leave the mountain bustle behind and come back to calm streets and a relaxing rhythm.
Dramatic Winter Scenery
Winter changes our high desert landscape in quiet but striking ways. Snowmelt fuels the Deschutes River, sending it rushing through Cline Falls with a louder, more energetic rhythm. Many hiking trails stay open for the season, with Dry Canyon settling into long stretches of calm winter silence and Smith Rock standing bright against the clear, cold sky, perfect for stargazing in the evening. Even for returning visitors, the shift in season makes the scenery feel new again.
Seasonal Comfort Food
Redmond has no shortage of winter-friendly dining. Cafés like Junction Roastery and Redmond Coffee Company set the tone with warm cups, soft light, and slow, easy mornings. Evenings settle in naturally at places like Brickhouse, where the glow from the dining room feels especially welcome after a day in the cold. And if you want a little extra winter magic, The Rooftop at SCP Redmond offers private igloos with hot chocolate or toddies, appetizers, and wide open-sky views.
You can find a full list of dining options by visiting our Eat Page.
Cozy Lodging
Comfort goes a long way in winter, and Redmond has plenty of lodging that leans into warmth and calm. Many offer fireplaces, soft lighting, and high desert views, including spots like Eagle Crest Resort or Comfort Suites, where the winter activities start right outside your door. Wherever you land, you’ll have an easy home base for mountain days and relaxed evenings in town.
Explore more places to stay on our Stay Page.
Holiday Events & Markets
December and early winter bring plenty of ways to get into the season. Around town, you’ll find seasonal markets, maker fairs, workshops, and holiday gatherings that give the colder months a festive rhythm. The Deschutes County Fairgrounds & Expo Center also turns into a winter hub, hosting festivals, expos, concerts, and family-friendly events that draw visitors from across the region. Together, they add a lively dose of winter energy to Redmond.
To see what’s happening during your stay, check our Events Page.
Conclusion
Redmond brings together winter bliss, calm days, and just the right amount of holiday activity. If you’re looking for a seasonal escape with mountain access and plenty of cozy corners to settle into, this is the place to find it.
Plan your holiday vacation in Oregon’s basecamp today.
