Bend, Oregon, is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and craft beer lovers. We’re both of them, and we’ve been to Bend more often than we probably should. However, until today, our stay at Bend’s first and oldest brick building, the Bunk and Brew Historic Lucas House, remains our most fascinating experience in the city. Unlike most hostels, it was more than an accommodation for us. It offered us a journey through time, a vibrant community atmosphere, as well as endless fun. Think live music, aroma of sizzling tacos, and friendly chatter. It’s a place where strangers become friends and where every night promises a new adventure. So, are you ready to trade fancy hotels for a truly unique experience? Pack up your bags and prepare to be enchanted by this Bend gem!
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Bend’s oldest brick building
Bunk and Brew Historic Lucas House is more than just a hostel. Nestled in a charming brick building that whispers tales of Bend’s past, this hostel is an experience in its own right. When we first stepped into this 1910 gem, which was once a bustling boarding house, it was like stepping back in time, except with the delightful addition of craft brews and a vibrant community vibe.
Founded by fellow travelers, Bunk and Brew understands the nomadic spirit. They offer a cozy and cost-effective haven for adventurers from all corners of the globe. Whether you’re hailing from France, Germany, or anywhere else, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere where stories are shared over frosty pins and laughter fills the air. As you can see from the pictures below, you can also spot the fingerprints of past guests before you, making you instantly feel you’re part of the community.
Also, can we raise a toast to the free beer that greeted us (along with every other guest)? It was honestly the perfect way to kick off our Bend adventure, setting the tone for the rest of our stay that was equal parts historic charm and modern-day merriment.
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Fun in the backyard
The prime location of Bunk and Brew House Bend is hard to beat. Situated only 2.5 blocks away from downtown Bend, you’ll have all the action at your doorstep. However, you don’t have to venture out to have a blast. Every Friday or Saturday, the hostel’s backyard comes alive with the pulse of live music, drawing both guests and locals to bask in the glow of local talent. We were lucky enough to enjoy the live music on a Saturday; it was so much fun. Lucky for you, the party doesn’t stop there! The hostel keeps the week buzzing with karaoke nights, trivia showdowns, and open mic nights, ensuring you always have something fun to do, even if you’re solo exploring.
Speaking of fun, in the backyard, you’ll also find the Old Ironwood Taps, a rustic beer truck overflowing with locally crafted goodness. Sample the latest brew from Bend’s booming craft scene, sip on crisp wines, or grab a refreshing cider or seltzer. Are you feeling peckish? Alebrije Oaxaca, the hostel’s resident taco haven, has your back. Their cheap and cheerful traditional Mexican fare, from mouthwatering tacos to crispy taquitos, will refuel you for more adventures. We ordered the Veggie Burrito, and it was so good. Plus, it was only 11.25 USD! Click here for the full menu!
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Take the Dirtbag Express
What differentiates Bunk and Brew from the hostels in Bend, OR, isn’t just its backyard fun. This hostel also surprised us with an adventurous ace up its sleeve: the Dirtbag Express. This isn’t your hostel activity board. In fact, it’s a full-fledged adventure excursion shuttle! Thanks to the Dirtbag Express, we were able to ditch our maps and guidebooks, hop aboard the comfy 11-seater van, and let the hostel hook us up with the best of Central Oregon. Yep, whether you’re craving epic hikes, hidden waterfalls, or adrenaline-pumping mountain biking trails, the Dirtbag Express delivers. Also, you can choose from full or half-day trips.
“The Dirtbag Express was our lifesaver. All we had to do was hop into the van and let the driver take us to our destinations.”
WOW Travel
This service was a game-changer for travelers like us who wanted to experience the natural beauty of Bend but lacked a car and local knowledge. We’re sure solo travelers seeking companies or groups wanting to share the cost will appreciate this service. Not to mention, booking is a breeze. A quick email to the hostel or a visit to their official website gets you all set.
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Accommodations for every traveler
What about the accommodations? Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly bunks or crave your own private space, this hostel has you covered. Here, there are mixed-gender and female-only dorms. The dorms aren’t big by any means. However, when compared to other hostels we’ve stayed at, it’s on the bigger side. But more importantly, it’s spotless, and it offers comfortable bunks with thick mattresses and cozy bedding.
Meanwhile, those who prefer their own space can consider one of the private rooms. That said, all room types share access to a communal bathroom. We were surprised by how clean and well-maintained the bathroom was. However, since the other guests shared it, we did have to wait for a while for showers during peak times. A tip from us: wake up and shower earlier!
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More than a mere hostel
This historic brick building is packed with surprises that cater to every traveler’s whim. You can find many restaurants near the hostel that are only minutes from downtown. However, instead of eating out, we highly recommend cooking in the fully equipped community kitchen, which comes complete with everything you need to whip up a feast. Channel your inner chef, share recipes with fellow travelers, and enjoy delicious (and budget-friendly) meals around the communal table. Speaking of which, 24/7 coffee was our constant companion at the hostel. No matter what time it was, a fresh cup of joe was always only a step away, fueling our late-night chats, early-morning explorations, and everything in between.
Also, you may want to unwind like a Finnish pro in the hostel’s brand-new sauna. Let the heat melt away your travel fatigue, soothe your muscles, and emerge feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It’s the ultimate way to pamper yourself after a day of conquering Bend’s hiking trails or exploring the city’s vibrant breweries.
The list of awesome amenities just keeps going at Bunk Brew Bend. String up a hammock in the courtyard, gather around the fire pit for starry-night storytelling, grill up a feast on the gas grill, store your outdoor gear safely, and rest assured your belongings are secure with lockers, luggage storage, and 24/7 keyless code entry.
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Pros
- The hostel features a backyard with a beer truck, a restaurant, and live music.
- It’s popular for its vibrant community and fun events.
- It’s rich in history and has a unique, lively atmosphere.
Cons
- It can get noisy (but that’s part of the fun).
Conclusion
Bunk and Brew Historic Lucas House isn’t your typical hostel to crash after a day of exploring. It’s a community, a party, and a portal to Central Oregon’s adventure playground. Whether you’re a history buff, a social butterfly, or an adrenaline junkie, it has something to offer. We didn’t expect much from this hostel, but our experience there turned out to be one of our fondest memories in Bend. Remember, with all the fun in the backyard, you might not get much sleep. But hey, that’s just part of the Bunk and Brew experience, right?
Read Also
- 11 Best Hotels in Bend, OR
- Top 11 Gay-Friendly Hotels In Bend, OR
- Top 11 Pet-Friendly Hotels In Bend OR
- 11 Best Camping Sites in Oregon Coast
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I park at the hostel?
A: Yes, you can! Free private parking is available on the property, but the space is limited.
Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Unfortunately, pets aren’t allowed at the hostel.
Q: Is there an airport shuttle service?
A: No, the hostel doesn’t provide an airport shuttle service. However, there’s a shuttle that can take you to explore Central Oregon.
