If you're gonna be in Bend, you might want to check out the High Desert Museum. I don't know if it's open this time of year, but I thought it was great. They have all kinds of info and history about the area, and settling in Oregon. They also have a 100% authentic, operational steam engine powered sawmill. Lava caves are neat too, but I doubt they are open this time of year. *Edit* Just remembered hearing something about some community winter something-or-other festival in Bend some weekend really soon. If crowds and the like aren't your thing, you may want to check it out so that you aren't over there at the same time. Wish I had more info for you, but my brain is oatmeal at the moment....I really need to go to bed.....
If you're seriously considering relocating to Oregon, which I think is a great state
, there are a couple things to keep in mind.
First, try to avoid living in Multnomah county if you can. They just implemented a county income tax. The only one in Oregon, to the tune of about $900 a year for an average income of $41,000 if I remember correctly.
Additionally, the housing prices in Portland, and the surrounding areas (Beaverton, Tigard, Gresham, etc) are high when compared to the rest of the state. You'll also have one helluva commute. Rush hour traffic can turn an 8 mile trip into an hour long excursion.
Overall, I think Oregon is one of the best states in the Pacific Northwest. Mild climate, great hunting opps, superior fishing (whether it's fresh or saltwater), world class skiing and snowboarding. Would take an awful lot to get me to move out of Oregon.
Where are you thinking about moving to? Is this a work related transfer, or are you just pulling up stakes to start somewhere new?
Tony