Glenn VanLandingham

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Hello, I’m Glenn VanLandingham, and along with my wife Nicole, we are the adventure seekers behind EpicBend and EpicFrederick. I have been a travel enthusiast and outdoor lover for as long as I can remember.

I’ve combined these passions with my role as a digital storyteller, aiming to discover the best ways to enjoy life in these two amazing places and share these insights with others.

I spent my childhood living all over the United States and abroad, and also traveled extensively throughout my career as an adult. Today, I call Bend, Oregon, and Frederick, Maryland, home.

Local Insights on Bend, Oregon From Glenn

Twenty years ago, I discovered Bend while traveling in the Pacific Northwest, and I immediately fell in love with this Central Oregon paradise.

What draws me to Bend the most is its stunning scenery and the endless outdoor activities available.  But I also love the town of Bend, and I’m continually amazed by the community.

Glenn's Insider Knowledge of Frederick, Maryland

I’ve also called Frederick, Maryland home for four years.  I spent a significant part of my life in Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic, so I am familiar with the region. 

Nicole and I moved to Frederick in 2021, and since then, we have visited nearly every venue, taken numerous day trips, and enjoyed various outdoor adventures throughout the region.

If you are a visitor or resident of Frederick, we can help you get the most out of this vibrant town.

Travel Junkie. Travel Expert.

As a child, my family traveled extensively around the world, and I have continued this habit into adulthood. I’ve visited every US state and over 30 countries, considering myself a “push the envelope” traveler.

This experience allows me to write articles about Bend and Frederick with visiting travelers in mind. I have a good understanding of the type of information you are likely seeking when visiting our towns.

Outdoor Enthusiast

Writing articles and being an influencer is enjoyable, but I would much rather be outdoors! Nicole and I stay busy with a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, and fly fishing.

This shared passion is one of the reasons we make a great couple and love living in both Bend and Frederick.

I’m also an avid (though somewhat mediocre – check my handicap) golfer.

For me, golf is more than just a game; it’s an experience. On this site, I share my reviews of Bend golf courses and Frederick golf courses for my fellow players.

Venue Reviews around Bend and Frederick

Another main reason we started this site to share with readers what we consider the BEST venues in Bend and Frederick. 

We love exploring new restaurants and bars around town, and Nicole and I have visited virtually every brewery, winery, and distillery in both areas.

On this site, I provide in-depth reviews of various venues, giving you insider knowledge from a local who has experienced these places firsthand.

Be sure to connect with me on social media for more adventures in Bend and Frederick, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions!

Bend, Oregon Articles From Glenn

A lively Bend Restaurants bar scene with people seated at tables and the counter, warmly lit by large yellow globe lanterns and string lights overhead. The background features framed art on dark walls and bartenders serving drinks.

The Updated list of the BEST restaurants in Bend Oregon you need to try right now. Read about our favorite restaurants

Ranking the Best Bend Oregon Golf Courses to Play Right Now. The Best Golf Course Around Bend for Golfers at All

Read About the BEST Hikes Near Bend Oregon. We rank our favorite hikes around Bend so you can prepare you for

Bend, Oregon is Known For Many Things, and One of Them is Beer. In This Article, We List The Best Breweries

Read our ranking of the BEST Things to do in Bend Oregon! All about the best activities, hikes, attractions and more

Two pint glasses with Crux Fermentation Project logos sit on a wooden table outdoors in Bend, Oregon. One holds a hazy beer, the other a golden brew—perfect for enjoying one of the best things to do in Bend: relaxing with local craft beer.

If You’re Searching for a Craft Beer Destination That Perfectly Captures the Essence of Bend, Oregon, the Crux Fermentation Project Should Be

A charming, single-story cream house with a green door and matching window frames in Bend, Oregon. Perfect for an Airbnb stay, it features a cozy porch, two bikes, and is surrounded by a lush lawn under the bright blue sky.

The Complete Guide on Where to Stay in Bend, OR. Explore the Best Neighborhoods, Hotels, and Attractions for a Perfect Bend Getaway.

A golf course with a green tee box in the foreground, surrounded by sagebrush and desert plants. Fairways, trees, and sand traps stretch into the distance—a classic scene among Bend Oregon golf courses with blue skies and distant mountains.

Looking for the ultimate golf getaway in Bend? Discover why Pronghorn Golf Course is the crown jewel of Central Oregon's golf scene.

Explore our curated list of top Airbnb Bend Oregon stays—cabins, cottages, and modern retreats near trails, breweries, and mountain views.

Frederick, Maryland Articles From Glenn

A two-story white brick building at night features a lit walkway, black shutters on windows, and white railings. External stairs lead to the upper floor. Leafless trees and landscaped areas border the walkway at Visitation Hotel Frederick MD.

Discover the best hotels in downtown Frederick MD including boutique inns, walkable stays near Carroll Creek, and top places to stay for

A dark plaque on a white brick wall reads: Historic Hotels of America. National Trust for Historic Preservation® in gold lettering, honoring Visitation Hotel Frederick MD as a recognized historic hotel.

Updated 2025 List of the Best Boutique Hotels in Frederick MD, including the best Frederick Inns, Bed and Breakfast, Airbnbs, and other

Read about our favorite steakhouse in Frederick MD. Our list of the best steak houses and steak restaurants in Frederick, Maryland,

Annapolis Rock Hike Viewpoint near Frederick MD

Read about the Annapolis Rock Trail Hike, on the Appalachian Trail in Maryland. A 5.3 mile hike that may be the best

The Wedgewood Inn is one of the Best Hotels in Frederick MD

Looking for hotels in Frederick MD? Our local guide covers the best Frederick MD hotels, restaurants, and attractions by neighborhood.

A blue wall with white text and baskets on it, creating a stylish backdrop often seen in unique restaurants in Frederick MD.

Read About the Joint We've Discovered With the Best Pupusas in Frederick - Que Chivo.

Discover the best Airbnb in Frederick MD. Our local guide covers downtown rentals, historic homes, scenic stays, and tips on where to

Little Bennett Regional Park Bike Trails

Little Bennett Regional Park is a short drive from Frederick and great for biking. Read this guide for everything you need

Our full review of Cucina Massi in Frederick MD — menu highlights, atmosphere, and why this Italian restaurant stands out in downtown