Hi, I’m Glenn VanLandingham, co-founder of EpicBend and EpicFrederick with my wife Nicole. We’ve lived in Bend, Oregon and Frederick, Maryland for many years, and spend our time together exploring both places.
Everything we publish comes from first-hand experience. We eat at the restaurants, hike the trails, play the golf courses, and taste at the wineries before we recommend them. Our goal is simple: help visitors, locals, and people moving here find the places that are actually worth their time.
I discovered Bend 20 years ago on a trip through the Pacific Northwest and fell for it immediately. Two decades of return visits later, Nicole and I call it home.
The scenery and endless outdoor options are what drew us in, but it’s the town itself, from the restaurants and breweries to the trails and golf courses, that we write about most. If you’re visiting or thinking about moving here, our Best of Bend guide is the place to start.
Nicole and I moved to Frederick in 2020. Since then we’ve worked our way through nearly every restaurant, winery, brewery, and golf course in the area, plus countless day trips around the region.
Whether you’re visiting or live here, start with our Best of Frederick guide.
I grew up living across the United States and abroad, and I’ve kept traveling ever since: all 50 states and more than 30 countries. I studied at Virginia Tech and Delft University of Technology, and my career kept me on the road for years.
That’s why I write every guide with visitors in mind. I’ve been the out-of-towner trying to figure out where to eat and what’s worth the drive more times than I can count.
Writing is fun, but I’d rather be outside. 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.
Have a question about Bend or Frederick? Get in touch, we read every message. You can also follow along on Instagram and Facebook, or join Bend locals in our Living in Bend group.
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GoodLife Brewing Company in Bend Embodies Everything We Love About Living In This Town
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The Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock State Park is one of the best day hikes around Bend Oregon.
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 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
The Monocacy River near Frederick offers easy and scenic kayaking opportunities following the Monocacy Scenic Water Trail.
We tell you which is the Best Frederick Movie Theatre! Read why these are the best movie theatres in Frederick MD
Frederick has no shortage of great pizza — you just need to know where to go. If you’re searching for the best
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Looking for the Best Burger in Frederick, MD? We've tried them all. Read our updated 2026 rankings.
Read about the Best Italian Restaurants in Frederick MD! Reviews from locals on Frederick Italian Restaurants.
