You know that smell! The same smell that hit you as soon as you walked into any Blockbuster store across the country. It was a mix of fresh movie covers, plastic VHS cases, and maybe even a hint of microwave popcorn from the snack section. That scent was pure Friday night nostalgia—a reminder of the excitement of picking out the perfect flick for a night of fun.
If you’re from Klamath Falls or anywhere nearby, you’re in luck. A short drive to Bend, Oregon, brings you face-to-face with the last remaining Blockbuster in the world. Yes, it’s still there, keeping the magic alive in a way that feels like stepping into a time capsule. It’s more than just a store—it’s a living, breathing piece of movie history, and it makes for the perfect day trip.
Remembering the Glory Days
Back in the ‘90s and early 2000s, Blockbuster was the heart and soul of weekend entertainment. At its peak in 2004, there were over 9,000 stores around the world, and it seemed like there was one in every neighborhood. You’d walk in, greeted by the bright blue and yellow signage, rows upon rows of movies, and that glorious feeling of endless choices. Picking a movie wasn’t just about what was on the shelf—it was about the ritual. You’d browse the new releases, argue with friends or family over the best pick, maybe grab some candy at the checkout, and leave with a stack of movies and a plan for the night. The best part? Knowing you’d do it all over again next weekend.
A Nostalgic Road Trip from Klamath Falls
Taking a trip from Klamath Falls to Bend to visit the last Blockbuster is like hitting the rewind button on your favorite childhood memories. As you walk through those familiar aisles, it’s hard not to feel like a kid again. You’ll find yourself smiling at movie covers you haven’t seen in years and pointing out classics to anyone who’ll listen. Whether you’re reminiscing alone or bringing the family to share in a piece of history, it’s a blast to spend a day reliving those Blockbuster nights. Plus, Bend itself is a great spot to explore, with plenty of cool coffee shops, local breweries, and hiking trails to round out your trip.
The Ultimate Sleepover Experience (Or at least it was)
In years past, the Bend Blockbuster made waves when they transformed part of the store into a 90s-themed Airbnb. Guests could stay overnight in a cozy living room setup right inside the store, complete with a pull-out couch, bean bags, a giant TV, and a VCR hooked up to play your favorite tapes. It was the ultimate sleepover experience and a dream come true for movie lovers. Unfortunately, as of 2025, the sleepover option is no longer listed on Airbnb. We’re all hoping they bring it back someday—how amazing would it be to crash at Blockbuster just like old times? If you’re reading this, Bend Blockbuster, please bring back the overnight experience! There are plenty of nostalgic fans out here who would love to relive those iconic movie nights.Bringing Home a Souvenir
You can’t leave without snagging some memorabilia, either. The store is packed with all sorts of cool merch: T-shirts that say “Make it a Blockbuster Night,” retro sunglasses, and even bumper stickers that proudly declare you visited the last Blockbuster on Earth. It’s a perfect way to take a piece of the experience back home to Klamath Falls.
