High Desert Museum

The High Desert Museum spreads across a large property and shows historical objects, contemporary art, and wildlife displays connected to the Pacific Northwest. The exhibits contain thousands of artifacts that tell stories about the region and its inhabitants.

The museum was founded in 1982 and has been collecting artifacts that document the region's past. One notable piece is an old stagecoach that once transported valuable cargo and connected this area to broader historical events.

The collection highlights artists from the Pacific Northwest region and shows how their work connects to the land and communities here. You see contemporary and historical pieces that reflect what matters to people living in this area.

The museum is accessible and offers pathways through the exhibitions, with indoor and outdoor areas spread across the grounds. It helps to wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore the collections without rushing.

The museum features living exhibits with regional wildlife like otters and birds of prey that actually live on site in naturalistic settings. These direct encounters with real animals provide visitors with a different understanding of local nature than traditional displays alone.

Location: Deschutes County

Address: 59800 US-97, Bend, OR 97702

Opening Hours: November 1 - March 31 10:00-16:00; April 1 - October 31 09:00-17:00

Phone: +15413824754

Website: https://highdesertmuseum.org

GPS coordinates: 43.96592,-121.34152

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41