About the Museum
Plan Your Visit
Check out current exhibits and daily programs, find directions, rates, hours and more.
Education
Teach & Learn
Lifelong learning starts here! Explore teacher trainings, memorable field trips and unique school programs.
Join the HDM Family
Make an Impact
Volunteer, become a member or donate to support arts, education, wildlife and more.
The Museum
Wildlife,
History & Art
Otters, porcupines, owls, oh my! Encounter wildlife up close, explore the history and culture of the wild West and take in beautiful art. The High Desert Museum is a cultural gem set on 135 acres of awe. It’s no wonder visitors voted us one of the best things to do in Bend Oregon!
Upcoming
Events
Upcoming Events
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03.26.23 - 04.01.23
11:00 am - 11:30 am
Raptors take flight overhead in this intimate, indoor demonstration. Experience these powerful predators like never before as our wildlife specialists showcase the birds’ agility and grace. Two demonstrations daily – 11:00 am and 1:30 pm $7, Museum members receive 20% discount Tickets are available day-of at Admissions. Seating is limited, so arrive early! The program (more…)
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03.26.23 - 04.01.23
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Raptors take flight overhead in this intimate, indoor demonstration. Experience these powerful predators like never before as our wildlife specialists showcase the birds’ agility and grace. Two demonstrations daily – 11:00 am and 1:30 pm $7, Museum members receive 20% discount Tickets are available day-of at Admissions. Seating is limited, so arrive early! The program (more…)
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03.27.23 - 03.31.23
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
The Museum offers an extra special camp experience during spring break. Camps provide hands-on fun for your child when school is out. Space is still available in 2nd-3rd and 4th-5th grade groups. 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (flexible drop off window 8:30 am – 9:00 am) If you have any questions, please call the Education (more…)
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04.01.23
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
As of Saturday, April 1, we’ll be open daily 9:00 am – 5:00 pm! (more…)
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04.03.23
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
This program is sold out. If you would like to be put on the waiting list, please complete the form here. We will call you if space becomes available. Galaxies, Asteroids and Exoplanets, oh my! Join Dr. Scott Fisher, director of the Pine Mountain Observatory and astronomy lecturer at the University of Oregon, to learn (more…)
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04.05.23
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Come on an adventure! Children ages 3-5 and their caregivers investigate science, art, music, stories and culture in a fun, hands-on manner. Don backpacks filled with exciting objects while journeying through the Museum’s nature trails and exhibits. New themes weekly! APRIL 5 – BOOK NOW Mindful Minutes Let’s explore the observation areas we have here (more…)
Changing
Exhibits
12.17.22 -
5.7.23
Natural History
Under the Snow
In the depth of winter, a deep layer of snow quiets the High Desert’s forests. But under the surface, a secret world comes to life. Under the Snow dives into the snow, where voles, shrews, insects and porcupines build a matrix of tunnels to survive the winter and hide from the predators that lurk just above the surface.
1.28.23 -
10.1.23
Culture, Art, History
Creations of Spirit
"Creations of Spirit" is a one-of-a-kind, celebratory experience featuring the stories of living works of art from seven Indigenous artists. Videos, audio and large projections will immerse visitors in the landscapes and communities in which these objects are used, highlighting the theme of artwork as alive, full of stories and created for specific purposes and people.
11.19.22 -
6.25.22
Art, History
In the Arena
Through the lens of San Francisco Bay Area photographer Gabriela Hasbun, this exhibit documents the exhilarating atmosphere of the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo—the only touring Black rodeo in the country—and the showstopping style and skill of the Black cowboys and cowgirls who compete in it year after year.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services named the High Desert Museum as one of six recipients of the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that make significant and exceptional contributions to their communities.
The Museum was recognized for providing dynamic programming and services through community outreach, working to create programs that offer rich educational programming and expand museum access.
