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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08.26.23
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
The High Desert Museum’s signature fundraiser returns Saturday, August 26! This marks the 34th High Desert Rendezvous, making it one of the longest-running fundraisers in Central Oregon. You don’t want to miss our annual celebration of the Museum’s mission to wildly excite and responsibly teach through innovative, interdisciplinary experiences, creating connection to and dialogue about (more…)
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09.04.23
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
It’s the last day for Raptors of the Desert Sky, Desert Dwellers and other summer programs! (more…)
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09.09.23
12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Full steam ahead! See the 1904 Lazinka Sawmill in action and learn how lumber was processed on-the-go at the turn of the century. Free with Museum admission (more…)
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09.11.23
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Wildfire is a natural occurrence that has shaped Oregon’s ecosystems. But fire’s presence near human communities often results in fear and confusion about its role in the landscape. Please join Jodie Barram, co-coordinator of Oregon: Living with Fire, to learn how we can extinguish fire when needed, use fire where allowable, and manage our natural (more…)
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09.14.23
5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Waterston Desert Writing Prize Award Ceremony Featuring Author and Keynote Speaker Dr. Thor Hanson Join us for an evening of literary excellence featuring biologist, author, Guggenheim Fellow, Switzer Environmental Fellow, and keynote speaker Dr. Thor Hanson. Dr. Hanson is the author of Buzz, The Triumph of Seeds, Feathers and The Impenetrable Forest, as well as (more…)
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09.21.23
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Educator’s Night Out Back-to-school night for adults! Central Oregon’s teachers and school administrators, paraeducators, teacher aides, content specialists and all educators are invited to network with community organizations to support and enhance their upcoming school year. Join in demonstrations and get take-home resources. 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Doors open at 5:30 pm FREE (more…)
Changing
Exhibits
5.27.23 -
11.26.23
Art, History
Vistas del Cielo
Walk through the vibrant world of artist Justin Favela! In his original High Desert Museum exhibit Vistas del Cielo, he celebrates the history of Latinx vaqueros—his own family history—through bright piñata materials and large-scale installations. He offers an immersive experience that is joyful for the entire family.
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.
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.





