A single event that spans one or more consecutive days.
Explore the many perspectives of fire through the eyes of third and fourth grade students from La Pine Elementary. Experience the exhibition before it closes. Free with Museum admission (more…)
Join The Writing Ranch and the High Desert Museum on a unique weekend nature writing intensive at the Lodge at Summer Lake. Daily generative workshops will be led by Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston, author of five poetry and four nonfiction titles, and will be complemented by morning and evening field trips with naturalist experts (more…)
The Museum will close at 3:00 pm so our staff can prepare for the Schnitzer Prize of the West Reception. We’ll see you on May 18 at 9:00 am! (more…)
Join us as we celebrate the closing of the 2026 Art in the West exhibition! Mingle with participating artists, watch live demonstrations, and enjoy delicious food and libations. The exhibit and auction close at 7:00 pm. Auction winners who are present can take home their pieces starting at 8:00 pm. 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm (more…)
Save the Date! The Waterston Desert Writing Prize Ceremony returns September 17! Hear from the winner and the 2026 keynote speaker, enjoy a reception with light appetizers, and stay for a book signing following the program. The Waterston Desert Writing Prize (the Prize) was established in 2014, inspired by author and poet Ellen Waterston’s love (more…)
A quieter time for children and adults who experience physical, intellectual and/or social disabilities to enjoy the High Desert Museum after hours. Explore the Museum’s newest exhibitions and revisit your favorites. Sensory packs are available to borrow with headphones, fidgets and more. 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm FREE for individuals, friends and family (more…)
The Museum provides an excellent habitat for migratory bird species. Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day by joining Museum staff and volunteers to explore the Museum grounds looking for warblers, raptors and other birds. 7:00 am to 9:00 am Coffee and light breakfast items provided. This event is closed. (more…)
Get ready for Raptors of the Desert Sky and so much more! (more…)
Mothers and those who serve as mothers receive free Museum admission! The Museum is also open to the general public. (more…)
Connect, compete, and experience history through play! From saloons to community halls, games have long been a part of High Desert social life. The Museum invites you to explore how people played, gambled, and gathered by learning historic favorites like Faro and Keno alongside contemporary games in a lively, welcoming setting. With food and drinks (more…)