Museums in Bend Oregon

Bend, Oregon offers three distinct museum experiences for everyone from animal lovers to history buffs. Spend the day discovering the geological and human history of this fascinating part of the world.

The whole family will enjoy a visit to the High Desert Museum, which is residence to more than 100 wildlife creatures like a rescued lynx and a bobcat. Encounter animals like owls, hawks and porcupines up close during demonstrations throughout the day with wildlife handlers. Inside the museum, the Spirit of The West exhibit is a journey back in time. Experience the adventure of the Oregon Trail and take a peak inside a mining camp in Silver City, Idaho. Learn the history of 19th Century arts and crafts through live demonstrations or visit a High Desert Homestead Ranch from the 1880s. Whether you are eight years old or eighty, the High Desert Museum promises an unforgettable afternoon just a short drive from Bend.

Just a few blocks from downtown Bend is the Reid School, Bend’s first modern school building, and home to the Des Chutes Historical Museum. Explore the history of Deschutes County, originally named by French explorers for the giant waterfalls along the Deschutes River. The museum traces the history of Native American tribes, fur trappers, homesteaders and loggers. Discover why, even before Whitewater Rafting and high-speed quad chairlifts, Bend was a great place to live.