High Desert Museum
Bend, Oregon · Museum · Accessibility score 1.5/5
Address: 59800 S Hwy 97, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 382-4754
About
The High Desert Museum sits on 135 acres of ponderosa pine forest just south of Bend, Oregon, and it's unlike any museum you've visited before. Part natural history museum, part wildlife sanctuary, part living history exhibit, it brings the landscapes, animals, and peoples of the American High Desert region to vivid life.
The museum's live animal encounters are a highlight. Birds of prey soar overhead during the daily Raptors of the Desert Sky program. Porcupines, otters, bobcats, and other native animals live in naturalistic outdoor habitats along the museum's trail system. The Desertarium houses reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods from across the region.
Indoor galleries feature rotating and permanent exhibits on High Desert ecology, geology, and human history. The Spirit of the West gallery traces 8,000 years of human presence in the region through artifacts, art, and immersive environments. A walk-through replica of an 1880s frontier town includes a sawmill, general store, and blacksmith shop staffed by costumed interpreters.
The outdoor trails wind through the surrounding forest past wildlife enclosures, a settler's cabin, and demonstration gardens showing how Native peoples and early settlers used local plants. Seasonal programs include raptor flight demonstrations, wildlife tracking workshops, and nature art classes.
The museum earned the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service from the Institute of Museum and Library Services - the nation's highest honor for museums. It was recognized for community outreach and expanding museum access.
Plan at least three to four hours for a visit, and wear comfortable shoes - the outdoor trails add up. The museum cafe serves locally sourced food, and the gift shop is worth browsing for regional books, art, and nature-themed gifts.
Accessibility
The High Desert Museum is designed with accessibility as a priority. The museum features ADA accessible doors throughout and paved, wheelchair-accessible trails connecting outdoor exhibits. Ramps provide access to outdoor exhibit areas. Wheelchairs are available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
Benches are placed throughout the museum grounds for resting, making the outdoor trails manageable in stages. Indoor galleries are fully accessible with wide pathways and elevator access between levels where applicable.
The one notable exception is the Raptors of the Desert Sky program, which takes place in a natural amphitheater setting that is not fully wheelchair accessible. Staff can help arrange alternative viewing options - ask at the front desk when you arrive.
Accessible parking is available near the main entrance. The museum cafe and gift shop are wheelchair accessible. Restrooms throughout the facility are ADA compliant.
Service animals are welcome. The museum's commitment to expanding access was recognized in its 2021 National Medal citation. Visitors with specific accessibility needs can contact the museum at (541) 382-4754 to discuss accommodations before their visit.
More accessible places in Oregon
- Lan Su Chinese Garden (Portland)
- Portland Japanese Garden (Portland)
- Pittock Mansion (Portland)
- Columbia River Maritime Museum (Astoria)
- Oregon Historical Society Museum (Portland)
- Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals (Hillsboro)