United States Senator - Gordon Smith
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Oregon Destination

Discover the Spirit of the High Desert



With all there is to do and see east of the Cascades, no trip is complete without stopping by the High Desert Museum. This Central Oregon treasure offers a rich and inspiring learning experience that the whole family can enjoy.


The High Desert Museum, located off of Highway 97 in Bend, brings history to life with hands-on exhibits. The Spirit of the West takes visitors on a journey through the High Desert region in the late 19th century. Walking through a Northern Paiute rock shelter, a Hard Rock mining operation, and an 1885 settlement town, you will feel like you have been transported back in time.  Step outside to meet High Desert settlers of the 1880s as you help them perform daily chores and pan for gold at their authentic ranch.


Museum visitors have the opportunity to get an up-close look at a variety of animals native to the region, including river otters, porcupines, bobcats and spotted owls. For more information on daily show and demonstration times, click here.


A brand new exhibit, Oregon's High Desert:A History of Landscape and Climate , illustrates how the Central Oregon landscape has changed over the last 50 million years and shows off some of the area's geologic wonders.  The display runs from July 18th to December 28th. 


Visit the High Desert Museum website to learn more.  Click here for information on planning a trip to Bend.






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