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The High Desert Museum and its collection

The High Desert Museum
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The High Desert Museum, situated near Bend, Oregon, United States, was inaugurated in 1982. It is a unique institution that brings together regional wildlife, culture, art, and natural resources to promote an understanding of the natural and cultural heritage of North America's high desert country.

Exhibits at the High Desert Museum

The High Desert Museum offers a variety of indoor and outdoor exhibits. These exhibits showcase wildlife in habitats that closely resemble their natural environments. Additionally, the museum hosts traveling exhibits and living history demonstrations, providing a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors.

Accreditations of the High Desert Museum

The High Desert Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, a recognition of its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards, and continued institutional improvement. Furthermore, it is a Smithsonian Affiliate institution, which allows it access to artifacts from the Smithsonian collection along with Smithsonian sponsored traveling exhibits and education programs.

Artifacts at the High Desert Museum

The High Desert Museum boasts an extensive collection of over 18,500 artifacts. These include works of art, historical artifacts, and items of Native American origin and post Euro-American settlement of the region. The vast collection provides a comprehensive insight into the local culture, natural resources, wildlife, and art.

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ENHigh Desert Museum

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Nature & Natural History Animals Archaeology Ethnology Historic house Plants

#63 History & Anthropology in Oregon #25 Nature & Natural History in Oregon #15 Animal museums in Oregon #5 Archaeology museums in Oregon #12 Ethnology museums in Oregon #47 Historic houses in Oregon #10 Plant museums in Oregon

#63 History & Anthropology in Oregon #25 Nature & Natural History in Oregon #15 Animal museums in Oregon #5 Archaeology museums in Oregon #12 Ethnology museums in Oregon #47 Historic houses in Oregon #10 Plant museums in Oregon
The High Desert Museum
South Highway 97 59800
Oregon

Images of The High Desert Museum

Visitor information The High Desert Museum

Opening hours

Open Daily
Winter: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
November 1 through February 28
Summer: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
March 1 through October 31

Admission

March 1 – October 31 | 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
General: $24
Senior (65 plus): $19
College Student (with I.D.): $19
Child (ages 3-12): $13
2 and younger free

November 1 – February 28 | 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
General: $20
Senior (65 plus): $17
College Student (with I.D.): $17
Child (ages 3-12): $12
2 and younger free

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of The High Desert Museum.

Location & Map

South Highway 97 59800, Deschutes River Woods

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in The High Desert Museum have been found.

The High Desert Museum Reviews

The High Desert Museum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The High Desert Museum, located near Deschutes River Woods, United States, offers visitors an engaging and educational experience focused on the natural and cultural history of the high desert region. The museum features a diverse array of exhibits, including live animal displays, historical recreations, and interactive presentations.

    Many visitors appreciate the museum's well-designed layout and the variety of exhibits that cater to all age groups. The live animal exhibits, particularly the birds of prey demonstrations and the otter habitat, are frequently mentioned as highlights. The museum's efforts to showcase both the natural environment and the human history of the region are widely praised.

    The outdoor exhibits, including the authentic 1904 Miller Ranch and Sawmill, provide an immersive experience that helps visitors understand the challenges and lifestyles of early settlers. The indoor galleries offer informative displays on Native American history, wildlife, and the geology of the high desert.

    While most visitors find the admission price reasonable for the quality and quantity of exhibits, some feel it's a bit expensive, especially for larger families. A few reviewers mention that some of the indoor exhibits could benefit from updates or more interactive elements.

    The museum's staff and volunteers are generally described as knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall experience. The gift shop offers a good selection of educational items and local crafts, though some find the prices a bit high.

    Overall, The High Desert Museum is well-regarded for its educational value, diverse exhibits, and its success in bringing the high desert ecosystem and history to life. It's considered a worthwhile stop for both tourists and locals, offering something of interest for visitors of all ages.

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  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

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