High Desert Museum
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Explore the art, cultures, history & natural world of the High Desert! Experience Wonder
The Lazinka Sawmill has been processing timber since the early 1900s. Originally steam-powered at a homestead in Ukiah, Oregon, it turned out thousands of board feet a month until the late 1920s.
Today it runs on electricity and still mills lumber used right here on the museum grounds.
It’s a physical experience you’ve got to see for yourself.
First run of the summer is Father’s Day.
Free with museum admission.
06/11/2026
Raptors of the Desert Sky runs daily at 11:30 am through September 7.
Tickets are $8 and sell out fast, most days before 10 am.
Plan to arrive early.
Link in bio for tickets.
Four days. Twelve writers. One stretch of High Desert that has a lot to say.
Lost in Place is an immersive nature writing retreat at the Lodge at Summer Lake, blending workshops, guided field exploration, and creative community in one of Oregon’s most quietly extraordinary landscapes. Hosted by Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston. All-inclusive, intentionally small, and now in its sixth year.
Secure your spot in the desert today. Learn more at the link in bio.
06/02/2026
Turns out the volcanoes of the West have plenty of drama on their own. We thought they deserved the ultimate 1980s sci-fi movie poster treatment!
While the artwork leans into retro drama, the exhibition itself dives deep into the real-world forces at work. Step inside to explore how scientists monitor volcanic activity, why the High Desert is such a hotbed for geologic activity, and what these ancient landscapes can teach us about resilience and change today.
Swipe through the series hanging outside "Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration" and tell us which one you're buying a ticket to!
Open now through January 2027.
05/29/2026
We made you a summer checklist. The least you can do is save it.
Send this to your summer crew.
Link in bio for tickets and hours.
Happy World Otter Day!
Don’t let the cute face fool you. River otters are apex hunters of North American waterways. Healthy rivers rely on them, and in Oregon, they’re managed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Learn more about these fascinating creatures at the Otter Encounter everyday at 12:30 pm.
05/25/2026
As we honor and remember the fallen this Memorial Day weekend, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our military community.
As a Blue Star Museum , active-duty military visit free every day of the year. We also offer a 10% admission discount for veterans and retired service members.
We hope to welcome you to the Museum soon.
Happy World Turtle Day.
And World Tortoise Day (They’re the same day).
We’ve tried to explain it. We can’t. Come see the raptors.
Raptors of the Desert Sky is back starting tomorrow, May 23. Daily at 11:30 am through Labor Day, weather permitting.
🎫 Ticket details:
Available at Admissions day of only | $8 (and they go fast!)
Tickets are often sold out before 10 am
Members get 20% off | 2 and younger free
05/21/2026
The votes are in, and the gallery is set! Get a sneak peek at some of the inspiring pieces featured in the 2026 Art in the West, including this year's award winners.
Art in the West showcases 120+ works celebrating the landscapes, wildlife, and people of the High Desert and will be on exhibit at the Museum starting July 18.
All artwork will be part of the online auction beginning at 9:00 am July 18.
"Infinity #3363, Eastern Oregon," photography, Peter Dawson, 2026 Jury's Choice Award winner
"Yamash in Thunderbird of Nch'I Wana," yarn/smoked elk hide/seed beads, Natalie Kirk, 2026 Curator's Choice Award winner
"Painted Hills," acrylic and gouache on canvas, Lindsey Gilmore
"Nine Chiefs," oil on canvas, Arturo Garcia
"No Sheriff Here," ink on ledger, Jeremy Cavin
"Night Riding Blues," acrylic on canvas, Frank Buffalo Hyde
"Assurance," oil, Taylor Manoles
"Untitled #3," acrylic on 7 3/8 straw hat, Ellen Taylor
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Contact the organization
Telephone
Address
59800 S Highway 97
Bend, OR
97702
Opening Hours
| Monday | 10am - 4pm |
| Tuesday | 10am - 4pm |
| Wednesday | 10am - 4pm |
| Thursday | 10am - 4pm |
| Friday | 10am - 4pm |
| Saturday | 10am - 4pm |
| Sunday | 10am - 4pm |