High Desert Museum
59800 US 97S, Bend, OR, 97702
High Desert Museum is 3.5 mi. s. on US 97. This interactive museum has a variety of indoor and outdoor exhibits exploring the culture, history, art and wildlife of the Columbia River Plateau and Great Basin. In 135 forested acres, visitors may get within inches of such wildlife as eagles, owls, porcupines and wildcats. Nature trails feature trailside exhibits about forestry and settlement, including a pioneer homestead and a historic, working sawmill, both with costumed interpreters depicting individuals of the High Desert past. The indoor exhibit Spirit of the West offers walk-through dioramas and the re-created 1880s mine and town, Silver City. A display about Plateau Indians contains baskets, beaded bags, rugs, blankets, dolls and jewelry. An interactive exploratory exhibit teaches children about animal homes, habitats and hideaways. A tourist information center is on the premises. Guided tours are available. Food is available. Time: Allow 3 hours minimum.
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