About this venue
Jill Rutherford
COORDINATOR
High Desert Museum is a unique and gorgeous wedding venue in Bend, OR, set on 135 acres of serene, forested land. From high above, this magnificent location defines warmth and refinement, and helps you and your loved ones explore wonder and curiosity. Since 1982, people have flocked to this location year after year to celebrate their happiest day across more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space.
From stately exhibit halls to versatile outdoor spaces, there are many options to choose from to make your dream wedding day a reality. The basic rental package at High Desert Museum is based on guest count and caters to smaller, intimate weddings and larger, lavish celebrations. This package includes up to five hours of venue space, a one-hour ceremony rehearsal, tables, chairs, select exhibits, and so much more. As for the rehearsal ceremony, you can choose the date that best suits you and your guests, whether that be two weeks prior to the big day or the night before. The overall capacity at High Desert Museum is approximately 250 people.
When organizing your big day, you can speak to a member of the team to discuss your plans for the ceremony and reception. On-site staff will be present from the moment you arrive until the last dance and will assist with setup and teardown. The High Desert Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all event fees help support the museum's many efforts to engage with the community through unforgettable learning experiences and programs. Celebrate with us and say "I do" at the High Desert Museum.
Meet the team
Ashley Hammond
Events Manager
Ashley Hammond is the Events Manager at the High Desert Museum, specializing in the coordination of private events including weddings, corporate gatherings, retreats, and milestone celebrations such as bar and bat mitzvahs. With extensive experience in event logistics, client relations, and vendor coordination, Ashley works closely with each host to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. Her professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail help make the Museum a distinctive and trusted venue for special occasions.
Reviews
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8/27/25
A well thought out combination of history museum, art gallery and a zoo. The property is beautiful, the exhibits are interesting and educational and the animals were very well cared for. I would consider this a must visit if you are in the Bend...
area. Don't miss the raptor show, it is a unique experience.
9/03/25
The High Desert Museum is an awesome place to take your kids and learn about history! There's so much to see and do, from fascinating exhibits to interactive displays that keep both kids and adults engaged. I really appreciated that if you're p...
art of SNAP benefits, admission is only $3 per person for up to four people making it super affordable for families. Plus, the cafe they have there is really good, making it easy to grab a tasty bite while you explore. Definitely worth a visit!
8/18/25
We arrived about 1050 on a Saturday and found no place to park, so we invented a space. People seemed to be pouring in, but once inside I did not feel overcrowded. I was impressed with their displays and how they were put together. My favorite ...
was The Spirit of the West. We had lunch at the Rimrock Cafe sitting in the outdoor terrace enjoying the sounds of the birds. My Coconut Salad was delicious. Lunch was followed with exploring the exhibits outside along the walking paths. The playful otters was a group favorite. The old west town seemed to be well enjoyed by all the children playing with the hoops. I was very impressed with all the resting benches throughout the area which made for a welcoming, stay-a-while feel. Altogether, it was a great way to spend the day while visiting the area.
10/02/25
Have you ever been to a place where it so far exceeds your expectations, that you try to tell everyone they must go there? The High Desert Museum is definitely one of those places. I’ve driven by dozens of times but never thought to drop in ...
until recently. It’s so much bigger and so much nicer than I ever expected. I’d argue it’s better than the Oakland Zoo in many respects and Oakland Zoo is incredible. I went with my 20 year old kids and we were here for hours just enjoying the exhibits, the animals and the overall experience. The admission isn’t expensive, the grounds are clean and the parking area is immense. Probably one of the best ways to spend an afternoon in Bend and the ratings seem to support that opinion.
Michael Delehanty
Compass Real Estate.
11/07/25
Great outing to experience and explore the High Dessert Museum in Bend, Oregon.
A+ hospitality
Food and gift shop available.
Bob cat and porcupine habitat. There was much to see and explore, a great 2 hours to share in the different exhibits. S...
eating in the main areas.
D- Accessibility. Bathrooms were very narrow to maneuver with assistant.
I cannot recall the entrance if it had automated doors. 🤔
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High Desert Museum
Jill Rutherford
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Coordinator
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