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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12/26/25
If you're in the area, this is a must-see. You can easily spend hours here looking at all the exhibits. Be sure to attend some of the talks, the volunteers are a wealth of knowledge.
Wear comfy shoes, because there is quite a bit of walking.
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.
12/29/25
It is a great experience for children and adults. Otters exhibition is a must see. There were lots of people even when it is cold outside. Kids really enjoyed playing in the education exhibits that they can touch and play. It is not boring a...
t all. The souvenir store is awesome. There is plenty of free parking
3/05/26
Love this place, my Nana was a HUGE advocate / frequent visitor when I was young.
High Desert Museum has expanded their offering by SO many new exhibits (Oregon history, Native heritage, Volcano hand on exhibits, and still have the outdoor ex...
hibits with otters, Settlement walk-through, and up close Raptor Exhibit (supporting birds in recovery - each with their own stories)
2/26/26
Wonderful! Great exhibits, indoor and outdoors. Especially enjoyed the overall layout of the entire property. Great mix for both young and old. One VERY cool feature was the 6 compartment kennel (free) for visitors with dogs. I had never seen t...
hat before at similar attractions.
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High Desert Museum
Jill Rutherford
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Coordinator
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