We have often discovered the best way to learn about a town you are visiting is to explore their history at a local museum. Understanding the trials, tribulations, and celebrations of those that came before us opens up our minds to the beauty of how far they have come, and when you visit the Deschutes Historical Museum in Bend, your glimpse into our past will truly be enlightening!
Hours Location and Price
Located at 129 NW Idaho Avenue and open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:00 AM until 4:30 PM, this museum is a spot that has something of interest for all members of your family. There is an admission of $5.00 for adults and $2.00 for kids from 13 to 17. Kids 12 and under are free. If you are with a school, they offer self-guided tours from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Tuesday through Friday. School visits are technically free, but they ask for a $1.00 donation per child.
The Historical Society offers several different membership options. Individual members can join for $25 a year. The fee includes one free admission, 10% off in the gift shop and a subscription to the newsletter. Persons over 65 years of age pay only $20 for a membership. A household membership is just $35.00 and includes admission for all people residing in the same house. You will also get 10% off at the gift shop, a subscription to the newsletter and invitations to special events. A Donor level membership is $60 and includes the same benefits as a household membership, and also includes 30 minutes of staff assisted research. If you have additional questions you can call them at 541-389-1813.
Deschutes Historical Museum in Bend: Rooted in Education
Reid School, constructed in 1914, was no longer going to be in use as a school. The Historical Society was in need of a building to hold all the artifacts they had been preserving over the years, and in 1975 the Deschutes Historical Museum in Bend had finally found a home—one that needed a lot of work before it could open, but a home nonetheless. Today, this charming establishment pays tribute to its origins with Mr. Reid’s Classroom, an exhibit designed to give patrons the opportunity to see what it would have looked like when it was still a school back in 1914; there’s even a test you can take, if you care to spend your vacation time taking tests, that is!
Other Attractions In Bend
Our museum doesn’t start and end at the entrance, as we enjoy taking our guests out and about to see all the best attractions in Bend, Oregon. Nothing makes history come to life easier than visiting the places you see in our pictures! Heritage walks are held on Saturdays and celebrate the history and diversity of Bend, it’s architecture, and its people, while our history pubs allow you to enjoy a cold one as you learn about topics pertaining to the area. Held on the last Tuesday of the month, you may not retain much, but we promise you will have a great time!
Things to Do Nearby
The Deschutes Historical Museum in Bend is right near Downtown, where you will find shopping and restaurants galore. Be sure to try the Grilled Kale Salad with Green Goddess dressing or the Pappardelle Pasta at Drake. Or head over to 900 Wall for a top-shelf lemon drop or cosmopolitan.
Summer weekends bring many festivals to the streets of Bend. Art in the High Desert gives you the opportunity to meet local artists and see their work. A piece of local artwork can be the perfect gift for a friend or a souvenir that you will remember forever. Every street festival brings a plethora of booths from local restaurants as well as such fun foods as kettle corn, pizza, and ice cream.
If you’re looking for a truly unique gift, you may want to try ju-bee-lee on Wall Street. There you will find homemade preserves and fresh Oregon honey. You can also get one of a kind clothing, souvenir mugs, and housewares.
Heritage Walks, History Pubs, and So Much More!
Our museum doesn’t start and end at the entrance, as we enjoy taking our guests out and about. Nothing makes history come to life easier than visiting the places you see in our pictures! Heritage walks are held on Saturdays and celebrate the history and diversity of Bend, it’s architecture, and its people, while our history pubs allow you to enjoy a cold one as you learn about topics pertaining to the area. Held on the last Tuesday of the month, you may not retain much, but we promise you will have a great time.
Come for the History
And stay for the beauty of our Bend Vacation Rentals charming vacation homes. Our team of vacation experts can find you the perfect place to stay to enjoy attractions in Bend, Oregon. Our homes have large bedrooms with comfortable beds, living areas with flat screen televisions and plush seating and fully equipped kitchens with all the dishes and appliances you will need to make and serve a full meal. We also have beautiful rentals for a perfect homeschooling atmosphere. Reserve our Bend vacation rentals with air conditioning today!
