The High Desert Museum is located just off US 97 about 3½ miles south of Bend. This unique museum has a wide variety of exhibits dedicated to the history, culture and nature of the High Desert (as this region is known). The museum is half indoors and half outdoors. The clean, handsome building interior contains dioramas of nature and history scenes, American Indian exhibits, an art gallery and some hands-on exhibits for the kids. The indoor "Desertarium" has exhibits of some unusual and seldom seen creatures like kangaroo rats, bats, burrowing owls and other small animals. Outdoors, there are many large scenes recreating various stages of the region’s history. There’s a fully-functional old-fashioned sawmill, which they occasionally demonstrate. There are several pieces of antique heavy machinery used to develop the High Desert region. There are also a few outdoor wildlife exhibits, most notably a birds of prey demonstration, a porcupine exhibit and a very nice otter exhibit. Several colorful chickens roam the forested grounds. A clear stream filled with trout crosses the outdoor area. The museum is well-staffed with knowledgeable adults who seem to genuinely enjoy their work. The High Desert Museum is part zoo, part museum and part nature trail. It is a nice attraction for families with kids of all ages. I’d recommend at least three hours to fully take in all of the museum. Admission is $12.00 for adults (13-64), $11.00 for seniors (65+) and $7.00 for kids (5-12). They are open daily from 9-5 year round. Wheelchairs and strollers are available. The outdoor museum has a few gently sloping areas, but its wheelchair-friendly and easy to walk. Food is available. The small gift shop has some nice and unusual items.