Top Things to do in Central Oregon
Top Hotels in Central Oregon
- 1. Best Western Plus Rama Inn
- 2. SCP Redmond Hotel
- 3. Best Western Premier Peppertree Inn at Bend
- 4. Hampton Inn & Suites Bend
- 5. The Oxford Hotel
- 6. Hilton Garden Inn Bend
- 7. Springhill Suites by Marriott Bend
- 8. Best Western Plus Bend North
- 9. Best Western Ponderosa Lodge
- 10. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Bend
The 10 Best Museums in Central Oregon, Central Oregon
Discover the best top things to do in Central Oregon, United States including Oregon Observatory at Sunriver, The Art of Alfred A. Dolezal Gallery, Erickson Aircraft Collection, Artists Gallery Sunriver, Lubbesmeyer Art Studio & Gallery, High Desert Museum, The Museum at Warm Springs, TAW Gallery, Sunriver Nature Center, Bowman Museum.
Restaurants in Central Oregon
1. Oregon Observatory at Sunriver
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 210 reviews
There’s no better place! The local elevation, pitch dark surrounding and crystal clear air make it perfect for star gazing. You won’t be lining up for one telescope. The Oregon Observatory is the largest astronomical viewing facility in the United States. Feast your eyes on far away galaxies. Recognize the rings of Saturn and the moons of Jupiter. Witness a meteor shower. Get a glimpse of globular clusters, nebula and deep space binary stars.
Reviewed By chrissieb433
This was such an interesting tour to do. The stars are amazing and being able to see different galaxies and the rings of Saturn were a highlight for me. The staff were so knowledgeable and quickly set up different telescopes so we could see various planets etc. This was a real highlight.
2. The Art of Alfred A. Dolezal Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 104 reviews
The Art of Alfred A. Dolezal features eclectic paintings by the Austrian-born artist. The symbolistic expressions are accompanied with stories that vivify ones imagination. Venture into the deeper meaning of life and explore another realm of possibilities. Drawing and oil Painting classes for both beginners and advanced available. Call to reserve time and date.
Reviewed By Z6181PPalisond
We went to the art gallery and learned from his lovely wife how much time and research Alfred does before he paints a picture. Very thought-provoking art. We left with a few souvenirs to remind us of our trip. I was able to schedule a 2 hour one to one drawing class with Alfred and left with 3/4 of an eagle done. We will definitely go back for a visit, might even make it artists retreat with some friends.
3. Erickson Aircraft Collection
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 66 reviews
Reviewed By buzzdaman56 - Chico, United States
:60 minutes north of Bend, a stunning collection of (primarily) 1940-1950's military and civilian aircraft. I do not recommend looking at their webpage, just because it takes away from the awe and joy of walking into this collection and being bowled over! All the aircraft are maintained in flying condition. I (65yrs) spent several hours walking around. Good information available to read with each plane. In 2019, I plan to go back for their big annual air show. I'm just going to share one picture to entice you into visiting!
4. Artists Gallery Sunriver
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 20 reviews
Reviewed By mandrgames - Sunriver, United States
We always enjoy browsing through all the talented artists on display in this gallery. PLUS, you can find many unique gifts for any occasion. Definitely a bucket list for those wandering through the Village for the first time!
5. Lubbesmeyer Art Studio & Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
A working art studio and gallery of collaborating twin sisters and artists, Lori and Lisa Lubbesmeyer. You will be greeted by the artists, and likely will be offered a tour of their workspace and sharing of their current and in process work. Much to discover, with a compelling story. The twins’ art focus is in fiber “paintings”, mixed media, acrylic on canvas and printmaking. Contemporary and very original.
6. High Desert Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,911 reviews
The museum, set on 135 acres of pine forest, has something for everyone. Explore the nature, culture and spirit of the High Desert through fun, interactive, indoor and outdoor exhibits. Encounter live animals, interact with living history characters at the Miller Ranch, visit the 1904 sawmill. See what life was like for pioneers, enjoy Western art and an extensive Native American collection. Special programs and events for all ages. Due to current state COVID-related restrictions, our outdoor exhibits, gift shop and cafe patio are open. All indoor exhibits are closed. Go to highdesertmuseum.org/tickets to see our reduced rates!
Reviewed By NorthStar606814
OHDM is an awesome place to visit. It has wonderful interpreter presentations to discuss wonderful exhibits like the Otter Ponds and the Rapters (Eagles, Hawks, Owls,etc) The American Indian exhibits are excellent with awethentic displays. The reptile exhibit is very interesting (altho I miss the rattlesnakes). There is just so much to see -- both inside and outside! The walks and living history exhibits of pioneer days, logging days, and the interesting willow brush round pen for livestock is fascinating. It is easy to spend a whole day seeing and interacting with the wonderful displays and presenters. Be sure and schedule time to take in the excellent retail shop with its array of books, gifts, food, children's items and collectibles. A top-rate facility!
7. The Museum at Warm Springs
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
Reviewed By BluegrassJayhawk - Lexington, United States
My 18 year old son and I really enjoyed the museum. Nice mix of displays and audio and video. Told the stories of three tribes, the Warm Springs, Paiute, and a third tribe in the area. Worth a stop on your way to Bend.
8. TAW Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
9. Sunriver Nature Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
The Sunriver Nature Center features interpretive exhibits, live birds-of-prey, amphibians and snakes, meteorite exhibit, educational programs, botanical garden, and nature trail. Winter hours: 10am - 4pm, Wednesday through Saturday
10. Bowman Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 42 reviews
We are a fun and interactive historical museum of the old west. Our carefully curated exhibits are authentic and rare - depicting our earliest settlers and their lives. Our annex building houses an interactive walk-through area telling the lumber mill history in Prineville. Upstairs we have replicas of a doctor's office, a typical dining room, and a bedroom; all filled with original local artifacts. Kids love the interactive stations.
Reviewed By robertsF4925JM
Local history. Quick walk thru will give you an inside into the settling of and culture of central Oregon. Sheep wars, woodland fire fighting, old time history, even a caboose to crawl thru. We have even listened to local authors read selections.
