Arts and Culture

In addition to outdoor recreation, Eastern Oregon offers many opportunities to be entertained. Our region is known for having community festivals, fairs and celebrations that typically include live music, vendors and good food!

In addition, we have the Eastern Oregon Regional Theater and the Elgin Opera House where residents and visitors can watch live performances, along with a variety of museums that are ideal for the entire family.

Museums

Local museums include the Alder House Museum, Baker Heritage Museum, and the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City.

In Grant County, the Grant County Historic Museum contains relics, extensive rock collections, Indian artifacts, and Chinese items. The historic Joaquin Miller cabin and Greenhorn Jail are located next to the museum building, which is open June 1 - September 30. Also, in Canyon City, the Ox Bow Trading Co. and Museum features exhibits of horse drawn vehicles. The museum building, formerly a dance hall, has many carriages, wagons, buggies, sleighs, and victorias as well as displays of 19th century Old West household and horse related trade goods. The DeWitt Museum, located in Depot Park in Prairie City, includes ten rooms of pioneer memorabilia from Grant County's early days. The museum is housed in an old-time railroad depot that was built in 1910 at the end of the line for the Sumpter Valley Narrow Gauge Railroad.

The Union County Museum is also a must-see and popular among families looking for an interactive historic experience.

In Harney County, visitors should head to the Harney County Historical Society and Museum to learn more about the county’s history as brave settlers pioneered the area.

Culture

Eastern Oregon has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated in festivals and events like the Pendleton Round-Up. Various arts districts, theaters and performing arts venues provide cultural entertainment and add to the enjoyment of living in Eastern Oregon.