Petersen Rock Garden & Museum - Redmond, Oregon

J. R.

There's something I found enchanting about this place. It's fanciful, yet humble, in spite of the obviously herculean efforts that went into the construction. It's not trying too hard at what it does, or to attract visitors...it just is, and invites others to engage with the art and whimsy of the creators. Had some wonderful conversations with the folks attending the place on a Sunday afternoon, selling rocks and jewelry. The museum was not open. A great place to bring a young person to -- or to reengage with your own young spirit, in seeing how someone's hard work and dedication to something as simple as rocks became truly noteworthy.
$10 admission recommended for adults.

Judah V.

Really fun place. It’s incredible how big and cool they are. Also the amount of different kinds of rocks was amazing. It’s free but you can/should give a donation.

Tony G.

What a shame! In two years of new ownership the only thing they have done is raise the price and mow the grass. No restoration, no cleanup, and the worst customer service I’ve ever experienced. This place was magnificent at one point, and has such cool history. It’s a bummer it fell into the hands of some “big city” folks hoping to make some easy residual income. 🤢

Angie N.

My son and I had a fantastic time here. We went for the rocks but ended up more focused on all the peacocks running around! We went to the “museum” and they had cups with food for them in it.
I do recommend you be kind and take empty cups back to them to re-use 😬

Dan L.

Very interesting, accessible to walk around and see, had a dog on a leash and had no problems. The museum was closed & for locked even though there was an open sign. $10 per adult is rather a steep price. The website is outdated, I recommend checking out their entry in Atlas Obscura for information on the background of the place.

Michelle D.

What a gem of a place! The work that this gentleman did is beyond incredible! The mineral specimens and the detail and care that he put into the property is evident.

The peacocks were in full regalia and a joy to see strutting around the hens.

If you haven't had a chance to visit, I highly recommend taking 30 min - 1 hr to visit and see a spectacular piece of Oregon history.

T K.

Coming from the Midwest where we have no High Desert, this would be a 1st stop recommendation for those flying into to Redmond/Bend Airport as it’s 10 mins away and absolutely amazing! Dutch guy in the 30’s creates this breathtaking rock garden and curated rock museum that will leave you in awe! Yes, I’ve heard it’s gone downhill, but that actually added to the charm of this unique roadside attraction! Under new ownership, the friendly staff are working to restore it to its former glory too! Plus, it’s a peacock sanctuary!! Stop at the gift shop to get peacock feed before meandering the gardens and taking in all the precious gemstones this eclectic art installation has to offer!

t C.

So interesting and surprising. Glad to see they are working on restoration.
Could be an awesome venue for bands, camping, etc.
Much continued work to do, but the place is wonderous.
Hopefully they open the cafe that is on site for a few needed amenities.