Posted in Oregon August 26, 2020 by

Peterson Rock Garden And Museum In Oregon Just Might Be The Strangest Tourist Trap Yet

If you’re looking for a quirky way to pass an hour or two, this roadside stop in Bend, Oregon is just the thing.

The Peterson Rock Garden and Museum is a strange and wonderful “tourist trap” that will charm even locals. Here’s what you need to know about visiting.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
It’s hard to know how to classify this unique roadside attraction in Bend. Peterson Rock Garden and Museum is in a category all its own.
TripAdvisor/ Palmgirl33
Danish immigrant Rasmus Peterson began construction on this elaborate and colorful rock garden in 1935. He continued working on it until his death in 1952, and his life’s work has been a popular tourist attraction ever since.
TripAdvisor/ Smallwonder
Filled with odd architecture, miniature stone monuments, little bridges, and roaming peacocks (yes, peacocks), this spot landed a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.
TripAdvisor/ Shapley Hunter
The structures are made with bits of shells, rock, glass, and other seemingly random objects. The whole place feels like it was plucked from a dream.
TripAdvisor/ Shapley Hunter
The rock garden is also home to a museum and gift shop that sells geodes, fossils, and rare stones.
TripAdvisor/ CSSsnowshoer
Collectors and amateur geologists will love browsing the shelves here. It’s a great spot to pick up a gift for anyone who would love a piece of Oregon history.
Wikimedia Commons/Another Believer
There’s no set cost of admission, but guest are encouraged to leave a donation to help support the care and upkeep of the rock garden. The garden is open to visitors daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
TripAdvisor/ Remond Explorer
Don’t miss a visit to one of Oregon’s strangest and most compelling roadside tourist traps!
TripAdvisor/ Shapley Hunter

To learn more about the Peterson Rock Garden and Museum, including current opening hours and directions, click here.

For more of the state’s most unique attractions, check out these other kooky spots we just love.

Address: 7930 SW 77th St, Redmond, OR 97756, USA