Children's Museum Secured New Building in Bend

The organization has rebranded as Ruckus: A Children's Science Museum following the acquisition of a new space.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Isometric editorial illustration of a modular museum building composed of geometric cubes, representing a new facility in Bend. — Ruckus: A Children's Science Museum has acquired a new 8,000-square-foot facility in Bend, Oregon, as part of a significant organizational rebranding. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Children's Museum of Central Oregon has secured a nearly 8,000-square-foot building in Bend's Central District. The organization also announced a rebranding to Ruckus: A Children's Science Museum.

Why it matters

The museum aims to address the lack of consistent access to interactive learning environments for children in Central Oregon. The region is currently the only major metropolitan area in Oregon without a dedicated children's or science museum.

The organization secured an 8,000-square-foot facility in Bend to house its permanent collection. This follows the 2024 launch of a Mobile Museum that reached more than 24,000 community members across three counties.

The players

Ruckus: A Children's Science Museum

Formerly known as the Children's Museum of Central Oregon, this organization provides science and interactive learning programming to the region.

AOA

This design firm is collaborating with the museum to develop interactive exhibits that meet state educational standards.

The details

The museum is working with the design firm AOA to develop interactive exhibits that align with state learning standards. While the physical facility is being prepared, the organization will continue to operate its Mobile Museum across Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson counties.

The Mobile Museum launched in 2024.
The new building and rebranding were announced on October 14, 2026.

Market Landscape

This project marks a departure from the documented trend of Central Oregon being the only major metropolitan area in the state without a dedicated science museum. By securing a permanent site, the organization strengthens its position as the primary provider of regional science-based youth programming.

Families in the region can anticipate a new year-round learning space, as the museum works to finalize the build-out. Until the physical site opens, the community will continue to have access to the Mobile Museum's existing programming.

The takeaway

The move to a permanent location signifies a transition toward consistent, year-round access for local students. Parents and educators can watch for future announcements regarding the museum's opening timeline and fundraising progress.