(Image courtesy of Children’s Museum of Central Oregon)
The Children’s Museum of Central Oregon (CMCO) today announced two major milestones in its journey toward opening Central Oregon’s first children’s museum. First, the organization has secured a nearly 8,000-square-foot building in Bend’s Central District and will begin its transformation into a year-round destination for curiosity and discovery.
Second, with a new home comes a bold new name – Ruckus: A Children’s Science Museum. The new name reflects the museum’s belief that curiosity can be noisy, discovery can be messy, and some of the best learning happens through play.
“Ruckus is the sound of kids building, exploring, experimenting, and learning, and this building gives that energy a home right in the heart of our community,” said Erica Segal, Museum Director of Ruckus.
The announcement builds on two years of growing momentum. In 2024, CMCO launched its Mobile Museum to begin putting its mission into action by sparking curiosity and creativity through playful STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) learning. Since then, the Mobile Museum has reached more than 24,000 community members at pop up events across Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson counties. Demand has grown with every event, making one thing clear. Central Oregon families need a place to explore and learn together all year long, and they need it as soon as possible.
Central Oregon is one of the fastest growing regions in the state and remains the only major metropolitan area in Oregon without a dedicated children’s or science museum. Many children across the region lack consistent access to interactive, hands-on learning environments.
“For the last two years, we’ve had the incredible opportunity to bring these experiences to families across our region, and we see the same thing every time: kids who can’t wait to get their hands on our exhibits, and grown ups who ask, ‘Where are you located?’ said Segal. “Today, we’re thrilled to share that we have a spot and are actively fundraising to make this dream a reality.
“As a parent of young children, I know how much our families need places like the one we’re creating. And as an educator, I know how crucial it is to have partners and destinations that support the learning and development of our next generation of problem solvers.”
“Welcoming more than 24,000 community members before we’ve even opened our doors is an extraordinary milestone,” said John Winters, chair of the Ruckus Board of Directors. “This level of engagement demonstrates the tremendous enthusiasm and demand for Ruckus across Central Oregon. Our board is honored and energized to help lead this next bold step forward. From day one, Ruckus has been shaped by the passion, ideas, and support of this community. Together, we are building a world-class destination that will inspire, empower, and create opportunities for children throughout our region. We invite everyone who shares our commitment to empowering the next generation to join us as we bring this transformative vision to life.”
Ruckus is working with AOA, an immersive experience design firm founded by former Walt Disney Imagineering leaders, along with regional partners, to design interactive exhibits rooted in the landscapes and industries of Central Oregon. Exhibits will be built around how children learn at every stage of development and aligned with state learning standards.
The Mobile Museum will continue traveling across the region after the building opens, keeping STEAM programming within reach of rural communities.
www.ruckusmuseum.org
