Know Nostalgia: Route 97 20th Century Roadside Attractions

Discover beloved roadside attractions of Route 97.

Much like the celebrated Route 66, Deschutes County had its share of roadside attractions and events that helped define mid-century travel and tourism, with Hwy 97 providing a conduit for state travelers to discover Central Oregon. Join the Deschutes Historical Museum for a nostalgic trip down the California-Dalles Highway.

Kelly Cannon-Miller (she/her) is the Executive Director for the Deschutes County Historical Society, which operates the Deschutes Historical Museum in downtown Bend. A graduate of Portland State University with an MA in History, Kelly also serves on the Oregon Heritage Markers Committee, the Editorial Board of the Oregon Encyclopedia, and the Deschutes Cultural Coalition. She is the recipient of a 2024 Oregon Heritage Excellence Award for her work in community engagement with history.