Choose from 35 Fun Things to Do in Oregon
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 35 listings.
Mt. Hood
Just outside of Portland, Mt. Hood stands at a majestic 11,249 feet (3,429 meters), making it Oregon’s tallest mountain. The dormant volcano often has steam rising from its fumaroles, adding to the serenity of the surrounding vista. Adventure-seekers who opt to climb the mountain all the way to its summit are rewarded with 12 glaciers at the peak—plus stunning views of the Cascade mountain range, and the valleys and cities below.
The Basics
Mt. Hood offers a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing. There are more than 1,200 miles (1,931 kilometers) of hiking trails in Mt. Hood National Forest, with options ranging from beginner to expert. You can also discover waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, and experience the region’s lakes, woodland, and wildlife. The most famous of all the lodges on Mt. Hood is the Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark that’s home to the only year-round ski season in North America—and whose exterior was made famous as the notorious hotel in the 1980 film The Shining.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mt. Hood is well suited for outdoorsy travelers.
- Pack water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for your visit.
- Mt. Hood National Forest extends south from the Columbia River Gorge across more than 60 miles (97 kilometers) of forested mountains, lakes, and streams to Olallie Scenic Area—a high lake basin under the slopes of Mt. Jefferson.
- There are six ski areas on Mt. Hood, one of which (Timberline Lodge) has lift service year-round.
How to Get There
Mt. Hood is located about 50 miles (81 kilometers) east of most downtown Portland hotels. Shuttle buses make the journey, but the most efficient way to travel there is by car. Driving to Timberline Lodge from Portland takes a bit fewer than two hours.
When to Get There
Mt. Hood has something to offer outdoors aficionados at all times of the year. While skiing and snowboarding at Timberline Lodge are certainly better in the winter, it’s fun to hit the slopes during the summer months, too. For mountain climbers, April through mid-June are generally regarded as the safest times to make the ascent up Mt. Hood, as there is less chance of an avalanche or a rockfall. The historic Columbia River and Hood River are great places to swim, hike, and windsurf in summer.
Summiting Mt. Hood
Mt. Hood is the second-most climbed mountain in the world, with over 10,000 people summiting each year. This adventure is not for the faint of heart (or the poorly prepared)—even the “easiest” climb from Timberline Lodge is still very technical, and crampons, ice axes, ropes, and climbing gear are necessary year-round. Typically the round-trip climb takes eight to 10 hours.
Address: Mt Hood, USA
From $ 100
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is a small town on the Oregon coast, but it's got a big reputation. And yes, there's an actual cannon.
Part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition visited what became Cannon Beach in 1805-1806, and a settlement called Elk Creek grew there in the mid-1800s. In 1922, the community was renamed Cannon Beach after a U.S. Navy ship's cannon that had washed up on the shore in 1846. The actual cannon is on display in a city museum, with a replica perched near the coastal highway.
Today, Cannon Beach is known for its art galleries, fine restaurants, boutique hotels, and beautiful beaches. The iconic Haystack Rock – a National Wildlife Refuge – juts out of the ocean very close to shore, and at low tide the tide pools around its base are otherworldly. Nearby, Ecola State Park offers spectacular hiking and views overlooking the Pacific.
Practical Info
From Portland to Cannon Beach is almost a straight shot to the west and only a 90-minute drive – so it's easy to understand why so many Portlanders head for Cannon Beach when they want a coastal escape. Lots of city dwellers have vacation homes in Cannon Beach, too, so if you're planning to stay at the coast for a few days you can look into renting a house or apartment instead of a hotel.
Address: Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA
From $ 100
Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall at 620 feet (189 meters) and one of the state’s top natural landmarks. The falls are made up of two waterfalls fed from Larch Mountain and are recognizable for their setting tucked into sheer rock faces. The cascades are made more fairytale-like by the Benson Bridge, which spans the top of the lower falls and provides great photo ops.
The Basics
Multnomah Falls is a popular and easy destination for half-day and full-day tours from Portland. In addition to time at the falls, half-day tours often also include visits to the Columbia River Gorge, the Vista House at Crown Point, or other falls in the area. Full-day tours might stop at Mt. Hood for a well-rounded look at the beauty of northwestern Oregon or at area wineries for afternoon tastings.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Parts of the path that lead to the lower waterfall are wheelchair accessible; there is an elevator to the restaurant.
- A US Forest Service information center is open seven days a week.
- The Multnomah Falls Lodge at the base of the falls hosts a restaurant, snack bar, gift shop, and restrooms. Pick up hiking trail maps here.
- Make sure to wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a layer, whether you plan to hike or not; spray and mist can make surfaces slippery and cooler than nearby areas.
- Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
How to Get There
Located along the Historic Columbia River Highway, just across the Columbia River from Washington state, and 30 miles (48 kilometers) east of Portland, the falls are a heavily visited attraction. If driving from Portland, head east on Interstate 84 and take exit 31 to the parking lot (which fills up often). For a more scenic route, take exit 28 and drive the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway. To avoid traffic and navigation issues, take a guided bus tour from Portland.
When to Get There
Multnomah Falls is open year-round, with the most impressive water flow in winter and spring. To avoid large crowds, go early in the morning, midweek, or on rainy days. Know that on warm days in spring, summer, and fall, there will be crowds.
Other Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
While Multnomah Falls is definitely the grand dame, it’s not the only waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area or along the Historic Columbia River Highway. On the drive between Portland and the gorge, stop off at Wahkeena Falls, Latourell Falls, Horsetail Falls, or Bridal Veil Falls for more opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Select day tours to Multnomah Falls also stop at additional waterfalls on the route.
Address: 50000 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Bridal Veil, OR, Portland 97010, USA
Hours: Daily
From $ 59
Camp 18 Museum
You'd be forgiven for thinking that the Camp 18 Logging Museum is just a themed restaurant, but all of that logging memorabilia on display is serious business.
The sprawling log cabin-style building that is the Camp 18 Restaurant & Museum is on Highway 26 between Portland and Cannon Beach in the town of Elsie. It was built slowly, starting in the 1970s, as one man's personal dream. He is a former logger and mill owner who personally logged all of the timber used in the building. Don't miss the huge log beam that runs the length of the building – it's 85 feet long, the biggest ridgepole in the United States.
Around the restaurant building as well as inside, you'll see antique logging equipment, tools, other artifacts, and art on display. Near the restaurant is the Camp 18 Loggers' Memorial, honoring loggers who have died and featuring more exhibits of logging memorabilia.
Practical Info
Camp 18 got its name because it's located at Mile Post 18 along Highway 26, 56 miles from Portland. The restaurant and museum are open Sunday through Thursday from 7am-8pm and on Friday and Saturday until 9pm. The memorial is typically open Thursday through Sunday from 10am-4pm, but if it looks closed during open hours at the restaurant, ask at the shop and they can let you in.
Address: 42362 U.S. 26, Elsie, Oregon, USA
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 7am-8pm, Friday-Saturday 7am-9pm
From $ 100
Columbia River Highway
Oregon’s Columbia River Highway was the first scenic road in America to be designated as a National Historic Landmark. It is particularly noted for its colorful displays of fall foliage and its many waterfalls year-round.
The route allows for access to the Columbia River Gorge, which cuts more than 4,000 feet deep into the Cascade Mountain Range. Rich in both animal and plant life, the area along the road is home to more than 100 rare species, some that only exist in the gorge. Various hiking trails dotted throughout offer access to otherwise hidden waterfalls and views.
The highway was modeled after the scenic roads of Europe and has been long recognized for its excellence in engineering and design. Most of all the road is a path leading into some of the most beautiful scenery in North America. Outside of its wide vistas and expansive overlooks, hiking, biking, fishing, and sailing are all popular activities to immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.
Practical Info
The Columbia River Highway is located on I-84, about an hour’s drive from downtown Portland. Fall colors are brightest in mid-October and waterfalls most scenic during Spring. The route begins at exit 17, from the historic town of Troutdale, and runs for 75 miles. It takes 3-5 hours to drive in full.
Address: Columbia River Highway, Oregon, USA, USA
From $ 100
International Rose Test Garden
Free, outdoors, and centrally located, the International Rose Test Garden is an easy addition to your Portland vacation. Take time to smell some of the 10,000 roses representing 650 species when you stroll through the active test garden, located in Portland’s popular Washington Park.
The Basics
Originally built to make a good impression on the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1905, the International Rose Test Garden has since played an important role in rose conservation, botanical science, and Portland culture—it’s the reason Portland is nicknamed the City of Roses. Stroll through the impressive 4.5-acres to see beautiful blooms, plus special exhibits such as a miniature rose test garden and a Shakespeare Garden, where the rose varieties are named for characters from the Bard’s plays. Plus, the garden has great views of Downtown Portland, East Portland, and the Willamette River.
Master Gardeners offer a free guided tour of the rose garden daily at 1pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day, when roses are in bloom. You can also check out the gardens on your own or as part of a Portland sightseeing tour. Be sure to check out Washington Park’s other enclaves, too, like the Japanese Garden, Portland Children’s Museum, and Oregon Zoo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is an outdoor attraction, so dress for the weather.
- This kid-friendly attraction is a hit among families.
- Dogs and other pets are welcome.
- Be sure to bring your camera to capture the blooms and the views.
- As the oldest official rose test garden in the United States, it’s a must for history-buffs, too.
How to Get There
Though you can drive to the International Rose Test Garden, parking can be tricky. Avoid the hassle by taking TriMet public transit, which connects with a free shuttle that takes you around the park upon arrival during peak season (May through September). The park also connects to a number of Portland walking trails and is bike- and skateboard-friendly.
When to Get There
Free and open to the public, the International Rose Test Garden is an easy addition to your Portland vacation. You’ll see the most blooms between April and October, with peak blooms in June.
Portland Area Sightseeing
As a popular Portland landmark, the International Rose Test Garden is included on most Portland sightseeing tours. Visit as part of a city tour that takes you to other city attractions like the Pearl District, or a tour that travels outside city limits to attractions like the Willamette Valley or Mount Hood.
Address: 850 Southwest Rose Garden Way, Portland, Oregon 97205, USA
From $ 34
Oregon Coast
Stretching for more than 350 miles along the Pacific Ocean, the Oregon Coast winds down from the Columbia River to the border of California — offering some of the United States’s most beautiful coastal scenery. Multiple state parks along the way grant even closer encounters with local wildlife and natural landscapes. There are also plenty of small towns and villages located throughout, including lighthouses, ports, beaches, and communities ripe for exploration.
Much of the coast can be driven alongside the ocean, making it one of the most scenic driving routes in America. Seasonally, whale watching is a popular draw, as is golf, art, dining, wine, horseback riding, hiking, antique shopping, and visiting the sand dunes year-round. Many available activities allow for the area’s hidden beaches to be discovered, and a variety of unique plant and animal species can be spotted throughout.
Practical Info
The Oregon Coast is divided into three sub-regions: North, Central, and South Coast. Each has its own distinct history and culture. The largest city along the coast is Coos Bay. Beach access is free throughout.
Address: Oregon, USA
From $ 89
Pearl District
Portland’s Pearl District lives up to its evocative title. The small neighborhood in the heart of downtown is packed with local finds, from avant-garde art galleries to craft breweries to fine dining, with many establishments housed in renovated warehouse spaces. Plus, a bike- and pedestrian-friendly trail along the Willamette River accents the Pearl’s waterfront location.
The Basics
The best way to explore the Pearl District—Portland’s most popular commercial area and arguably one of the most influential cultural centers in the Pacific Northwest—is on foot, letting you easily pop into shops, bars, and restaurants that catch your eye. Look for guided walking tours of downtown Portland that include a stroll through the Pearl to learn about its history and culture, or join a niche brewery tour, food tour, or small-group sightseeing tour by bike or Segway for a specialized experience. Sights may include the fountains, tide pool, and statues of the Pearl’s three popular parks—Jamison Square, Tanner Springs Park, and North Park Blocks—as well as the flagship Powell’s City of Books, which bills itself as the world’s largest independent bookstore.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Pearl is a must for foodies and nightlife enthusiasts.
- You can see the Pearl’s major attractions in a few hours, or spend a few days thoroughly exploring the district.
- Explore with a tour guide to discover the Pearl’s off-the-beaten-path attractions.
- The neighborhood’s theaters, escape games, and entertainment venues provide family-friendly fun.
How to Get There
One of the most connected Portland neighborhoods, the Pearl District is easily accessible by bike, bus, light rail, and streetcar. The area is open to cars, but parking can be difficult.
When to Get There
The Pearl is fun year-round, but Portland boasts the best weather during summer; book tours and accommodations in advance during this time. Aim for the first Thursday of the month, when Pearl galleries and other businesses are open late and the streets are packed with pedestrians and special vendors.
Discovering the Pearl
Once a lonely industrial district of decaying warehouses and rail yards, the Pearl saw a boom in urban renewal in the late 1990s and early 2000s that prompted an allusion to the area’s scruffy architecture as crusty oysters containing pearls. These “pearls” were initially artists’ lofts and galleries, but the neighborhood now teems with upscale eateries, small performance venues, and independent boutiques as well.
Address: 404 NW 10th Ave LL1, Portland, Oregon 97209, USA
From $ 34
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Find your zen at Portland’s Lan Su Chinese Garden. Formerly known as the Portland Classical Chinese Garden, the authentic, intricate garden grounds draw in visitors with a mix of nature, art, design and architecture. Inspired by the Ming Dynasty, the site was built by Chinese artisans hailing from Portland’s sister city of Suzhou.
Explore Chinese history and spirituality through numerous activities such as calming tai chi or a rousing game of mahjong. Learn calligraphy, discover the art of ancient tea tasting, or attend a musical performance while visiting the garden. Those craving more culture can attend one of the range of classes the garden hosts, from Chinese medicine and acupuncture to cooking.
Practical Info
Lan Su Chinese Garden is located in the Old Town Chinatown neighborhood in Portland, Oregon. Admission tickets are $9.50 for adults, $8.50 for seniors, $7 for students, $28 for families, and free for members and children 5 and younger. Usually it is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. during winter and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. during summer.
Address: 239 NW Everett St, Portland, Oregon, USA, USA
Hours: Temporarily closed until mid-January 2016; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. winter hours, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. summer hours (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day)
Admission: $9.50 adult, $8.50 senior, $7 student, $28 family pass, free: child 5 & under
From $ 10
Crown Point State Park
Driving around the bend from Portland, the first view many see of the Columbia River Gorge is from the corner of land called Crown Point. The outlook provides an overview of the dramatic scenery and surrounding canyon. On a clear day there is a panoramic view of the heavily forested area, the mountains, and the Columbia River.
The point itself is an enormous rock formation that was caused by multiple lava flows, which once altered the course of the river. Looking to the west, you can see Rooster Rock, another well-loved rock formation that slopes down into the canyon.
With the Vista House constructed on Crown Point at the same time the highway was being formed, it remains one of the best loved visitor stops on the historic Columbia River Gorge Highway and is considered the gateway to the area. Crown Point was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1971. It remains a popular stop for both views and refreshments.
Practical Info
Crown Point State Park is located in eastern Multnomah County, about 20 minutes from downtown Portland. Get there by driving on Highway 30, the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway. The park is free to access and contains some picnic table facilities.
Address: Crown Point State Park, Corbett, Oregon 97019, USA
From $ 59
Astoria
The city of Astoria sits near both the Pacific Ocean and the mouth of the Columbia River, and is the oldest permanent Pacific Coast settlement in the United States.
Astoria takes its name from John Jacob Astor, who established Fort Astoria in 1810 for his Pacific Fur Company. Of course, Astor was following in some pretty famous footsteps – the Lewis and Clark Expedition had spent a brutal winter in 1805-1806 nearby at a spot they dubbed Fort Clatsop. They had reached the Pacific Ocean and then headed back east in 1806 to report on their findings. Reconstructions of both Fort Clatsop and Fort Astoria are popular attractions in and around Astoria today.
While Astoria is still an important port for the area, it's growing as a cultural destination, too. There is an annual Fisher Poets Gathering, the culinary scene is growing, and the former cannery has been turned into a boutique riverfront hotel. Movie buffs may also recognize the town as the setting for such films as “The Goonies,” “Free Willy,” and “Kindergarten Cop.” Don't miss a visit to the Astoria Column, built in 1926 by the Astor family, and offering excellent river views from its 125-foot-tall viewing platform.
Practical Info
Astoria is roughly 95 miles from Portland, and much of it is a lovely drive on historic (and scenic) highways. If you don't have a rental car, you can get to Astoria by NorthWest POINT bus from Portland in just over two hours one way.
Address: Astoria, Oregon, USA
From $ 100
Forest Park
Portland is often lauded as one of the best cities in America for green spaces, due in no small part to 5,100-acre Forest Park, the largest urban forested area in America. Based on the landscaping advice of the legendary Olmstead Brothers (the design firm behind New York's Central Park), Forest Park was originally proposed as an expansive city park in the late 1800s; however, potential preservation costs and oil speculation kept it from becoming public land until the late 1940s.
Situated in Northwest Portland on the eastern slope of the Tualatin Mountains, the park's towering conifer canopy, basalt rock formations, rushing streams and plentiful wildlife make it a magnet for birdwatchers and nature photographers. 62 species of Coast Range-native mammals can be found here, as well as over 100 different species of birds, including the rare pygmy owl.
With 80 miles of fire roads, trails and paths, Forest Park is also enormously popular with hikers, runners, bikers and equestrians. The longest loop in the park, the 30-mile Wildwood Trail, is linked to various routes along the Columbia River, the Willamette Greenway and both Southeast and Southwest Portland.
Situated in Northwest Portland on the eastern slope of the Tualatin Mountains, the park's towering conifer canopy, basalt rock formations, rushing streams and plentiful wildlife make it a magnet for birdwatchers and nature photographers. 62 species of Coast Range-native mammals can be found here, as well as over 100 different species of birds, including the rare pygmy owl.
With 80 miles of fire roads, trails and paths, Forest Park is also enormously popular with hikers, runners, bikers and equestrians. The longest loop in the park, the 30-mile Wildwood Trail, is linked to various routes along the Columbia River, the Willamette Greenway and both Southeast and Southwest Portland.
Practical Info
Photo courtesy of user EncMstr via Wikimedia Commons
Address: Portland, Oregon, USA
From $ 79
Mt Hood National Forest
The Mt. Hood National Forest covers more than one million acres, including lakes, wilderness areas, mountains, and of course – a vast forest.
First established in 1892 as the Bull Run Forest Reserve, the area was expanded and eventually the name was changed to its current Mt. Hood National Forest in 1924. The forest area extends into six different Oregon counties, is managed by four district offices, has eight designated wilderness areas, and includes 170 recreation sites. Visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, boating, fishing, hunting, camping, mountain climbing, skiing, and horseback riding in the National Forest, among other things. Part of the Pacific Crest Trail crosses into the National Forest.
The towering peak of Mt. Hood – the tallest point in the state – sits in the northern part of the National Forest, and Timberline Lodge has year-round skiing. The forest area stretches from the Columbia River Gorge south about 60 miles through the Willamette Valley, making it a popular destination for people from Portland as well as other cities in Oregon.
Practical Info
Visitors to the Mt. Hood National Forest must have a recreation pass. Day passes are $5 per person and can be purchased as you enter the National Forest. Winter Sno*Park permits are $7 per day, or $10 for a three-day permit.
Address: Sandy, Oregon, USA
Admission: starts at $5
From $ 139
Bonneville Dam
Forty miles east of Portland, the Bonneville Lock and Dam spans the Columbia River, providing electricity, a navigation lock, fish passage, and recreation areas.
The dam's first powerhouse, spillway, and original navigation lock were completed in 1938 to improve navigation on the Columbia River and provide hydropower to the Pacific Northwest. A second powerhouse was completed in 1981, and a larger navigation lock in 1993.
Lake Bonneville was created behind the dam, and is a popular spot for summer activities like boating and fishing. Fish ladders, part of the original construction, provide pathways for salmon, steelhead, and other native fish navigate past the dam to spawn upstream. Large underwater windows can be found at both the Bradford Island Visitor Center (on the Oregon side) and the Washington Shore Visitor Complex for viewings between April and October.
Practical Info
Both the Bradford Island Visitor Center (Oregon side) and the Washington Shore Visitor Complex are open daily from 9am to 5pm. Guided tours are available year-round, with tour times and availability changing seasonally.
Address: Cascade Locks, Oregon, USA
From $ 59
Deschutes River
The Deschutes River is a major waterway running through central Oregon, a tributary of the Columbia River that separates Oregon from Washington. The Deschutes flows through several central Oregon communities, the largest being Bend, where quite a bit of water from the river is used for irrigation. It's also a major recreational waterway, both in the city of Bend and the surrounding area, used for fishing (it's world-famous for fly fishing) and rafting.
Most rivers in the United States flow south, but the Deschutes flows north – along with a few other Columbia River tributaries. At one point, there was a major waterfall on the river, which is where it got its name – Riviere des Chutes is French for River of the Falls. That waterfall is gone now, thanks to The Dalles Dam.
Practical Info
The Deschutes River is more than 250 miles long, starting at Little Lava Lake about 25 miles from La Pine and ending at the Columbia River near Biggs Junction. Floating the river is a popular summer pastime in Bend, and fly fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities in and around the town of Maupin.
Address: Oregon, USA
From $ 60
Oregon Zoo
Formerly the Washington Park Zoo, Portland’s Oregon Zoo is the oldest zoo in the western United States. In total there are more than 2,200 animals with 260 species represented, though the stars of the zoo are more often than not the herd of Asian elephants. The youngest elephant was born at the park in 2012, so she’s still toddler size, while the rest impress with their spotted ears and unique personalities. There’s also a very unique California Condors exhibit which showcases the local and endangered birds.
The animal exhibits are easily explored and grouped geographically, ranging from the Great Northwest and Pacific Shoes to the wildlife of Asia and Africa. With specialized gardens and an extensive plant collection, there is a variety of plant life as well. The zoo’s narrow gauge railway connects to the International Rose Test Garden inside Washington Park. The park often holds special events, including the seasonal zoo summer concert series and holiday Zoolights show.
Practical Info
The Oregon Zoo is located just outside of downtown Portland. You can get there in minutes via the MAX light rail. Both the Blue and Red lines run to the Washington Park station, and parking is also available. Open every day from 9 am to 4 pm, admission costs $11.50 for adults and $8.50 for children. The Portland Children’s Museum and World Forestry Center Discovery Museum are both close by.
Address: 4001 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, Oregon 97221, USA
Hours: Daily from 9am - 4pm
Admission: $11.50 for adults, $8.50 for children
From $ 34
Latourell Falls
Of the many waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge, Latourell Falls is closest to Portland – which means it attracts plenty of visitors.
Most of the waterfalls in the Gorge have at least two levels, but Latourell Falls drops straight from its highest point to the bottom in one fall. Height estimates vary, but it's somewhere between 224-249 feet tall depending on what you read. The creek that makes up the waterfall, Latourell Creek, isn't very large, so in the dry summer months the waterfall can sometimes decrease to a trickle. In the winter, however, it's quite impressive.
Latourell Falls are named for a former postmaster general of nearby Rooster Rock in the late 1880s, Joseph Latourell, and are within the Guy W. Talbot State Park. The bottom of the falls is easily accessible – there's a parking lot nearby – and there's a two-mile trail to reach the top of the falls.
Practical Info
To reach Latourell Falls from Portland, drive east on Highway I-84 to Bridal Veil, then take the Historic Columbia River Highway until you see the Latourell Falls parking lot. It's roughly 30 miles from Portland. You can sometimes see Latourell Falls from the highway.
Address: Corbett, Oregon, USA
From $ 60
Columbia River Maritime Museum
Located in Astoria, near the Pacific Ocean and the mouth of the Columbia, the Columbia River Maritime Museum is well-known for its excellent collection of maritime artifacts.
The museum opened in 1963, and was moved into its current home in 1982 as the collection expanded. The purpose-built structure sits – appropriately – right on the waterfront, which means the collection can include ships that are still in the water. A renovation in 2001-2002 expanded the space further, and the museum now includes interactive exhibits.
The collection includes a 1950s lightship (essentially a floating lighthouse), two U.S. Coast Guard motor lifeboats, and the bridge of a World War II warship. There are exhibits about maritime weaponry, clothing, figureheads, and gear. Interactive exhibits give visitors a chance to try their hand at piloting a tugboat and joining a Coast Guard rescue on the Columbia River.
Practical Info
The Columbia River Maritime Museum is on Marine Drive in Astoria and is open daily from 9:30am-5:00pm. Adult tickets are $12, seniors are $10, and children ages 6-17 are $5. There's a 3D film you can see at the museum, for which admission is an extra $5 per person.
Address: 1792 Marine Drive, Astoria, Oregon, USA
Hours: Daily 9:30am-5pm
Admission: $12
From $ 100
Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge, one of the great natural treasures of the Pacific Northwest with its many dramatic waterfalls, channels the mighty Columbia River through the Cascade Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, marking much of the border between Oregon and Washington. The gorge figures in early United States history, as it was here that the Lewis and Clark expedition completed its final stretch in 1805. Today the area is popular with hikers, windsurfers, and wine lovers.
The Basics
The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is an accessible day trip from Portland. Join a hiking or biking tour and you'll be guided to the best trails. Other tours visit wineries or include a cruise on the river. Of the many waterfalls to see, Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Wahkeena Falls top the list.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear sturdy shoes for any hiking or biking tours, as trails may be steep or slippery.
- Bring layers even in summer, as it can be windy year–round, and trail temperatures are often lower than those in the city.
- During the busy summer season, cars heading to the parking area at Multnomah Falls can back up onto the Columbia River Highway. Tour vans have reserved parking, avoiding the traffic hassle.
- Trails are not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, but there is some wheelchair accessibility at Multnomah Falls.
How to Get to the Columbia River Gorge
The Gorge runs from Troutdale to Biggs on the Oregon side of the Oregon–Washington border and from Vancouver to Maryhill on the Washington side, starting about 16 miles (25.7 km) from downtown Portland. The easiest way to visit the gorge is by car or on a tour. There are several points of interest not far from I–84, the main highway running along the Oregon side of the gorge, but the older and meandering Columbia River Highway boasts more scenic views.
When to Get There
The summer months, especially July and August, offer the best visibility. The gorge can be foggy and gray in winter, as well as some of fall and spring. Winery tasting rooms are open year–round, but the fall harvest season is a popular time to visit the orchards, vineyards, and wineries. With the right clothing and gear, hikers and windsurfers can get out in almost any weather.
Where to Find the Best Views in the Columbia River Gorge
Vista House, which overlooks the gorge at Crown Point near Portland, provides brilliant views in both directions on clear days, and the nearby Bonneville Dam showcases the power of the river, with a fish-viewing window to see spawning in autumn. On the Washington side, the Maryhill Stonehenge monument, a replica of the landmark in England, makes for an interesting stop.
Address: Hood River, Oregon 97031, USA
From $ 59
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
Designed for science fans of all ages, OMSI features five separate halls, eight hands-on science labs, a real submarine, an OmniMax giant-screen theater, and a planetarium. The museum is a science playground, with 200-plus interactive exhibits covering subjects such as climate change, chemistry, the human body, and technology.
The Basics
Watch the stars come alive at Kendall Planetarium, see a blockbuster or nature documentary in the IMAX theater, or tour the USS Blueback submarine—the US Navy’s last non-nuclear, fast-attack sub. Older children enjoy Turbine Hall’s interactive building, engineering, and problem-solving exhibits, while the colorful Science Playground provides art materials, a cave to explore, and a giant sandbox for kids 6 and under.
Visit on a Portland hop-on hop-off trolley tour to explore the museum at your own pace. To experience the Pacific Northwest outdoors, you can combine hop-on hop-off trolley tickets with a Columbia River Gorge tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a must-see for science lovers and families with kids.
- Visitor facilities include two on-site restaurants and a gift shop.
- OMSI is wheelchair accessible, with the exception of the USS Blueback submarine. Free wheelchair and motorized scooter rentals are available on a first come, first served basis.
How to Get There
OMSI is located on SE Water Avenue on the eastern bank of the Willamette River, roughly 1.3 miles (2 kilometers) by road from downtown. The museum is accessible by TriMet, Portland’s public transportation system, via the MAX Light Rail, bus, and Portland Streetcar lines.
When to Get There
The museum is open year-round and is most crowded on weekends and school holidays. To avoid crowds, opt for an early morning or weekday visit. OMSI After Dark events typically occur every month and are geared specifically toward adults aged 21 and over.
The USS Blueback
The USS Blueback submarine spent 31 years prowling the Pacific before retiring at the OMSI. Today, you can see the inside of the Blueback on a submarine tour, and get a glimpse of how a crew of 85 lived on the vessel for months at a time.
Address: 1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, Oregon 97214, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 34