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Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
OMG — OMSI is the coolest museum in town.
Margaret Seiler
Sitting on the Willamette River in Portland’s Central Eastside, this science museum is a must for any family to explore.
With a planetarium letting you and your little one’s explore the stars, a giant-screen theater playing documentaries to Hollywood blockbusters, a retired navy submarine docked outside, traveling exhibits of all kinds, and “After Dark” events that pair science talk with beer and wine for the 21-and-over set, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry lures all ages.
But OMSI’s core fan base is still half-pints and STEM-fans, who can get their geek on and feel an earthquake, learn about physics in Turbine Hall, conduct experiments in interactive labs or watch storms form on a giant globe.
Questions About OMSI
When does OMSI open?
Sunday to Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Friday & Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Fall/Winter/Spring Hours:
Tuesday through Friday & Sunday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Closed Mondays during the school year, except during school holidays.
For current hours please check OMSI’s website.
How much does it cost to go to OMSI?
Adult (14+) $18.00
Youth (3-13) $13.00
Senior (63+) $15.00
Children 3 years and under visit for free.
There is an additional charge for touring the USS Blueback submarine ($8.50 per person) and Planetarium shows ($7.50 per person). Occasionally, there is an extra charge for a special exhibit.
Details are subject to change; please check OMSI’s website for current information.
Does OMSI offer discounted admission?
OMSI also participates in the Access for All program. Visitors with an EBT card may purchase up to four general admission tickets at $5 each. Show a valid, matching ID and your EBT card at the front desk.
Details are subject to change; please visit OMSI’s website for the most current information.
Where is OMSI?
Is there free parking at OMSI?
Visitors are encouraged to carpool or take public transportation. The Portland Streetcar’s Central Loop and MAX Light Rail Orange Line drop passengers a short walk from the OMSI’s front door.
With so much to see many plan to spend a half or whole day at OMSI. You might be ready for a snack after all that fun, don’t worry. The renovated Theory Café takes museum fare to the next level, with goodies like oven-fired pizza, local beer sliders, and quinoa salad that can be enjoyed with Willamette River views. There’s even a tap list for adults! The Empirical Café, adjacent to the Empirical Theater, also serves snacks and drinks.
Just across the river from downtown, OMSI is easy to access by car, train, or bicycle. A wide sidewalk and well-marked pedestrian and bike lanes make the Hawthorne Bridge an easy stroll and the Portland Streetcar’s Central Loop and MAX Light Rail Orange Line drop passengers a short walk from the museum’s front door.
Family Fun
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