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Margaret Seiler

Kids get some hands-on learning at OMSI. Kids get some hands-on learning at OMSI.
i
Kids get some hands-on learning at OMSI.
Attractions / Family Friendly

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

OMG — OMSI is the coolest museum in town.

Updated Dec. 15, 2020 1 min read Central Eastside

Margaret Seiler

Know Before You Go

Temporarily CLOSED due to current COVID-19 restrictions in Multnomah County. For more information visit OMSI’s website.

With a planetarium, a giant-screen theater, a retired navy submarine (the USS Blueback is docked in the river right 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 has lures for all ages.

But its core fan base is still the half-pints, who can feel an earthquake and learn about physics in Turbine Hall, conduct their own experiments in the interactive labs or watch storms form on a giant globe. The hands-on Science Playground is designed for kids 6 and under and, thankfully, the splash area has adult-size waterproof aprons in case Mom and Dad want to get in on the fun without getting soaked. (Leave some room for the little ones, please!)

Half-pints can feel an earthquake and learn about physics in Turbine Hall.

Ready for a snack after all that fun? 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!

Just across the river from downtown, OMSI keeps getting easier to get to. 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.

Attractions, For Kids, Museums & History

Kid-Friendly Museums

More family fun
Families play and learn together at the Portland Children\'s Museum.

Portland Children’s Museum

Dreaming of a family-friendly afternoon full of hands-on learning? Head to the Portland Children’s Museum, in attraction-packed Washington Park.

Kids can explore a real Naval submarine at OMSI.

When I Grow Up: Portland Attractions for Career-Oriented Kids

At these family-friendly Portland attractions, kids can walk in the shoes of the heroes they idolize: police officers, firefighters, astronauts, airplane pilots and sailors.

Learn about all types of flora and fauna at the World Forestry Center.

World Forestry Center Discovery Museum

Tree- and forest-lovers of all ages can learn about sustainability and experience a Portland icon at the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum.

\"Experience Oregon\" is a 7,000-square-foot permanent exhibit at Oregon Historical Society, reflecting the people, places and events that shaped the land that is now known as Oregon.

Oregon Historical Society

The Oregon Historical Society collection includes thousands of historic artifacts (including the “Portland Penny"), permanent and rotating exhibits and an extensive research library.

A truly odd photo opportunity at the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium.

Keep Portland’s Museums Weird

From the world's oldest (fake) museum to the only gallery focused on vintage vacuum cleaners, these attractions keep Portland weird.

Explore Oregon\'s history, local artwork and internationally renowned pieces from around the world at the Portland Art Museum.

Museums & History

At these local monuments, museums and landmarks, you can explore Portland’s pioneer origins and Indigenous history, as well as exceptional collections of art, crafts and more.

Upcoming Science & Tech Events

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Editor's Pick
Portland International Auto Show
Feb. 25–28, 2021

Portland International Auto Show

Oregon Convention Center Prices Vary

The Portland International Auto Show is the largest auto show in the Pacific Northwest. With more than 480,000 square feet of exhibit space you will find over 600 vehicles from 35 manufacturers, the latest in car design and technology plus exotics from around the world. Get behind the wheel in one of our many Ride…

Editor's Pick
Conventions
Exhibition
For Kids
Science & Tech
Submarine Tech Tour
Ongoing

Submarine Tech Tour

OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) $15

OMSI offers a Guided Tech Tour on the second and fourth Sunday of every month. This special tour guided by an actual submarine veteran is for those who would like to learn more about the technical workings of the Blueback. The maximum tour size is eight people, so plan ahead and reserve your spot. Tech…

Guided Tour
Science & Tech
Virtual OMSI After Dark: FizzFest
Friday, Jan. 29, 2021

Virtual OMSI After Dark: FizzFest

Virtual $47 Before Jan 8 | $50 After

Join OMSI After Dark virtually to enjoy a curated tasting package of 10 fizzy drinks! Expect science demos, magic, fizzy drink experts, trivia, music and more. Information on how to access the live stream will be emailed to ticket holders the day of the event. Tickets include a mixed package of 10 fizzy drinks! Including…

Food & Drink
Science & Tech
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