Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
OMG — OMSI is the coolest museum in town.
Margaret Seiler
Know Before You Go
COVID-19 Update: This popular family destination is open on a limited basis and welcoming visitors to the museum to explore the new Dinosaurs Revealed exhibit as well as the Natural Science Hall, Kendall Planetarium and the USS Blueback Submarine.
Capacity limitations and timed ticketing have been implemented throughout the museum. 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.
Kid-Friendly Museums
Upcoming Science & Tech Events
TechFestNW
Note: Event is virtual in 2021. Check website for more detailed information. TechfestNW is a global gathering of technology and business leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs held at Portland State University’s Viking Pavilion in downtown Portland, Oregon. Learn more about the innovative, impactful tech that helps define our region. Hear from thought leaders across industries. Experience…
Submarine Tech Tour
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…
Zebrafish and the Secret to Brain Development
Zebrafish, a popular aquarium fish, can reveal the inner workings of the nervous system, according to exciting research from OHSU Professor Kelly Monk, Ph.D. Dr. Monk will share insights on her team’s recent discoveries and how they are opening up exciting opportunities to learn more about brain biology and neurological disease.
Psychedelic Therapy: The Science and Safety of Psilocybin
In November 2020, Oregon became the first state to legalize the therapeutic use of psilocybin mushrooms. Join OHSU Assistant Professor of Psychiatry Chris Stauffer, M.D., on a journey through the history, research and modern-day application of psychedelic therapy.
Immerse 2021 – The Freshwater Trust
Despite spending $2 trillion over the last 60 years, more than half of America’s rivers remain impaired under the Clean Water Act. How we are managing water isn’t working, and that has massive implications for the resiliency of our world. After nearly 40 years, The Freshwater Trust (TFT) knows what our sector is missing to…
COVID-19 and the Brain: What do we know?
Some people who contract COVID-19 have no symptoms, while some have serious, long-lasting health issues. Peter Spencer, M.D., and Juliette Preston, M.D., will give an overview of what the international and local OHSU communities are doing to track the full-body effects of COVID-19, particularly on the brain. Following their talks, Jacqueline Bernard, M.D., and Andrew…
Was this page helpful?