Kids get some hands-on learning at OMSI.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

OMG — OMSI is the coolest museum in town.

Updated July 27, 2021 2 min read Central Eastside

Margaret Seiler

Know Before You Go

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, Empirical Theater, Kendall Planetarium and the USS Blueback submarine. Turbine Hall is temporarily closed.

Capacity limitations and timed ticketing have been implemented throughout the museum. Face coverings are required for all guests age five or older to protect those too young for vaccination.

The Theory Café is closed, but snacks and refreshments are available at the Empirical Café. For more information visit OMSI’s website.

With a planetarium, giant-screen theater, retired navy submarine (the USS Blueback is docked 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 OMSI’s core fan base is still the half-pints, who can feel an earthquake and learn about physics in Turbine Hall, conduct experiments in interactive labs or watch storms form on a giant globe.

Questions About OMSI

How much does it cost to go to OMSI?

General admission:
Adult (14+) $12.00
Youth (3-13) $8.00
Senior (63+) $10.00
Children 2 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. Please visit OMSI’s website for current information.

Does OMSI offer discounted admission?

Active duty military and veterans receive $2 off admission with a military ID. Discounted tickets may be purchased at the front desk.

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.

Discounts are subject to change; please visit OMSI’s website for the most current information.

Is there free parking at OMSI?

OMSI’s parking lot costs $5 per day. Street parking is available, but the spaces have a one or two-hour time limit.

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.

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! 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.

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