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 ones 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 and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Fall/Winter/Spring Hours:
Tuesday through Friday and 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+) $19.00
Youth (3-13) $14.00
Senior (63+) $16.00
Children 3 years and under visit for free.
Ticket reservations are required for all ages.
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
Portland keeps the whole family happy with these attractions and activities.
Oregon Zoo
Located near downtown Portland in Washington Park, the Oregon Zoo is home to more than 2,600 animals.
World Forestry Center Discovery Museum
Tree- and forest-lovers of all ages can learn about the importance of sustainability and experience a Portland icon at the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum, with exhibits on local and global forests.
Oaks Amusement Park
Offering carnival rides, midway games, a miniature golf course, a historic roller rink and more, Oaks Amusement Park has provided family fun since 1905.
Upcoming Science & Tech Events
Brain Fair
Discover the amazing things our brains can do at the free annual OHSU Brain Fair. Science fans of all ages will be fascinated by hands-on exhibits, displays and more.
Staying Alive: Defenses of the Animal Kingdom
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Bridge Tour
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Tracing Geological History Through Rocks and Minerals in Oregon’s Desert
Join the final events of Oregon Natural Desert Association’s 2024 High Desert Speaker Series, featuring Alison Jean Cole — an author, rockhound, and lapidary artist. In this informative talk, Alison will showcase the rock and mineral treasures of Oregon’s desert. Obsidian, jasper, opal, and petrified wood each tell a unique story about the fascinating geological history…
Oregon Otter Beer Festival
The Elakha Alliance is throwing their biggest otter-ly amazing fundraiser of the year — all to help bring the adorable flippered friends back to Oregon. Come together at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland for an evening dedicated to fundraising for ocean conservation through delicious sea otter-themed craft beer tastings. This…
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Archaeology Roadshow
The Archaeology Roadshow once again returns to Portland State University. Immerse yourself in the history and archaeology of Oregon through exhibits and hands-on activities hosted by archaeologists and heritage specialists from PSU, Tribes, museums, private and nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. The 2024 theme is the Archaeology of Food: try salmon, elk, or wappato and…
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