Search 
End of the Oregon Trail
Make your own trail to Oregon City, just south of Portland, to explore the history of the famed Oregon Trail.
Know Before You Go
End of the Oregon Trail Interpretative Center is currently closed.
When people think of the Oregon Trail, many initially recall the old computer game where players used math to restock supplies and hunted elk by typing “BANG.” But for 400,000 settlers in the mid-1800s, the reality was a 2,000-mile adventure that stretched from Missouri to Oregon City, half an hour southeast of Portland. At the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center and Historic Site visitors can learn about their journeys and discover what it was like to be a pioneer.
Oregon City was the end of the trail for many because it was where land claims were granted for Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Wyoming.
Made up of several buildings beneath giant wagon frames, the Interpretive Center contains hands-on exhibits where costumed interpreters describe the challenges of packing for the cross-country trek. Little explorers are free to get hands-on with history here by dressing up, packing a wagon and trying their hands at pioneer crafts and activities like candle making. The “Bound for Oregon” video presentation and other exhibits also immerse visitors in historic tales and explain how Oregon City was the end of the trail for many because it was where land claims were granted for Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Wyoming.
The historic site is also home to the Country Store, where authentic keepsakes and locally made goods — like beaded items from Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde — are available for sale. Also on view is a Master Gardener’s Pioneer Garden, where plants and heirloom roses similar to those found in 1860s Oregon are on display. Expertly researched, the specimen roses are attended by master gardeners, who make presentations on plant life in pioneer times, a topic that, like Oregon, is still green today.
You can learn more about the rich history of the region, the Oregon Trail, and the people who traveled it with several special video presentations from the Interpretive Center and understand more about this region’s indigenous peoples, follow the history of Barlow Road, experience a day in the life of a Woman of the West and more.
Tips for Visiting the End of the Oregon Trail
When can I visit the Interpretive Center?
Sunday 10:30 a.m. -5 p.m.
How much does it cost?
Details are subject to change; please check End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center’s Website for current information.
How far is Oregon City from Portland?
Interpretive Center:
1726 Washington Street
Oregon City, OR 97045
What other historic sites are in Oregon City?
McLoughlin House
713 Center Street, Oregon City 97045
•Historic Oregon City, from Main Street, and up the bluffs overlooking the Willamette River.
•Take a short trip up the Oregon City Municipal Elevator off Main Street in downtown Oregon City. The original water-powered elevator was built in 1915 and renovated to what you can experience today in 1955.
•On the Overland Tour you can walk in the footsteps of pioneers along the Oregon Trail Experience Interpretive Trail, which features replica animals and landmarks, such as Independence Rock and Laurel Hill.
Other Activities for History Buffs
Historic Sites & Features
Portland may seem like a young city, but you can still find plenty of history everywhere you look. Discover the historic sites of Portland from public art to public parks, and the sites nearby that bring historic value to the city of roses.
Haunted Portland
Portland is rife with spooky lore and tales of things that go bump in the night; find them with these mysterious spots and spirited walking tours.
Cheap Things to Do in Portland for History Buffs
Experience Portland’s history without breaking your budget.
Was this page helpful?