Science & Technology Museums in Oregon

The Oregon Coast Aquarium, located in Newport, Oregon, is a renowned facility that opened its doors to the public in 1992. It is situated on a 23-acre property along Yaquina Bay, near the Pacific Ocean. The aquarium has been recognized as a world-class facility by USA Today and is ranked among the top ten aquariums in North America by Coastal Living magazine.

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a technological museum that is situated in Portland, Oregon. It is located on the banks of the Willamette River, providing a scenic location for visitors. The museum is known for its focus on technology and science, making it an interesting destination for those interested in these fields.

The Tillamook Air Museum is a unique aviation museum located in the southern part of Tillamook, Oregon. It offers a rich history and a wide range of exhibits that cater to aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The museum is easily accessible and provides an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.

The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, located in McMinnville, Oregon, is a unique destination for those interested in aviation and aerospace. Established in 1991, the museum houses a variety of military and civilian aircraft and spacecraft, offering visitors a comprehensive look into the history and advancements of aviation technology.

The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) is a railway museum located in Portland, Oregon. It is home to three steam locomotives owned by the City of Portland. These include the Southern Pacific 4449, Spokane, Portland & Seattle 700, and Oregon Railroad & Navigation Co. 197. The first two locomotives are restored and operable, offering a unique glimpse into the history of rail transportation.

The United States lightship Columbia (WLV-604) is a significant part of maritime history. It was put into service in 1951 for the United States Coast Guard at the mouth of the Columbia River. This lightship played a crucial role in guiding ships through the Columbia River's sandbank and an area known as the Pacific Graveyard.

The Hatfield Marine Science Visitor Center serves as the public education wing of the HMSC. It offers a variety of exhibits focusing on marine species, marine research, and the coastal environment. The visitor center is open throughout the year, making it a great destination for tourists regardless of the season. Admission to the center is by donation, making it accessible to all.

The Portland is currently home to the Oregon Maritime Museum, which owns the ship. The museum acquired the ship in 1991, nearly ten years after its retirement. Restoration work began with the intention of turning it into a stationary museum ship. The interest and fundraising for the project exceeded expectations, and $700,000 in donations allowed the Portland to be restored to a working and navigable state. The restoration work was completed in 1993, with occasional passenger trips until the Coast Guard inspected the ship in 2001 and halted passenger operations until the ship could pass inspection. The museum raised an additional $480,000, volunteers put in an additional million dollars in labor over seven years, and the ship was allowed to serve passengers again in 2008.

The Oregon Air and Space Museum is conveniently located on the grounds of the Eugene Airport in Eugene, Oregon. This makes it easily accessible for tourists who are flying into the city. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of aviation and space exploration.

The Oregon State Hospital, located in Salem, Oregon, is a public psychiatric hospital with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1862. It is the oldest operating psychiatric hospital in the state and also has a smaller satellite campus in Junction City. The hospital's long history and significant role in the field of mental health make it a point of interest for those interested in medical history or the history of mental health treatment.