Oregon Historical Society: A living record of the state’s past

The Oregon Historical Society Museum is a perfect place to learn more about Oregon. From the days of Lewis & Clark to more recent developments, you can further your knowledge and have fun too. It is an adventure for both kids and adults, while its convenient location makes it easy to enjoy everything downtown Portland has to offer.

The museum is located on Park Street, near the Schneitzer Theatre as well as a few blocks east of the Portland Art Museum. It is also right across from the tall trees lining Park Street. On sunny days, you can rest outside the museum on one of the many benches. This can be a perfect respite from a day exploring Portland and also a lovely lunch spot.

While most large cities have a history museum of some kind, not many have one that exudes a cultural perspective like the Oregon Historical Society.

One of the nicest aspects of the museum is that it blends both the history of Oregon with modern history. So whether you are a Wild West buff or more interested in how Oregon’s developed over the last decade, chances are you will find a lot that interests you.

The current exhibits reflect this variety. Becoming American: Teenagers & Immigration is a “traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution [that] paints a poignant picture of teenage immigrants in America.” This modern exhibit is contrasted by Tall in the Saddle: 100 Years of the Pendleton Round Up, which “not only gives a rich sense of Round-Up history, but it also allows the visitor to feel the excitement that accompanies this enduring affair.” In addition, the museum has a number of permanent displays that are rich with fun and information.

Another offering besides the museum is the research library, one of the largest of its kind in the country. The library is perfect for students and people wanting a deeper knowledge that what the exhibits offer. The society's website also has a couple of online exhibits that further explain what awaits you upon your first visit.

HelloMetro Tip: The third Saturday of each month is Family Day. Two children under 18 are free with a paying adult, making it an affordable way for the whole family to see the museum’s exhibits.
 

Oregon History Museum Portland History Museum Oregon Historical Society