Oregon Historical Society Museum 🏛️ | Walking Tour of Portland in a Day

Audio Guide Portland | Walking Tour of Portland in a Day

🏛️ Oregon Historical Society Museum 🏛️

Welcome to the Oregon Historical Society Museum, a treasure trove of the state’s rich history, culture, and heritage. Located in the heart of downtown Portland, this museum offers a deep dive into Oregon’s past—from the Native American tribes who first inhabited the region to the pioneers who helped shape its future, and beyond. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to learn more about Oregon, the museum provides an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

(1) 📍 Google Maps Link:

Oregon Historical Society Museum on Google Maps

(2) 🚇 Nearest Subway Station:

The Pioneer Courthouse Square MAX Station (served by the Blue and Red lines) is just a 5-minute walk from the museum, making it easily accessible via Portland’s light rail system. The Portland Streetcar also stops nearby at the SW Jefferson & 10th Avenue stop, just a block from the museum entrance.

(3) 🍽️ Good Places to Eat Nearby:

After immersing yourself in Oregon’s history, you might want to grab a bite to eat. Fortunately, the museum is located near some excellent dining spots!

• 🥪 Cheryl's on 12th: This charming café offers a variety of fresh sandwiches, salads, and homemade pastries. Their brunch menu is a local favorite, making it a great place for a post-museum meal.
• 🍔 The Picnic House: Just a short walk from the museum, this spot serves creative sandwiches, soups, and salads in a cozy, vintage atmosphere. It’s a great option for a casual yet delicious lunch.
• 🍣 Masu Sushi: If you’re in the mood for sushi, Masu is just a few blocks away and offers fresh, beautifully presented Japanese dishes in a stylish setting.

For coffee:

• ☕️ Stumptown Coffee Roasters (SW 3rd Ave): A nearby Portland icon where you can grab a perfect cup of coffee or espresso to keep your energy up for more exploring.
• ☕️ Public Domain Coffee: This sleek café is located near Pioneer Courthouse Square and offers high-quality, locally roasted coffee. It’s a great spot to relax after your museum visit.

For drinks:

• 🍸 Raven & Rose: A nearby upscale bar offering craft cocktails and a great whiskey selection. Located in a historic building, it’s perfect for a drink in a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
• 🍺 Deschutes Brewery: A favorite spot for craft beer lovers, Deschutes offers a wide range of local brews and hearty pub fare, just a few blocks from the museum.

(4) 📸 Best Photo Spots:

While the museum itself is full of fascinating exhibits, there are also a few great spots for photos, both inside and outside:

• The Oregon Trail Wagon: Inside the museum, you’ll find a beautifully restored covered wagon that’s perfect for a photo op. It’s a great way to capture a piece of Oregon pioneer history.
• Benson Bubblers: Just outside the museum, you’ll find some of Portland’s famous Benson Bubblers—bronze drinking fountains that have become an iconic symbol of the city.
• The Museum’s Exterior: The museum’s classic architecture, with its large windows and elegant facade, makes for a striking photo, especially in the golden hour light.
• Tom McCall Waterfront Park: Located nearby, this park offers great views of the Willamette River and Portland’s skyline. It’s a fantastic spot for outdoor photos after your museum visit.

(5) ⏰ Opening Times:

• Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Admission prices:

• Adults: $10
• Seniors (60+): $8
• Students (with ID): $8
• Youth (6-18): $5
• Children under 5: Free

Free Admission: Residents of Multnomah County get free admission with proof of residency (driver’s license, utility bill, etc.), and the museum offers free admission on Oregon’s birthday, February 14th.

(6) 💡 Insider Tips:

• Don’t miss the Oregon My Oregon exhibit. This award-winning permanent exhibit covers Oregon’s history from the earliest Native Americans to today. It’s a great overview and an engaging way to learn about the state’s development.
• Check out the rotating exhibits. The museum often hosts special traveling exhibits that cover everything from art to politics to pop culture. Be sure to check the schedule online before your visit to see what’s on display.
• Interactive displays for kids. The museum has several kid-friendly, interactive exhibits that make history fun for younger visitors. It’s a great place for families!
• Free tour app. The museum offers a free mobile app that provides more information about the exhibits. It’s great for getting deeper into the history of the items on display, and it’s available in the app stores.
• Parking: The museum doesn’t have its own parking lot, but there are several public parking garages nearby, including the SmartPark Garage on SW 10th and Yamhill. The area is also very walkable, so consider public transit or biking if you're nearby.

(7) 🌟 Hidden Gem:

Tucked away on the museum’s upper floors is the Oregon Historical Society Research Library, a fantastic resource for history buffs and genealogists. It’s open to the public and contains a vast collection of documents, photographs, and maps related to Oregon’s history. If you’re doing research or just want to dive deeper into the state’s past, this is a quiet and fascinating spot to explore.

(8) 🚻 Public Bathrooms Nearby:

The museum has clean, well-maintained restrooms located on each floor. They are easy to find and accessible. If you're outside the museum, nearby locations like Director Park or Pioneer Courthouse Square also have public restrooms.