Free museums in Oregon

The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a significant paleontological site located in Oregon, United States. It has been recognized and protected as a national monument since 1974. The site is named after John Day, a trapper who was part of the Astor expedition. This site is a testament to the rich history and geological significance of the region.

The Yaquina Bay Light is a historical lighthouse located in Newport, Oregon, United States. It was constructed in 1871, shortly after the city's establishment. This lighthouse holds a significant place in the history of Newport and is a testament to the city's maritime past.

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 Astoria Column is a significant landmark located in the northwest United States. It is situated on Coxcomb Hill in Astoria, Oregon, and provides a panoramic view of the mouth of the Columbia River. This tower is a part of the city's rich history and offers a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.

Heceta Head Light is a prominent lighthouse located on the Oregon Coast, precisely 13 miles north of Florence and 13 miles south of Yachats. This strategic location makes it a notable landmark for tourists exploring the Oregon Coast.

Hoyt Arboretum is a public park located in Portland, Oregon. It is part of the larger Washington Park complex and covers an expansive area of 189 acres. The arboretum is situated atop a ridge in the Tualatin Mountains, approximately two miles west of downtown Portland. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of flora while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Shore Acres State Park is a vast 301-acre park situated in Coos County, Oregon. The park is uniquely positioned on a sandstone cliff, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature.

The Rogue River Ranch is a historic site that dates back to the pioneer era. It is situated on the northern bank of the Rogue River, within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in southwestern Oregon. This location offers visitors a glimpse into the past, with its original buildings and surrounding natural beauty.

The Coquille River Lighthouse, also known as Bandon Lighthouse, is a historic landmark located in Charleston, on the Coquille River, in Coos County, Oregon, United States. It was deactivated in 1939 and is now maintained by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department as part of the Bullards Beach State Park. The lighthouse was first put into service on February 29, 1896, to guide sailors through the dangerous sandbanks of the Coquille River to the port of Bandon.

Train Mountain Railroad, located near Chiloquin, Oregon, in Klamath County, holds the distinction of being the world's largest miniature hobbyist railroad. This unique attraction is situated in the south central region of Oregon, making it an interesting stop for those exploring this part of the state.

Blue Sky Gallery, also known as The Oregon Center for the Photographic Arts, is a non-profit exhibition space located in Portland, Oregon. The gallery is dedicated to showcasing contemporary photography, making it an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts and art lovers alike. It provides a platform for both local and international artists, offering a diverse range of photographic styles and themes.

The Mount Pisgah Arboretum is a non-profit botanical garden and arboretum nestled within the Howard Buford Recreation Area. It is situated between the Coast Fork of the Willamette River and the slopes of Mount Pisgah, in the vicinity of Eugene-Springfield, Oregon, USA. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and biodiversity, making it an interesting destination for nature lovers.

Philip Foster Farm is a historic site located in Eagle Creek, Oregon, in close proximity to the city of Estacada. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of the region and the life of American pioneer Philip Foster.

Maude Irvine Kerns was a renowned American artist and art educator, recognized for her avant-garde paintings. Her work was exhibited in prestigious institutions such as the Guggenheim Museum and the National Gallery of Art, earning her significant recognition in the abstract art movement in New York.

The William L. Holmes House, also known as Rose Farm, is a historic structure located in Oregon City, Oregon. It was constructed in 1848 by William L. Holmes, making it one of the oldest structures in the state. The house stands as a testament to the early settlement history of Oregon and offers a glimpse into the life and times of its original inhabitants.

The Alsea Bay Historic Interpretive Center is a public facility located in the city of Waldport, Oregon. It is managed and owned by the city itself. This center provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the history and culture of the area.

The Rogerson Clematis Garden is a botanical garden situated at Luscher Farm Park, close to Lake Oswego, Oregon. This location offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature. The garden is easily accessible and provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and leisure.

The Patrick Hughes House, also known as Hughes Ranch and the Historic Hughes House, is a significant historical site in Oregon. This Queen Anne-style house was built in 1898 on Cape Blanco. The house's architectural style and its historical significance make it an interesting destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.

The Vernonia Pioneer Museum is a historical institution situated in Vernonia, Oregon, United States. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of the region, providing a comprehensive understanding of its past. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that showcase the cultural, social, and economic development of Vernonia and its surrounding areas.

The A. R. Bowman Memorial Museum, located in Prineville, Oregon, is a local history museum that opened its doors in 1971. It offers a deep dive into the history of Crook County and central Oregon, providing visitors with a rich understanding of the area's past.

The Uppertown Firefighter's Museum, also known as the Astoria Fire House No. 2, is a historic building situated in Astoria, Oregon. Since 1989, it has been serving as a museum, providing visitors with a glimpse into the history of firefighting in the region.

The Portland Police Museum showcases a variety of artifacts that provide insight into the city's law enforcement history. Visitors can expect to see a range of items, from historical documents to old uniforms, that tell the story of Portland's police force over the years.

Bush's Pasture Park, located in Salem, Oregon, is a public park and botanical garden that houses the Asahel Bush House. This historic house is now operated as the Bush House Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The park and museum provide a unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a worthwhile destination for tourists.

Old Saint Peter's Landmark, also known as Old St. Peter's, is a historic building situated at the intersection of 3rd and Lincoln Streets in downtown The Dalles, Oregon, United States. This location is easily accessible and is a significant part of the city's history.

The Oregon Military Museum, located at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas County, Oregon, is a significant institution dedicated to the preservation and sharing of Oregon's military heritage. This includes the history of the Oregon National Guard, the state's early militias, and all branches of the US Armed Forces. The museum is a testament to the state's rich military history and serves as a valuable resource for those interested in learning more about it.

One of the main features of Collier Memorial State Park is the Collier Logging Museum. This outdoor museum boasts a large collection of historic logging equipment, some of which dates back to the 1880s. The collection includes ox drawn 'high wheels', steam-powered 'donkey engines', steam tractors, diesel 'cats', and a Beloit tree harvester. The museum also displays large saw mill machinery and railroad equipment used to transport logs out of the forest.

Port Orford Heads State Park is open from April 1 to October 31, making it an ideal destination for spring, summer, and fall visits. The park is renowned for its hiking trails, which attract approximately 120,000 visitors annually. These trails offer a chance to experience the park's natural beauty firsthand.

The Thomas J. Flippin House, often referred to as the Clatskanie Castle, is a significant architectural landmark in Clatskanie, Oregon. This 14-room, shingle-style Queen Anne structure stands as a testament to the architectural style of the late 19th century. The house's unique design and historical significance make it a point of interest for visitors to the area.

The Coos County Logging Museum is situated in the charming town of Myrtle Point, Oregon, in the United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the local logging industry.

Despite its small size, this museum is worth the attention of every history buff. Local history in temporary exhibitions.

Outstanding university museum dedicated to the art of 20th century and beyond. The permanent exhibition is especially noteworthy.

Community project that presents traditional technologies needed to create carousels and attempts to make one. You can even join the process.

One of the best museum in the state. Come here to overlook and explore more than 50 million years of plant and animal evolution.

The 19th century farmhouse has been transformed into a captivating living history museum where you can experience yourself the traditional way of life.

Small community museum that displays a motley of Indian artifacts, early settlers' history and pioneer memorabilia.