Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum
5000 Discovery Drive, The Dalles, Oregon, OR, 97058
Devoted to preserving the culture and history of Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum offers an array of permanent and temporary exhibitions. Overlooking the Columbia River, it’s a popular day-trip destination from nearby Portland.
The basics
The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum explores the natural and cultural history of the region, from the Ice Age up to the modern day. Housed in an expansive building, the museum’s interactive exhibitions include everything from full-sized mammoths and objects from the Lewis & Clark expedition (which passed nearby) to Native American artifacts. Outside, the riverside grounds feature a pond, walking trails, and scenic viewing points.
The museum is easy to visit independently or as part of a guided tour of the area.
Things to know before you go
Admission is discounted for kids aged 6–16, and free for children 5 and under.
The on-site Columbia River Trading Co. gift shop stocks a wide range of souvenirs, as well as works by local artists and crafters.
The bulk of the museum is wheelchair accessible.
How to get there
The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum is located at 5000 Discovery Dr. in The Dalles, Oregon. From Portland, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive east on I-84. Public transportation options are limited.
When to get there
The museum is open daily, from morning until early evening. Note that it’s closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Columbia River Gorge attractions
Beyond the dramatic river scenery itself, there’s plenty to see in the region. Round out your trip with visits to the Fort Dalles Museum & Anderson Homestead, The Dalles Lock and Dam Visitor Center, the Maryhill Museum of Art, and Columbia Hills State Park.
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