Photo: Johannah Larsen
Photo: LiLing Wang
Photo: Michael Cooper (mythmon)
OMSI
★4.5(9,923 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 4-6 hours for a full experience including shows and submarine tour, or 2-3 hours for exhibits only👶 Best for ages 3-14. Toddlers and preschoolers love the Discovery Space designed just for them, while elementary-aged kids can spend hours in the hands-on labs and exhibits. Tweens and teens especially enjoy the submarine tour and planetarium shows.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) is Portland's premier hands-on science destination where kids can touch, explore, and experiment with hundreds of interactive exhibits. From touring a real submarine docked on the Willamette River to watching jaw-dropping shows in the OMNIMAX theater and planetarium, this massive science center keeps children engaged for hours while learning feels like pure fun.
Highlights
- ✓USS Blueback submarine tour,explore a real Navy submarine docked on the river
- ✓OMNIMAX theater with five-story domed screen showing educational films
- ✓Kendall Planetarium with immersive sky shows and astronomy programs
- ✓Hands-on science labs where kids conduct real experiments
- ✓Discovery Space with water play and activities designed for children under 6
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when doors open at 9:30 AM to beat school groups and have popular exhibits like the submarine tour to yourselves
- 2.The USS Blueback submarine tour requires a separate ticket and sells out quickly,book online in advance or purchase tickets immediately upon arrival
- 3.Bring snacks or plan to eat at the on-site Theory Café, as outside food is allowed and there are designated eating areas throughout the museum
- 4.Download the OMSI app before visiting to see daily show times and create a game plan for must-see exhibits
- 5.The parking lot fills up fast on weekends,consider taking the Portland Streetcar which stops right at OMSI, making it a fun part of the adventure
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) when it's less crowded and you'll avoid large school groups that typically arrive mid-morning. Summer weekdays before 11 AM offer the best experience, while weekends and school holidays can get very busy.
What to Know
General admission is required plus separate tickets for OMNIMAX films, planetarium shows, and submarine tours (budget accordingly as these add up). Parking is available on-site for a fee, and the museum is fully accessible with stroller-friendly exhibits throughout.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with special exhibits rotating seasonally. Summer features extended hours and special camps. Holiday-themed events and shows are offered during winter break. The outdoor Science Playground is most enjoyable in warmer months.
Nearby Eats
Head to Roscoe's for classic burgers and milkshakes just a 5-minute drive away, or try Oaks Bottom Public House with a kids' menu and outdoor seating overlooking the park, about 10 minutes north.
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