“imagination, creativity and the wonder of learning”
The Museum opened as the “Junior Museum and Adventure House,” and programs included natural history displays, arts and crafts classes, and a pet lending library! As research on children’s early learning expanded in the 1970s, the Museum’s focus shifted to one of hands-on, experience-based learning. Though much has changed, arts and crafts like those taught in the 1940s continue to delight children and families today.The Downtown Portland Rotary spearheaded a capital campaign that raised $10 million to move the Museum to Washington Park in 2001. This successful effort led to the renovation of the old OMSI building, a space five times the size of the former Lair Hill location. With the help from Rotary and a successful partnership with Portland Parks and Recreation that continues today, the new facility endowed the Museum with accessible program areas, space for a café and store, and a large amount of new exhibit space, a traveling exhibit hall and performance areas. At the same time, the Museum became officially incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
I took our two boys here. It was a fun children's museum. The boys especially liked the clay room where they could make their own clay creations and take them home. They also loved painting their faces and then going on to the stage and performing for the parent audience. Might be helpful to note that first Friday of every month is free.
My 7 and 3 year old had fun here, but the price seemed pretty steep for what it was. It definitely is more for the toddler age range. I see the value in learning through play and I can see how living in the area it would make more sense to just get a membership.
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Portland Children’s Museum
Hours
- Sun - Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
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Parking
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Pets Allowed
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Restrooms
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Wifi
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Credit Cards Accepted
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Outdoor Seating
Parking, Dining
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