





Children's Museums
OMSI
📍 1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214🕐 Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM–5:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM–5:30 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM–5:30 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM–5:30 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM–5:30 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM–5:30 PM |
About OMSI
Planetarium & hands-on exhibits. Rotating shows, science labs, submarine tours & planetarium at a museum with monthly 21+ events. OMSI operates the USS Blueback Submarine, a decommissioned naval submarine available for tours, making it one of the few science museums in the country offering actual submarine tours rather than simulations. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,069 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Science Center
- Best For
- All ages
- Main Attractions
- Planetarium, submarine tours, interactive exhibits, science labs
- Special Features
- Multiple locations with camps and online learning
- Membership
- Available
💡 Did You Know?
- OMSI operates the USS Blueback Submarine, a decommissioned naval submarine available for tours, making it one of the few science museums in the country offering actual submarine tours rather than simulations
- OMSI operates multiple satellite locations across the Northwest including desert and coastal camps, extending STEAM education beyond Portland into different ecosystems and geographic regions
- The Kendall Planetarium features rotating laser light shows that visitors specifically mention as a highlight, with shows running on a limited schedule that generates significant visitor demand
- OMSI hosts monthly 21+ adult-exclusive events, creating programming that intentionally targets adult audiences rather than being exclusively family-focused, which is less common for science centers
💬 What Visitors Say
- Purchase a membership if you plan multiple visits, especially if homeschooling — reviewers highlight it as a great value and note that rotating exhibits and special events make repeat visits worthwhile
- Planetarium shows have long wait times and run on limited schedules — arrive early for shows or check the schedule before visiting to avoid disappointment
- The upstairs exhibits are frequently closed for rotations — call ahead or check OMSI's website before visiting to confirm which exhibits are open, as some visitors have found limited access on their visit
- Adults should focus on limited-time rotating exhibits (like Monsters of the Abyss) and the USS Blueback submarine tour rather than permanent hands-on areas which are primarily geared toward younger children
- Bring your own food or visit when food trucks are available, as on-site food options are limited; check for special event days that feature food trucks
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