Columbia River Maritime Museum

The Columbia River region has such a rich maritime heritage, that it only made sense to have a museum dedicated to exactly that - aptly named the Columbia River Maritime Museum! Founded in 1962, the Columbia River Maritime Museum was actually first museum in Oregon to meet national accreditation standards, AND it's also designated the official state museum of Oregon too - so already it's worth a visit!

Once inside, you can explore the largest collection of Pacific Northwest maritime artifacts in the entire country.

You can learn about the extreme forces at work along the Columbia River Bar, or you can find out about waves that exceed 40ft in height during severe winter storms - eeeek!

There are exhibits on the US Coast Guard and the Columbia River Bat Pilots, as well as an opportunity for you to see the legendary salmon fishing run - and did we mention there's also a floating lighthouse - the lightship Columbia?

The Columbia served as a floating lighthouse until 1979, offering navigation for all that approached the Columbia River. Tours are open daily and are part of your museum experience, which is yet ANOTHER great reason to visit!

The Columbia River Maritime Museum also offers classes, as well as workshops and demonstrations of skills and trades that are relevant to the maritime culture of the Columbia River, enhancing the learning experience even more!

So let's set sail for the next family day out - the tides are just right!