Portlandia flows to the sea as you visit this piece of Rip City's past. Step on board the only remaining operational steam sternwheel tug in the country to learn all about boating while admiring all of the artifacts and exhibits. Take the tugboat tour and hear how old seafarers battled the river currents. If you want to learn more visit their library, the cheerful staff will give provide some interesting bits of information. Visit the gift store and check out the books and nautical themed gifts. The view of the city aboard the ship is an added proposition that Oregon Maritime Museum offers.
An odd but fun museum, this place falls into the Escape from Alcatraz category. If you are into cops and robbers, there is a lot to see. Among the most interesting items are the police bike with sidecar, unusual confiscated weapons, historical uniforms and badges. To get a look at old Portland's criminal element, check out the Rogues Gallery. You will be glad the boys in blue are around after you see these characters. Visitors are allowed to click photographs, also interaction with certain exhibits is permitted.
Walk through the grand plaza and step into Oregon's past. Located in Portland's cultural district, The Oregon Historical Society has bountiful collections of historical artifacts, photographs, moving pictures, maps and more. Many exhibits are interactive, and the atmosphere is friendly. The museum is very well-maintained and curated in a way to provide easy navigation, it appears as though you are living history as you navigate your way through the interior. The center's shop is full of Native American jewelry, baskets and pots. The book collection covers all of the Northwest's history for adults and children.
Henry Pittock, founder of Portland's Oregonian newspaper, built this spectacular mansion in 1914 and lived there until his death in 1919. This stately mansion was created in the style of a French Renaissance chateau and boasts three floors plus an incredible view of the city. The mansion is now a museum and showcases local history through artifacts and exhibits. Guests can tour the mansion and even book space for private functions.
Just look for the covered wagons and circle to find this center. Focusing on modern history of the Pacific Northwest (fur traders, the railroad and more), the center puts on a show every hour throughout their working hours. The Willamette Trade and Craft Workshop behind the center allow you to interact with trail country traditions. Group rates are available, and the center can be rented for private events too. If you wish to learn about the fascinating past of the region then the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is one place you simply should not miss.