Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

Logo of the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is a prominent science and technology museum located in Portland, Oregon. It is one of the nation's leading science museums, offering a wide range of interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to inspire curiosity and foster learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

History

The old OMSI complex in Washington Park, 1994

OMSI was founded in 1944, originally housed in a small house in Portland. The museum's first permanent home was established in 1958 in Washington Park. In 1992, OMSI moved to its current location on the east bank of the Willamette River, in a building that was formerly a power plant.

Exhibits and Attractions

OMSI features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits that cover a wide range of scientific topics. The museum is divided into several main areas:

Turbine Hall

Inside Turbine Hall at OMSI

Turbine Hall is one of the most iconic areas of OMSI, featuring hands-on exhibits that explore physics, engineering, and technology. Visitors can engage with interactive displays that demonstrate principles of motion, energy, and mechanics.

USS Blueback Submarine

USS Blueback SS-581, docked at OMSI

The USS Blueback (SS-581) is a decommissioned Barbel-class submarine that is permanently docked at OMSI. Visitors can take guided tours of the submarine, learning about life aboard a submarine and the history of naval technology.

OMNIMAX Theater

Exterior of the OMNIMAX Theater at OMSI

OMSI's OMNIMAX Theater offers an immersive cinematic experience with its five-story domed screen. The theater shows a variety of educational films that cover topics such as space exploration, natural history, and environmental science.

Science Playground

The Science Playground at OMSI

The Science Playground is designed for younger children, providing a safe and engaging environment where they can explore basic scientific concepts through play. The area includes water play, building activities, and sensory exploration.

Planetarium

OMSI's planetarium offers shows that explore the night sky, astronomy, and space science. The planetarium features a state-of-the-art projection system that provides a realistic view of the stars and planets.

Educational Programs

OMSI is dedicated to education and offers a variety of programs for students, teachers, and the general public. These include school field trips, science camps, workshops, and teacher professional development. OMSI also hosts special events and lectures that bring in experts from various scientific fields.

Location and Facilities

View from OMSI looking out at the Tilikum Crossing

OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue in Portland, Oregon. The museum is situated near the Tilikum Crossing, a bridge that connects the east and west sides of Portland. The museum's facilities include a café, gift shop, and ample parking for visitors.

Related Pages

• Portland, Oregon
• Washington Park (Portland, Oregon)
• Willamette River
• Barbel-class submarine