Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum - The Dalles OR

AAA Editor Notes

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum off I-84 exit 82; take US 30 (Historic Columbia River Hwy.) 1.5 mi. n. to 5000 Discovery Dr. The official interpretive center for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, the Discovery Center includes multimedia exhibits illustrating the geology of the Columbia Gorge, native plants, wildlife, early explorers and Native American culture. An Ice Age Floods exhibit features a life-size 13-foot Columbian mammoth. Visitors can see live raptor programs featuring owls, hawks and eagles daily.

The Wasco County Historical Museum illuminates the county's pioneer and steamboat history, and salmon's changing role in culture. Explore replicas and period objects representing the supplies and equipment carried by the Lewis and Clark expedition. The Kids Explorer Room provides several hands-on learning experiences.

Wildlife can be seen year-round, and wildflowers are in bloom April through September. The grounds offer paved biking/hiking trails and scenic overlooks.

Picnicking is permitted. Food is available.

More about The Dalles, OR

Admission

$9; $7 (ages 62+); $5 (ages 6-16). Grounds free.

AAA Benefit

Save $1 off admission. The official interpretive center for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, The Discovery Center's multi-sensory exhibits illustrate the cataclysmic creation of the Gorge and it's variety of native plants, wildlife, geology, and Native American artistry. Experience Live Raptors (hawks, owls, and falcons) on-the-glove. The Wasco County Historical Museum illuminates the county's pioneer and steamboat history, and salmon's changing role in culture. Explore the supplies and equipment carried by the Lewis and Clark expedition. An Ice Age exhibit features a life-sized 13-foot Columbian mammoth. The Kids Explorer Room provides several hands-on learning experiences. Wildlife can be seen year-round, and wildflowers are in bloom April- June. The grounds (free) offer paved biking/hiking trails and scenic overlooks. Cafe dining available. Picnicking permitted.

Hours

Daily 9-5. Closed Jan. 1, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Allow 1 hour minimum.