Oregon Historical Society – Portland, Oregon

 


The Oregon Historical Society has preserved Oregon’s story since 1898. It’s found in downtown Portland on the South Park Blocks near the Portland Art Museum. This museum and research center bring Oregon's past to life—through treasured objects, powerful exhibits, and a rich research library.

A Journey Through Oregon’s Past

Step into Experience Oregon, a 7,000-square-foot permanent exhibit spanning the museum's third floor. It showcases Oregon’s landscape, cultures, and pivotal moments including Native American life, pioneer days, and modern change. One highlight is the famous 1835 copper “Portland Penny,” flipped to choose the city’s name over Boston.

Across other floors, you’ll find rotating shows—featuring rare Lewis & Clark items, historic photos, and interactive displays like canoe-building or a replica covered wagon.

Rich Collections & Research Library

The Society’s research library holds over 2.5 million photographs, 85,000 artifacts, 30,000 books, historic maps, and film archives. Many of these resources are also available online through the Oregon History Project, a digital extension of the Society’s mission to educate and preserve.

History of the Society

Founded in Portland City Hall by newspaper editor Harvey W. Scott, the Oregon Historical Society moved to its current SW Park Avenue building in 1966. The structure includes a massive trompe-l’oeil mural by artist Richard Haas, depicting the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The museum underwent major updates in the 2000s and now offers free admission to all Multnomah County residents thanks to local funding.

Visiting Details

  • Address: 1200 SW Park Ave, Portland, OR 97205

  • Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10 AM–5 PM | Sunday: 12 PM–5 PM

  • Admission: Adults $10 | Seniors/Students $8 | Youth $5 | Children under 5 & county residents FREE

Explore the Neighborhood

Before or after your museum visit, enjoy a peaceful walk in the South Park Blocks, grab a coffee at nearby cafes, or visit the Portland Art Museum next door. Many local walking tours include the Oregon Historical Society along with landmarks that highlight Black history in Albina, such as the Billy Webb Elks Lodge and the Beatrice Morrow Cannady House.

Need real-time directions? Use this map to our office for quick access to the museum and surrounding attractions.

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Driving Directions – Oregon Historical Society to KVN Construction

  1. Head north on SW Park Ave

  2. Turn right onto SW Jefferson St

  3. Merge onto I‑405 S

  4. Take exit 1B to merge onto I‑5 N toward Seattle

  5. Stay on I‑5 N for approximately 4 miles

  6. Take exit 300B for Airport Way/US‑30 E

  7. Merge onto N Williams Ave — KVN Construction is on your right

Follow this map to our office for GPS directions and traffic updates.


KVN Construction
5840 SE 85th Ave, Portland, OR 97266
(503) 477–3854



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