The museum houses the USS Blueback (SS-581), the last non-nuclear fast-attack submarine built by the U.S. Navy.
The museum building features a specialized turbine hall that demonstrates energy production principles using actual industrial machinery.
The planetarium uses a digital projection system to simulate deep-space astronomy and planetary science.
OMSI was established in 1944 and moved to its current location on the Willamette River in 1992.
The facility includes a chemistry lab that offers public demonstrations of complex reactions.
The museum's location was formerly the site of a shipyard, which influenced the integration of the submarine exhibit.
The building is designed with seismic-resilient architecture, reflecting the local interest in earthquake readiness.
OMSI hosts 'OMSI After Dark' events, which are restricted to guests over 21 years old.
OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) is a prominent science center featuring five expansive halls of hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a dedicated turbine hall. The museum is permanently docked with the USS Blueback, a decommissioned Navy submarine available for guided interior tours. Located on the east bank of the Willamette River, the facility serves as a hub for interactive learning across physics, chemistry, and life sciences. The museum includes the Empirical Theater, which hosts large-format digital cinema screenings. Interactive displays emphasize experimental physics, earthquake technology, and renewable energy sources. It is one of the largest science centers in the United States, designed for multi-generational engagement. The site regularly features traveling national exhibitions in its dedicated exhibition hall.
The outdoor plaza overlooking the Willamette River with the USS Blueback in the foreground.
Book your USS Blueback submarine tour online in advance, as slots fill up quickly during peak hours.
Check the daily schedule upon arrival to catch live science demonstrations in the labs.
Prioritize the Turbine Hall if you enjoy engineering and large-scale mechanical displays.
Trying to see every single exhibit in a single visit, as the sheer volume of interactive content often leads to fatigue.
Closed on Mondays during the school year.
