Oregon is home to a fascinating array of transportation museums, showcasing everything from vintage cars to historical aircraft. Whether you’re a history buff, a car enthusiast, or just curious about how people got around in the past, these museums offer unique insights and tons of cool exhibits.
Here’s a roundup of 12 transportation museums in Oregon that you absolutely can’t miss if you are a lover of all things that move.
Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum
Located in Hood River, this museum is a treasure trove for vintage vehicle lovers. The Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum (WAAAM) boasts over 100 aircraft and 150 antique automobiles, all meticulously restored. You can find everything from classic cars to rare planes, and many of them are in working condition.
Visiting WAAAM is like stepping back in time. The museum regularly hosts events, including fly-ins and classic car shows, making it an interactive experience. Don’t forget to check out the “hands-on” areas where you can climb into some of the aircraft for a photo op!
Oregon Rail Heritage Center
If trains are your thing, the Oregon Rail Heritage Center in Portland is a must-visit. This museum celebrates the rich history of railroads in the Pacific Northwest. It features a variety of vintage locomotives, including the famous Southern Pacific 4449, which you might recognize from the Portland Rose Festival.
The center also offers train rides and guided tours. You can learn about the engineering marvels of steam engines and how railroads shaped the region’s economy. It’s a perfect spot for both train enthusiasts and curious visitors alike!
Train Mountain Railroad Museum
A bit off the beaten path, the Train Mountain Railroad Museum is located in Chiloquin. This unique museum is home to one of the world’s largest miniature railroads. It features over 35 miles of track and various scale trains that you can ride.
What sets this place apart is the sheer size and creativity of the layouts. The museum hosts events throughout the year, so you might catch a train ride or even a model train exhibition while you’re there. It’s a fun and immersive experience for all ages!
Northwest Vintage Car and Motorcycle Museum
In Salem, the Northwest Vintage Car and Motorcycle Museum showcases an impressive collection of over 150 classic vehicles. The museum focuses on the automotive history of the region, featuring cars and motorcycles from various eras, including some rare finds.
With its inviting atmosphere, the museum encourages visitors to explore the rich stories behind each vehicle. You can even attend special events where car owners share their passion and knowledge, making it a great spot for both casual visitors and car aficionados.
Pacific Northwest Truck Museum
Located in Salem, the Pacific Northwest Truck Museum is dedicated to the history of trucks and their impact on transportation. The museum features a diverse collection of trucks from different eras, highlighting their evolution over the years.
As you walk through the exhibits, you’ll find everything from early delivery trucks to modern haulers. The museum also offers educational programs and events, making it a fun and informative experience for truck lovers and families alike.
Columbia River Maritime Museum
Nestled in Astoria, the Columbia River Maritime Museum is a must-see for those interested in maritime history. This museum delves into the region’s rich nautical past, featuring exhibits on shipwrecks, fishing, and the vital role of the Columbia River.
One of the highlights is the collection of historic vessels, including a retired Coast Guard vessel. You can also explore interactive displays that educate visitors about maritime navigation and the local ecosystem. It’s a fascinating way to learn about Oregon’s relationship with the sea.
Oregon Maritime Museum
The Oregon Maritime Museum, located in Portland, showcases the state’s rich maritime heritage. The museum is housed in a historic sternwheel tugboat, the Portland, giving it a unique charm. Inside, you’ll find displays about shipbuilding, navigation, and maritime safety.
Visitors can also tour the tugboat and learn about its history and operation. With educational programs and events throughout the year, this museum is a fantastic way to explore Oregon’s waterfront history in a hands-on way.
Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
Located in McMinnville, the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is famous for its impressive collection of aircraft, including the iconic Spruce Goose. The museum covers aviation and space exploration, making it a favorite among aviation enthusiasts.
With numerous exhibits and interactive displays, visitors can immerse themselves in the history of flight. The museum also features a water park, so it’s an ideal family destination where you can learn and play in one day!
Oregon Electric Railway Museum
If you’re interested in electric trains, the Oregon Electric Railway Museum in Brooks should be on your list. This museum is dedicated to the history of electric railways in the region, featuring restored streetcars and interurban trains.
You can take a ride on one of the historic trolleys, making it a fun experience for all ages. The museum also offers educational programs about the history and technology of electric transportation, providing visitors with a comprehensive look at this aspect of rail history.
Oregon Air & Space Museum
Located in Springfield, the Oregon Air & Space Museum is a hidden gem for aviation enthusiasts. This museum features a collection of vintage aircraft and aerospace exhibits that celebrate the history of flight in Oregon.
Visitors can explore the aircraft on display and learn about the science of aviation. The museum also hosts educational programs, making it a great place for students and families to discover the wonders of flight together.
Tillamook Air Museum
Housed in a massive WWII blimp hangar, the Tillamook Air Museum is a unique destination in Tillamook. This museum focuses on aviation history and features a variety of military and civilian aircraft. The scale of the hangar itself is breathtaking, providing a fitting backdrop for the impressive aircraft on display.
Visitors can explore the exhibits at their own pace and learn about aviation history from knowledgeable staff. The museum also hosts events and educational programs, making it a perfect outing for families and history buffs alike.
Erickson Aircraft Collection
Located in Madras, the Erickson Aircraft Collection is a private museum featuring an extensive assortment of vintage aircraft. This collection includes military planes and civilian aircraft from various eras, showcasing the evolution of flight.
What makes this museum special is the emphasis on restoration. Many of the aircraft are in working condition, and you might even get to see them in action during special events. It’s a thrilling experience for aviation enthusiasts and anyone interested in the mechanics of flight.
Utah Transportation Museums That Deliver Amazing Historical Stories
Maybe you are heading to Utah for some outdoor exploration! But, what happens when the weather is not your friend? Well, you head on over to one of the many transportation museums Utah is home to. From cars to planes, there is history and mechanical feats that just might amaze you more than the great outdoors.
Aviation Lovers! Here Are Air Museums That Are Just For You
If aviation is your passion, then these aviation museums are just for you. From military planes to early masterpieces, you can take a step back in time and learn how aviation got to where it is today.