When your family wants to take a break from the great outdoors, Hood River is full of intriguing museums that will satisfy the curiosity of any traveler. Your dad might have a fascination for historic planes and automobiles and your youngest daughter could want to learn more about the local history. Your friend from college wants to test her expertise about the Gorge’s stunning vistas, or your work friend may be obsessed with old motorcycles. This just one of the exceptional museums in Hood River. It has a little something for every curious soul!
The Western Antique Air and Auto Museum
1600 Air Museum Rd, Hood River, OR 97031
(541) 308-1600
Open Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
This Hood River museum contains over two acres of exhibits that feature antique airplanes and automobiles, with one of the largest collections of still-flying and driving examples in the country. Check out hundreds of aircraft, cars, tractors, motorcycles, military jeeps and engines on display, or see them in action, flying and driving on the second Saturday of every month! Whether you want to feast your eyes on a Ford Model A or the 1917 Curtiss JN-4D Jenny, a Studebaker or a classic Harley Davidson, all of your favorites are here. The WAAAM Air & Auto Museum is open daily from 10am and 2pm not including select holidays.
Things to Do Near the WAAAM
Take a stroll down the gorgeous Indian Creek Trail in Barrett Park with the family, starting from the Alameda West Trailhead. and get an eyeful of some fun aerial stunts pulled by the Columbia Gorge Aeromodelers club members who meet up there. If you’re in the mood for a longer hike you can start at the Indian Trail Creek High School South Trailhead, and head north to Ferguson Creek.
Places to Dine Near the WAAAM
Grab a quick bite to eat at the Twin Peak’s Drive-In, or get comfy in the upscale Hood Crest Winery, where you can taste some fine wine and enjoy some sensational gourmet pizza with it. If you want to try something truly delectable, give the Fondue a try, or maybe their Fresh Homemade Soup!
The History Museum of Hood River County
300 E Port Marina Dr, Hood River, OR 97031
(541) 386-6772
Monday – Saturday 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Less than 10 minutes from Hood River’s historic downtown, you can discover Hood River’s history with exciting exhibits and inventive programs that investigate early settlers in the area, Native American Culture, the history of timber, logging and agriculture, and more. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Museum’s Exploration Space with hands-on displays and activities. Whether you’re hearing stories of the crafts and industry that developed this area in the past, or local events that have altered its future, this museums in Hood River Oregon will tell you riveting stories that will take you back in time.
Be sure to take advantage of the 90-minute walking tour of downtown Hood River and learn about the frontier and development and hear stories about the buildings you pass every day! The museum is open Monday through Saturday, 11am until 4pm, and tickets are just $10 per person.
Things to Do Near the History Museum
Why not try kayaking or paddle boarding to even out the day of soaking up knowledge and history with some action and excitement too? Check out our page on the Gorge Paddling Center, which sits next door to the history museum, and where you can rent both kayaks and paddleboards for hours. Hood River Waterfront Park is a little farther east, where you can swim and hang out on the sand to your heart’s desire, and simply enjoy the sight of the river.
Places to Dine Near the History Museum
Close by to the History Museum is a whole block full of awesome restaurants down Cascade Avenue. One of our favorites is The Sixth Street Bistro & Pub, which we love for its cute outdoor seating area almost as love as we love it for its classic ice cream cones.
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
The Official Website
Hood River, OR 97031
This is a federally protected area of land in Hood River dedicated to the geology, history, plants, animals, and economic life of the Gorge. The Columbia River Gorge was protected by the National Scenic Act in 1986 and it’s home to gorgeous landscapes, rare and unusual plants, extensive wildlife, and other cultural and historic cultures and spaces. Learn about the volcanic eruptions and ice age floods that sculpted Gorge. Stand at the feet of an ancient mammoth that once walked these lands or take in the 10,000 years of native history in the region. Hear about what Lewis and Clark first saw as they entered this landscape. The museum is open every day from 9am until 5pm.
Things to Do Near the National Scenic Area
Go hiking! This is the absolute best way to get the most out of your trip to the gorge. Make sure to check for road closures ahead of time as you plan your day hike, as trails may sometimes close due to past fires or downed trees. The wilds of Oregon are an ever-evolving place, one that never stays the same, which makes it all the more exciting a destination.
Places to Dine Near the National Scenic Area
On your way in or out of this historical area you might pass by The White Salmon Vineyard. Take that as your cue from the universe to stop in and give the wine there a try! The owners here are gracious and friendly and they really know their way around wine. There are lots of vineyards and wine tastings in Hood River to choose from, but this is undoubtedly one of the best.
After a Long Day of History
Long days in Hood River are only made better by a good night’s sleep in your Hood River vacation rental! We offer a wide variety of rentals for you to choose from, offering a home for all tastes. Click here to browse today and find your new home-away from home!
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