Columbia River Maritime Museum
Explore the dramatic history of the Columbia River, from treacherous waters to maritime innovation and Chinook culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Columbia River Maritime Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the dramatic history of the Columbia River, from treacherous waters to maritime innovation and Chinook culture.
"A thoroughly enjoyable museum, especially if you are remotely interested in Maritime matters."
Allow ample time
Plan for 3-4 hours to fully absorb exhibits and the Lightship Columbia.
Kid-friendly fun
Kids enjoy hands-on exhibits like the green screen weatherman.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Columbia River Bar Diorama
Witness a dramatic diorama of a Coast Guard boat battling the massive waves at the Columbia River mouth.
WWII Destroyer Bridge
Step onto the surprisingly small bridge of an old WWII Destroyer and imagine life at sea.
Lightship Columbia
Explore the historic Lightship Columbia docked behind the museum, including crew quarters.
Chinook Culture & Canoes
Discover the history of the Columbia River's original mariners, the Chinook people, and their impressive canoes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the 'Graveyard of the Pacific'
Book Tickets & Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allow ample time
Plan for 3-4 hours to fully absorb exhibits and the Lightship Columbia.
Kid-friendly fun
Kids enjoy hands-on exhibits like the green screen weatherman.
Explore the Lightship
Don't miss walking through the Lightship Columbia; it's a highlight for many.
Discover local history
Learn about the Chinook people and their vital role in river history.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allow ample time
Plan for 3-4 hours to fully absorb exhibits and the Lightship Columbia.
Kid-friendly fun
Kids enjoy hands-on exhibits like the green screen weatherman.
Explore the Lightship
Don't miss walking through the Lightship Columbia; it's a highlight for many.
Discover local history
Learn about the Chinook people and their vital role in river history.
Check for expansions
The museum is expanding, so future visits might offer even more.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Columbia River Maritime Museum for its engaging and informative exhibits, particularly those detailing the treacherous Columbia River Bar and the history of maritime life. The opportunity to explore the Lightship Columbia is a standout feature, offering an immersive historical experience. While generally well-received, some visitors suggest allowing ample time to fully appreciate the depth of the displays.
"In June 2025, we crossed the extensive Lewis & Clark Bridge across the Columbia River and arrived in Astoria, Oregon. The Columbia River is beautiful and many miles wide at this point. We continued to drive on the Astoria Main Street, and we stopped to look at the Columbia River Maritime Museum. It was about 8 PM or so, and the Maritime Museum was closed. However, the Maritime Museum outdoor scenery and decorations were amazing and captured our attention. We would love to patronize this Maritime Museum someday in the future, and return to Astoria, Oregon to see more of the scenery and the mighty Columbia River. This Maritime Museum had great outdoor decorations and an amazing view of the Lewis & Clark Bridge."
John Cutler
"September 2025 - Visited the museum and found it mostly interesting, but it seemed to be more of a 'dead ship' museum than a Maritime Museum, we liked the Garibaldi Maritime Museum as it gave more info and had better maritime displays.
This museum seemed to be built around the various shipwrecks of the past decades and how each occured. It was somewhat heavy in Coast Guard operations as well."
Bill McElroy
"Nice! Exhibits are spaced nicely with a good focus on Astoria. Although I look forward to the expansion, I was very disappointed in the payment system. The ancient slide wouldn't work for my card. A tap to pay system needs to be installed.
The box office personnel were very friendly and helpful! Very much appreciated the welcoming attitude. Lovely variety in the gift shop. I learned a lot about the maritime history of this part of the coast!"
Linda Teppler (S0rceress0)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Astoria, Oregon. Visitors often arrive by car, with ample parking available. The Astoria-Megler Bridge, a significant landmark, connects Oregon and Washington and is a scenic route to the museum. +1
Yes, parking is generally available near the museum, especially for visitors exploring the waterfront area. It's advisable to check the museum's official website for the most current parking information.
Public transportation options in Astoria may be limited. It's recommended to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you are not arriving by car.
Many visitors enjoy the scenic drive across the Astoria-Megler Bridge, which offers stunning views of the Columbia River. +2
Astoria offers several attractions, including the Astoria Column and the historic waterfront. The museum is also near Cannery Pier Hotel, offering great views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adult admission to the Columbia River Maritime Museum is $18. Prices for children and seniors may vary, so it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
It is generally recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season, though on-site purchase is usually available. Check the museum's official website for online ticketing options.
Museum hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to consult the Columbia River Maritime Museum's official website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
The museum sometimes offers special promotions or package deals, particularly for families or groups. Keep an eye on their social media or website for announcements.
Yes, access to the Lightship Columbia, docked behind the main building, is typically included with your museum admission.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features exhibits on fishing, shipping, military history, the treacherous Columbia River Bar, and the Chinook culture. You can also explore the Lightship Columbia and a WWII Destroyer bridge.
Absolutely! The museum offers interactive exhibits, including a green screen weatherman station, making it engaging for children.
Most visitors find that 1 to 4 hours is sufficient to explore the exhibits thoroughly. Some may spend longer if they delve deeply into all the historical information.
Yes, the Lightship Columbia is an outdoor exhibit docked at the pier, offering a unique experience of maritime life.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photography rules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself may not have a full-service restaurant, but there are often snack bars or cafes. Astoria also offers numerous dining options nearby.
Astoria has a variety of restaurants, from casual seafood spots to pizza places. Many are located along the waterfront, offering scenic views.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside museum exhibit areas. Check the museum's policy for specifics.
Yes, Astoria has many family-friendly eateries. Pizza places like Domino's are popular, and many waterfront restaurants offer casual dining.
Visitors often recommend exploring the waterfront for seafood and casual dining. Many local spots offer fresh catches and harbor views.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic diorama, the historic ships like the Lightship Columbia, and the scenic waterfront views. The Astoria-Megler Bridge is also a popular subject. +1
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photography rules.
The waterfront in Astoria offers beautiful sunset views over the Columbia River, making it a great spot for photographers.
A versatile lens is recommended for capturing both indoor exhibits and outdoor views. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the large ships and the bridge.
Drone usage is typically restricted in many public areas, especially near historical sites and waterways. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the Lightship Columbia offers a tangible adventure, letting children walk the decks and imagine life as a sailor. The museum's focus on the 'Graveyard of the Pacific' can also spark curiosity about bravery and rescue missions. Consider dedicating ample time, as kids often enjoy the hands-on aspects and the sheer scale of the vessels.
⚓ History Buffs
The museum meticulously documents shipwrecks, rescue efforts, and the lives of the mariners who navigated these waters. The inclusion of the Chinook culture and their traditional seafaring practices adds another layer of historical depth. Don't miss the chance to explore the Lightship Columbia for a direct encounter with a piece of maritime heritage.
📸 Photographers
The museum's waterfront location also provides scenic views of the Columbia River and passing vessels. The dramatic diorama of the Coast Guard battling waves is a compelling subject. For broader Astoria shots, consider the Astoria Column for panoramic vistas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Perilous Columbia River Bar
Exhibits vividly depict the challenges faced by mariners, showcasing dramatic rescues by the Coast Guard and the ingenuity of pilots who guide ships safely through this treacherous passage. You'll learn about the historical significance of this bar and the ongoing efforts to maintain safe navigation. The museum's immersive displays, including a diorama of a Coast Guard boat battling the waves, truly bring this history to life.
Understanding the 'Graveyard of the Pacific' is central to appreciating the maritime history of the region and the bravery of those who navigated these waters. It provides crucial context for the fishing, shipping, and naval history presented throughout the museum.
Exploring the Lightship Columbia
Visitors are invited to step aboard and explore the ship, gaining a firsthand perspective of life at sea for the crew. You can walk the decks and descend below to see the cramped crew quarters, galley, and engine room. This immersive experience offers a tangible connection to maritime history, allowing you to imagine the daily routines and challenges faced by those who lived and worked on the lightship.
The Lightship Columbia is more than just an exhibit; it's a journey back in time. Its presence significantly enhances the museum's offerings, providing a unique opportunity to understand the practicalities of maritime operations and the dedication required to maintain these vital aids to navigation.
Maritime History and Chinook Culture
Exhibits showcase the Chinook's profound connection to the river, highlighting their skilled craftsmanship in building large cedar canoes, which were essential for trade, transportation, and sustenance. You can learn about their traditional way of life and their integral role in the river's ecosystem long before European settlers arrived. The museum displays several of these impressive, hand-crafted vessels, offering a glimpse into their engineering prowess.
Beyond the Chinook, the museum also features artifacts and stories from the fishing fleets, pilot boats, and even the bridge of a WWII Destroyer. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of the diverse human activities that have shaped the maritime landscape of the Columbia River.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit