Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Wasco County Historical Museum, OR

The official interpretive center for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area National Scenic Area. Inspiring appreciation and stewardship of the natural and cultural history of the Columbia River Gorge and Wasco County.

This 26,000 square foot exhibit wing holds interactive displays which bring to life the tremendous volcanic upheavals and raging floods that created the Gorge, describe the mighty River which sculpted pattern for a unique and spectacular diversity of vegetation, wildlife, and ancient life ways, and follow the currents that shape our futures in the Gorge.

Wasco County Historical Museum is a 17,200 square foot exhibit wing which tells the stories of the people of Wasco County pas and present. Once the largest county in the nation, Wasco County is home, place of work, and gateway to the interior of western North America.

Discovery Gallery
Cargo: Equipment and Supplies of the Lewis and Clark Expedition commemorates the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial through an examination of the objects of the expedition. "Indian Presents" was one of the seven categories on Meriwether Lewis' supply list. More time, energy, and money went into planning for meetings with the Indian people, and presenting the right kind of gifts, than any other part of the expedition. Moreover, the procurement of food, horses, and guides through trade was essential to the success of the expedition. This portion of the Cargo exhibit explores the significant role that gift giving and trade with American Indians played in the survival of the expedition members.

A Kids Explorer Room offers hands-on fun learning opportunities for children of all ages featuring an archaeological dig for making discoveries, a keelboat model that must be carefully loaded to prevent capsizing, and trunks of Lewis and Clark era clothing for kids to try on.

Learn about the skills employed by the expedition to succeed in their mission, the problems they faced, and the skills they honed as mapmakers, scientists, naturalists, writers, and members of a team.

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