"The Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria explores the powerful maritime heritage of the Pacific Northwest through interactive exhibits, historic vessels, and hands-on programs. With the largest maritime collection in Oregon and a stunning riverfront location, this museum offers an unforgettable deep dive into nautical history."

Recommended for

History buffs
Discover the legacy of Pacific Northwest seafaring, military vessels, and commercial fishing

Families & school groups
Enjoy immersive exhibits, learning labs, and student-friendly tours that bring maritime history to life

Maritime enthusiasts
Step aboard historic ships like the Lightship Columbia and WWII-era vessels

Craft & boatbuilding fans
Explore traditional and Native boatbuilding classes at the Barbey Maritime Center

Things to See & Do

  • Lightship Columbia: Tour the first Oregon ship on the National Register of Historic Places—a floating lighthouse active from 1951–1979
  • Bar Pilot & Lifeboats: Board U.S. Coast Guard motor lifeboats and the Peacock bar pilot ship
  • USS Knapp Bridge: Explore the bridge of a WWII-era destroyer class ship
  • Interactive Coast Guard Rescue Exhibit: Experience a thrilling simulated ocean rescue
  • Fishing History: Discover the booming salmon fishing era that shaped Astoria’s economy and culture
  • Orientation Film: The Great River of the West tells the story of Columbia River Bar pilots and their perilous work

Exhibits & Collections

  • 30,000+ Artifacts: Items documenting regional boating and maritime industry history
  • Ted Natt Library: Open to researchers and the public with 33,000 photographs and 12,500 books
  • Rotating Exhibits: Themes include Pacific Northwest weather, Japanese-American military history, and underwater archaeology

Educational Programs

  • Barbey Maritime Center: Hands-on boatbuilding courses and demos, with a focus on both European and Native methods
  • Student Group Tours: Curriculum-connected 90-minute museum experiences and STEM-focused learning labs
  • Traveling Programs: Trunks and educators bring museum content into Oregon classrooms
  • College & Community Classes: Offered in partnership with Clatsop Community College

Good to Know

  • Admission: Includes access to museum exhibits and the Lightship Columbia
  • Library Access: Open Mondays and Wednesdays or by appointment
  • Group Tours: Available for 10+ participants; school programs aligned with Common Core standards
  • Location: Waterfront site in Astoria near the mouth of the Columbia River

Map & Location

Columbia River Maritime Museum, 1792 Marine Dr, Astoria, OR 97103 – Phone: 503-325-2323
Located on the scenic Astoria waterfront with panoramic views of the Columbia River

Map:


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