Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, Natural history museum in The Dalles, Oregon, United States
The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center is a natural history museum in The Dalles, Oregon, set on expansive grounds with a large modern building. The exhibits cover regional geology, wildlife, and human history in comprehensive detail.
The museum was established in 1997 and sits on land inhabited by Indigenous peoples for more than 11,000 years. This deep human history forms the foundation for the exhibits presented today.
The center displays exhibits about Native American culture and history along with artifacts related to the Lewis and Clark expedition through interactive installations. Visitors can learn how these elements shaped the region's identity through hands-on experiences.
The grounds feature pathways through different habitats and are designed for various mobility levels. Plan a few hours to explore all areas and participate in educational presentations.
The center operates a rehabilitation facility for injured raptors, including bald eagles that appear in weekend presentations. These birds demonstrate flight behavior and live on the grounds, allowing visitors to witness real conservation work.
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