This interactive museum seeks to stimulate children's interest in the natural world and in society. Exhibits foster an understanding of such concepts as sound, gravity and medicine by promoting experimentation and fun. Kids can toy with light and shadow, manipulate water-powered machinery, play dress-up, and work on art projects too. A grocery store and cafe provide them the opportunity to experience the world of adults and expand their boundaries even further.

Oregon City is an easy drive from Portland, and the Interpretive Center, with its covered-wagon-style buildings, is worth the journey. The Center is especially great for kids since it has costumed interpreters and plenty of things to see and touch. Theaters present videos of the journey west, and exhibits provide details of pioneers, Black families in the West, and the coming of the railroad. A craft workshop offers visitors hands-on activities, and the summer months bring a host of special events. If you need souvenirs or other gifts, the museum store will set you up right.

Visit this hat haven, a fun little museum that's the perfect pick-me-up. It's located in the historic Ladd-Reingold House, and in it you'll find a large collection of toppers, including antique and vintage hats, men's hats, novelty and costume hats and modern hats. From large-brimmed straw hats to simple net veils, the hats here all have stories of their own, and it's up to you to imagine them. The gift shop offers plenty of hat paraphernalia as well as costume jewelry and, of course, hats. The museum is open year-round, but you must first call ahead for a time slot.

JOHN'S LANDING. Created in 1937 and originally known as the Oregon Ceramic Studio, and then the Contemporary Crafts Gallery, this museum is one of the oldest establishments for nonprofit crafts in America. The museum is located in a busy shopping district and provides a central hub for the creative community to connect and socialize, allowing plenty of space for educational and community programs too. Changing and permanent exhibits feature emerging and mid-career artists, both regional and international.

History buffs and novices alike will enjoy a visit to this informative museum that tells the tale of the hearty pioneers that settled the Oregon Territory in the mid 19th century. Located downtown, the museum houses approximately 85,000 artifacts, photos, books, map and videotape as well as a research library that relates Oregon's history from early days until present.