Cascade Locks Historical Museum — Attraction in Cascade Locks

September 2025 - The Oregon Pony (Train Engine) is housed in a glass encased building outside the main museum building. There is also another outside building with various machinery displayed.

The museum has steps, and three levels; so not very good for the physically challenged. It does have lots of items and information of the area and the Columbia River so plan on about 30 minutes.

Nearby is Thunder Island and a bridge to it. They have weddings and other events there. The view from the far side of the Columbia River is grand and worth the few minutes walk to it. There are two outside restrooms, one down the hill by the boat launching area and the other to the left of the museum by...

History of area in displays and lots of artifacts. Inexpensive. Helpful staff. 3 levels. The History of the locks and a historical Living room and kitchen were on the main floor. A few items we looked at were a tool for measuring water depth, a replica of the pony train and paddle boat, the price paid to workers to build the lock. Upstairs there was a historic bedroom, a few antique dolls, several model boats and Military memorabilia. Down narrow steep stairs there were lots of historical farm, lumber and woodworking tools and preserved animals. Kids might enjoy the scavenger hunt. It helped mine look at the displays longer. Outside there is large equipment...

Although this is a small museum, it has 3 levels packed with interesting artifacts. The museum building was the home of the Locks operator. Interesting home displays to see.

Best of all, I learned about the history of the Cascade Locks. I have wondered why one would need locks on a river. Now I know! It's worth a stop to see it as you drive along I84. There is a small nominal entrance fee, and the woman attending the desk was helpful...