Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals — Local services in Hillsboro

I’ve driven past the Rice Museum, just off Hwy 26, time after time on my west and told myself, “one of these days I’m going to stop in.” Well I finally made my wish come true.

My only regret was not arriving to the museum a little earlier in the day. I got there about 3pm and they close at 4pm, and I felt rushed. After paying admission, $12.00 and getting a quick rundown of how to navigate the grounds I was off. In addition to the inside attractions there is also a rock garden with picnic tables and play area for kids and a walking path.

The inside was spectacular. Filled will simple and detailed information about the offerings as well as the families that helped collect polish and display the rare collection of crystals, rocks, minerals, fossils, meteorites, petrified wood and more. Igniting my senses, fostering learning, and sparking my curiosity. I left looking at the world in a new way.

The museum seemed to attract all ages and seemed to really excite the kids that were dashing from on exhibit to the next trying to check off their Eye Spy checklist. The adults were oohing and awing as they made their way. The main museum was basically a two story home filled with hundreds of exhibits along with a small description explaining what it was, where it was from. I think there was an elevator. There is also a small library upstairs and a second separate mineral museum that’s one level.

I’m happy I...

Everytime we go to this museum, we have a good time. Someone may think "you go once you've seen it all" but that's not the case. There are often new displays, events, and even reading the notes that are left can be fun. It's easy to miss rooms or even the other building. Our teen is on crutches right now and we were delighted to find out there's a small elevator so our teen was still able to go downstairs. We are a family of 3, so we get the $75/year membership and we try to bring a friend of the teen or ours everytime we go. It's a good way to spend a couple hours. The gift shop usually has great deals/discounts and for us, the temptation is strong. We never leave without something new for our collection. There's also a free pile of rocks (1 per person). So nobody has to leave empty handed. With the membership you get into other places during certain months; such as the zoo during January. We're really looking forward to that! Customer service is also pretty awesome. An employee/volunteer will usually thank you for coming to the museum. It definitely makes us feel appreciated. There are a few sitting areas to relax as well. Usually with a great view. We think it'd be really hard to be disappointed after visiting this museum. We've gone at least 5 times in 2 years.

Also, this last visit it was such a nice day. We got to see humming birds at the feeder outside...

This place rocks...truly a gem. There is plenty of parking including room for RVs or buses. You check in at the gift shop counter. You can come back to the shop after the tour if you wish to purchase a gift or keepsake . The entire staff is knowledgeable and available to answer any questions you may have. The home itself is stunningly built and holds history that is shared in a display. The grounds and gardens are beautiful and well cared for. Due to the historical factor, accessibility may be an issue. They do provide information on their website for those with mobility aides, sensory variations, or other challenges. There is a variety of rocks, minerals, and fossils on display. They have "Museum Minutes" scheduled throughout the day that offer fun facts and history. The rainbow room features an incredible glow-in-the-dark exhibit. There is an education area for those that are studying or interested in geology or Earth Science. There is a cool fossil digging area for children and a rock pit for each vistor to select one free rock. The museum is perfect for all ages and makes a fantastic field trip, solo visit, or...