The nationally renowned Columbia River Maritime Museum is more than a traditional museum. From the days when dugout canoes were used, to the sailing age and more, it offers guests a one-of-a-kind glimpse into the history of the Columbia River and the people who travelled it. Visitors of all kinds are invited to immerse themselves in the stories of the legendary Columbia River Bar, one of the most dangerous passages in the world.

As part of its core values, the Museum makes its collections, buildings, programs, and services accessible to everyone.

Caroline Wuebben, director of external engagement at the Museum said, "The Columbia River Maritime Museum is dedicated to creating an environment where accessibility and inclusivity are woven into the very fabric of our operations. We aim for every visitor to feel comfortable and welcomed, without ever needing to ask for accommodation."

Here are some of the great ways you can experience the Museum this spring and beyond.

Admission Access:
The Columbia River Maritime Museum is a participant of the Museums for All program, offering reduced admission for all visitors with an EBT or WIC card. Bring your EBT or WIC card and matching I.D. to receive $3 admission tickets for up to 4 people from the same household. Discount applies to Adult, Senior and Child general admission. Discount does not apply to 3D theater tickets. Cardholder must be present at time of admission.

For those who want to become members of the Museum, individuals who receive food assistance (EBT/WIC) can receive benefits of the CREW/FAMILY membership at the reduced rate of $38 by presenting their EBT/WIC card and matching photo identification at the admissions desk.

Discounted Programming Admission:
The Museum is also a participant in the Arts for All Program, which offers reduced programming fees for participants in the Oregon Trail Card or receiving SNAP benefits. Bring your EBT card, or a photo of the back and front of the card, and a matching photo ID for discounted admission to selected Museum programming.

Military Personnel:
Currently serving military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserves, are free starting on Armed Forces Day in mid-May and ending on Labor Day in early September.

Library Memberships:
Regional libraries are provided with free CREW memberships for check-out by their patrons.  Each library is provided with two membership cards, each card offering admission to the Museum, Lightship 'Columbia', 3D theater, and a 10% discount in the Museum Store. There are 22 libraries in northwest Oregon and southwest Washington that are included in this program.

Entrance and Parking Accessibility:
For visitors who need accessible parking, there are four accessible parking spaces outside the main Museum entrance. There is also a convenient loading area in front of the main entrance and a barrier free entrance is located at the south Museum entry door. More accessible spots will be added during the Museum’s campus transformation project, which is currently underway and anticipated to be completed by the summer of 2026.

The Museum is a ‘verified’ destination through Wheel of the World, a recognized online platform and travel agency that focuses on accessible travel. There are a limited number of wheelchairs and rolling walkers available free of charge from the admissions desk and wheelchairs or other manually operated mobility devices are permitted in all public areas of the Museum.

Service Animals:
The Columbia River Maritime Museum complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to allow visitors with trained service animals to be part of all public areas of the Museum. No pets or emotional support animals are allowed inside the Museum.

“Maritime words and topics are difficult enough; by removing additional barriers more people can appreciate the water around us,” said Katy Menne, education director at the Museum. “Whether that is how we describe topics, assisting with admissions or program fees, or making the physical spaces more comfortable, it compounds to create a welcoming space for maritime learning to thrive.”

Ready to plan your visit?

Located at 1792 Marine Drive in Astoria, the Museum is open every day from 9:30am to 5:00 pm, except on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Plan ahead by downloading the Social Narrative. This provides a printable guide that lets visitors create a preview of the Museum experience for guests who are more comfortable knowing what to expect.