City Cast Portland logo

Portland Museums on a Budget

Posted on August 21, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Adrian González

Adrian González

I once heard “Black-Ish” creator Kenya Barris say, “When you walk past a painting in a museum, if it doesn’t make you feel something, then it’s probably a failure.” But what if you can’t even afford to go to the museum? That’s the real failure for me. Here are some local museum deals so you can feel moved without breaking the bank.

OMSI $5 Days

Five bucks will get you into the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry on the first Sunday of every month. Those days get busy, so try to buy your tickets in advance. They currently have a perfectly-timed exhibit on orcas and their complex social structure.

Quarterly Free Day at Portland Art Museum

The museum’s next Miller Family Free Day is this Friday. You can reserve a free ticket online or at the door. You’ll definitely want to check out the exhibit about my “paisano” Guillermo del Toro and how he created Pinnochio for his Netflix movie.

Related:Why Portland is a World-Renowned Animation Hub [City Cast Portland 🎧]

A banner outside the Portland Art Museum for their exhibit “Guillermo del Toro: Crafting Pinocchio.”

A banner outside the Portland Art Museum for their exhibit “Guillermo del Toro: Crafting Pinocchio.” (John Notarianni / City Cast Portland)

Oregon Historical Society

Multnomah County residents get in for free, as long proof of residence is provided. Standup comedy fans will enjoy the Bob Hope exhibit, which highlights his work during World War II. And if you’re an ornithophile (lover of birds) visit the exhibit on the birds of the Pacific Northwest.

see more:things to do

Share article

Hey Portland

Stay connected to City Cast Portland and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

Portland Life Hacks

See All
Portland Life HacksFebruary 9

How To Read the News for Free in Portland

It costs money to report the news, so it’s really important to support quality journalism. But it’s also understandable that too many new...

man sitting on bench reading newspaper
Portland Life HacksDecember 29, 2025

How To Responsibly Dispose of Holiday Waste in Portland

From torn up wrapping paper to that wilting Christmas tree dropping pine needles all over your rug, here are some tips for recycling and...

Christmas tree with red-and-white decorations and white lights
Portland Life HacksNovember 19, 2025

Hacks for Enjoying Your Time at PDX International

Tips and tricks to making the most of airport travel.

Travelers walk through PDX.
Portland Life HacksNovember 6, 2025

How to Stay Cozy and Save Money on Your Energy Costs in Portland This Winter

Keeping your home warm and cozy over the course of a Portland winter is expensive. But a few simple steps can lower your costs and keep y...

Top view of female hands adjusting the thermostat valve on a heating radiator
Portland Life HacksSeptember 29, 2025

How To Get Your COVID Shot in Portland in Fall 2025

After delays and confusion, updated COVID-19 vaccines are now widely available in Portland, Oregon — just like in years’ past.

a box for a covid shot and test that's already been taken with a mask
Portland Life HacksSeptember 16, 2025

Where to Ditch Your Hand-me-downs in Portland

The seasons are changing. Maybe you’re noticing there’s a heap of shirts, pants, or even jackets and sweaters you don’t wear (or fit into...

Entrance to the Goodwill thrift store
Portland Life HacksAugust 19, 2025

How To Get into Local Fishing

A beginner’s guide with tips on what you need to know and where to go for fishing in Portland.

A man standing in a body of water holds a fish and a net.
Portland Life HacksAugust 5, 2025

How To Keep Your Dog Safe in the Portland Heat

As temperatures continue to rise, here is a guide to keeping your dog safe and happy in the Portland summer heat.

three dogs all chew on one stick