Libraries have expanded way beyond books. From classes to e-catalogues to free Wi-Fi, libraries have become a resource hub for communities across the Portland area. Another wonderful program hosted by local libraries is free cultural passes. These passes allow you and your family to visit some of the best attractions throughout the Portland area.
How it works
Once you are a library card holder, you can reserve a pass to a local attraction via the library’s website. You simply enter your login information and make your reservation. Once you’ve chosen an attraction and day, simply print the pass. You’re ready to go. Don’t have a printer? Make your reservation on a library computer and print it there. You can reserve one or more passes at a time, depending on the library. Some venues will accept mobile tickets.
Directions for using the passes are a little different at every library. Some you have to pick up at the library and others you can reserve online. Some of these passes have specific steps you need to take after your reservation is confirmed. Make sure you read the fine print when you make your reservation at any of the libraries below.
Metropolitan Interlibrary Exchange
As a Multnomah County resident, you can receive a free library card in other counties, including Washington, Clackamas, Hood River and Clark. Here is a list of other counties that are eligible for a free library card.
This means that you have access to ALL of these cultural passes below. Pretty cool, huh?
Cultural Passes at Local libraries
Multnomah County Library’s My Discovery Pass
Free cultural passes:
- Artists Repertory Theatre
- Boom Arts
- Hollywood Theatre
- Lan Su Chinese Garden
- Literary Arts
- Northwest Children’s Theater and School
- Northwest Film Center
- Portland Art Museum
- Portland Center Stage at The Armory
- Portland Opera
- Rose City Rollers
Clackamas County Library Cultural Passes
Free cultural passes:
- Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
- End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
- Evergreen Aviation Museum
- Gilbert House Children’s Museum
- Japanese Garden
- Lan Su Chinese Garden
- Oregon Historical Society
- Oregon State Parks
- The Oregon Garden
- Pittock Mansion
- Portland Art Museum
- World of Speed Museum
Washington County Library’s Cultural Pass to Adventure
Free cultural passes:
- Pittock Mansion
- Lan Su Chinese Garden
- Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals
- Washington County Museum
- Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum
- Wings & Waves Waterpark
- The Oregon Garden
- Gilbert House Children’s Museum
Hood River County Library Cultural Passes
Free cultural passes:
You may also like:
Want more Portland freebies, events and deals? Subscribe to my newsletter (only one email a day), and follow me on Facebook and Twitter!
Portland Living on the Cheap is a member of 
Thanks for sharing this information for all Metro area library users! Libraries are so much more than books these days. With the eclipse coming, several libraries are planning free events as well. Again, thank you!
Thank you for your comment, Diana! Libraries are amazing community resources. If you have any fun library events or services you’d like to share, email me at info@portlandlivingonthecheap.com.