Washington Museum Day free and discount admission

Washington Museum Day takes place on Saturday, August 8, 2026, offering free, reduced, or pay-what-you-can admission at participating cultural sites across Washington state, including those nearby.

Co-sponsored by the Washington Museum Association (WaMA) and the Washington State Historical Society, this statewide celebration encourages residents and Portland-area neighbors to explore regional history, art, and heritage sites.

Event Overview

• Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
• Admission: Free, reduced, or pay-what-you-can (varies by venue)
• Participating Locations: Museums, historic homes, arboretums, and heritage sites across Southwest Washington
• Official Website: Washington Museum Association Museum Day

Vancouver, Clark County & Border Highlights

Photo: Jane Weber Evergreen Arboretum

If you live in the Portland metro area or Clark County, you don’t have to drive far to take advantage of these Museum Day deals. Here are the top participating spots right along the Oregon border:

Vancouver & Immediate Metro Area

• Clark County Historical Museum (Vancouver): Free admission (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Explore local history, historic photos, and regional exhibits right in downtown Vancouver.
• Providence Academy (Vancouver): Free admission (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Enjoy docent-led tours of Mother Joseph’s historic 1873 landmark building.
• Marshall House (Vancouver): Free admission (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Take a guided tour of General George C. Marshall’s former home on Officer’s Row.
• Jane Weber Arboretum (Vancouver): Free admission (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Take a self-guided stroll through historic grounds and gardens along SE Evergreen Highway.

Greater Clark County & Columbia River Gorge

• Pomeroy Living History Farm (Yacolt): Free admission (11 a.m. to 4 p.m., last admission at 3 p.m.). Experience historic farm life in rural Clark County.
• Two Rivers Heritage Museum (Washougal): Discounted admission of $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for students, and free for kids under 5 (12 p.m. to 4 p.m.). Plus, new memberships purchased on Museum Day include a free local history book!
• North Clark Historical Museum (Amboy): Free admission (12 p.m. to 4 p.m.). Housed in a 1910 renovated church, showcasing northern Clark County pioneer history.
• Gorge Heritage Museum (Bingen): Free admission (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Perfect stop if you are taking a day trip along the Columbia River Gorge.

Cowlitz & Pacific Counties (Easy Day Trips North)

• Cowlitz County Historical Museum (Kelso): Free admission (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Located just off I-5, featuring rich timber and river history.
• Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum (Ilwaco): Free admission (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Located near Cape Disappointment where the Columbia River meets the Pacific.

Tips for Visiting from Oregon

1. Check Hours & Special Events: Most venues are completely free, but hours vary by location (several open at 11 a.m. or 12 p.m.). Double-check operating times on the Washington Museum Association Participating Museums Page before crossing the river.
2. Make It a Day Trip: Combine a visit to downtown Vancouver’s historic sites (like Providence Academy and the Marshall House) with lunch along the Waterfront or a stroll through Officers Row.
3. Arrive Early: Docent tours at popular historical sites can fill up quickly during free admission days. Arriving near opening time ensures easiest entry and parking.

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