Experience the dynamic forces that shape Oregon’s landscapes, climate, and ecosystems. Meet giant salmon, Ice Age sloths, and other amazing animals from across the millennia. Through interactive displays and rare specimens, you’ll go deep into Oregon’s past and join a conversation about our collective future.

Hostile Terrain 94 is a participatory exhibit composed of more than 4,000 handwritten toe tags, each representing someone who lost their life trying to cross the Sonoran Desert of Arizona between the mid-1990s and 2024. The tags are geolocated on a wall map of the desert showing the exact locations where remains were found.  Co-sponsored by the Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies at the University of Oregon. Included with regular admission; free for MNCH members and UO ID card holders. Show your Oregon Trail or other EBT card for an admission discount.

Delve into Oregon’s story, from the archaeology of the First Americans to the dynamic cultures of today’s Tribes.

Combining interactive displays with world-class anthropological collections, Oregon—Where Past is Present shares 14,000 years of Oregon stories, and invites you to tell your own. Explore the galleries, try your hand at ancient weaving styles, test your skills as an archaeologist, and much more.

Chinese immigrants helped shape Oregon’s history. Come discover the stories and resilience of early Chinese Americans.

Special Tuesday hours: Enjoy free admission in honor of Earth Day. 

On Earth Day, we celebrate Earth’s ecosystems, honor the achievements of the environmental movement and recognize the importance of ongoing stewardship. Join us for an afternoon of special Walk & Talks!  

Stop by the museum store and pick up a signed copy of MNCH executive director, Dr. Todd Braje’s book, Understanding Imperiled Earth, or one of our many other Earth-friendly gifts!

A humanitarian crisis is happening at the U.S.-Mexico border related to migrant disappearance and death. Join Perla Torres as she explores the consequences of border militarization, Arizona’s efforts to identify this unjust loss of life, and her work to support families in their searches for missing loved ones.

Join us as we celebrate Transgressors, an exhibition presenting now and future Indigiqueer ancestors who move beyond boundaries in life and art. 

The first hour is reserved for museum members and invited guests; at 6:00 p.m. everyone is invited. Light appetizers and refreshments will be available, as well as a cash bar. 

Artists: a.c. ramírez de arellaño  |  Evan Benally Atwood  |  Geo Soctomah Neptune   |  Jeffrey Gibson  |  Lehuauakea  |  Qahir-beejee Peco  |  Roin Morigeau  | Steph Littlebird  |  Walter Scott 

Curated by Anthony Hudson and Felix Furby 

Sponsored by Chachalu Tribal Museum and Cultural Center, Native Arts and Cultures Foundation, Oregon Community Foundation, and New Expressive Work. 

Enjoy our newest exhibit along with family-friendly activities, crafts, and refreshments.   

  Included with regular admission; free for MNCH members and UO ID card holders. Show your Oregon Trail or other EBT card for an admission discount. 

Not a member yet? Sign up during opening weekend and receive a 20% discount on individual or family level memberships. Offer valid onsite only. 

Shopping for the science grad in your life? Head to the museum store! From geoscience water bottles to chemistry-themed jewelry, we've got the perfect science-themed gift. Enjoy special UO Commencement Week discounts on jewelry, pint glasses, cards, and much more. Take 10 percent off any non-consignment item (20 percent off for MNCH members and UO faculty and staff) and take home a free canvas tote with your purchase of $50 or more.   

   Admission to the museum store is always free. 

Congratulations, Ducks! In honor of Commencement, the museum will be open and free from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 16.