Science

The Dee Wright Observatory Take in amazing panoramic views of Cascade Mountain peaks; explore a half-mile paved path through young lava flows with interpretive panels; learn about the moon-like landscape that was once a training ground for NASA astronauts. On Hwy 242,
McKenzie Bridge, OR; + 1 541 822 3381. Fee.

Hatfield Marine Science Center Greet an octopus as you enter the visitors center. See sea urchins, anemones, and mollusks. 2030 S. Marine Science Dr., Newport, OR; +1 541 867 0100. Fee.

Mountain Observatory Tour the sky: see planets and galaxies through large telescopes, learn about the latest computer-based space science imagery, and pick out constellations with the help of a guide. Off State Hwy. 20, 30 miles southeast of Bend, OR; + 1 541 382 8331. Fee.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry Be a brainiac in one of eight science labs. Touch a torpedo, peek through a periscope, program a robot. See an IMAX movie in a five-story-high domed theater. 1945 S.E. Water Ave., Portland, OR; +1 503 797 4000. Fee.

Science Factory Children's Museum and Planetarium Tinker, touch, and tumble. Learn how to help save the planet at the Recylotron. Peek inside the Puppetarium. Explore other educational exhibits. 2300 Leo Harris Pkwy., Eugene, OR; +1 541 682 7888. Fee.

ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum Try your hand at an ever-changing selection of interactive exhibits covering such subjects as energy, chemistry, motion, and engineering. Year-round exhibits include the "bubble-ology" room and the hall of illusions. 1500 E. Main St., Ashland, OR; +1 541 482 6767. Fee.

World Forestry Center Discovery Museum Climb inside the cab of a forest harvesting machine. Maneuver a remote control camera to view a forest from the ground up. Take on the rapids on a simulated raft ride. Learn what it's like to be a smoke jumper. 4033 S.W. Canyon Rd., Portland, OR; +1 503 228 1367. Fee.