Basalt Rock Cafe - The Dalles

Beautiful museum with some beautiful set pieces and artifacts. Several videos to see that can take a while. There was a living Kestrel when we left. Outside there is a nice picnic area, but it was quite windy so we end up eating in the car. Friendly staff. Nice view from here too.

We hosted our wedding at the Discovery Center. Tiffany and her team were wonderful. Twelve days before our wedding, our previous venue supported us and we remained. Fortunately, the Discovery Center was available. In less than two weeks, Tiffany and her team helped us prepare the perfect framework for our wedding and reception. The staff were very nice and friendly, they were incredibly thankful to help us sort through all the details and everything went without a hitch. In addition to the beautiful landscape and the stunning hall, our guests could admire the exhibits during the reception and some enjoyed the tranquility of the theatre to escape the fun of the dance floor. This place literally has everything you need for the perfect wedding day, including stunning photo locations.

I like museums in general, so take my excitement with a grain salt! This museum was great fun! The sections were mainly dedicated to the PNW and the history (geological and human) of the gorge. I really loved it! These sections covered ice age, such as the current day Columbia Gorge, native American history of the gorge, Lewis and Clark Expedition, recreation of small pieces such as camera, car, boats, etc., once used in this beautiful gorge. I spent just about two hours here. You also have a children's area I don't really checkout. I love the little owl case! There are 3 cases, but I could only see an owl. The museum gift shop has some interesting drinks, many of which seem to be made on site. Visit the hiking trails around the center! There are some great views on the back! There is a fee of 9$ for adults. There are also many parking spaces in the centre!

Beautiful museum, great place to stretch your legs on a trip. Our 9yo has the best fun on the exhibit-savenger hunt. We enjoyed the Raptor program, learned about Hank the American Kestrel. Beautiful plots/trails for hiking. In any case you have to see.

We had our wedding at the Discovery Center and couldn’t be happier. The value is absolutely amazing, the venue is great, and Tiffany and her team made everything happen seamlessly. They also have Rooted in the Gorge based out of here and I don’t know why you’d ever use a caterer other than Rooted. Highly recommend this place as a wedding venue, we couldn’t be more satisfied with our experience and the value is incredible. A hidden gem of a venue amongst overpriced venues in Hood River.