Umpqua Discovery Center

In Reedsport [1]’s Old Town on the south bank of the river, the Umpqua Discovery Center (409 Riverfront Way, 541/271-4816, www.umpquadiscoverycenter.com [2], 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily June–Sept., 10 a.m.–4 p.m. daily Oct.–May, $8 adults, $7 seniors, $4 children 6–15) interprets the regional human and natural history of this area through multimedia programs, dioramas, scale models, and helpful staff.

The gift store is stuffed with local goodies. The boardwalk and observation tower give a good view of the broad lower reaches of the Umpqua. In summer, free Friday evening concerts are staged, and the center is the site of the September Tsalila festival [3].