7. Step Back in Time at the Coos History Museum & Maritime Collection
Established in 1891, the Coos County Historical Society is the second oldest historical society in Oregon. In 2015, the organization opened the two-story Coos History Museum & Maritime Collection on the waterfront.
Today, the museum houses a collection of more than 50,000 objects and a quarter-million images. This impressive assemblage paints the picture of Coos County’s history and the development of the southern coast.
Permanent exhibits on the first floor range from the logging and lumber industry to shipbuilding and the evolution of overland travel. The second-floor mezzanine at the museum features rotating exhibits throughout the year.
The museum is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, excluding major holidays. The facility also hosts several events, including a monthly lecture series on the first Tuesday of every month. The museum offers free admission every second Saturday of the month.
8. Meander along the Coos Bay Boardwalk
If you’re ever in the rare moment of feeling bored in Coos Bay, head to the downtown Coos Bay Boardwalk at the end of Anderson Avenue. Here, alongside great views of the bay, this half-mile boardwalk features fun learning opportunities and a fish market.
Three pavilions along the boardwalk contain interpretive information relating to the town’s founding. The historic and retired Koos #2 tugboat is on display beneath one of these pavilions. The boardwalk also features several picnic tables that are perfect for lunch by the water.
After exploring the boardwalk, take a leisurely walk downtown for some afternoon entertainment. Several local eateries are within easy walking distance from the Boardwalk, as well as local boutiques and specialty stores.
