Puppetry is one of the earliest versions of theater. In fact, one of the first recorded uses of puppetry in theater dates back to the 5th century BC in Ancient Greece. While puppetry can take many forms, they all share the same goal: animating inanimate objects to tell a story. From Chinese shadow theater to Aub-Saharan African healing ceremonies, puppetry has been and continues to be a shared artwork across the globe. There’s one incredible museum in Portland that’s dedicated to preserving the history of this beautiful art form, and it’s just as awesome as you’d expect.
You’ll find the Portland Puppet Museum just on the south side of Portland, steps away from the Willamette River near the Sellwood Bridge.
Chris/Google
Since opening in 2012, this quirky museum has been called one of the most unconventional museums in Oregon, and we’d have to agree!
Portland Puppet Museum/Facebook
From the moment you step inside, you’ll be met with an overwhelming amount of puppets.
Sean Godos/Google
You’ll see puppets of all shapes and sizes, as well as informational signs about them.
Another Believer/Wikimedia You’ll learn about the different types of puppets, ranging from string puppets (marionettes) to rod puppets, glove puppets, and everything in between.
It’s really fascinating to learn about each country’s puppet history and the intricate building process for each.
Portland Puppet Museum/Facebook The exhibits change out every few months, but there’s an estimated 2,000 puppets on display at any given time.
You’ll even see some familiar characters!
Sean Godos/Google We can’t talk about puppets and not mention America’s most famous puppets, The Muppets.
No matter your age, your face will light up when you see your childhood puppets face to face.
Sean Godos/Google Your favorite neighborhood crew looks even better in person than it did on television when you were a kid.
The Puppet Museum often hosts special events, performances, and classes so make sure to visit their website and give them a follow on Facebook so you never miss out on the next event. Have you ever been to the puppet museum? Let us know in the comments below! And while we’re on the topic of conventional museums, the Carousel Museum in Oregon is a whimsical way to spend the day.
Chris/Google
Portland Puppet Museum/Facebook
Sean Godos/Google
Another Believer/Wikimedia
You’ll learn about the different types of puppets, ranging from string puppets (marionettes) to rod puppets, glove puppets, and everything in between.
The exhibits change out every few months, but there’s an estimated 2,000 puppets on display at any given time.
We can’t talk about puppets and not mention America’s most famous puppets, The Muppets.
Your favorite neighborhood crew looks even better in person than it did on television when you were a kid.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Portland Puppet Museum, 906 SE Umatilla St, Portland, OR 97202, USA
