Top 10 Free Things to do in Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory, Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory

The Arts Council of Lake Oswego, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, was created in 1999 to ensure the arts will continue to be an integral part of life in our community. Through our diverse programs we commit to: • Provide access to fine art exhibits for residents and visitors • Advance lifelong learning through our free Docent Tours • Promote dialogue among people of all ages and backgrounds • Provide Art Literacy curriculum and free sculpture tours for students • Enliven urban landscapes while adding value to Lake Oswego's economy • Strengthen our community through private and public partnerships

Visit the beautiful temple grounds, gardens and Visitors' Center located on 10 acres near the intersection of I-5 and Hwy 217. Open daily from 9am to 9pm. The Center offers exhibits and information about faith, temples, the importance of families, and other religious values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Children, accompanied by adults, are also welcome and can enjoy interactive displays and activities about the temple grounds and Center.

This ADA accessible, 700 square foot museum is housed in the last remaining 19th century iron worker's cottage. Rotating exhibits feature Lake Oswego's rich history. Regular open hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays plus the first Saturday of each month from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. The museum, which includes a gift shop, is also open by appointment.

The only accredited Clematis collection in North America with over 1800 clematis on display as an inspiration for home gardeners surrounding the historic farmhouse at Luscher Farm. This is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization. Plants for sale every Friday and gardening classes throughout the year. The main fundraiser is Inviting Vines on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and includes tour of private gardens, breakfast and tea with guest speakers.

The Oregon City Municipal Elevator has been in operation for over 100 years. The original elevator was constructed in 1915. It was powered by hydrolics and took about three minutes to reach the top of the bluff. In 1925 it was converted to electric power that was being generated by the water flowing from the Willamette river. The current elevator was completed in May of 1955. It was included on the National Register of Historic places in May of 2014. The elevator is owned by Oregon City and staffed by the Downtown Oregon City Association. Current hours are Monday-Saturday 7am-7pm and Sunday 10am-7pm.