Maryhill Museum of Art

Maryhill Museum of Art

The Maryhill Museum of Art is a world class art museum located on the Washington State side of the Columbia River.   This must-see attraction has a striking cliff-top location in a beaux arts mansion, with English style gardens and breathtaking views of the river.  The mansion was originally built as a primary residence by entrepreneur Samuel Hill, but was eventually opened as a museum in 1931 at the suggestion of his friend, famous dancer and socialite Loie Fuller.

Things to see at the Maryhill Museum of Art

1. The key attraction at the Maryhill Museum is the Auguste Rodin collection on the lower floor, including a model of his famous sculpture “The Thinker”.  Although the Maryhill Museum is in possession of a number of original Rodin drawings and watercolors, these fragile items are not on display to the public at the request of the Musee Rodin in Paris, to ensure their longevity.  In 1921 Samuel Hill purchased plaster models and drawings by Rodin from Loie Fuller.  Loie Fuller was a close and influential friend.
2. An unexpected delight at the Maryhill Museum is the “Theatre de la Mode”, a mid-century Parisian fashion collection on the upper floor.   After WWII, a severe shortage in dress materials necessitated that Parisian designers improvise by displaying their fashions collections on specially constructed miniature mannequins instead of human models.   These mannequins are now on display at the museum in a series of theatrical stage scenes depicting Parisian life.  
3. The main floor of the museum pays tribute to Samuel Hill’s friend, Queen Marie of Romania, and includes a ball gown, furniture, artwork and photos.  Queen Marie attended the opening of Maryhill Art Museum in 1931.
4. After visiting the Maryhill Museum, you can stop for lunch or a snack at the museum’s café. 

Lodging, Hotels at Hood River

It’s recommended you stay at Hood River 30-minutes west of the Maryhill Museum, and use this as a base to explore a wide range of attractions along both the Oregon and Washington sides of the Columbia River including.  Some of the below links will take you to the Oregon site:

• Maryhill Winery
• Hood River Winery Loop
• Columbia Gorge Discovery Center
• Historic Columbia River Highway
• Summer water sports at the Hood River waterfront; including windsurfing, kayaking and swimming

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