Portland Puppet Museum - Portland, Oregon

Chris D.

John and team did a great job of engaging the kids - letting them hold and play with the puppets, and telling stories about the puppets. Fun place to go on a rainy day. Show started at 2, but it's best to get there at 1:30 to get seats. Kids can sit in kid-sized chairs up front.

Beth B.

Very fun place for those interested in puppetry! They have an area with puppets that children can play with. The museum is very small and can easily be viewed within 20 mins. The owner gave a belly dance show with an exquisitely made female puppet.

MeSha M.

This is one of my favorite places to visit in Portland. My group had an amazing time talking to Steven, and you can tell he is passionate about his craft. We spent at least an hour here, and he walked us through the history of women in puppet form. You learn how to work with the puppets and have a chance to buy your own. The exhibit changes, so even if you have been in the past, try to go again and see if there is a new exhibit. They do shows here as well!

I would say come for the puppets, but go just to experience the place with Steven. Next time you are in the area, stop by and don't forget to make a donation. I only took a few pictures so you will be surprised when you visit. I will be returning for sure.

Mike M.

OK….So, my review is a dual review. First and foremost the owner definitely knows puppets, or marionettes, and definitely has a wealth of knowledge and experience. However my main reason for our visit was to see the 45 minute Nutcracker show. I don’t want to sound rude but for 15.00 bucks per person I feel robbed. There was a lot of stuffed creatures attached to sticks bouncing around to a prerecorded sound and voice track. My kids have put on home puppet shows and I had a hard time telling the difference between the show I saw at Portland Puppet Museum and my kids home show. Definitely nice and friendly folks but don’t set your expectations too high.

Emilie K.

Tiny but absolutely worth a visit. These people LOVE puppets! We got a very detailed and fascinating tour of all the different puppets and loved hearing all of the stories.

Nell G.

A gem. I've been twice in the last year and seen two completely different exhibits, most recently "Women of the Ancient World". Incredible puppets of all kinds from all over the globe were lovingly displayed both times, with lots of historical details and facts to supplement the stunning visual display. On my first visit co-founder Steve Overton took over an hour to personally host us, answering our questions and sharing fantastic anecdotes from his life as a puppeteer and puppetmaker. On my last visit John gave me a complete tour, again answering my questions and going above and beyond to make sure I had a good time. Put your phone down for an hour and step into the magical, unparalleled reality of the Portland Puppet Museum. You won't regret it.

Sandy M.

What a treasure trove! I just took a workshop there with proprietor and master puppeteer Steve, who was endlessly patient and helpful. The price was very reasonable and I came away with a pair of Day of the Dead marionettes.The museum is packed with puppets of all kinds and well worth a visit. Entry is free of charge!

Amanda H.

John Wige is a captivating storyteller! I don't think I would have liked it nearly as much if not for how great he was on the tour. Give that man a raise!