Bush House Museum (600 Mission St., 503/581-2228, noon–5 p.m. Wed.–Sun. May–Sept., 1–4 p.m. Wed.–Sun. Oct.–Dec. and Mar.–Apr., $4 adults, $3 students and seniors, $2 children 6–12) is located in Bush Pasture Park off Mission, High, and Bush Streets.
This 1877 Victorian, with many original furnishings, is the former home of pioneer banker and newspaper publisher Asahel Bush, who once wrote about his competitor, “There’s not a brothel in the land that would not have been disgraced by the presence of the Oregonian.” Even if you’re not big on house tours, the Italian marble fireplaces and elegant walnut-and-mahogany staircase are worth a look.
The house is part of the 80-acre Bush Pasture Park. Besides being a sylvan retreat for picnickers and sports enthusiasts, the park is home to the Bush Barn Art Center (541/581-2228, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Wed.–Fri., noon–5 p.m. Sat.–Sun., free). Located next to the Bush House, this center features two galleries with monthly exhibits.
To get there from I-5, take Exit 253 and drive 2 miles west on Route 22 (Mission St.). Turn south on High Street and enter the park on Bush Street, one block south of Madison.