U.S. Department of the Interior | Bureau of Reclamation | Pacific Northwest Region
Contact Us | Site Index
Bureau of Reclamation Banner
Reclamation Home             Reclamation Offices             Newsroom             Library             Projects & Facilities

Grand Coulee Visitor center

Grand Coulee Dam Visitor Center

Home | History | Photo Gallery | Visitor Center | Exhibits | Tour | Laser Light Show
rule

The Grand Coulee Dam Visitor Center was built in the late 1970s as part of the dam’s Third Powerplant
expansion. It was designed by architect Marcel Breuer to resemble a generator rotor. An evening laser show using four large ion gas lasers was added in 1989. The center was retrofitted in 2004 for seismic, life-safety, and accessibility standards.

In 2006, new exhibits and displays were installed. The exhibits interpret Grand Coulee's role as one of the main irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric dams on the Columbia River. They also address the effects the dam has had on various groups of people, including Native Americans and early settlers. The new exhibits were designed, manufactured, and installed by Formations, Inc., of Portland, Oregon. The visitor center is fully accessible and features hands-on exhibits, an auditorium, and restrooms.

 
Hours of Operation
The visitor center is open daily (except New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with extended hours between Memorial Day and September 29. Call (509) 633-9265 for details.
 
Watch a Video About the New Visitor Center Exhibits
Visitor Center Tour WMV 2.25 mb
Transcript PDF 26 kb
 

rule
Special Notice
Packages, boxes, backpacks, purses, and bags may not be taken on the tour due to current security measures. Cameras are allowed. Call (509) 633-9265 for more information.
 
rule

Last Update: November 27, 2012 9:52 AM