The hydropower production on the Columbia river is fascinating. The dams below offer tours and/or information centers for the public.

Grand Coulee Dam
To get the best overview of all that's available in this incredible region, start at the Visitor Arrival Center overlooking the dam on Highway 155. The center is open year-around. The Grand Coulee Dam is one of the largest concrete structures in the world. For most visitors, a high point is the nightly laser light show during summer. The 36-minute display of color across the face of the dam, with accompanying sound track, is unequaled anywhere else in the world.
www.usbr.gov/pn/grandcoulee/gcvc/index.html

Chief Joseph Dam
Chief Joseph Dam, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the second largest hydropower-producing dam in the United States. An orientation center provides exhibits on salmon and mourning doves as well as a labyrinth and maze. There is also a turbine viewing area, electricity exhibit and video. Tour are available in the summer, phone 509 686-5501. The dam is located just east of Bridgeport off Highway 17.