Calling all museum enthusiasts! If you’re looking for cool, quirky, and informative museums in and around Seattle, you’re in for a treat. Seattle boasts an impressive collection of museums that are sure to captivate and inspire.
Visiting a museum is the perfect way to dive into the history and culture of a place. Plus, it’s an excellent outing on a rainy day—keeping you dry while ensuring a fun and enriching experience. I highly recommend making time for at least a few museums from this list. You won’t be disappointed!
Culture & History
Explore Museums Celebrating the Diversity, Culture, and History of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.
Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)
MOHAI is the perfect place to dive into Pacific Northwest history and discover the origins of Seattle in a fun and engaging way. Situated on the shores of Lake Union in the South Lake Union (SLU) neighborhood, this museum covers everything Seattle—from cultural influences to scientific innovations and industrial evolution. With hands-on exhibits and short films, there’s something for everyone.
What I love most about MOHAI is how it allows you to retrace the city’s history, from the arrival of the pioneers to significant events like the Great Fire of 1889 and the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and curious minds alike!
📍 Location: South Lake Union
🎟️ Tickets: $25 (Adult), $20 (Senior & Military), $19 (Students), Free (14 & under)
⏰ Timing: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
Wing Luke Museum
If you’re visiting the International District Chinatown, make sure to stop by the Wing Luke Museum, the first Smithsonian affiliate in the Pacific Northwest. This remarkable museum pays tribute to the immense contributions of the Asian American community, celebrating their rich history and cultural impact on Seattle. The exhibits span diverse regions, including Burma/Myanmar, the Philippines, Cambodia, China, and South Asia.
The museum is named in honor of Wing Chong Luke, the first Asian American elected to the Seattle City Council, and its stories resonate deeply with the community’s legacy.
What makes the Wing Luke Museum unique is its immersive experience beyond the museum walls. Regular guided tours take you through preserved historic spaces in the International District Chinatown, showcasing the first hotel rooms used for room and board, cultural clubs, and early shops that were pivotal to the community.
Don’t forget to visit the museum shop for a delightful collection of gifts, calendars, and books that capture the spirit of the museum.
📍 Location: International District Chinatown (IDC)
🎟️ Tickets: $17 (Adults), $15 (Senior), $12.50 (Students 13-18 years), $10 (5-12 years), and Free for children under 5
⏰ Timing: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM
National Nordic Museum
With words like Fika, Sisu, and Hygge becoming part of pop culture, I often wondered how Nordic countries consistently rank so high on the happiness index. What’s their secret? That’s when I discovered the National Nordic Museum in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, and it answered all my questions.
Founded in 1979, this museum celebrates the history and culture of the entire Nordic region, including Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland. It’s the only establishment of its size and scale in the United States dedicated to showcasing Nordic values so holistically.
The museum’s architecture is stunning, designed to reflect and honor the Nordic spirit. The exhibits are inspiring, with a focus on art, craftsmanship, and storytelling. A visit here is truly a journey through the beauty and philosophy of Nordic life.
Don’t miss the museum’s café, where you can savor authentic Scandinavian dishes, and the gift shop, offering unique décor and delicious Nordic snacks. Whether you’re a fan of the culture or just curious, this museum is sure to leave you inspired!
📍 Location: Ballard
🎟️ Tickets: $20 (Adult), $16 (Senior & Students), $10 (5-18 years), and Free for children under 5
⏰ Timing: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is a hidden gem that transports visitors back to the thrilling days of the gold rush. Overlooking the gorgeous waters of Puget Sound, this park showcases a fascinating collection of exhibits and artifacts, vividly narrating the story of the Klondike Gold Rush and its profound impact on the Pacific Northwest.
From interactive displays to preserved historic buildings, there’s something for everyone to explore. The park also offers ranger-led tours and engaging educational programs, making it an enjoyable experience for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Whether you’re keen to uncover tales of adventure or simply looking for a unique slice of Seattle’s rich history, the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is a must-visit destination. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the excitement of the gold rush era!
📍 Location: Pioneer Square
🎟️ Tickets: FREE
⏰ Timing: Daily, 9 AM – 4:30 PM
Unity Museum
The Unity Museum is dedicated to celebrating humanity’s progress toward unity, social justice, and global peace. Through rotating exhibits, public discussions, and presentations, the museum addresses themes such as historical movements for justice, gender and racial equality, universal education, and the promotion of a common spirituality. This place is open to visitors of all ages and offers free services and outreach programs to schools, libraries, and civic centers.
📍 Location: University District
🎟️ Tickets: FREE
⏰ Timing: Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday, 11 AM – 2:30 PM
Art & Entertainment
Discover Museums that Celebrate Creativity, Innovation, and the Vibrant Arts Scene in Seattle.
Seattle Art Museum (SAM) & Olympic Sculpture Park
This one is for the art lovers seeking an immersive experience that spans centuries, continents, and cultures. Located in downtown Seattle, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) boasts an impressive collection, from classic European masterpieces to contemporary works and indigenous art from the Pacific Northwest. What I love most about SAM are the seasonal exhibits and thought-provoking installations—always a great source of creative inspiration.
Another standout feature is SAM’s open-air sculpture exhibits at Olympic Sculpture Park, an absolute must-visit. Nestled next to Pier 70, this free public park seamlessly blends stunning art installations with breathtaking views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle skyline. Iconic pieces like Alexander Calder’s Eagle (a striking red sculpture) and Louise Bourgeois’ Eye Benches (playfully quirky) add to the charm, making this park a haven for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It’s one of my favorite spots for a leisurely stroll and a dose of inspiration—whether you’re gazing at the art, soaking in the views, or both!
📍 Location: Downtown (SAM) & Pier 70 (Olympic Sculpture Park)
🎟️ Tickets: $29.99 (Adults), $24.99 (Senior & Military), $19.99 (Students & Teens 15-19 years), Free (14 & under), and Free (Olympic Sculpture Park)
⏰ Timing: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM (SAM)
Museum of POP Culture (MoPOP)
Who doesn’t love reliving the essence of pop culture? From iconic 80s bands setting trends to groundbreaking games and inventions, MoPOP is an absolute gem. Nestled in the heart of Seattle Center, right next to the iconic Space Needle, the building itself is a masterpiece—featuring a striking facade designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry.
MoPOP celebrates everything that defines pop culture, spanning music, movies, gaming, and science fiction. Its legendary exhibits, such as Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses and the Pearl Jam collection, are a nostalgic treat for music enthusiasts.
What I personally adore is the interactive side of MoPOP, from exploring the innovative Indie Game Revolution exhibit to marveling at intricate props and costumes from blockbuster films or braving the spine-chilling horror section.
I highly recommend visiting MoPOP, especially if you’re already at Seattle Center. This isn’t just a museum—it’s a vibrant, creative playground that sparks curiosity and brings fandoms to life.
📍 Location: Seattle Center
🎟️ Tickets: $29 (Adults), $26 (Senior & Students), $23.25 (Military), $20.25 (5-12 years), Free for 4 and under
⏰ Timing: Daily except Wednesday, 10 AM – 5 PM
Frye Art Museum
The Frye Art Museum is a hidden gem in Seattle, offering an accessible art experience for all. Nestled in the First Hill neighborhood, the museum is celebrated for its contemporary art exhibits featuring emerging artists from the Pacific Northwest.
What truly sets the Frye apart is its focus on experimental and thought-provoking art, seamlessly blending 19th- and 20th-century European paintings with bold, modern exhibitions.
Adding to the experience is MariPili at Café Frieda, a cozy café that serves Galician-inspired dishes like sandwiches, salads, and small plates, alongside a delightful selection of wine, beer, and espresso. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and draw inspiration, whether you’re admiring the art or simply savoring a cup of coffee.
With free admission and ever-changing exhibitions, the Frye Art Museum is a must-visit for both seasoned art enthusiasts and casual explorers.
📍 Location: First Hill
🎟️ Tickets: FREE
⏰ Timing: Daily, 11 AM – 5 PM (Thursdays until 8PM)
Seattle Pinball Museum
The Seattle Pinball Museum is a one-of-a-kind destination, featuring over 50 vintage and modern pinball machines that promise a nostalgic journey through gaming history. Established in August 2010, the museum came to life with the help of local collectors who aimed to celebrate these machines as interactive displays of kinetic art.
Unlike traditional museums, where exhibits are off-limits behind glass, the Seattle Pinball Museum invites you to roll up your sleeves and play! Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or making new ones, this interactive space is perfect for friends, families, and gamers of all ages.
With its vibrant atmosphere and unique hands-on experience, the Seattle Pinball Museum is a must-visit for anyone who loves a blend of fun, history, and artistry.
📍 Location: International District Chinatown
🎟️ Tickets: $23 (Adult), $20 (Senior, Military, First Responders & Children 7-14 years), Children under 7 not permitted
⏰ Timing: Thursday to Monday, 12 – 6 PM
Original Selfie Museum
If you love taking selfies this is the perfect place to let your creativity shine and capture some Insta-worthy shots. The Original Selfie Museum is a fun and colorful space for photographers, influencers, and anyone who loves taking selfies.
With over 20 themed rooms and vibrant backdrops, you can let your imagination run wild. Whether it’s a candy-colored paradise, a dreamy cloud room, or neon-lit vibes, the museum offers endless opportunities to level up your social media game.
The best part? Props and lighting are provided to help you get that perfect shot. It’s a fun place to visit with friends or family, guaranteeing a unique and unforgettable experience. Plus, you can change outfits to match the themes, making it even more exciting.
📍 Location: Downtown Seattle
🎟️ Tickets: $25 per person
⏰ Timing: Daily except Mondays, 12 – 7 PM
Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions Seattle is a mind-bending and interactive experience that will leave you questioning reality! The museum is all about playful optical illusions, trickery, and hands-on exhibits that challenge your perception of the world.
I love this museum and have visited multiple locations. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted with a variety of optical illusions, holograms, and 3D art installations that play with your senses. My favorites are the impossible chair and the vortex tunnel, both of which will have you wondering how they work.
This place is perfect for both kids and adults, making it a great family outing. It’s also a must-visit if you’re looking for something fun, quirky, and interactive in Seattle. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos for those unforgettable illusion moments!
📍 Location: Downtown Seattle
🎟️ Tickets: $32.00 (Adults), $29.00 (Seniors & Military), $27.00 (5-12 years), Free for 4 and under
⏰ Timing: Daily, 10 AM – 9 PM
Seattle Asian Art Museum
The Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM) is a cultural gem, nestled in the picturesque Volunteer Park, showcasing the rich and diverse artistic traditions of Asia. Housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco building, the museum offers an impressive collection spanning over 6,000 years of art from China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia, and the Himalayas. From ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces, SAAM provides a comprehensive journey through Asian art history.
Don’t miss the stunning collections, including Chinese jade, Japanese samurai armor, and Indian sculptures. If you’re passionate about exploring Asian art and culture, this is a must-visit destination!
📍 Location: Volunteer Park
🎟️ Tickets: Offer discounted price for advance purchases. $17.99 (Adult), $15.99 (Senior & Military), $12.99 (Students & Teens 15-19 years), and Free 14 and under
⏰ Timing: Wednesday – Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM
Science & Technology
Explore Museums That Celebrate Innovation, Discovery, and the Wonders of Science.
Burke Museum
The Burke Museum is the oldest museum in Washington state and an incredible destination for learning about the natural world and diverse cultures. Recently renovated, this Smithsonian affiliated museum offers an open collection format and behind-the-scenes access, allowing visitors to see how exhibits come to life.
One of my favorite sections is the ornithology exhibit, which houses one of the largest collections of bird carcass (for study purposes) in the region. Additionally, you’ll find fascinating displays of fossils, Northwest Native art, cultural artifacts, and even live research happening in scientific workspaces.
If you’re a history buff or science lover, the Burke Museum is a must-visit for a deeper understanding of our natural and cultural heritage.
📍 Location: University of Washington
🎟️ Tickets: $22 (Adults), $20 (Senior), $14 (Students 4-17 years), Free for 3 and under
⏰ Timing: Daily except Monday, 10 AM – 5 PM
The Museum of Flight
Learn about the history of flight at the Museum of Flight, the world’s largest independent, non-profit air and space museum, home to more than 175 aircraft and spacecraft. The museum was founded by a group of passionate individuals dedicated to preserving aviation artifacts that represent the evolution of flight and inspiring future generations. It all began in 1965 with their first official exhibit at Seattle Center, eventually finding a permanent home at the Boeing Red Barn in 1983.
The museum complex features several galleries, each showcasing a wide range of aircraft and spacecraft. One of my favorites is the Great Gallery, a six-story exhibit hall made of glass and steel that houses an impressive collection. I highly recommend spending an entire day here and taking one of their interactive tours to fully immerse yourself in the world of aviation.
📍 Location: Tukwila
🎟️ Tickets: $29 (Adult), $25 (Senior), $21 (5-17 years), and Free 5 and under
⏰ Timing: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
Connections Museum
I stumbled upon the Connections Museum Seattle while researching for this blog post, and it instantly piqued my curiosity. Nestled in the historic Georgetown neighborhood, this museum is a hidden treasure for tech enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Formerly known as the Herbert H. Warrick Jr. Museum of Communications, this fascinating spot offers a journey through time, showcasing the remarkable evolution of telecommunications.
What makes this museum truly unique is its collection of working electromechanical central-office switches. You’ll find functional Panel and Crossbar systems, Step-by-Step and Crossbar PBX equipment, and even vintage telephones, switchboards, and tools used in the telecommunications industry. It’s a hands-on history lesson that will leave you in awe of how far we’ve come in staying connected. If you’re looking to discover a lesser-known Seattle gem, the Connections Museum is worth a visit.
📍 Location: Georgetown
🎟️ Tickets: $5 (Adults), $2 (12-18 years)
⏰ Timing: Sunday, 10 AM – 3 PM
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center offers a thought-provoking and interactive experience, showcasing the foundation’s impactful work in global health, poverty reduction, and education.
It is just five minutes’ walk from Seattle Center and is absolutely free. However, I do recommend reserving a spot prior visit. You can explore the engaging exhibits highlighting innovative solutions to pressing global challenges and contribute to making a difference. It’s a great place to learn about how collective action can change the world.
📍 Location: Queen Anne
🎟️ Tickets: FREE
⏰ Timing: Wednesday – Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM
Weird & Mind-bending
Explore Museums that Challenge Perception, Defy Logic, and Spark Curiosity.
Rubber Chicken Museum
This might be the most-weird museum I’ve ever been to, located inside a quirky store called Archie Mcphee. The Rubber Chicken Museum is a world-renowned museum dedicated to all things rubber chicken. Home to both the world’s largest and smallest rubber chickens, the museum offers a fun and educational experience, featuring a scholarly essay by Kirk Demarais about the history of rubber chickens.
You can enjoy amusing displays, snap photos with the giant rubber chicken, and explore the “Room 6” collection, a rotating exhibit of unique novelties from the store’s owner, Mark Pahlow. It’s a one-of-a-kind stop for laughter, learning, and oddball treasures!
📍 Location: Wallingford
🎟️ Tickets: FREE
⏰ Timing: Daily, 11 AM – 6 PM
Giant Shoe Museum
You might have come across this place multiple times during your Pike Place visits but it’s easy not to notice a giant show mural on walls. That’s where the Giant Shoe Museum resides, a quirky exhibit showcasing a collection of oversized shoes.
Founded by Danny Eskenazi, the museum began after Eskenazi’s search for a shoe once worn by Robert Wadlow, the world’s tallest man. Though the Wadlow shoe remains lost, the collection includes other giant shoes, including a size 37 brogue worn by Wadlow. You can view the shoes through coin-operated stereoscope-style slots, offering a fun and unique experience at the market.
📍 Location: Pike Place Market
🎟️ Tickets: FREE
⏰ Timing: Daily, 9 AM – 5 PM
Seattle Death Museum
If you’re into spooky, the Death Museum offers a fascinating and eerie collection of death-related memorabilia, including mourning and funeral customs, embalming history, death masks, postmortem photography, and more. Among the highlights are a collection of haunted dolls, including the notorious Mr. Creepy and “Junior,” featured on Food Network’s “Freaky Sweets.”
📍 Location: Pioneer Square
🎟️ Tours: $12.50 per person
⏰ Timing: Check the Spooked in Seattle website for latest updates
Museum of Curious Things
Museum on wheels anyone? Check out the Museum of Curious Things, a one-of-a-kind in Seattle. Mobile curiosity museum showcases a fascinating collection of oddities from around the world. Housed in a 27-foot vintage Airstream trailer, the museum features cultural artifacts, unusual taxidermy, cryptozoological samples, anatomical oddities, and historical mysteries.
The goal of this museum is to spark curiosity and educate visitors about the wonders of the unknown, while preserving a unique part of American culture. Seattle Magazine even called it “the coolest thing at the event.” Do keep a track of their location on their Instagram page for this educational experience filled with intrigue and mystery!
📍 Location: Unclear
🎟️ Tickets: FREE
⏰ Timing: Check their MOCT Instagram page for latest updates
