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OPEN Wed-Sun: 11 am to 5 pm

Visit the Frye

Seattle's only free art museum.

The Frye brings together art and new ideas within a stunning Olson Sundberg Kundig-designed building in historic First Hill. Expect a full and diverse viewing experience, from experimental collection presentations to artist interventions, fresh takes on complex issues, and temporary exhibitions by local and global artists.

Admission is always free!

Location & Hours Plus Icon Minus Icon

704 Terry Avenue Seattle, Washington 98104 USA

Wednesday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Holiday Hours

The Frye closes at 3 pm on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. The Frye and MariPili at Café Frieda are closed on Juneteenth, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

On days the museum closes at 3 pm, the café will close at 2 pm.

Phone: 206 622 9250 [email protected]

Accessibility Plus Icon Minus Icon

The Frye Art Museum is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone. We prioritize diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in order to strengthen our organization and our community. The Frye provides a variety of services for visitors stopping by the museum or participating in in-person or virtual programs to make the most of your experience. Read more about accessibility accommodations at the museum.

Café & Store Plus Icon Minus Icon

Enjoy delicious, Galician-inspired lunch options, in addition to espresso, wine, and beer at MariPili at Café Frieda , a collaboration between the Frye Art Museum and Seattle's renowned MariPili Tapas Bar.

Hours: Wed–Sun, 11am–4 pm. On days with special museum hours, MariPili at Café Frieda will typically close one hour prior to the museum.

Learn more and view the menu .

Find Frye exhibition and collection materials, plus a curated collection of one-of-a-kind objects and innovative items from Pacific Northwest designers and artists. All proceeds support the Museum.

Hours: Same as the Museum, Wed–Sun, 11am–4 pm.

Learn more or shop online .

Directions & Parking Plus Icon Minus Icon

By public transit.

Public Bus Routes 3 and 4: James St and 8th Ave Route 60: 9th Ave and Columbia St Route 12: Madison St and 9th Ave View the King County Trip Planner

Streetcar The First Hill Streetcar runs approximately every 10–15 minutes. The nearest stop is Broadway & Marion.  View the First Hill Streetcar schedule

Link Lightrail Pioneer Square Link Station: 3rd Ave & James St. Please note, this station is approximately a 1/2 mile walk from the museum at a steep incline View the Sound Transit Trip Planner

From Southbound I-5 Take the James St exit 165A Merge onto 6th Ave Left on Cherry Ave Left onto Terry Ave From Northbound I-5 Take exit 164A for Dearborn St toward James St/Madison St Keep right, follow signs for James St Continue straight onto 7th Ave Right on James St Left on Terry Ave

Paid public street parking is available along Terry Ave, 9th Ave, Columbia St, Marion St, and Cherry St. There are several paid parking lots nearby the museum including the First Hill Medical Pavilion at 1124 Columbia St and Swedish Hospital Marion & Minor Garage. Other paid parking lots are available throughout First Hill.

There are two bike racks available near the museum. They are located on the corner of Terry Ave and Cherry St, and on Columbia St in front of the Memory Hub. Please note, these bike racks are not museum property; use of the racks is at the user's sole risk.

Tips for a great visit Plus Icon Minus Icon

We're looking forward to welcoming you to the museum! Admission to the Frye is always free. 

• Bags smaller than 11" x 15" x 6” are permitted in the galleries. All larger items, including backpacks and umbrellas, are prohibited in the galleries. A limited number of self-check lockers are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Please leave all large bags at home.
• We offer 45-minute free guided tours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 1 pm, meeting in the Rotunda. Visiting with a group of 6 or more? Reserve a group visit.   
• Handheld, still photography is allowed in most areas of the museum for personal, non-commercial use. However, certain temporary exhibitions may prohibit photography or video.
• In order to protect artworks, food and drinks are not allowed in the museum galleries.
• Service animals are the only animals allowed in the Museum. 

Have additional questions? Check out these frequently asked questions before visiting.

Traffic disruption alert: Due to ongoing neighborhood construction projects, the blocks surrounding the museum including Terry Ave, Cherry and Columbia Streets, may undergo periodic traffic disruptions or closures; street parking may be impacted during these windows. Unless otherwise noted, pedestrian access to the museum will not be disrupted.

Upcoming Events

Mask-Required Hours

Sunday, September 01

Mindfulness Meditation

Wednesday, September 04

Frye in Focus | Gallery Conversation

Saturday, September 07

Sunday, September 08

Jazz in the City | Eric Verlinde

Alzheimer's Cafe at the Memory Hub

Tuesday, September 10

here:now Art-making and Discussion Class (Fall I)

Wednesday, September 11

Frye Pop-Up at Burien Farmers Market

Thursday, September 12

Art History Lecture Series | Martin Wong (1946–1999)

Plan a Visit

Café and store, events and programs, private events.

Photo: Daniel Sheehan

Visit MOHAI

Rediscover history and get immersed in the lives and stories that made the Pacific Northwest the unique place it is today.

MOHAI tells Seattle’s story through exhibits and interactives. True Northwest: The Seattle Journey examines how the dramatic environment, diverse populations, connections to the broader world, and inventive spirit have shaped the region’s history. The Bezos Center for Innovation investigates Seattle’s role as a nexus of big ideas and new directions.

MOHAI is respected nationally and treasured locally as a dynamic, innovative museum where historical exploration inspires people to create a better future for themselves and their communities.

Daily: 10 am–5 pm First Thursdays of the month: 10 am–8 pm (Free admission to core exhibits from 5 pm–8 pm) July and August Thursdays: 10am–8pm Closed: November 8, November 28, December 25 Closing at 3:30pm: August 20

MOHAI is located at the south end of Lake Union, in the park at the intersection of Valley St. and Terry Ave N. Use the Mercer Street exit from either I-5 or Hwy 99.

By Public Transit

MOHAI is close to several bus routes as well as the South Lake Union Streetcar line. For timetables and trip planning, consult King County Metro’s trip planner tool .

Bike parking is available near MOHAI in South Lake Union Park. Plan your route with the City of Seattle’s Interactive Bicycle Map .

Vehicle Parking

MOHAI visitors can take advantage of public parking options located around Lake Union. On-site parking is reserved for ADA parking and visitor drop-off.

ADA Parking

The parking lot next to the museum is reserved for ADA parking and visitor drop-off. Use the callbox at the gate near the Center for Wooden Boats for access during museum hours.

Public Parking

The closest public parking to MOHAI is the lot at the South end of the park at Valley St. and Terry Ave N. Please note that this lot requires back-in parking ( view a map of Seattle City Parking Rates ).

There are several private and city-owned parking lots near MOHAI. See the map below for suggestions.

Boat Mooring

Daily boat moorage is available on the north and east sides of the park. Contact the Center for Wooden Boats  for rates and availability.

Bus Drop-off and Parking

Buses should load and unload at the Seattle City Parking Lot on Valley St. (adjacent to the Streetcar stop, south of the Lake Union Park, and 600 feet from MOHAI).

Bus Drop-off

Buses should load and unload in the public parking lot at the South end of Lake Union Park, at Valley St. and Terry Ave N. Vehicles longer than 25 ft are not allowed in the lot next to MOHAI’s building.

Bus Parking

The closest designated bus parking area is at the Seattle Center. See Seattle Center’s bus parking information for details .

Community Access

MOHAI believes history is for everyone and is committed to providing a range of accessible admission opportunities.

First Thursday

MOHAI participates in Seattle’s Free First Thursday with free admission from 5 pm-8 pm on the first Thursday of each month. Special exhibits may still require an admission fee.

MOHAI Access Pass

Free admission is an option every day with the MOHAI Access Pass. A limited number of passes are available each day to anyone who needs them for any reason. Reserve your Access Pass by calling Visitor Services at 206 324 1126, emailing [email protected] , or notifying Visitor Services staff upon your arrival.

Museums for All

MOHAI participates in the nationwide Museums for All program, an initiative that encourages families of all backgrounds to visit museums regularly. Visitors may present an EBT card, WIC, or Foster Family credentials to receive free admission for up to four people.

Teens aged 15-19 can present their Teen Tix credentials for a $5 admission ticket to MOHAI. Teen Tix holders may purchase an additional pass for an adult at the $5 rate on Thursdays.

Open Doors Program

MOHAI’s Open Doors program offers free admission to historically excluded communities and aims to reduce barriers to MOHAI exhibits. Through this program, eligible community groups receive free admission in support of a museum visit. To learn more or request free admission, visit the Open Doors program.

MOHAI is a nonprofit institution. To support the museum’s work and help us provide accessible opportunities for our community, please consider making a donation.

Accessibility

MOHAI is committed to being accessible for all visitors. Our facility is fully ADA accessible, and wheelchairs and walkers are available to check out at the Admissions desk on a first-come, first-served basis.

Caregivers assisting visitors with disabilities receive free admission.

Service Animals

Service Animals are welcome at MOHAI. Pets are not allowed in the museum.

Resources For Visitors With Autism

The information in our downloadable and printable Autism Resources Guide is to assist autistic individuals and their caregivers in planning their visit. It includes tips for visiting MOHAI and a sensory map of the museum. We welcome feedback and suggestions for future resources .

Assistive Listening Devices

MOHAI has a limited number of assistive listening devices and neck loops available for free during public programs and events held in specific spaces. Please contact the Public Programs Department to reserve a device.

For questions or additional accommodations, please contact Visitor Services team at 206.324.1126 or via email at [email protected] .

Visitor Tips

Here are some tips for having a great visit to MOHAI.

Online tickets are available, but not required. Walk-up visitors are always welcome.

Tickets are good for the entire day; re-entry is allowed with your purchase receipt.

Admission includes special exhibits except during First Thursday’s free hours from 5-8pm.

Contact Visitor Services to reschedule your reserved tickets if needed.

MOHAI offers multi-stall men’s and women’s restrooms on the first floor, which are both equipped with changing tables. There are single stall, all-gender restrooms on the second floor and in the café.

Food and Drink

Our lakeside café, Gourmondo at MOHAI , offers a variety of fresh, flavorful meals made from locally sourced ingredients, as well as coffee, pastries, snacks, beer, and wine. MOHAI members save 10%!

You may bring and eat your own food in the Microsoft Lakefront Pavilion on the first floor. Food and drink, including water bottles, are not allowed in the exhibit and gallery spaces.

Visiting with Kids

MOHAI is a great destination for kids! Borrow an Exploration or Innovation pack for free at the Admissions desk, which are filled with activities, props, and more to help children and adults discover the museum together. Available in English or Spanish!

The Idea Lab in our Grand Atrium features rotating hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.

MOHAI’s third floor is a dedicated space for children 2-7 years old and their caregivers. Kid-Struction Zone helps young visitors learn through fun, hands-on interactions while stimulating curiosity and creativity.

Please note that youth aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and any organized group visits of youth including field trips, homeschool co-ops, scout troops etc. require a reservation .

Stroller parking is available and changing tables are located in both first-floor restrooms.

Digital Resources

Digital versions of a MOHAI Map and Gallery Guide, along with an Audio Tour in English and Spanish are available on your mobile device .

View an archive of MOHAI’s programs, lectures, and educational video resources on the MOHAI YouTube Channel .

The MOHAI Mercantile has a rotating selection of items from local artists, as well as books, jewelry, and souvenirs. MOHAI members save 15%!

Photography

Photography is allowed without a flash, for personal, non-commercial purposes. Tripods and commercial photography are allowed on a case-by-case basis, contact the Marketing Department for additional information.

Lockers and Personal Items

Lockers are available for secure storage of personal items. Locker keys may be checked out at the Admissions Desk. A self-serve coat check space is available on our busiest days. Ask at the Admissions Desk about large item storage.

Visitor Policies

MOHAI is committed to creating a space that is accessible and welcoming to all visitors. We do not tolerate harassment or discrimination of other guests, volunteers, or staff. Guests that feel unsafe for any reason during their visit should notify staff right away.

MOHAI does not allow weapons on our property.

Pets are not allowed in the museum, but Service Animals are welcome.

Youth 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Gourmondo at MOHAI

Whether you are visiting the museum or strolling around Lake Union Park, you are invited to stop in for a bite at our newly re-opened lakeside cafe: Gourmondo at MOHAI.

The MOHAI Mercantile

Shop online or at the museum! There’s something for everyone at the MOHAI Mercantile—all made locally by Puget Sound artisans.

See what events and ongoing programs are coming up at MOHAI. Learn about the history and culture of the Puget Sound region in new and interesting ways.

Event Calendar

View upcoming events, ongoing programs, view ongoing programs.

Photo: Barbie Hull

Celebrate among Seattle’s culture and heritage. Private event and function spaces at MOHAI are full of charm and character while simultaneously providing the necessary amenities for any function.

MOHAI’s historic home at the Naval Reserve Building offers an event space like no other. Whether planning business meetings, intimate receptions, or elaborate galas, MOHAI can meet event rental needs all with a stunning backdrop.

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Tours & Experiences

Don't just look around! The Museum of Flight offers lots of exciting and interactive tours and experiences that turn your visit into an adventure!

Most tours and experiences must be purchased in addition to Museum admission. See individual descriptions for details.

At the Museum

Public tours.

Free public tours are led daily on a variable schedule by the Museum’s passionate and knowledgeable volunteer tour guides.

Tours for the Blind

Specially curated tours for guests who are blind or low-vision so they can experience flight beyond sight.

Family Workshops

Weekend Family Workshops: hands-on, family experiences investigating science, engineering, and aerospace topics in fun and surprising ways. Held...

Flight Simulators

Jump in the pilot’s seat and enjoy an exciting and surreal ride.

Spacequest VR

Shoot yourself to the Moon in this unique interactive experience!

Kids' Challenges

Kids' Challenges at The Museum of Flight can consist of design, art, science, photography, etc.

Storytelling & Aerospace Update

Learn about the history and future of flight through inspiring stories and volunteer-led talks.

Premium Experiences

New private, curated tours for groups of up to four combining exclusive access to aircraft cockpits and cabins, and artifacts not on public display!

Movie Theater

Experience the wonder of aviation, spaceflight and more in our 3D theater.

Multiple showtimes daily.

FREE First Thursdays

On the first Thursday of each month, the Museum stays open late – and admission is FREE 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Sensory Days

Access to the Museum, during off-hours, where families of children, teenagers and young adults with cognitive disabilities can explore and self-guide through the galleries with adjusted light and sound for the best possible experience.

Virtual / At Your Location

Virtual museum tours.

Live, online tours of our famous aircraft and galleries, catered to your interests, and guided by our experts. Perfect for groups and gatherings!

Speakers Bureau

A group of aviation and space experts who share their knowledge and stories through presentations about history, aviation, and spaceflight.

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• Hours & Directions
• Accessibility
• Find Your Photos
• The Exhibition
• Dale Chihuly
• Seasonal Events
• Private Events
• The Bookstore
• Edition Artwork

Plan Your Visit

Get ready to discover the iconic artwork of Dale Chihuly. Plan your visit to the eight stunning Galleries, Glasshouse, and vibrant Garden showcasing the artist’s career influences and inspiration.

Know before you go

Our team is looking forward to welcoming you to the colorful and inspiring Chihuly Garden and Glass. To make the most of your visit, keep reading for suggestions and information.

The average time to see and enjoy the Galleries, Garden and Glasshouse is between 1 – 2 hours. In this self-paced experience, visitors can enjoy the artwork for as long as they like and listen to the downloadable audio tour for an enriched experience. Consider eating at The Bar, trying delicious pizza in the Art Plaza during summer—or shopping at The Bookstore, to optimize your time.

If you have any questions or concerns during your visit, our friendly and knowledgeable staff members are always nearby in the Exhibition to assist you. We kindly ask you to be mindful of the space and respect the artwork, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.

To ensure that all Exhibition visitors enjoy their visit, we ask you to adhere to the following:

Gallery Talks

Tickets buy tickets.

Last ticket sold and last entry are 45 minutes before posted closing time.

Chihuly Garden and Glass is open year-round, with occasional adjusted hours for private events. Operating hours are posted approximately one month in advance.

Adjusted Hours

Gallery 9 (Glasshouse) is sometimes reserved for private events. During these events, parts of the Exhibition and Garden remain open. See adjusted hours listings to plan your visit.

Live Glass Demonstrations

Flameworking

Local artists offer a closer look at the magic of molten glass through live demonstrations of Flameworking – the art of melting and shaping glass using a torch. Watch as they transform glass rods into beads, figurines, ornaments and more. The artists will also be available to answer questions about the characteristics and process of working with glass.

Please note that demonstrations may be cancelled or postponed due to inclement weather.

Getting Here

Seattle center monorail.

The monorail is a convenient way to get to Chihuly Garden and Glass from downtown. Just hop on at Westlake Station and you’ll arrive near the Exhibition in minutes.

Monorail Hours & Info

These parking garages are operated by the City of Seattle and offer the best rates for most visitors. The Fifth Avenue N. Garage is closest to the Exhibition.

Fifth Ave N Garage

Fifth Ave N & Republican Street

Mercer Garage

Third Ave N & Roy Street

Valet parking

Available right next door at The Space Needle's valet parking services.

Thought we were killing an hour but was the highlight of our day. No photographs could do it justice. We are seasoned travelers and one of the best exhibits I have ever seen.

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Seattle Area Museums

Seattle’s museums are eager to welcome you..

Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region are home to an outstanding collection of unique museums, which welcome visitors to enjoy a full range of experiences.

Please visit the websites of each museum ahead of time to learn more and purchase advance tickets. No matter what your interest: pop culture, sea life, glass, aviation history, natural history, culture, art, and more, there’s something for you!

SEATTLE MUSEUMS

Click the images for links to each museum website.

Burke Museum

Center for Wooden Boats

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Connections Museum

Duwamish Longhouse & Cultural Center

Frye Art Museum

Gates Foundation Discovery Center

Henry Art Gallery

Holocaust Center for Humanity

Klondike Gold Rush Museum --Seattle NPS

Log House Museum

The Museum of Flight

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Museum of Pop Culture

The National Nordic Museum

Northwest African American Museum

Olympic Sculpture Park

Pacific Science Center

Sea Mar Museum of Chicano/a/Latino/a Culture

Seattle Art Museum

Seattle Asian Art Museum

Seattle Aquarium

Seattle Children's Museum

Seattle Pinball Museum

The Wing Luke Museum

Woodland Park Zoo

Regional museums.

Bainbridge Island Museum of Art

Bellevue Arts Museum

Fort Nisqually Living History Museum

Hibulb Cultural Center

Highline Heritage Museum

KiDiMu - Kids Discovery Museum

KidsQuest Children's Museum

LeMay - America's Car Museum

Museum of Glass

Northwest Railway Museum

Pacific Bonsai Museum

Suquamish Museum

Tacoma Art Museum

USS Turner Joy Museum Ship

Washington State History Museum

White River Valley Museum & Mary Olson Farm

Top image: John Grade’s Middle Fork at Seattle Art Museum ,  Courtesy Seattle Art Museum

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Book Your Trip

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• tour schedule
• group sales
• ticket prices
• where to find us
• Eating & Drinking
• Who's Bill Speidel?
• A Little History

614 1st Avenue, in Pioneer Place Park, Pioneer Square, between Cherry and James Street. Take the James Street Exit from Interstate 5.

206-682-4646

Inquire about cost-saving Private Tours and Special Events. Call 206-682-4646, ext. 118.

Did you know?

The term “Skid Road” came from Pioneer Square

The 75-minute guided walking tour begins beneath Doc Maynard’s Public House, then spills into historic Pioneer Square, Seattle’s birthplace, before plunging underground for an exclusive, time-capsule view of the buried city.!

It’s the only way to tour the interconnecting tunnels of the world-famous Seattle Underground—don’t be fooled by impostors.

All the while, tour guides regale you with sidesplitting stories our pioneers didn’t want you to hear. It’s history with punch lines!

Tickets available in advance, online here and by phone at 206-682-4646, or at our ticket counter at 614 First Avenue, in Pioneer Place Park, Pioneer Square.

The tour ends in Rogues Gallery and the Underground Gift Shop, where you’ll find displays depicting the past and Northwest memorabilia. Sons of the Profits , the book by Bill Speidel upon which the tour is based, is our most popular souvenir.

Doc Maynard’s Public House, suitable for the entire family, offers affordable snacks, breakfast, lunch and dinner, including fresh Northwest seasonal fare, and a full bar. Or order the specially priced lunch and tour combo when you purchase your tickets. (The tour starts with a 15-minute seated introduction, convenient for a quick bite before heading underground.)

Tour Schedule

Tours start on the hour, every day, april-september, 9 am-7 pm, october-march, 10 am-6 pm.

December 24 (Christmas Eve), 10 am-1 pm December 26-31, 9 am-6 pm

Tours daily, year round, except: Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Tours may be added during peak seasons. Tours last approximately 75 minutes. Children 6 years and under are admitted free, but may find the tour challenging.

Saturday, August 31 is a Husky Football game day. There will be increased traffic on campus and parking may be limited. See our Directions & Parking  page for more info on public transit and parking options.

Search Collections Databases

We can't wait to see you.

With working labs you can see into, one-of-a-kind objects all around you, and galleries filled with curiosity and conversation, at the Burke, you see—and feel—a world alive. The Burke Museum is located on the University of Washington campus in Seattle with a focus on dinosaurs, fossils, Northwest Native art, plant and animal collections, and cultural pieces from across the globe.  

Visitor Guide

View or download the Visitor Guide.

Burke Museum Visitor Guide

About Your Visit

Directions & Parking

• Admission Discounts

Accessibility

Off the Rez Café

Tuesday – Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM Last admission at 4:30 PM

First Thursday of each month: 10 AM – 8 PM

Monday: CLOSED

January 1 | New Year's Day: Closed April 20 | UW Admitted Students Day: Closed May 2 | Spring Fundraising Event: Closed July 4 | Independence Day: Closed November 28 | Thanksgiving: Closed December 24 | Christmas Eve: Closed December 25 | Christmas: Closed December 31 | New Year's Eve: Close at 2 PM

Admission Prices

Tickets      Admission Discounts

Become a Member

Your membership supports the Burke!

Burke Museum 4303 Memorial Way NE Seattle, WA, 98195

Map data ©2019 Google

Enjoy delicious, world-renowned fry bread and other foods made of locally-sourced ingredients at Off the Rez Café. The Café entrance is located at the Burke Museum off of Memorial Way/17th Ave NE. 

Tuesday–Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM The café is open with eat-in and to-go options. Limited seating is available inside and on the outdoor patio. 

The café is the first brick-and-mortar location of Off the Rez, ranked one of the top 25 food trucks in America by Food Network. Independently owned and operated by Mark McConnell and Cecilia Rikard, Off the Rez is dedicated to sustainability with seasonal menu items. Their tasty food is set in an airy café, with indoor-outdoor dining on a patio made possible by a pivoting window wall.

Off the Rez website

We look forward to welcoming you to the Burke Museum! If you have any questions or need assistance, please ask someone in a Burke shirt. We're here for you! 

Land Acknowledgement

The Burke Museum stands on the lands of the Coast Salish Peoples, whose ancestors have resided here since time immemorial. Many Indigenous peoples thrive in this place — alive and strong.

Become a member

Experience even more. A membership pays for itself in 3 visits!

Just want tickets?

Continue to general admission tickets page.

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8 Best Museums in Seattle

Ron Clausen/CC BY-SA 4.0/Creative Commons

Seattle may be known for its stunning Pacific Northwest views, but the city is also home to a fantastic collection of museums. Whether you're a 75-year-old Picasso enthusiast or an eight-year-old dinosaur lover, the Seattle-area has you covered.

Seattle Art Museum

TripSavvy / Noah Kreyenhagen

The Puget Sound’s most prestigious museum, the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) received a major overhaul in 2007, expanding its space by 70 percent and adding over $1 billion in new art to the collection. SAM has a steady stream of special exhibitions that offer repeat visitors something new with each visit, and exhibitions have included everything from African masks to Impressionism. The museum also has a number of permanent exhibitions from around the world. If the museum's cost of admission is too much, then look to one of the free days.

Free days: First Thursdays free to all. First Fridays free to seniors. Second Friday 5-9 p.m. free to teens (13-17).

Museum of Flight

The Puget Sound is one of the nation’s aerospace capitals, and it’s only fitting that it has one of the world’s best air and space museums. The Museum of Flight boasts over 80 aircraft, including the first 747, a retired Air Force One, a Concorde supersonic airliner, and a wide array of aircraft from the First and Second World Wars. There is also a theater with short performances about aviation history.

Free day: First Thursday 5-9 p.m. free to all

Pacific Science Center

A remnant of the 1962 World’s Fair, the Pacific Science Center is a beloved institution in this high-tech town. The museum has been constantly redesigned both to reflect new scientific knowledge and to make the exhibits as engaging as possible to visitors of all ages. Highlights include the animatronic dinosaurs, a giant insect village, and a science playground. There are also two IMAX theaters and special exhibits that come through on a regular basis that are often some of the coolest exhibits Seattle gets in general (King Tut visiting, for example).

Where: Seattle Center​ Free day: No free days.

Burke Museum

This natural history museum on the UW campus is the state’s oldest museum and the closest opportunity to take a look at real dinosaur fossils. The Burke features fascinating biological and cultural history, and rotating special exhibits.

Free day: First Thursdays free to all

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop)

MoPop (formerly the EMP Museum) has had a tumultuous history, opening in 2000 to great fanfare, but also to a considerable backlash, both at the unorthodox architecture and the notion of a high-tech rock museum. It's been through a few name changes, too, but MoPop pushed new ground as a museum, relying heavily on interactive electronics in their exhibits, an aspect that excited some and frustrated others. In 2004, the museum expanded to include the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame. Today, the museums are united, with joint admission, and has increasingly moved beyond music history to expand to pop culture overall.

Where: Seattle Center Free day: First Thursdays 5-8 p.m. free to all.

Henry Art Gallery

The Henry may not be Seattle’s biggest art museum, but it’s certainly the most adventurous. This gallery on UW’s campus has frequently changing exhibitions of contemporary art.

Frye Art Museum

TripSavvy / Noah Kreyenhagen

Frugal art lovers need to look no further than Seattle’s Frye Art Museum, which is entirely free. Not only that, it’s a great little museum, with a wonderful permanent collection of paintings and sculpture from the 19th-century to today.

Where: First Hill, Seattle How much: Free

Related Articles

More related articles.

11 Amazing Museums in Seattle You Can’t Miss

• In the City / North America / Seattle / USA / Washington

Visiting Seattle? Don’t miss these amazing museums.

We just got back from a whirlwind of museums this past weekend. The Seattle area has over 40 museums with a wide range of interest and topics. We’ve had a chance to check out 10 of them, but since we’re only a 3-hour drive away, we know we’ll be back to see more soon!

Thank you Visit Seattle and iExplore.com for sponsoring this post. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: August 18, 2024

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11 amazing museums in seattle washington.

• Don’t want to read? Watch the Video Version
• More Info on Seattle Museum Month
• List of Free Museums in Seattle

More Museums in Seattle

Planning checklist, 1. mopop (formerly emp) →.

325 5th Avenue N Seattle, WA 98109,  map

We nerded out at the Seattle Museum of Pop Culture. It’s a really fun Seattle modern art museum. They have different exhibits with themes like Star Trek, Nirvana, Jimmy Hendrix, Fantasy Worlds, Indie Game Revolution, Science Fiction and more. Each exhibit has memorabilia from some of the most unforgettable pop culture moments and movies.

They also have interactive exhibits like Sound Off!, where you can learn about the different aspects of music and practice playing the guitar, drums, and singing in the sound booth.

Local Tip: Don’t forget to explore the exterior of the building too, which was designed by Frank Gehry. He often looked to music for inspiration. Around the back, there are great photo ops too.

See More: Ultimate Seattle Bucket List

2. The Center for Wooden Boats

1010 Valley St, Seattle, WA 98109,  map

This museum has all things wooden boats. Check out all the different types of boats they have in their collection or even enroll in heritage skills workshops to learn more about the craftsmanship. The highlight, though, happens every Sunday when they take people out for free rides on different boats. Check their site for updated info.

Local Tip: To take advantage of the free ride Sundays, get there early. During the winter, the slots don’t fill up immediately, but during the summer when the weather is nice, there can be lines wrapped around the building as early as 9 AM.

See More: Weekend Trip to Seattle – How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days

3. Chihuly Garden and Glass →

Dale Chihuly is one of the most recognizable names in glass art. If you’ve ever been to the Bellagio in Vegas, then you’re familiar with  his work in the lobby ceiling .

Chihuly is originally from Tacoma, Washington and often has limited time exhibits, but Chihuly Garden and Glass opened at the Seattle Center in 2012 and has no plans on leaving. Each piece is beautifully displayed and they even have demonstrations about the process out of an old converted Airstream. It’s easily one of the best art museums in seattle.

Also, if you’re looking for unique Seattle Art Museum Events, check out the private workshop events.

Local Tip: This place gets busy! Try to arrive as early as possible especially if you’re hoping to get good photos without people in them. The best photo spots come towards the end at the glass house, so we suggest you head there first.

4. Museum of Illusions Seattle

1330 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101,  map

We’ve been to the Museum of Illusions in Las Vegas and NYC , so we were excited to hear about a new Seattle location.

Located in the heart of the city, this museum offers a dynamic array of mind-bending exhibits that challenge perception and ignite curiosity. From rooms that defy gravity to installations that play with light and perspective, every corner invites exploration and interaction.

It’s a great spot for the whole family, whether you’re seeking a unique photo opportunity or a deeper understanding of optical illusions. Get tickets here .

5. Museum of History and Industry (MoHAI)

860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109,  map

The Museum of History and Industry or MOHAI is located right next door to the Center for Wooden Boats. It focuses on regional innovation and imagination. Some of their permanent exhibits include maritime traditions, local innovations, and the Seattle journey. They also have temporary exhibits that rotate.

Local Tip: Admission is free every first Thursday of the month.

6. Seattle Pinball Museum

508 Maynard Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104,  map

It’s always cool to see museums born from someone’s passion. Seattle Pinball Museum was created to share the games with other local collectors. Now, pinball machines fill their space in Chinatown from end to end, some dating back to 1934. There are over 50 games that change regularly, and after paying your entrance fee, you can play to your heart’s content.

Local Tip: There is an age limit here. Kids need to be 7 or older to play games, so keep that in mind if you have little ones. It would be kind of torturous to bring them if they aren’t allowed to play too!

7. Pacific Science Center →

200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109,  map

This is a great museum in Seattle if you have kids! There are currently three main sections and multiple IMAX theaters. There are a ton of hands-on activities to check out and they hold special events for kids, teens, and adults. 

You can buy tickets the way you want them. If you just want to see the exhibits, there is pricing specific for that. Otherwise, they also have deals for the exhibits + an IMAX movie, or just tickets to the IMAX.

Local Tip: During our visit, there were a number of schools taking field trips there, so if you do want to avoid the chaos of hundreds of kids running around, just call in to check if they have any field trips scheduled.

See More: Ultimate PNW Bucket List – Things to Do in the Pacific Northwest

8. Seattle Art Museum →

1300 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101,  map

Better known as SAM, the Seattle Art Museum encompasses SAM, Asian Art Museum, and Olympic Sculpture Park. There is a set of SAM Museum Collections and Installations, and regularly changing guest exhibitions. They also have events held throughout the year that you can join.

Local Tip: First Thursdays of the month are free to all and half-price on special exhibitions. The First Fridays of the month are free to seniors and half-price to special exhibitions.

9. Asian Art Museum

1400 E Prospect St, Seattle, WA 98112,  map

The Asian Art Museum is part of the Seattle Art Museum and has a beautiful space in Volunteer Park, which was actually SAM’s original location. As made obvious by the name, its galleries highlight Asian art and history.

Local Tip: Admission is free every first Thursday and Saturday and second Thursday every month from 5-9 pm. Every first Friday is free to those ages 62 and over.

10. Lemay-America’s Car Museum (Tacoma)

2702 E D St, Tacoma, WA 98421,  map

If you love cars, you have to check out America’s Car Museum. It opened in the summer of 2012 and is America’s largest car museum. You can explore four floors of wall to wall cars or visit during one of their huge car events that fill the outside field with even more spectacular cars. They also change out the exhibits so that if you visit multiple times, you’ll see something new.

Local Tip: If you want to hear more in-depth stories of the cars, they have free public tours every day at 11 AM. Just ask for more details at guest services.

11. Museum of Glass (Tacoma)

1801 Dock St, Tacoma, WA 98402,  map

Dale Chihuly is originally from Tacoma, WA, so it’s only fitting that there is also a Museum of Glass. You can visit the large glass studio and watch artists create these amazing pieces, or walk around and awe at their work. You can see plenty of Chihuly’s work as well as other amazing glass artists. If you want a more hands on experience, check out their workshops.

Local Tip: Admission is free for all every third Thursday of the month from 5-8pm and Sundays for college students with ID.

Bonus: Woodland Park Zoo and Seattle Aquarium

5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103,  map  || 1483 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101,  map

We were surprised to see both of these on the Seattle museums list, but you can consider them living museums. Both are relatively smaller than other city zoos or aquariums, but still a great place to bring the family. The aquarium is especially great when the weather is a bit dicey outside.

Local Tip: If you’re interested in visiting the aquarium, zoo, and multiple Seattle attractions, you can save money by getting  the Seattle CityPASS !

See More: 15 Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle WA

Closed: Living Computers: Museum + Labs

2245 1st Avenue South, Seattle, WA 98134,  map

UPDATE: Unfortunately it looks like this spot is closing permanently .

This was our favorite find! The Living Computers: Museum + Labs has the world’s largest collection of fully restored and usable computers. They have technology from the 60s to the present.

You can spend all afternoon playing the original Oregon Trail or messing around on Windows 95. They also have new technology showcasing virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and self-driving cars.

We could have easily spent all day here. All the new and flashy tech is downstairs, but make your way upstairs to check out all the old school tech! Don’t forget to stop by the cold room. It’s crazy to think that our phones are more powerful than all the systems in this room combined.

Local Tip: Admission is free every first Thursday of the month from 5-8 pm.

Map to Help You Get Around

Seattle Museum Month

February is Museum Month in Seattle! If you stay at any of their participating hotels (which is A LOT of them), you get half-price admission to more than 40 area museums! Check out more details like when the Seattle museums open, their current hours, special exhibits, and more at  Seattle Museum Month . Next time we’re in town, we want to check out more of the art museums in seattle and the SAM museum.

If you’re looking to explore museums on a budget, the Seattle area has a ton of free museums year round. We’ve compiled a list of them for you here:

Free Museums in Seattle

• Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
• Center for Wooden Boats
• Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center
• Frye Art Museum
• Job Carr Cabin Museum
• Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
• Northwest Railway Museum
• Olympic Sculpture Park
• Pacific Bonsai Museum
• Puget Sound Navy Museum
• Shoreline Historical Museum
• Valentinetti Puppet Museum
• Bellevue Arts Museum
• Burke Museum
• Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum
• Fort Nisqually Living History Museum
• Henry Art Gallery
• Kids Discovery Museum (KIDIMU)
• Kitsap County Historical Society & Museum
• National Nordic Museum
• Northwest African American Museum
• Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM) / Asian Art Museum Seattle
• Seattle Children’s Museum
• Suquamish Tribal Museum
• Tacoma Art Museum
• University of Washington Botanic Gardens
• U.S. Naval Undersea Museum
• USS Turner Joy
• W.W. Seymour Conservatory
• Wing Luke Museum: The Asian Pacific American Experience

Do you want to explore outside of the city? These are the best day trips from Seattle , and these are the best weekend getaways from Seattle .

Don’t want to read? Watch the video

Best Places to Stay

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Seattle hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Seattle travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Save money on attractions with CityPass .

More Resources

• Seattle Travel Guide
• Seattle Street Map
• Urban Trails Seattle

What types of museums do you like to explore? Have you been to any of these?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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The 3 Best Naval Museums around Seattle

Are you looking for some great places to explore the history of the U.S. Navy? Check out this 3 amazing sites around Seattle. I believe we all have seen ships of the U.S. Navy in movies and TV shows, like the currently running show “The Last Ship”. If you are into this kind of stuff check out the three places listed below.

Naval Undersea Museum

The Naval Undersea Museum is an official U.S. Navy museum which concentrates around the history and technology of submarines. You can see what role the U.S. Navy plays in exploring the last frontier on our planet. The deep oceans!

• Ocean Environment: Tell you all about life in- and under the sea. Hear the sounds of whales, earthquakes and other undersea phenomena.
• Undersea Weapons Technology:  Learn about torpedos and mines and the history of naval warfare. You even get to see a Mark 48 ADCAP Torpedo, the current standard torpedo carried by the U.S. Navy submarines. See the portion of two starboard torpedo tubes of the USS Tecumseh located inside the torpedo room.
• Submarine Technology:  The highlight in this area of the museum is the control room of the USS Greenling (SSN-614), a Permit-class nuclear fast attack submarine.
• Diving & Salvage:  In this area of the museum you get to see remotely operated vehicles like the CURV III, diving suits, a swimmer delivery vehicle (SDV), used by SEAL teams and a Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV)

Outside, at the parking lot, you will see a couple of this DSRV’s and small rescue submarines. In front of the museum is the sail of the USS Sturgeon (SSN-637), a Sturgeon-class nuclear fast attack submarine. The museum is located right next to the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Keyport. Getting here is a bit tricky if you are visiting Seattle and don’t have a car. However, it is worth the drive if you are interested in that kind of things. Admission and parking are free and the museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM every day, except October through April, where Tuesdays are closed. More info on the website of the museum .

Puget Sound Navy Museum

This museum is located near the Bremerton ferry terminal next to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility. It’s easily reachable by the Seattle-Bremerton ferry and just a short walk from the ferry terminal. Building 50, in which the museum is located, was built in 1896 and served as the first Administrative Headquarters for Shipyard commanders. It was moved three times: first in 1910 when Dry Dock 2 was built, second in the 1930s to Farragut Ave where it served as apprentice classrooms and administrative offices, and third in 2006 to its present location where it serves as a museum. You can’t miss the building neither the sail of the USS Parche ( SSN-683) a Balao-class diesel-electric submarine.

This is an official U.S. Navy museum. You will learn about the history of the nearby shipyard, Special Operations Submarines and about the life aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74). This was my personal highlight – I love aircraft carriers.

Admission here is free as well. Parking is available for free on some of the streets or paid parking near the waterfront. The museum is open from 10 AM to 4 PM every day, except October through April, where Tuesdays are closed.

www.pugetsoundnavymuseum.org

Behind the Museum is the Harborside Fountain Park. A great place for kids to cool down in the summer and to watch the bay.

Not far from here you can see two decommissioned aircraft carriers docked at the shipyard.

Always wanted to explore a destroyer? Head over to the…

USS Turner Joy a U.S. Navy Destroyer

This is by far the greatest museum, because the museum itself is a real war ship, which you can tour on your own and go pretty much everywhere in the ship. All the way down to the engine room and up to the bridge. Pretty much every area of the ship is accessible and you will have to climb some steep ladders up and down to get there. This gives you a real feeling of what life was aboard this ship. You will see the bunk beds of the crew and the captains quarters. You can even climb into one of the gun turrets. This is truly an unforgettable experience. The ship was commissioned on 3. August 1959 and donated as a museum and memorial to the Bremerton Historic Ships Association and berthed at Bremerton, Washington on 10 April 1991. You can find the complete history of the ship on the official website of the museum .

Make sure you bring your camera for an unforgettable experience.

The museum ship is located on the Bremerton waterfront and easily reached by ferry from Seattle. From there it is just a very short walk along the Bremerton waterfront to the ship. Same as for the Puget Sound Navy Museum, parking can be found along the streets or at one of the parking lots near the waterfront.

The ship is open daily from March to October from 10 AM to 5 PM. From November to February the ship is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Check the homepage for special events and for the different admissions they offer . Regular admission is $14 for an adult and as a AAA member, you get $1 off.

Peter has a passion for Traveling, Photography, and Geocaching. These are the best ingredients for amazing adventures all over the globe. “Traveling is fun, no matter if you stay in a luxury hotel or travel like a backpacker.” Peter shares his experiences on his Blog www.gatetoadventures.com Some of Peter’s photos are published on corporate websites, in-flight magazines, travel guides, and much more.

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Labor Day closures

Many facilities and programs will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2 for the Labor Day holiday .  Details on our Parkways blog .

Museums & Attractions

Our park lands are home to a variety of museums, gardens, and attractions. Here's a list of many of these special places, with links to their respective parks and the ways community members can access their services. This page is being updated; more to come!

Center for Wooden Boats

Location: Lake Union Park

The Center for Wooden Boats is a maritime museum and boating education center providing hands-on learning through a variety of boating and sailing programs. 

Admission for the general public is free. The Center offers up to 10 hours a month of noncommercial use for community organizations; scholarships for educational programs for underserved youth; and publicly accessible restrooms.

Location:  Magnuson Park

Earth Runs helps educate the public on the importance of trees and provides information on proper tree placement and native plants. Earth Runs also hosts a monthly fitness run for the community called the Magnuson Series. The running series helps keep our communities healthy and provides opportunities for the public to learn about and participate in restoration events.

In addition to providing low cost, family-friendly monthly running and walking events, Earth Runs does fundraising for local charities, tree plantings, recycling, and education.

The Mountaineers

The Mountaineers is a nonprofit outdoor community of 12,000+ active members in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1906, the Mountaineers have been getting people of all ages outside safely and responsibly for over 100 years. They host hundreds of monthly courses and activities - all led by a coalition of volunteers - to offer ways to get outside and connect with people passionate about the outdoors.

Courses, events, youth programs, and the bookstore are open to the general public. Also, the climbing wall, friction slabs, and basalt columns are open to the general public. School groups and youth-serving agencies can book Mountain Workshops, which offer single or multi-day experiences designed to expose youth to basic outdoor skills. Youth and senior scholarships are available for some programs.  More info  and Mountaineers website

Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI)

Location:  Lake Union Park

The Museum of History and Industry is dedicated to exhibits featuring Seattle's rich history and experience, with a variety of exhibitions and opportunities for learning.

The museum offers free admittance at least one day per month, and kids up to age 14 are free every day (excluding school groups). Also, admission is pay-what-you-can for low-income visitors. Public restrooms and up to 30 hours per month of noncommercial use by South Lake Union community organizations ar also public benefits of MOHAI.

Outdoors for All

Oudoors for All  enriches the lives of individuals with disabilities and families and helps them to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Programming includes snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross country and downhill skiing, cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, youth and adult day camps, yoga, military programs, weekend excursions and custom events.

Outdoors for All offers free adaptive cycle rentals in Magnuson Park during the summer, as well as other adaptive sport programs year round. Financial aid is available on a first come, first-served basis.

Pratt Fine Arts Center

Location:  Pratt Park

Pratt Fine Arts Center offers classes for all skill levels and abilities. It is the only facility in the Northwest where absolute beginners and established professional artists work side-by-side creating art in glass, sculpture, jewelry and metalsmithing, painting, drawing and printmaking.  

Pratt provides scholarships and tuition assistance, sponsored teen classes, and affordable studios with unparalleled state-of-the-art equipment and professional artist instruction to create an environment where students learn, experiment, and create. 

Sail Sand Point

Sail Sand Point's mission is to bring the joy and life-enhancing benefits of sailing and small boats to people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. The nonprofit organization offers learn-to-sail camps and classes, race team coaching, boat storage and more.

Sail Sand Point has a robust outreach program in place, awards thousands of dollars in program scholarships, and is dedicated to incorporating a STEM curriculum into all their youth camps and classes. Sail Sand Point is also developing their adaptive sailing program, where a boater with a physical disability can come sail or paddle any day of the week. The organization offers free community events throughout the summer, camps and classes with scholarships, race teams for students, programs for underserved youth, open boating to qualified boaters, and boat storage. 

Sand Point Arts and Cultural Exchange (SPACE)

Sand Point Arts and Cultural Exchange ( SPACE ) funds, facilitates and promotes arts and cultural uses of Warren G. Magnuson Park for the public, serving diverse audiences and forging regional collaborations. SPACE's priority is to build community by connecting the park's many stakeholders and visitors through creative and community-based programming. 

SPACE aims to serve all communities and has served youth, elderly, deaf, veterans, LGBTQ, low income, and people of all ethnic backgrounds and nationalities, including immigrants. Has a public art gallery, and a radio station. 

Seattle Aquarium

Location: between  Piers 62 & 63 and Waterfront Park

The Seattle Aquarium is the region's premier resource for hands-on marine experiences and conservation education. offering fun, exciting ways to discover more about the amazing Puget Sound and our world's one big ocean. 

The Aquarium provides complimentary admission tickets through community partner organizations, including the Seattle Public Library, and scholarships for youth marine camps in the summer.

Seattle Art Museum Olympic Sculpture Park

Location: next to Myrtle Edwards Park

The  Olympic Sculpture Park houses a collection of renowned outdoor sculptures, an indoor cafe, guided tours, and breathtaking view of Puget Sound.  Open and FREE to the public 365 days a year! The park and pavilion strive to be accessible to all visitors, with a variety of supports in place for those who need them. 

Seattle Asian Art Museum

Location:  Volunteer Park

The Seattle Asian Art Museum collection features artwork from Asian countries and artists.  The museum recently re-opened after being closed for renovation and expansion in February 2020. 

Seattle Chinese Garden

Location: West Duwamish Greenbelt

The Seattle Chinese Garden is a Seattle Parks and Recreation partner that offers free public access to a lush, beautiful garden within West Seattle. The garden is a traditional Sichuan-style Chinese garden, the only one of its kind outside China, that celebrates Seattle's rich Chinese heritage. 

Admission is free. 

Seattle Japanese Garden

Location: Washington Park Arboretum

The Seattle Japanese Garden is managed jointly by Seattle Parks and Recreation and the Arboretum Foundation. The garden features winding paths through sculpted landscapes evocative of traditional Japanese designs.

Seward Park Audubon Center

Location: Seward Park

The Seward Park Audubon Center is an Enviromental Learning Center run by the Audubon Society. They offer a variety of exciting programming that inspires diverse audiences to protect birds and their habitat.

The Center offers free teen leadership conservation programs, scholarships for its summer camps, and school partnerships and programs to support the communal development of our future environmental stewards.

Thistle Theatre

Location:  Magnuson Park  and others

Enjoy the magic of puppetry at Thistle Theatre , located in Magnuson Park, Sunset Hill Community Club, and BYT Crossroads. Thistle Theatre is a non-profit performance arts company that specializes in Tabletop Bunraku puppetry, a variation of a Japanese performance art form that dates back to the 17th century. Community members of all ages are invited to experience colorful stories come alive as Thistle Theatre puppeteers share their heart and their art in unforgettable performances.

Thistle Theatre offers school group discounts, field trip programming and affordable puppetry workshops.

Volunteer Park Conservatory

Location: Volunteer Park

The Volunteer Park Conservatory  is a botanical garden with a multi-room display of cacti, tropical plants, orchids, and other species. Its mission is to advocate and encourage preservation, public participation, and education with respect to the Volunteer Park Conservatory and its plant collection. 

Friends of the Conservatory (FOC), a 501(c)(3) non-profit, plays an integral part in stewarding visitors, providing outreach and education though docent-led tours, plant sales, special events, and interpretative classes for adults and school children, as well as an "Urban Safari" summer camp for grade school youth.

Washington Park Arboretum

Location:  Washington Park Arboretum

The  Washington Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a 230-acre park full of interesting gardens and rare plant species. The arboretum is co-managed by Seattle Parks and Recreation and the Arboretum Foundation , as well as the University of Washington . 

The Arboretum is free (as it is a city park) and offers a small visitors center with restrooms, miles of trails, classes, tours, events, and venue rental. 

Woodland Park Lawn Bowling Club

Location: Woodland Park

Woodland Park Lawn Bowling Club (WPLBC) is located on a beautiful, green hillside with views of Green Lake, the WPLBC facility includes two large putting-surface quality greens, four regulation bocce courts, and a clubhouse. It is committed to sharing the fun of Bocce, Croquet, and Lawn Bowling with all members of the community.

As part of their commitment, WPLBC hosts open hours for non-members and offers free lessons to low-income youth.

Woodland Park Zoo

Location:  Woodland Park

The 92-acre  Woodland Park Zoo features extensive exhibits with a huge variety of animal species. The zoo's mission is to save wildlife and inspire everyone to make conservation a priority in their lives. It is a recipient of multiple Best National Exhibit awards from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

The zoo works with community partners to provide free tickets for individuals and families in need. It also offers discounts to members of the military, those with disabilities, Foster and Kinship Families and Recipients of EBT/Washington Quest or WIC Assistance.

Parks and Recreation

AP Diaz, Superintendent Mailing Address: 100 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109 Phone: (206) 684-4075 Fax: (206) 615-1813 Email: [email protected]

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Museums on Us: Presented by Bank of America

Sep 7–8 2024.

10 am–5 pm

Seattle Asian Art Museum, Seattle Art Museum

Entire building.

The Seattle Art Museum is a partner of <a href=" http://museums.bankofamerica.com " target=_blank">Museums On Us (MOU), Bank of America's nationwide program that provides greater access to museums, zoos, science centers, and other cultural institutions.

SAM is one of over 150 participants who offer free admission to Bank of America®, Merrill®, and Bank of America Private Bank® cardholders on the first full weekend (consecutive Saturday and Sunday) of every month.

Program Rules

• Each Bank of America cardholder is allowed one free ticket on any eligible MOU day to SAM’s permanent collection and special exhibitions.
• Admission is non-transferable and for the cardholder only.
• Photo ID is required along with the card.
• Free admission does not guarantee reservations or availability.
• Cardholders must acknowledge the promotion at the time of purchase to receive the discount (no refunds).

To ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience art, SAM offers monthly free days and various discounts for visiting our locations.

What’s on at Seattle Asian Art Museum, Seattle Art Museum

Exhibition Tour: Poke in the Eye

Aug 31 2024

1:15–2:15 pm

SAM Gallery Presents: Splash!

Aug 7–Sep 2 2024

Free First Thursday

SAM Gallery Opening Reception: Spirit Echoes

2–4 pm

Saturday University: “What Does This All Have to Do with Coconuts & Rice?”

Sep 14 2024

10–11:30 am

Chanoyu: Tea Culture of Japan Demonstration

3–4 pm

Up Close with Conservators: Tanya Uyeda

Sep 18 2024

6–7:30 pm

Sep 21 2024

2–3 pm

SAM Open House: Meot

Sep 27 2024

6–9 pm

SAM Gallery Presents: Spirit Echoes

Sep 4–29 2024

Family Saturdays Presented by PNC Bank

11 am–2 pm

SAM Gallery Opening Reception: Beyond

Up Close with Conservators: Nicholas Dorman

Fall Educator Workshop | Shaping History: Korean Ceramics as Cultural Heritage

Oct 11 2024

10:30 am–4 pm

Saturday University: Resonance of Silk and Bamboo

Oct 12 2024

Member Preview & Happy Hour: Joyce J. Scott

Oct 16 2024

12–8 pm

Premier Member Reception: Joyce J. Scott

Oct 17 2024

SAM Open House: Joyce J. Scott

Oct 18 2024

6–8 pm

Diwali Ball

Oct 26 2024

7–11:59 pm

SAM Talks: Asia Society Seattle Series

Oct 29 2024

5:30–7:30 pm

Día de los Muertos Community Celebration

6–9:30 pm

SAM Gallery Presents: Beyond

Oct 2–Nov 3 2024

Saturday University: Discovering Bhutan

Diwali Family Festival Presented by PNC Bank

11:30 am–2:30 pm

Up Close with Conservators: Geneva Griswold

Nov 13 2024

SAM Gallery Opening Reception: Polarity

Nov 16 2024

SAM Gallery Presents: Polarity

Nov 6–Dec 1 2024

SAM Gallery Opening Reception: Invitation to Collect

Saturday University: Silk Road Environmentalism and the Arts

Dec 14 2024

SAM Gallery Presents: Invitation to Collect

Dec 4–29 2024

Lunar New Year Family Festival Presented by PNC Bank

Saturday University: Mexican “Muralismo” in Contemporary Japanese Arts and Literature

Feb 20 2025

Saturday University: Plumage and Power, Decadence and Decay

Saturday University: Performing Identity in Contemporary Art of Mongolia

Apr 12 2025

Saturday University: Paper Reliquaries

May 10 2025

May 15 2025

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