The Washington State Historical Society Museums & Exhibits, Tacoma

Washington State Historical Society, based in Tacoma, serves as the gateway to understanding Washington's dynamic past through engaging exhibits, educational programs, and a network of top-tier museums located within the vibrant Tacoma Museum District.

Recommended For

History Buffs: Dive into Washington’s rich past from Indigenous cultures to industrial innovation.
Families & Educators: Enjoy kid-friendly exhibits and educational programming across several museums.
Art & Culture Enthusiasts: Explore regional creativity at the Tacoma Art Museum and Museum of Glass.
Auto & Maritime Fans: Tour one-of-a-kind collections at LeMay – America’s Car Museum and Foss Waterway Seaport.

Highlights

Washington State History Museum: Interactive timelines, dioramas, and rotating exhibits that tell the story of the Evergreen State.
Tacoma Art Museum: A stunning collection of Northwest art and rotating exhibits featuring regional and national artists.
LeMay – America’s Car Museum: One of the largest auto museums in North America, with vintage cars and automotive history.
Museum of Glass: Watch live glassblowing demos and explore modern glass art exhibits inspired by Dale Chihuly.
Foss Waterway Seaport: Discover Tacoma’s maritime heritage with hands-on boat-building and historical exhibits.
Green Tricycle Children’s Museum: A playful, interactive learning environment tailored to young explorers.

Visitor Tips

Purchase a museum district pass for discounted access to multiple museums in one day.
Allow at least a full day to experience the entire district—it’s walkable and packed with attractions.
Check for special exhibits and family days at the Washington State History Museum before visiting.
Many museums offer free or discounted admission on select days—check their websites for details.

Local Vibe

The Tacoma Museum District blends the best of education and entertainment, offering a walkable cultural hub with something for every interest—from glass art to maritime history to vintage cars. The Washington State Historical Society anchors this network, connecting Washington’s past to its future through thoughtful exhibits and statewide outreach.

Location

Address: Tacoma Museum District, Tacoma, WA
Washington State History Museum Website

Phone: 1-888-238-4373