Visiting or just looking for things to do in the PNW? Visiting one of these museums is the perfect way to spend your time in the Pacific Northwest. Check out our top 10 list of Oregon and Washington museums to check out.
1. WAAAM Antique Aeroplane and Automotive Museum
Location: Hood River, OR
If you love classic cars, airplanes, and motorcycles, The WAAM Antique Aeroplane and Automotive Museum is the best place for you to explore. Located in Hood River, this Oregon museum has one of the largest collections of aeroplanes and automobiles that are still functional. You can see them in action at one of their events such as Second Saturday, Traffic Jam, Fly-In, and more.
2. Deepwood Museum & Gardens
Location: Salem, OR
Experience the Heart of Historic Salem by visiting the Deepwood Museum and Gardens. Open to the public year round, you can explore this Victorian house surrounded by five acres with formal gardens, nature trails, a greenhouse, and its original carriage house. Deepwood also offers events throughout the year that are appropriate for all ages.
3. Seattle Art Museum
Location: Seattle, WA
If you are looking for weekend plans, you must schedule a tour at the Seattle Art Museum. The SAM has collected over 25,000 pieces of art from around the world. If you are looking for a calming place to spend your time, this is the place to tour.
4. LeMay America’s Car Museum
Location: Tacoma, WA
Are you a car enthusiast? The LeMay America’s Car Museum is the place to visit during your time in Tacoma. Visitors will get the chance to view the majority of their collection which includes 100 years of 250 different models of cars. This museum also includes events with activities for kids such as the Family Steam Days where they will learn everything to know about cars.
5. Bing Crosby Museum House
Location: Spokane, WA
If you are a Bing Crosby fan, you need to check this museum out. Inside The Bing Crosby Museum House, you will be able to see a collection of Bing Crosby’s items including records, awards, in his original childhood home. The college he attended, Gonzaga University, houses this property and has made it free to the public to view.
6. Museum of Pop Culture
Location: Seattle, WA
Explore these iconic collections of history in Seattle at the Museum of Pop Culture. From hip-hop, to grunge, to science fiction, you will walk out of this museum inspired and connected. They offer tours of all kinds, including ones with a variety of activities for kids. You can’t miss this attraction while you’re in Seattle.
7. Pittock Mansion
Location: Portland, OR
Want to visit a museum that offers a historic educational experience? Check out the Pittock Mansion that takes you through multiple exhibits such as The Permanent Collection that includes classic furnishings from the 20th-century. This mansion holds a lot of stories, and is a great place for history enthusiasts.
8. Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
Location: McMinnville, OR
Filled with space machinery and different types of aircraft, the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum will have you amazed. You will be able to view historical aircraft such as the 1947 Spruce Goose that also functions as a boat, the Titan II missile, and more. You can also take a ride on their flight simulator, and experience what it's like to be a pilot.
9. The Museum of Flight
Location: Seattle, WA
If you are looking for a way to visit space, you can visit the Museum of Flight in Seattle. They offer a VR experience that will make you feel like you are on the moon. They also offer other attractions such as family workshops, aircraft tours, and more.
10. Chihuly Garden and Glass
Location: Seattle, WA
With captivating glass art pieces created by Dale Chihuly, the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is an experience you will never forget. After you explore the Glasshouse and Garden, you can stop by their cafe for a fun, enjoyable lunch.
As you’re planning your museum experience, check out Cutter and Buck new arrivals, so that you can be comfortable all day long.
