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  • The Negro Motorist Green Book 1
    Exhibition

    The Negro Motorist Green Book

    From the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service
    MORE DETAILS
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    Grant

    Diversity in Local History

    Applications Open
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  • Hands-On History
    Youth & Families

    Hands-on History

    Family Activities
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  • Cover Washington 11
    Exhibition

    All the Sacrifices You’ve Made

    Todos los Sacrificios Que has Hecho
    MORE DETAILS

Explore Washington History Today

The Washington State Historical Society partners with our communities to explore how history connects us all.

The Washington State Historical Society is headquartered in Tacoma on the traditional lands of the Puyallup People who have stewarded this land throughout the generations. We pay respect to their elders past and present.

Museum Location
1911 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98402

Directions / Parking / Transit

HOURS & ADMISSION

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Upcoming Events

Family Saturdays 1

Family Saturdays

Every Saturday through June 2022, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Families can participate in themed, self-guided activities at the History Museum every Saturday of the month! Each month will feature a different focus that lets you do the work of history, collaboratively! We’ll provide a handout with prompts and ideas; you bring your family, curiosity, and time to explore!
“Don't Forget Your Lunch”

“Don’t Forget Your Lunch”

Jun 4, 12:00pm - 3:00pm
The history of The Green Book is shared at Wa Na Wari as their artist in residence Perri Rhoden leads you through making an embellished shoebox lunch container.

IN THE SPIRIT

Jun 16, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
See the incredible art submitted by contemporary Native artists for this juried exhibition. Meet some of the artists and jurors at the Artist Awards, presented on opening night.
visitors in gallery McNeil
Washington State History Museum

Find out more about the History Museum

Take a look at our upcoming exhibitions and events.

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Research Center and Statewide Resources

More than a museum - WSHS supports research and heritage orgs across Washington

Learn more about the Washington State Historical Society, our mission and vision, the Research Center, Heritage Capital Project program, heritage outreach, opportunities for philanthropy, and more.

About WSHS

Featured Collections

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Asahel Curtis Photographs

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Main Street, Washington

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Washington Apples

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Washington's Winter Pastimes

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Testimonials
  • This museum was very informative and also interactive. The exhibit on immigration and the concentration camps for Americans of Japanese ancestry were very enlightening. There were sanitizers in a lot of areas. It took us 2 hours to go around the permanent and temporary exhibits.
    - Andrew E. (Google Review)
  • A nice museum to learn about the history of Washington state. I particularly liked the Natural History section that described the geological history of this place. It was interesting to learn about facts like the dry falls etc. They also have a working rail network model on display that’s fun to watch.
    - Meenakshi B (Google Review)
  • "Exhibits are put together very well. The section outlining the geological history of the area is accessible to all ages and interest levels. The train display upstairs has the most intricate detail and features. The exhibit on the Japanese in the US during WWII was very informative, as I had only ever heard limited pieces of the story beforehand. All the other exhibits have their own merits as well, too many to list here."
    - Leslie J (Google Review)
  • "I highly recommend going to Washington State History Museum to fill your mind with knowledge from the past to the present! Thankful to have a priceless treasure in Tacoma, Washington!"
    - Zhalena M (Facebook Review)
  • "This is a beautiful museum that is located in an area with stunning views of the bay and Mt Rainer. Lots of great local restaurants in walking distance makes for an easy day out."
    - Jim's Opinion (Google Reviews)
  • "Very well-rounded exhibits, and very inclusive as far as categories. The kids enjoyed it as well...."
    - Julia (Google Reviews)
  • "Always a great experience no matter what exhibit is showing. Their staff are always coordinated and friendly as well."
    - Alexander (Google Review)