Washington State History Museum will re-open on April 2, 2021. Hours will be Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. Every Third Thursday the museum will be open 10:00 AM-8:00 PM with free admission 3:00-8:00 PM. Close
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Explore Washington History Today

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

Museum Location
1911 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98402

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Upcoming Events

Cooper

COOPER

May 13, 7:00pm - 9:30pm
History After Hours virtual event: COOPER! Alive or deceased? Disgruntled or ingenious? Folk hero or terrorist? This ages 21+ program explores the layers of myth and mystery surrounding the 1971 hijacking of Northwest Orient Flight 305 and the enigmatic figure at that story’s center, D.B. Cooper. See material released by the FBI and hear harrowing first-hand accounts of crisis decision making from that flight. Learn how to make Cooper’s favorite mixed drink, review 1970s fashions, and decide if you think a human could survive a mid-flight jettison from a Boeing 727.
South Puget Sound Japanese American Day of Remembrance

South Sound Japanese American Day of Remembrance

May 20, 5:00pm - 6:45pm
Join us online to see a performance of Never again: The story of the Japanese American incarceration, presented by Dukesbay Productions. This play features a collection of first-person stories of people who were forced into incarceration camps during World War II. Over the course of several scenes, five actors will bring this powerful history to life.
Japanese American Day of Remembrance

South Sound Day of Remembrance

May 20, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Join us for a panel discussion about the history and meaning of U.S. government surveillance of Japanese Americans and World War II incarceration, in relationship to contemporary issues of anti-Asian violence, immigration and labor, private detention centers, and border patrol. Informed by history, we will address relevant questions about democracy and civil liberties, neoliberal policies, citizenship, and American identity.
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Washington State History Museum

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Take a look at our upcoming exhibitions and events.

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Research Center

More than a museum - WSHS is a statewide resource

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
  • "Excellent regional museum. We go most years around the holidays to see the model railroad exhibits. Always something new to see and learn."
    - Rich Traulsen
  • "I will never forget this wonderful adventure through the history of Washington, and I hope I have an opportunity to visit the museum again."
    - Josh, 7th grader
  • "Outstanding museum! Awesome displays and lots of interactive displays. Great family destination, good value for the entertainment dollars and you might learn a thing or two."
    - Kevin Carlton
  • "This is an awesome Museum. It takes you through the history of Washington State. The geological, historical, cultural, art, science and technological journey across different time frames. The museum is located in the downtown Tacoma easily accessible via public transit. If you are driving, the parking is spacious...The museum is really worth visiting."
    - Prashant KC
  • "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)