THE HISTORY MUSEUM HAS RE-OPENED! Tues-Sun, 10 AM-5 PM. The Research Center remains temporarily closed. 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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Current Exhibitions

The Not-So-Ordinary Bicycle

The Not-So-Ordinary Bicycle

Feb 1 - Jan 17 2021
See a pair of historic bicycles and other cycling material from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, wheeled out from the Historical Society’s collections.
Northwest Collage Society Spring Show 2020

NW Collage Society: Suffrage Celebration Show

Oct 2 - Jan 17 2021
These collages celebrate historic and current women changemakers in Washington, while also highlighting Washington State's role in the national suffrage movement.
Votes for Women 4

Votes for Women

Oct 24 - Jan 17 2021
The Votes for Women: 100 Years and Counting is an intriguing look at the history of the women’s suffrage movement. Who were the Washington women that fought for voting rights? How did they sway national progress toward the 19th Amendment?
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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

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)