7 Great Children's Museums for Northwest Families

Metropolitan Market grocery store exhibit at Seattle Children's Museum

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Grocery store play exhibit at Seatle Children's Museum. Photo courtesy Seattle Children's Museum

Seattle Children’s Museum: cultural center

Why go: If you haven’t recently stopped by Seattle Children’s Museum, located in the lower level of the Seattle Center Armory, it’s time for another look. The museum has been busy updating exhibits and adding cultural programming. The Mountain has been refurbished (with new critters and information), the theater has been fully renovated (new sound effects); and the Dunn Lumber exhibit boasts new building equipment and materials. In the museum's Global Village exhibit, kids can learn about and play with elements of cultures from around the world. Longtime favorites, such as Fort Adventure and Cog City, are still holding strong. A kids’ cooking program is offered regularly in the Imagination Studio.

Good to know: The museum has long been on the forefront of cultural programming; look for pop-up activities every month at the museum related to a certain culture, particularly indigenous cultures.

Fees and discounts: Admission is $11–$12; membership starts at $95 for one adult and child. The last hour of the day (4–5 p.m.), get in for $5.

Nearby fun: Seattle Center, y’all. Beyond the usual suspects (Pacific Science Center, MoPop), try the P-Patch that’s located on top of the Mercer Street garage. “It’s a completely different feel and a break at Seattle Center,” says Amy Hale, past director of education at Seattle Children’s Museum.

Info: Go to the Seattle Children's Museum's website for hours and more details; find the museum at 305 Harrison St. in Seattle.