The National Nordic Museum, nestled in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle, serves as a testament to Nordic history, art, culture, and the heritage of the area's Nordic immigrants. Founded in 1980, the museum has undergone several transformations, moving into a purpose-built facility in 2018 and gaining national designation in 2019. The museum's mission is to share Nordic culture with people of all ages and backgrounds, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in Nordic heritage.
The National Nordic Museum offers a comprehensive look at the entire Nordic region. This includes Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Estonia, and the regions of the Faroe Islands, Greenland, and Åland. Additionally, the museum also covers the cultural region of Sápmi. This broad coverage allows visitors to gain a deep understanding of the diverse cultures, histories, and traditions of these Nordic regions.
The museum's permanent exhibit, 'Nordic Journeys', is a comprehensive exploration of Nordic history and culture. Spread over five galleries, the exhibit includes artifacts from the museum's permanent collection and over 100 objects on extended loan from other museums in the U.S. and national museums of the five Nordic countries. The exhibit ranges from 4,000-year-old stone axes and Viking-era artifacts to examples of modern Nordic design, offering a rich and diverse insight into Nordic history and culture.
History & Anthropology Archaeology Ethnology Modern art Medieval art & Early Renaissance art Renaissance art & Early modern art
#25 History & Anthropology in Washington state #2 Archaeology museums in Washington state #5 Ethnology museums in Washington state #3 Modern art museums in Washington state #8 History & Anthropology in Seattle #4 Ethnology museums in Seattle #3 Modern art museums in Seattle #172 Archaeology museums in United States #38 Medieval art & Early Renaissance art museums in United States #64 Renaissance art & Early modern art museums in United States
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 20:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Northwest Market Street 2655, Seattle
No exhibitions in National Nordic Museum have been found.
National Nordic Museum has 1 rating.
The National Nordic Museum in Seattle offers visitors a comprehensive look at Nordic culture and history. Many reviewers appreciate the museum's modern and well-designed exhibits, which cover topics from Viking history to contemporary Nordic art and design. The museum's architecture itself, with its clean lines and light-filled spaces, receives praise for reflecting Nordic aesthetic principles.
Visitors often highlight the interactive elements and multimedia displays, which help bring the exhibits to life and engage visitors of all ages. The museum's coverage of immigration history, particularly the Nordic influence in the Pacific Northwest, is frequently mentioned as informative and moving.
The temporary exhibitions are noted for their quality and diversity, keeping the museum experience fresh for repeat visitors. Many reviewers also commend the knowledgeable staff and docents who enhance the visit with their insights.
The museum shop and cafe receive positive mentions, with the cafe offering authentic Nordic cuisine that many find to be a delightful extension of the cultural experience.
On the downside, some visitors find the admission price a bit high, especially for families. A few reviewers mention that certain areas of the museum can feel a bit text-heavy, which might be challenging for younger visitors or those preferring more visual experiences.
Overall, the National Nordic Museum is highly regarded for its educational value, engaging exhibits, and its role in preserving and showcasing Nordic heritage in America.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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