All open air museums to visit in Washington state

Experience history come to life at open-air museums in Washington state. These museums feature historical buildings, reenactments, and interactive exhibits in an outdoor setting.

Are you interested in experiencing history firsthand? These are the best open air museums in Washington state:

  1. Admiralty Head Lighthouse1

    Admiralty Head Lighthouse

     Coupeville, WA
    The Admiralty Head Lighthouse is a significant landmark located on Whidbey Island. This island is situated to the east of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and to the north of Puget Sound. It is part of Island County in the state of Washington, USA. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and learn about the region's maritime history.
  2. Fort Simcoe Historical State Park2

    Fort Simcoe Historical State Park

     White Swan, WA
    Today, the site and its remaining buildings are preserved as the Fort Simcoe Historical State Park. The park is situated eight miles west of modern White Swan, Washington, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains and near the base of the Simcoe Mountains. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the historical site while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
  3. Fort Nisqually Living History Museum3

    Fort Nisqually Living History Museum

     Tacoma, WA
    Fort Nisqually was a strategic fort used by the Hudson's Bay Company for fur trade. It was established in 1833 and was the first European fur trading post in the Puget Sound area. The fort was primarily involved in the collection and resale of beaver furs. It was also active in the production of seeds for local consumption and export.
  4. Olmstead Place Historical State Park4

    Olmstead Place Historical State Park

     Ellensburg, WA
    Olmstead Place State Park is a significant historical site in Washington, spanning 217 acres. It is unique in that it preserves a working pioneer farm, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past. Located in Kittitas County, the park offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of the area.
  5. Monarch Sculpture Park5

    Monarch Sculpture Park

     Tenino, WA
    The Monarch Contemporary Art Center and Sculpture Park is an outdoor art gallery situated along the Chehalis Western Trail near Tenino, in southern Thurston County, Washington. This unique location offers visitors the opportunity to experience art in a natural setting, surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest landscape.
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    Fort Walla Walla Museum

     Walla Walla, WA
    Fort Walla Walla is a historic United States Army fort located in Walla Walla, Washington. The fort was first established in July 1856 by Lieutenant Colonel Edward Steptoe of the 9th Infantry Regiment. The fort has a rich history, having been occupied and rebuilt several times over the years. Today, it serves as a museum and a park, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
  7. Pomeroy Farm7

    Pomeroy Farm

     Yacolt, WA
    The Pomeroy Living History Farm is a unique destination that offers a glimpse into the past. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit farm museum, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This recognition underscores the farm's historical significance and its commitment to preserving and sharing this piece of American history.
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    Camlann Medieval Village

     Carnation, WA
    Camlann Medieval Village, located in Carnation, Washington, is a unique living history museum that takes you back to rural life in England in 1376. This immersive experience is run by the Camlann Medieval Association, a nonprofit educational corporation. The village offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to explore the buildings and interact with volunteers who play the part of villagers going about their daily tasks.