All person & artist museums to visit in Washington state

Explore the lives and works of notable individuals at 15 museums in Washington state dedicated to specific persons and artists. These museums offer a deep dive into their contributions and legacy.

Are you curious about the lives of remarkable individuals? Here are the top person and artist museums in Washington state:

  1. Seattle Art Museum1

    Seattle Art Museum

     Seattle, WA
    The Seattle Art Museum's collection began with 1926 artworks and has since grown to approximately 23,000 works through acquisitions and donations. The collection spans a wide range of periods, from antiquity to the present, and includes artworks from Europe, America, Asia, Africa, Australia, and Oceania. It features paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, and other craft objects.
  2. Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center2

    Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Visitor Center

     Seattle, WA
    The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, also known as B&MGF or Gates Foundation, is a private foundation established by Bill Gates and Melinda Gates. It is headquartered in the city of Seattle, Washington. The foundation was initially created as the William H. Gates Foundation in 1994 and was later renamed as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in 1999.
  3. Frye Art Museum3

    Frye Art Museum

     Seattle, WA
    The Frye Art Museum, situated in the First Hill neighborhood of Seattle, Washington, is a modern and contemporary art museum. It was established in 1952 to display the art collection of Charles and Emma Frye. The museum has since expanded to include rotating temporary exhibitions of emerging and contemporary artists, emphasizing painting and sculpture from the nineteenth century to the present.
  4. Wing Luke Asian Museum4

    Wing Luke Asian Museum

     Seattle, WA
    The Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience, located in Seattle, Washington, is a history museum that emphasizes the culture, art, and history of Asian Pacific Americans. This unique institution provides a comprehensive look into the rich and diverse heritage of Asian Pacific Americans, making it a valuable destination for those interested in understanding and appreciating this significant aspect of American history and culture.
  5. Forks Timber Museum5

    Forks Timber Museum

     Forks, WA
    The Forks Timber Museum, built in 1990 by the Forks Carpentry School class, provides a unique insight into the local history of the timber industry. The museum showcases the tools used by past loggers, offering visitors a chance to understand the workings of the industry. The exhibits represent a history dating back to the 1870s, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the history of the timber industry.
  6. Henry Art Gallery6

    Henry Art Gallery

     Seattle, WA
    The Henry Art Gallery, situated on the University of Washington campus in Seattle, Washington, is a contemporary art museum. It is conveniently located on the west edge of the university's campus along 15th Avenue N.E. in the University District, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum offers a unique blend of contemporary art and history of photography, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts.
  7. Sacajawea Historical State Park7

    Sacajawea Historical State Park

     Pasco, WA
    Sacajawea State Park is a significant recreational and historical preservation area located in Pasco, Washington. The park spans an impressive 267 acres at the confluence of the Snake River and the Columbia River. This location is not only scenic but also historically significant, as it was a resting place for the Lewis and Clark Expedition on October 16, 1805.
  8. Wing Luke Museum8

    Wing Luke Museum

     Seattle, WA
    The Wing Luke Museum, located in Seattle, Washington, is a unique institution that concentrates on the culture, art, and history of Asian Pacific Americans. As the only pan-Asian Pacific American community-based museum in the country, it offers a unique perspective on the diverse experiences and contributions of these communities in the United States.
  9. Washington State History Museum9

    Washington State History Museum

     Tacoma, WA
    The Washington State History Museum is a significant historical institution located in the heart of downtown Tacoma, Washington. It is managed and operated by the Washington State Historical Society, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of the state. The museum is easily accessible and offers a wealth of information and exhibits for visitors interested in learning about the history of Washington State.
  10. Meeker Mansion10

    Meeker Mansion

     Puyallup, WA
    The Meeker Mansion Museum is a historic house located in Puyallup, Washington, United States. This house was once the residence of Ezra Meeker, a pioneer of the Oregon Trail. The mansion is a significant part of the city's history and offers a glimpse into the life of one of its most notable residents.
  11. The Rothschild House11

    The Rothschild House

     Port Townsend, WA
    The Rothschild House, located in Port Townsend, Washington, is a historic site that dates back to 1868. It was constructed by David Charles Henry Rothschild, a Bavarian immigrant who later became known as 'The Baron'. This house stands as a testament to the life and times of Rothschild, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
  12. Northwest African American Museum12

    Northwest African American Museum

     Seattle, WA
    The Northwest African American Museum (NAAM) is situated in the Central District neighborhood of Seattle, Washington, an area with a rich African-American history. The museum is housed in the former Colman School, a building that holds the status of a City of Seattle landmark. This location not only provides a unique setting for the museum but also adds to the historical significance of the exhibits and programs it offers.
  13. Tacoma Art Museum13

    Tacoma Art Museum

     Tacoma, WA
    The Tacoma Art Museum, also known as TAM, is located in Tacoma, Washington, United States. The museum's primary focus is on the art and artists from the Pacific Northwest and the broader western region of the U.S. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in exploring the rich artistic heritage of these regions.
  14. Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture14

    Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture

     Spokane, WA
    In addition to its main museum, the MAC also owns and provides tours of the nearby Campbell House. This house, designed by architect Kirtland Cutter in 1898, is included on the National Register of Historic Places listings in Spokane County, Washington. A visit to the Campbell House offers a glimpse into the past and complements the museum experience.
  15. 15

    The Vintage Antique Motorcycle Museum

     Chehalis, WA
    The Vintage Motorcycle Museum, located in Chehalis, Washington, operates on an appointment-only basis. This means that visitors are required to schedule their visit in advance. This unique approach ensures a personalized and intimate experience for each visitor, allowing them to fully appreciate the museum's collection.