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Seattle, Washington / Museums

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Seattle's premier history museum, housed in a historic Naval Reserve Armory, showcasing nearly four million artifacts from the Puget Sound region.

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Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)
mohai.org, website_hero_img_mohai.org

What is the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) known for?

MOHAI is the largest private heritage organization in Washington state, featuring nearly four million artifacts, photographs, and archival materials that focus on Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region.

What are the hours?

The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with extended hours until 8pm every Thursday.

Is it free?

Admission is free for everyone on the first Thursday of every month. Additionally, low-income visitors can use a pay-what-you-can admission option.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, children 14 and under are free every day with the purchase of an adult chaperone ticket ($22), though this excludes school groups.

Where is it located?

MOHAI is located at Lake Union Park at the southern tip of Lake Union in the South Lake Union neighborhood of Seattle.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Museum of History & Industry, known as MOHAI, is the largest private heritage organization in Washington state. It maintains a massive collection of nearly four million artifacts, photographs, and archival materials that focus on the development of Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region. This Smithsonian affiliate is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, ensuring a high standard of curation. Located at the southern tip of Lake Union, the museum is housed in the historic Naval Reserve Armory Building. This 50,000-square-foot space was constructed as a Works Progress Administration project in 1942 and served as a site for advanced naval training during World War II. The building's industrial architecture reflects the city's military and labor history. MOHAI moved to this current location in 2012 after its original building in Montlake was demolished to make way for the 520 freeway expansion. The museum now sits within Lake Union Park, providing a scenic backdrop to the explored history of the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can explore the intersection of industry, innovation, and the people who built the city.

Visitor tips

  • Visit on the first Thursday of every month for free admission to everyone.
  • Children 14 and under enter for free every day with the purchase of an adult chaperone ticket costing $22.
  • If you are a low-income visitor, ask about pay-what-you-can admission options.
  • Plan your visit for a Thursday if you want more time, as the museum stays open until 8pm.

Nearby context

The museum is situated in the South Lake Union neighborhood, specifically within Lake Union Park, placing it at the water's edge of one of Seattle's most active waterways.

Sources

Evidence and links