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Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience

The only community-based pan-Asian Pacific American museum in the US, this Smithsonian affiliate explores stories of survival and success within a historic 1910 building in Seattle's Chinatown-International District.

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Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience
www.wingluke.org, og_image_www.wingluke.org

What is the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience known for?

It is the only community-based pan-Asian art and history museum in the United States, focusing on the stories, culture, and history of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.

What are the hours?

Regular visitor hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. From May through October 2026, the museum offers extended evening hours from 5–8 PM on First Thursdays.

How much does it cost to visit?

Adults pay $24.95, seniors (62+) pay $21.95, students pay $17.95, and children ages 5-12 pay $14.95. Admission is free for museum members and children under 5.

Is it free?

Admission is free for museum members and children under 5. Additionally, general admission is free on First Thursdays from May through October 2026 during extended evening hours (5–8 PM).

What is included with admission?

Admission includes access to gallery exhibitions and a guided tour of a historic Chinatown hotel where immigrants once found refuge.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

Founded in 1967, the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience serves as a vital cultural anchor in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District. As a Smithsonian affiliate, it distinguishes itself as the only community-based museum in the United States dedicated exclusively to pan-Asian Pacific American history, focusing on the art and culture of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. The museum is housed in the East Kong Yick Building, a historic structure constructed in 1910 by Chinese immigrants. This architectural landmark provides a poignant backdrop for the museum's mission to immerse visitors in uniquely-American stories of struggle, conflict, compassion, and hope. The site includes a historic hotel that once served as a critical place of refuge, providing meals and housing for countless immigrants arriving in the city. Visitors can engage with the collection through gallery exhibitions and a guided tour of the historic Chinatown hotel. Beyond its physical exhibits, the institution actively supports education by producing curriculum sets that integrate Asian and Pacific Islander histories into school subjects like language arts, history, and social studies. Located at 719 S King St, the museum offers a deep dive into the survival and success of diverse communities. Whether exploring the 1910 architecture or the personal narratives of immigrants, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the Asian Pacific American experience in the Pacific Northwest.

Visitor tips

  • Visit on the first Thursday of the month (May through October) between 5 PM and 8 PM for free general admission.
  • Plan your visit between Wednesday and Sunday, as the museum is generally closed on Mondays.
  • Budget for adult admission of $24.95, or check if you qualify for student ($17.95) or senior ($21.95) rates.
  • Allow extra time to take the guided tour of the historic Chinatown hotel, which is included with admission.

Nearby context

The museum is situated in the heart of Seattle's Chinatown-International District, occupying the East Kong Yick Building. This neighborhood is characterized by its vibrant cultural heritage and historic architecture, making the museum a central point for understanding the district's immigrant roots.

Sources

Evidence and links