The Washington State History Museum is a 106,000 square foot building, designed by architects Charles W. Moore and Arthur Andersson, that opened to the public in 1996. The use of brick and arches in the building design complements the historic warehouses across Pacific Avenue and neighboring Union Station.

The Great Hall of Washington History is a permanent exhibit featuring over 1,600 artifacts, ephemera and photographs that bring to life the intriguing sights, sounds, people and places of Washington State history, as well as their impact on the country and the world.

The History Lab Learning Center is a permanent exhibit that engages visitors with interactive exhibits featuring such historical concepts as Time, Place, Viewpoint, Exploration, and Precedent. Visitors of all ages can learn to think like a detective and solve a "History Mystery" using historical evidence in this fun, hands-on environment.

The 1,800 square foot permanent model railroad layout, constructed by the Puget Sound Model Railroad Engineers Club, depicts the South Puget Sound area as it appeared in the 1950's during the golden age of railroads.

The museum also features an array of temporary exhibitions that tell stories of national and international significance.

The Washington State Historical Society is a non-profit 501 c 3 membership organization, open to any and all individuals, families, or firms. The Society is also recognized in statute (RCW 27.34) as a trustee agency of the state of Washington with enumerated powers.

Founded in 1891 and now into its second century of service, the Washington State Historical Society is dedicated to collecting, preserving and vividly presenting Washington's rich and varied history. The Society is comprised of a family of museums and research centers, offering a variety of services to researchers, historians, scholars and the lifelong learner.

Our mission is to inspire all people to make history a part of their lives by presenting exhibits, programs and publications that bring history alive; collecting materials that reveal stories of Washington and its people; educating students of all ages; encouraging the heritage activities of others; and fostering a sense of identity and community.