Thirty Years and Counting: The Making of the Washington State History Museum

Why go

Most museums tell other people’s stories. This one turns the lens on itself: how Tacoma got its castle-like history museum, from early sketches to final blueprints, plus 30 collection objects hand-picked by the staff who know them best.

What happens

A special exhibition on the museum building’s 30th anniversary, covering the vision, architecture, and construction of the museum through photographs, artifacts, and design documents. A feature area presents 30 staff-selected objects, each paired with a personal statement.

Good to know

The museum’s exhibit page lists the run as February 7 through November 15, 2026, extended; admission is free for members. General admission pricing was not confirmed on the exhibit page, so check current admission before visiting. One museum listings page still shows an October 11 end date, which appears stale next to the exhibit page.