Museum of History and Industry - Seattle, Washington - Displaying the History of Seattle since the 1800s

The Museum of History and Industry or MOHAI opened on February 15, 1952, and has grown to become the largest private heritage organization in Washington. Its meticulous preservation of Pacific Northwest culture has become an enjoyable destination for more than 60,000 guests each year.

Hidden beyond the museum's austere doors is an explosion of images, artifacts, information and hands-on activities. The exhibits depict the history of Seattle from the 1800's to present-day. The many inventions, mannequins and full-scale displays practically come alive to share their stories. It is no wonder, then, that this aesthetically stimulating and very informative collection serves as an educational hotspot for local schools or that groups of students cycle through on an almost daily basis.

Set alongside Lake Washington in McCurdy Park, the grounds of MOHAI offer a beautiful view of the city. There is a foliage-bordered panorama of the Husky stadium and a colorful array of distant hilltop houses with several boats paddling about the foreground. At the edge of the museum's parking lot there is a bridge that extends about twenty feet from the embankment, connecting the historical institution to an island-like trail masked by green brush and wild flowers. The walk across is delightful but it is perhaps the mid-bridge pause that is most remarkable. It is there, taking in the surrounding scenery with an intoxicating breath of fresh air that you realize just why inhabitants of the Pacific Northwest are so proud of their culture and so eager to preserve and share its richness with others.

With advance reservations, groups of 15 or more receive a special group rate. MOHAI also actively participates in the Go Seattle Card which provides convenient admission to Seattle's major attractions. Additional AAA and U-Pass discounts are available and MOHAI members are admitted free of charge.

The museum store offers a range of items with some of MOHAI's favorite historical images. From mugs to t-shirts to tote bags, visitors are sure to find a souvenir perfect to depict their journey. MOHAI Gift Shop is open during museum hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and till 8 p.m. on free First Thursdays.

The Museum of History & Industry is located south of Husky Stadium, just off State Route 520 south of the Montlake Bridge. From Interstate 5 take State Route 520 (exit 168B); Exit at Montlake Boulevard; Go straight at stoplight, and continue one block to 24th Avenue East. Turn left into the museum's driveway. Follow road to parking lot. From westbound State Route 520, take the Lake Washington Boulevard exit; take a right on Lake Washington Boulevard; and turn right on 24th Avenue East into museum parking lot. Parking is free.

To arrive by bus, take bus 25, 43, 48 or any one of the other 26METRObuses that stop near the museum at Montlake Station. Travel to the museum is convenient and efficient, but as always, guests should plan their time accordingly.