The Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, located on the University of Washington campus, is the oldest public museum in Washington State and a leading institution for the study of natural history and cultural heritage. Founded in 1885, the museum underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2019 with a modern, interactive design that invites visitors to explore its extensive collections in a hands-on way.
The museum is renowned for its exhibits on natural history, anthropology, and paleontology, offering visitors a fascinating look at the Pacific Northwest’s biodiversity and cultural history. Highlights include the Life and Times exhibit, which features fossils, including a complete T. rex skull, as well as exhibits that showcase the region’s Indigenous cultures, with collections of Native American artifacts, art, and traditions. The Burke Museum is unique in that it allows visitors to see behind the scenes—scientists and researchers can be observed at work, preparing specimens and conducting research in real-time.
In addition to its permanent collections, the Burke Museum hosts rotating exhibits and public programs that engage visitors of all ages, making it a dynamic educational resource for the Seattle community and beyond.
Address: 4300 15th Ave NE
