Washington State History Museum, Tacoma (must see)

The Washington State History Museum explores Washington’s story through Indigenous cultures, migration, industry, politics, transportation, and daily life. Opened in 1996 and operated by the Washington State Historical Society, it stands near historic Union Station, reinforcing its connection to the region’s railroad past. Its 106,000-square-foot building was designed by postmodern architect Charles Moore.

That idea continues outside the galleries. The museum grounds work almost like an abstract map of Washington State: a sweeping circular ramp suggests a Cascade mountain switchback, while the outdoor amphitheatre, seating more than 200 people, is shaped to evoke Puget Sound. These design choices turn the site itself into a visual introduction to Washington’s mountains, waterways, and urban growth.

Inside, the permanent exhibitions use objects, photographs, recreated settings, and large-scale displays to connect natural landscapes with human stories. The 360 exhibit refers to Washington’s full span, from its eastern borderlands to the Pacific coast. A large topographical map shows the state’s terrain, Ice Age flood traces, and later development patterns. Other displays include ancient Clovis stone points, Coast Salish material, maritime history, aviation, and industry.

One of the museum’s most popular features is the top-floor model railroad, the largest permanent model train layout in the state. Covering about 1,700 square feet, the model railroad recreates 1950s regional railroading, with detailed rail yards and Union Station. Other highlights include a vintage Boeing aircraft frame, a preserved piece of the 1940 Tacoma Narrows Bridge, and Dave and Dandy, the taxidermied oxen linked to Ezra Meeker’s Oregon Trail memory campaigns.