Overview
Located on the University of Washington campus, the Burke Museum is the oldest public museum in Washington state. It focuses profoundly on the natural history and cultural heritage of the Pacific Northwest.
Highlights
- Inside-Out Design: The museum's new building allows visitors to see researchers and collections actively working through glass windows.
- Paleontology: Impressive displays of fossils, including an incredibly preserved T. rex skull found by Burke paleontologists.
- Northwest Native Art: An extensive, respectful collection of Coast Salish and other regional indigenous artifacts and carvings.
History
Founded in 1885 by the Young Naturalists' Society, it was designated the State Museum in 1899. A completely new, highly transparent facility opened in 2019.
Visitor Tips
- Campus: The beautiful University of Washington campus is worth a stroll before or after your museum visit.
- Free Days: Admission is free on the first Thursday of every month.
- Duration: 2-3 hours.