Overview
Located in the historically Scandinavian neighborhood of Ballard, this visually striking museum is dedicated to the heritage, culture, and art of the five Nordic countries and their emigrants' impact on the Pacific Northwest.
Highlights
- Fjord Hall: The soaring, linear main hall designed to resemble a Nordic fjord cut through glacial ice.
- Nordic Journeys: The core exhibition tracing 12,000 years of Nordic history and the migration to America.
- Modern Design: Excellent rotating exhibitions focusing on contemporary Nordic design, art, and architecture.
History
Established in 1980 in an old school building, the museum moved into a spectacular, purpose-built £35 million facility in 2018 designed by Mithun.
Visitor Tips
- Café: Stop by the Freya café on site for authentic Smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and Nordic pastries.
- Ballard: Combine your visit with an exploration of the Ballard neighborhood or the nearby Ballard Locks.
- Duration: 2 hours.