Photo: Daniel Sheehan
Visit MOHAI
Rediscover history and get immersed in the lives and stories that made the Pacific Northwest the unique place it is today.
MOHAI tells Seattle’s story through exhibits and interactives. True Northwest: The Seattle Journey examines how the dramatic environment, diverse populations, connections to the broader world, and inventive spirit have shaped the region’s history. The Bezos Center for Innovation investigates Seattle’s role as a nexus of big ideas and new directions.
MOHAI is respected nationally and treasured locally as a dynamic, innovative museum where historical exploration inspires people to create a better future for themselves and their communities.
Plan a Visit
Hours
Daily: 10 am–5 pm
First Thursdays of the month: 10 am–8 pm (Free admission to core exhibits from 5 pm–8 pm)
Closed: November 23, December 25
Closing at 2pm: December 24, December 31
Location
Admission
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Directions
MOHAI is located at the south end of Lake Union, in the park at the intersection of Valley St. and Terry Ave N. Use the Mercer Street exit from either I-5 or Hwy 99.
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By Public Transit
MOHAI is close to several bus routes as well as the South Lake Union Streetcar line. For timetables and trip planning, consult King County Metro’s trip planner tool.
By Bike
Bike parking is available near MOHAI in South Lake Union Park. Plan your route with the City of Seattle’s Interactive Bicycle Map.
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Vehicle Parking
MOHAI visitors can take advantage of public parking options located around Lake Union. On-site parking is reserved for ADA parking and visitor drop-off.
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ADA Parking
The parking lot next to the museum is reserved for ADA parking and visitor drop-off. Use the callbox at the gate near the Center for Wooden Boats for access during museum hours.
Public Parking
The closest public parking to MOHAI is the lot at the South end of the park at Valley St. and Terry Ave N. Please note that this lot requires back-in parking (view a map of Seattle City Parking Rates).
There are several private and city-owned parking lots near MOHAI. See the map below for suggestions.
Special All-day Parking Rate
The Premium Parking lot at 1200 Westlake Ave N (next to the AGC building) offers a special all-day parking rate of $10 for MOHAI visitors. It is a 0.3 mile (1600ft) walk along Lake Union from this parking lot to MOHAI.
To get the $10 parking rate, follow these steps:
- After parking your vehicle, go to the pay kiosk near the entrance of the parking lot, and follow the instructions on the screen.
- After entering your license plate #, select “more options” until you see “MOHAI $10”.
- Select “MOHAI $10” and enter the coupon code 8899.
- Walk from Premium Parking lot to MOHAI.
Boat Mooring
Daily boat moorage is available on the north and east sides of the park. Contact the Center for Wooden Boats for rates and availability.
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Bus Drop-off and Parking
Buses should load and unload at the Seattle City Parking Lot on Valley St. (adjacent to the Streetcar stop, south of the Lake Union Park, and 600 feet from MOHAI).
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Bus Drop-off
Buses should load and unload in the public parking lot at the South end of Lake Union Park, at Valley St. and Terry Ave N. Vehicles longer than 25 ft are not allowed in the lot next to MOHAI’s building.
Bus Parking
The closest designated bus parking area is at the Seattle Center. See Seattle Center’s bus parking information for details.
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Hotel Partners
Visiting from out of town? Stay with one of the MOHAI hotel partners, each nearby the museum and Lake Union Park.
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Hotel Theodore
Located in downtown Seattle just steps from the South Lake Union Streetcar, Hotel Theodore exudes a sense of craftsmanship through a unique, refined, and upscale experience that is also comfortable and practical—like Seattle itself.
Mayflower Park Hotel
The Mayflower Park Hotel is in the heart of downtown Seattle. Built in 1927, the classic Mayflower Park Hotel has been lovingly restored creating an inviting European elegance to this historic hotel.
Residence Inn Seattle Downtown/Lake Union
Located down just a few blocks from MOHAI, the Residence Inn is one of the premier extended-stay hotels in downtown Seattle. Accommodations include free wifi, a pool, fitness center, and complimentary hot breakfast.
Courtyard Seattle Downtown/South Lake Union
Ideally located in the shadow of the iconic Space Needle, and across the shores of MOHAI and South Lake Union, experience the recently transformed Courtyard Seattle Downtown/South Lake Union situated at the intersection of Seattle’s technology and culture hub.
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Community Access
MOHAI believes history is for everyone and is committed to providing a range of accessible admission opportunities.
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First Thursday
MOHAI participates in Seattle’s Free First Thursday with free admission from 5 pm-8 pm on the first Thursday of each month. Special exhibits may still require an admission fee.
MOHAI Access Pass
Free admission is an option every day with the MOHAI Access Pass. A limited number of passes are available each day to anyone who needs them for any reason. Reserve your Access Pass by calling Visitor Services at 206 324 1126, emailing information@mohai.org, or notifying Visitor Services staff upon your arrival.
Museums for All
MOHAI participates in the nationwide Museums for All program, an initiative that encourages families of all backgrounds to visit museums regularly. Visitors may present an EBT card, WIC, or Foster Family credentials to receive free admission for up to four people.
Teen Tix
Teens aged 15-19 can present their Teen Tix credentials for a $5 admission ticket to MOHAI. Teen Tix holders may purchase an additional pass for an adult at the $5 rate on Thursdays.
Open Doors Program
MOHAI’s Open Doors program offers free admission to historically excluded communities and aims to reduce barriers to MOHAI exhibits. Through this program, eligible community groups receive free admission in support of a museum visit. To learn more or request free admission, visit the Open Doors program.
MOHAI is a nonprofit institution. To support the museum’s work and help us provide accessible opportunities for our community, please consider making a donation.
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Accessibility
MOHAI is committed to being accessible for all visitors. Our facility is fully ADA accessible, and wheelchairs and walkers are available to check out at the Admissions desk on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Parking
The parking lot next to the museum is reserved for ADA parking and visitor drop-off. Use the callbox at the gate near the Center for Wooden Boats for access during museum hours.
Caregivers
Caregivers assisting visitors with disabilities receive free admission.
Service Animals
Service Animals are welcome at MOHAI. Pets are not allowed in the museum.
Assistive Listening Devices
MOHAI has a limited number of assistive listening devices and neck loops available for free during public programs and events held in specific spaces. Please contact the Public Programs Department to reserve a device.
For questions or additional accommodations, please contact Visitor Services team at 206.324.1126 or via email at information@mohai.org.
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Visitor Tips
Here are some tips for having a great visit to MOHAI.
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Ticketing
Online tickets are available, but not required. Walk-up visitors are always welcome.
Tickets are good for the entire day; re-entry is allowed with your purchase receipt.
Admission includes special exhibits except during First Thursday’s free hours from 5-8pm.
Contact Visitor Services to reschedule your reserved tickets if needed.
Restrooms
MOHAI offers multi-stall men’s and women’s restrooms on the first floor, which are both equipped with changing tables. There are single stall, all-gender restrooms on the second floor and in the café.
Food and Drink
Our lakeside café, Gourmondo at MOHAI, offers a variety of fresh, flavorful meals made from locally sourced ingredients, as well as coffee, pastries, snacks, beer, and wine. MOHAI members save 10%!
You may bring and eat your own food in the Microsoft Lakefront Pavilion on the first floor. Food and drink, including water bottles, are not allowed in the exhibit and gallery spaces.
Visiting with Kids
MOHAI is a great destination for kids! Borrow an Exploration or Innovation pack for free at the Admissions desk, which are filled with activities, props, and more to help children and adults discover the museum together. Available in English or Spanish!
The Idea Lab in our Grand Atrium features rotating hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.
MOHAI’s third floor is a dedicated space for children 2-7 years old and their caregivers. Kid-Struction Zone helps young visitors learn through fun, hands-on interactions while stimulating curiosity and creativity.
Please note that youth aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and any organized group visits of youth including field trips, homeschool co-ops, scout troops etc. require a reservation.
Stroller parking is available and changing tables are located in both first-floor restrooms.
Digital Resources
Digital versions of a MOHAI Map and Gallery Guide, along with an Audio Tour in English and Spanish are available on your mobile device.
View an archive of MOHAI’s programs, lectures, and educational video resources on the MOHAI YouTube Channel.
Gift Shop
The MOHAI Mercantile has a rotating selection of items from local artists, as well as books, jewelry, and souvenirs. MOHAI members save 15%!
Photography
Photography is allowed without a flash, for personal, non-commercial purposes. Tripods and commercial photography are allowed on a case-by-case basis, contact the Marketing Department for additional information.
Lockers and Personal Items
Lockers are available for secure storage of personal items. Locker keys may be checked out at the Admissions Desk. A self-serve coat check space is available on our busiest days. Ask at the Admissions Desk about large item storage.
Visitor Policies
MOHAI is committed to creating a space that is accessible and welcoming to all visitors. We do not tolerate harassment or discrimination of other guests, volunteers, or staff. Guests that feel unsafe for any reason during their visit should notify staff right away.
MOHAI does not allow weapons on our property.
Pets are not allowed in the museum, but Service Animals are welcome.
Youth 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Café and Store
Events and Programs
See what events and ongoing programs are coming up at MOHAI. Learn about the history and culture of the Puget Sound region in new and interesting ways.
Photo: Barbie Hull
Private Events
Celebrate among Seattle’s culture and heritage. Private event and function spaces at MOHAI are full of charm and character while simultaneously providing the necessary amenities for any function.
MOHAI’s historic home at the Naval Reserve Building offers an event space like no other. Whether planning business meetings, intimate receptions, or elaborate galas, MOHAI can meet event rental needs all with a stunning backdrop.
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