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 exhibitions and interactives. True Northwest: The Seattle Journey examines the trials and successes of Seattle’s colorful, sometimes bumpy trek from wilderness to world city. 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
Thursdays in July and August, 10 am–8 pm
First Thursday of the month, 10 am–8 pm
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
Closes at 2 pm on Dec. 24 and Dec. 31
Based on recommendations from State of Washington and King County health officials, MOHAI is temporarily closed effective March 12. Click here to learn more about MOHAI’s response to COVID-19.
Location
Admission
Contact
Visitor Services: information@mohai.org
Phone: 206 324 1126
Contact
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Directions and Parking
Here’s how to get to MOHAI by car, public transit, bike, or even by boat.
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By Car
From I-5
Take Exit 167 at Mercer St. Take an immediate right onto Fairview Ave. N. Turn left onto Valley St. and then turn right into Lake Union Park.
From Downtown
Follow 4th Ave. N. Take a right at Virginia St. Take a left at Westlake Ave. N and proceed north for about 1 mile. Turn right onto Valley St. and then left into Lake Union Park.
Public Parking
Special $10 all-day rate when museum visitors park at the AGC lot. Please visit the admissions desk to get a ticket. The lot is located at 1200 Westlake Ave N.
There are also several private and city-owned parking lots nearby MOHAI. See the map below for parking suggestions.
Accessible parking and drop-off for visitors with special needs is available at the museum. View Accessibility below for additional information
By Public Transit
Public transportation is a great and easy way to get to MOHAI.
Public Bus
Route 40: Westlake Ave N & Mercer St Stop
RapidRide C: Westlake Ave N & Mercer St Stop
Route 70: Fairview Ave N & Valley St Stop (Northbound), Fairview Ave N & Aloha St Stop (Southbound)
Streetcar
The South Lake Union Streetcar runs every 15 minutes from Westlake Center Park in Downtown Seattle and drops off directly at Lake Union Park. View South Lake Union Streetcar schedule.
By Bike
Protected bike lanes line Westlake Ave N and offer a beautiful ride along Lake Union to MOHAI.
By Boat
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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Directions to MOHAI
From I-5
Take Exit 167 at Mercer St. Take an immediate right onto Fairview Ave. N. Turn left onto Valley St. and then turn right into Lake Union Park. Turn left into the parking lot (before the gate) to drop passengers off. Exit the parking lot through the western driveway.
From Downtown
Follow 4th Ave. N. Take a right at Virginia St. Take a left at Westlake Ave. N and proceed north for about 1 mile. Turn right onto Valley St. and then left into Lake Union Park. Turn left into the parking lot (before the gate) to drop passengers off. Exit the parking lot through the western driveway.
Bus Parking
The closest designated bus parking area is at the Seattle Center. See Seattle Center’s bus parking information for details.
Directions to Seattle Center Bus Parking
Go south on Terry Ave. and turn right onto Mercer St. Follow Mercer St. and merge onto Broad St.; go under SR-99. Turn left on 5th Ave. Go two blocks and turn left at Republican St. Designated curb parking is labeled around the corner on 4th Ave.
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Accessibility
MOHAI is committed to accessibility for all visitors. Here are accessibility considerations when visiting MOHAI.
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Accessible Parking
Accessible parking and drop-off for visitors with special needs is available at the museum. For access, pull up to the gate at the Valley St. entrance to Lake Union Park and follow the instructions located on the call box. Please note, vehicles longer than 25 feet are not allowed past the gate and should unload in the Lake Union Park South Lot.
Accessible Restrooms
Accessible restrooms are available on the first and second floors.
Assistive Listening Devices
MOHAI has a limited number of FM system and neck loop assistive listening devices available for public programs and events in the Faye G. Allen Grand Atrium, Microsoft Lakefront Pavilion, and Norcliffe Foundation Conference Rooms. They are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. A driver’s license or membership card is required to check them out. Please contact the Public Programs Department to reserve an assistive listening device.
Wheelchair Information
MOHAI is wheelchair and electric mobility device accessible and has an elevator to all galleries.
Two manual wheelchairs and two walkers are available to check out at the Admission Desk. They are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. A driver’s license or membership card is required to check them out.
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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, and offers a special Hooked on History Package (available through December 30, 2018) that includes tickets to MOHAI. 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.
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Visitor Tips
Here are some tips for having a great visit to MOHAI.
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Re-entry
Same day re-entry to the museum allowed with receipt of admissions purchase.
Food and Drink
For the safety of our artifacts, food and drinks are not allowed inside the museum galleries. Visitors may eat in the Microsoft Lakefront Pavillion, or stop by the museum’s MOHAI Café for delicious snacks and beverages.
Restrooms
MOHAI offers multi-stall men’s and women’s restrooms on the first floor, which are both equipped with changing tables. There are also 2 single-stall, all-gender restrooms on the second floor, as well as in the MOHAI Café.
Photography
Photography for personal, non-commercial purposes is allowed at MOHAI. Please refrain from using a flash as it can potentially damage artifacts. Tripods and other equipment that can impede visitor movement through the galleries are not allowed.
Be sure to share pictures and tag MOHAI using #mohai!
Commercial photography is allowed on a case by case basis. Contact the Marketing Department for additional information.
Leave at Home
To ensure that everyone’s visit is fun and enjoyable, MOHAI requests that you leave the following items at home when planning your visit: gum, large bags, non-service animals, and firearms. If you have any questions regarding these policies, please contact us.
Lockers and Personal Item Storage
Lockers are available for secure storage of personal items. Locker keys may be checked out at the Admission Desk in exchange for a driver’s license or membership card. Visitors may carry small bags and backpacks into the galleries; however, please inquire about locked storage for larger items.
Coat Check
A self-service coat rack is available for visitors and is located on the museum’s first floor. MOHAI is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Strollers
Stroller parking is available on the first floor of the museum. Ask staff at the Admission Desk for directions to that area.
Lost and Found
The lost and found is located at the Admission Desk. Call 206 324 1126 for questions related to lost items after a visit. Items are held for two weeks.
Wifi
MOHAI is happy to offer free wifi to all patrons. Connect to the MOHAI Public network and accept the terms and conditions to get access to wifi.
Audio Guides
Audio guides are available, and can be accessed via cell phones. Ask staff at the Admission Desk for details about specific, thematic tours.
Information for You
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For Individuals
MOHAI has fun events and experiences for all people, no matter the age.
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Gallery and Audio Guides
Grab a Gallery Guide at the Admission Desk for information to help delve into history. Audio Guides for permanent and select special exhibits are available in both English and Spanish; use phones to get access. Ask about available guides at the Admissions Desk.
Events and Programs
Wonder what lies beneath Pike Place Market, or about Seattle’s unique fashion sense? MOHAI has many events and programs that delve into Puget Sound’s past, current issues, and the future of the region.
See what’s coming up at MOHAI in the Events Calendar.
Membership
MOHAI members gain access to vital museum programming throughout the year. Members save on Beyond Bollywood: Indian Americans Shape the Nation programs. MOHAI members are cultural advocates who make our community stronger by engaging in history to inspire a better future.
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For Families
MOHAI has fun programs for even the littlest learners!
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Membership
MOHAI members make lasting memories. There is something for Dual | Family members of all ages to enjoy at the museum. Visit often with unlimited admission for 2 adults for one year. Bring friends with three one-time use guest passes. Dual | Family membership includes Family Membership and savings in the MOHAI Café and MOHAI Mercantile, photo archive orders, AND youth 17 and under visit for free with this special offering that has fun and savings in mind.
Join as a Dual | Family Member
Kids and Family Events
See what’s coming up at MOHAI for kids and families in the Events Calendar.
Family Visiting Tips
MOHAI has many family-friendly activities and exhibits for all ages of visitors. These tips help families have the best visit possible.
- There are many interactive elements to the exhibits. Push buttons, help build a railroad, test things out, and most importantly, have fun!
- Experiment with Exploration and Innovation Packs for activities to help explore MOHAI with. Exploration Packs are best suited to kids ages 3-7, and Innovation Packs are best for kids ages 6-10; both can be checked out at the Admission Desk. Learn more about Exploration and Innovation Packs
- Strollers are allowed at MOHAI, and stroller parking is available on the first floor underneath the stairs. MOHAI is not responsible for lost or stolen belongings.
- Restrooms are available on the first and second floors. Changing tables are available in both first floor restrooms.
- Water fountains are located on the first and second floors next the restrooms.
- While food and beverages are not allowed inside the museum, visitors are welcome to bring food to eat in the Lakefront Pavilion. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, snacks and meals are available for purchase at the MOHAI Café.
- Kids 14 and under are always free!
Exploration and Innovation Packs
Use Exploration and Innovation Packs to trek through MOHAI and investigate history in new ways. Exploration Packs are best suited to kids ages 3-7, and Innovation Packs are best for kids ages 6-10. Packs are free and can be checked out at the Admission Desk with a driver’s license or membership card.
Maker Days
Come to MOHAI’s monthly Maker Day to tinker, create, and experiment alongside some of Seattle’s most innovative makers.
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For Teens
Teens are welcome at MOHAI! Check out the special events and programs the museum has for teens.
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Teen Events
See what’s coming up at MOHAI for teens in the Events Calendar.
Reduced Prices with TeenTix
MOHAI is a proud partner of TeenTix. Teens aged 13-19 can sign up for a free pass to get $5 admission to MOHAI and other local museums and arts performances.
MOHAI Youth Advisors (MYA)
MYA is a place for high school students to investigate, explore, and be empowered to create a more teen-friendly museum while giving back to the community.
Youth Empowerment Day
Calling all future leaders! Be a part of the annual Youth Empowerment Day. During this day-long event, teens will have the opportunity to work alongside local nonprofit leaders to deepen their knowledge of issues affecting their local peers and gain hands-on experience making an impact in their own communities.
Scribes Writing Camp
Scribes Writing Camp is an opportunity for middle- and high-school students to engage intensely with creative writing, and develop their craft.
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Group Visits and Tours
Special admission rates are available for adult groups visiting MOHAI.
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Adult groups can see permanent and special exhibits with self-guided activities and uniquely themed tours led by MOHAI educators, and with a special admission discount.
See what’s coming up at MOHAI in the Events Calendar.
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Field Trips
There are many options for visiting MOHAI for students at every grade level.
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MOHAI’s wide range of hands-on, educational programs make local history come alive for students at every grade level. Field trips use authentic, historic materials to promote teamwork, creativity, communication, visual literacy, critical thinking, observation, and problem solving skills.
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Programming Update
MOHAI programs foster dialogue among civic leaders, historians, and community members to explore changes impacting our region.
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As a catalyst for relevant community conversation, MOHAI’s public programs include a diverse range of speakers and perspectives related to life in our region, past and present. In presenting this program MOHAI does not endorse or advocate any specific policies represented by the speakers, their organizations, or the co-presenters. The views expressed by the participants during, before or after the program are their own and MOHAI accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of any material contained herein. By hosting these conversations and developing new collection initiatives, MOHAI is featuring the history that is being made today.
Café and Store
Sit and relax at the MOHAI Café and then take MOHAI home with locally-made items.
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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