McKenna’s Interactive Children’s 17 Museums: Hands-On Learning and Creative Exploration

McKenna, Washington, USA, is home to a variety of museums that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. From interactive exhibits to informative displays, these museums offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the area’s past and present.

Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, there is a museum in McKenna that will cater to your interests. Join us as we explore the diverse and fascinating museums that call this charming townhome.

1. Hands On Children’s Museum

Hands-On-Childrens-Museum-1

Located in McKenna, WA, USA, the Hands On Children’s Museum is a popular destination for families looking for a fun and educational experience.

This center offers participatory exhibits and programs on art and science specifically designed for kids. Children visiting the museum can engage in hands-on activities that are both entertaining and educational.

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From exploring interactive exhibits to participating in workshops and programs, there is no shortage of things to do at the Hands On Children’s Museum. The museum’s focus on art and science allows children to learn in a creative and engaging way.

Whether they are experimenting with different art techniques or conducting science experiments, kids are encouraged to explore and discover new things. With a variety of exhibits and programs to choose from, children of all ages can find something.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 360-956-0818

Address: 414 Jefferson St NE, Olympia, WA 98501, United States

Website: hocm.org

2. LeMay Collections at Marymount

LeMay-Collections-at-Marymount

Located in McKenna, WA, USA, the LeMay Collections at Marymount is a must-visit museum for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This museum showcases a vast collection of vintage vehicles, ranging from classic cars to antique motorcycles.

Visitors can admire the intricate details of each vehicle and learn about their historical significance. The LeMay Collections at Marymount also features rotating exhibits that highlight different aspects of automotive history.

From rare models to iconic designs, there is always something new and exciting to see at this museum.

LeMay-Collections-at-Marymount-1

The knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide additional information and answer any questions visitors may have. In addition to the impressive collection of vehicles, the museum also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year.

Whether you are interested in learning more.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 253-272-2336

Address: 325 152nd St E, Tacoma, WA 98445, United States

Website: lemaymarymount.org

3. WET Science Center

WET-Science-Center-1

Located in McKenna, WA, the WET Science Center is a unique museum that offers hands-on activities for kids to learn about the water cycle and its vital impact on life on Earth.

As soon as you enter the museum, you are greeted by interactive exhibits that engage children in a fun and educational way.

From learning how water evaporates and condenses to understanding the importance of conservation, the center provides a comprehensive look at the role of water in our world.

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One popular activity at the WET Science Center is the water cycle simulation, where kids can see firsthand how water moves through the environment.

By participating in this interactive display, children gain a better understanding of the natural processes that shape our planet. Another highlight of the museum is the opportunity.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 360-664-2333

Address: 500 Adams St NE, Olympia, WA 98501, United States

Website: wetsciencecenter.org

4. Pioneer Farm Museum

Pioneer-Farm-Museum

The Pioneer Farm Museum in McKenna, WA, USA, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s history. Located in a beautiful rural setting, the museum showcases the daily life of early settlers through exhibits and interactive displays.

Visitors can explore historic buildings, including a farmhouse, barn, and blacksmith shop, to learn about the challenges and triumphs of pioneer life.

The museum also hosts special events and workshops that highlight traditional crafts and skills, such as candle-making and woodworking.

Pioneer-Farm-Museum-1

With its commitment to preserving and sharing the region’s heritage, the Pioneer Farm Museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts of all ages.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 360-832-6300

Address: 7716 Ohop Valley Rd E, Eatonville, WA 98328, United States

Website: pioneerfarmmuseum.org

5. Spanaway Prairie House Museum

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The Spanaway Prairie House Museum is a hidden gem in McKenna, WA, USA.

This small museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the area.As you step inside the museum, you will be greeted by knowledgeable staff who are eager to share the stories behind the artifacts on display.

From vintage photographs to historical documents, each item tells a unique tale of McKenna’s past. One of the highlights of the museum is the replica of a prairie house, giving visitors a firsthand look at how early settlers lived in the area.

Spanaway-Prairie-House-Museum-1

The attention to detail in this display is truly remarkable and offers a fascinating insight into daily life in McKenna. In addition to the exhibits, the museum also hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year.

Phone: +1 253-536-6655

Address: 710 176th St E, Spanaway, WA 98387, United States

Website: facebook.com

6. Washington State History Museum

Washington-State-History-Museum

The Washington State History Museum in McKenna, WA, USA offers an immersive experience for visitors interested in learning about the history of Washington state.

Through high-tech exhibits, guests can explore the rich past of the region in a dynamic and engaging way. One of the highlights of the museum is the big model railroad display, which showcases the development of transportation in Washington state.

Visitors can watch as trains travel through intricate landscapes, reflecting the evolution of railroads in the region over the years. In addition to the model railroad exhibit, the museum features a variety of other high-tech displays that bring the history of Washington state to life.

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From interactive exhibits to multimedia presentations, guests can engage with the past in a hands-on and educational manner. Whether you’re a history.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 253-272-3500

Address: 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States

Website: washingtonhistory.org

7. Tenino Depot Museum

Tenino-Depot-Museum

The Tenino Depot Museum is a historical treasure located in McKenna, WA, USA.

This museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the local area. One of the highlights of the Tenino Depot Museum is its collection of railroad memorabilia.

Visitors can learn about the importance of the railroad in shaping the town of Tenino and the surrounding area.

Tenino-Depot-Museum-1

From old photographs to vintage train equipment, there is plenty to see and explore. In addition to its railroad collection, the museum also features exhibits on local history, including displays on early settlers, industry, and daily life in McKenna.

Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the community’s roots and how it has evolved over the years.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 360-264-4321

Address: Thurston Co Rails-To-Trails, Tenino, WA 98589, United States

Website: teninodepotmuseum.com

8. Henderson House Museum

Henderson-House-Museum

The Henderson House Museum in McKenna, WA, USA, is a hidden gem for history enthusiasts.

This historic house offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience life as it was in the early 20th century. The Henderson House Museum is filled with artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich history of the McKenna area.

From vintage furniture to antique household items, the museum provides a fascinating look at daily life in the past. Visitors to the Henderson House Museum can explore the various rooms and learn about the family who once called this house their home.

The museum offers guided tours that provide in-depth information about the history of the house and its significance in the local community.In addition to its historical significance, the Henderson.

Rating: 6

Phone: +1 360-754-4217

Address: 602 Deschutes Way, Tumwater, WA 98501, United States

9. Museum of Northwest Art

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The Museum of Northwest Art in McKenna, WA, USA, is a free museum that offers a unique experience for art enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibits that showcase the work of talented artists from the Pacific Northwest region.

This allows visitors to explore a diverse range of artistic styles and perspectives. One of the highlights of the Museum of Northwest Art is its workshops, which provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with art in a hands-on way.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned artist, these workshops offer a chance to learn new techniques and expand your creative abilities.

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The museum’s commitment to featuring artists from the Pacific Northwest ensures that visitors have the opportunity to discover local talent and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s art scene.

Each exhibit offers a glimpse.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 360-466-4446

Address: 121 1st St, La Conner, WA 98257, United States

Website: monamuseum.org

10. Bigelow House Museum, a historic house museum of the Olympia Historical Society

Bigelow-House-Museum-a-historic-house-museum-of-the-Olympia-Historical-Society

The Bigelow House Museum in McKenna, WA is a historic house museum that is part of the Olympia Historical Society. This museum is known for its Carpenter Gothic-style home from the 1840s.

The house features original furnishings and historic artifacts that give visitors a glimpse into the past. Walking through the Bigelow House Museum, visitors can see the intricate details of the Carpenter Gothic-style architecture.

The house is a beautiful example of the style popular in the mid-19th century, with its pointed arches and decorative trim. Inside the museum, visitors can admire the original furnishings that have been carefully preserved over the years.

Bigelow-House-Museum-a-historic-house-museum-of-the-Olympia-Historical-Society-1

From antique furniture to delicate china, each piece tells a story of the family that once called this house their home.

Rating: 9.2

Address: 918 Glass Ave NE, Olympia, WA 98506, United States

Website: olympiahistory.org

11. Lacey Museum

Lacey-Museum

The Lacey Museum in McKenna, WA, USA is a small but informative museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the local history of the area.

Visitors can explore the rich history of McKenna and its surrounding communities through various displays and interactive exhibits.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of artifacts that offer a glimpse into the past, including tools, clothing, and household items used by early settlers in the region.

These artifacts help paint a picture of what life was like in McKenna many years ago. In addition to the artifacts, the museum also houses records and archived documents that provide valuable insight into the history of the area.

Visitors can learn about significant events, important figures, and cultural traditions that have shaped McKenna and its.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 360-438-0209

Address: 829 Lacey St SE, Lacey, WA 98503, United States

Website: laceymuseum.org

12. Western Forest Industries Museum

Western-Forest-Industries-Museum

The Western Forest Industries Museum in McKenna, WA, USA, is a must-visit for those interested in the history of forestry in the Pacific Northwest.

The museum showcases the tools, equipment, and techniques used by loggers and lumberjacks in the early days of the industry.

Visitors can learn about the challenges and dangers faced by these workers as they harvested timber from the region’s dense forests. One of the highlights of the museum is a collection of vintage logging trucks and machinery, which give visitors a glimpse into the past.

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There are also exhibits on the environmental impact of logging and the efforts to sustainably manage the region’s forests. The Western Forest Industries Museum is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in the history of the logging industry.

Rating: 9.8

Address: 349 Mineral Creek Rd S, Mineral, WA 98355, United States

Website: wfim.org

13. Marsh’s Free Museum

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Marsh’s Free Museum in McKenna, WA is a popular tourist destination known for its unique and quirky displays. One of the main attractions at the museum is the Jake the Alligator Man display.

Visitors from near and far come to see this strange and fascinating creature. In addition to the Jake the Alligator Man display, Marsh’s Free Museum offers a variety of funky antiques and curios for visitors to peruse.

From vintage items to oddities you won’t find anywhere else, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this longtime outpost. The atmosphere at Marsh’s Free Museum is unlike any other. The eclectic mix of items on display creates a sense of wonder and curiosity among visitors.

Whether you’re a history buff, a collector, or just.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 360-642-2188

Address: 409 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, WA 98631, United States

Website: marshsfreemuseum.com

14. Olympic Flight Museum

Olympic-Flight-Museum

The Olympic Flight Museum in McKenna, WA, USA, offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore old-school aircraft and historical aviation information.

Located in a hangar at Olympia Regional Airport, this museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. As you walk through the museum, you’ll be greeted by a collection of vintage aircraft that have played a significant role in aviation history.

Olympic-Flight-Museum-1

From World War II-era planes to more modern jets, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Olympic Flight Museum. In addition to the impressive aircraft on display, the museum also provides visitors with valuable historical information about the aviation industry.

Learn about the evolution of flight, the brave pilots who flew these planes, and the impact of aviation on.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 360-705-3925

Address: 7637 Old Hwy 99 SE, Tumwater, WA 98501, United States

Website: olympicflightmuseum.com

15. Lewis Army Museum

Lewis-Army-Museum-1

The Lewis Army Museum, located in McKenna, WA, USA, is a fascinating destination for history buffs and military enthusiasts alike.

Housed in a sprawling, landmark former inn, this museum showcases a wide array of historic uniforms and aircraft that offer a glimpse into the military history of the region.

Visitors to the Lewis Army Museum can explore exhibits that highlight the rich military heritage of the area and the important role that the armed forces have played in shaping the region’s history.

From vintage uniforms worn by soldiers in past conflicts to meticulously restored aircraft that once flew over the skies of McKenna, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this unique museum.

One of the standout features of the Lewis Army Museum is its collection of historic aircraft, which includes planes.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 253-967-7206

Address: 4320 Main St. and, Constitution Dr, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433, United States

Website: lewisarmymuseum.com

16. Ticknor School

Ticknor-School

Located in the small town of McKenna, WA, Ticknor School is a historic building that has been transformed into a unique museum.

The school was built in the early 1900s and served as a hub for education in the community for many years. Today, Ticknor School stands as a reminder of the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of education in McKenna.

The museum features exhibits showcasing old textbooks, classroom furniture, and photographs of students and teachers from years gone by. Visitors to Ticknor School can explore the various classrooms and see how education has evolved over the decades.

Ticknor-School-1

The museum also hosts special events and programs that highlight different aspects of the town’s history. Ticknor School is a must-visit destination for anyone.

Rating: 10

Phone: +1 360-264-4321

Address: 419 W Park Ave, Tenino, WA 98589, United States

Website: teninodepotmuseum.com

17. Children’s Museum at JBLM

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The Children’s Museum at JBLM in McKenna, WA, USA, offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.

From hands-on science experiments to creative arts and crafts projects, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this museum. Children can explore different areas of the museum, including a pretend grocery store, a miniature construction site, and a play kitchen.

They can also participate in educational programs and workshops that focus on topics such as environmental conservation, animal care, and cultural diversity.

The museum’s mission is to provide a fun and engaging learning environment for children where they can develop their creativity, critical thinking skills, and social abilities.

With a focus on hands-on learning experiences, the museum aims to inspire a love.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 253-627-6031

Address: 2275 Liggett Ave, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433, United States

Website: greentrike.org

Conclusion

Museums in McKenna, WA offer a diverse range of cultural and historical experiences for visitors to explore.

From local history and art to science and technology, these institutions contribute to the community’s understanding and appreciation of its past and present.

Whether you are a local resident or a curious traveler, a visit to a museum in McKenna is sure to provide insight and enjoyment for all ages.

Photo of author

Tony Spadafora

Since 1983, I've been making DC and Philadelphia unforgettable for families and business visitors. Whether it's a family reunion or a corporate breakout seeking something unique, I tailor experiences to your personal perspective. From historical landmarks to hidden gems, I ensure your visit is extraordinary. Trust a professional tour guide with decades of expertise to transform your trip into a memorable adventure. LinkedIn

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