Milton, Washington may be a small town in the Pacific Northwest, but it is home to some impressive museums that offer visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.
From historic homes to interactive science centers, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Milton’s museums. Whether you are a history buff, art enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and educational experience, the museums in Milton are sure to delight and inspire.
Let’s explore the fascinating world of museums in this charming town and discover the stories they have to tell.
1. Fort Nisqually Living History Museum
Fort Nisqually Living History Museum in Milton, WA, USA offers visitors a unique experience by re-creating the first Puget Sound European settlement.
The museum features a fort that allows guests to step back in time and see what life was like for early European settlers in the area. One of the highlights of the museum is the costumed interpreters who bring the history of Fort Nisqually to life.
These interpreters help to create an immersive experience for visitors by portraying characters from the past and sharing their knowledge of the time period.
Visitors to Fort Nisqually Living History Museum can explore the grounds and learn about the daily activities of the settlers who called the fort home.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 253-404-3970
Address: 5519 Five Mile Dr, Tacoma, WA 98407, United States
Website: metroparkstacoma.org
2. Washington State History Museum
The Washington State History Museum in Milton, WA, USA is a fascinating place to explore the history of Washington state.
With high-tech exhibits that bring the past to life, visitors can immerse themselves in the stories and events that have shaped the region. One of the highlights of the museum is a big model railroad that showcases the development of transportation in Washington state.
From the early days of steam engines to the modern era of high-speed trains, the exhibit offers a unique perspective on the evolution of travel in the Pacific Northwest.
In addition to the model railroad, the museum features interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about key moments in Washington state history.
From the arrival of the first settlers to the rise of industry and technology, each exhibit offers a glimpse into.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 253-272-3500
Address: 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States
Website: washingtonhistory.org
3. LeMay – America’s Car Museum
Located in Milton, WA, USA, LeMay – America’s Car Museum is a 4-story museum situated on an 8-acre campus.
It is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The museum showcases a wide variety of cars, trucks, and motorcycles in both historic and tech exhibits.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of automotive innovation and design. With its extensive collection and interactive displays, LeMay – America’s Car Museum offers a unique and educational experience for guests of all ages.
From classic cars to modern vehicles, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In addition to the impressive exhibits, the museum also hosts special events, workshops, and educational programs throughout the year.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 253-779-8490
Address: 2702 E D St, Tacoma, WA 98421, United States
Website: americascarmuseum.org
4. Karshner Museum and Center for Culture & Arts
Located in Milton, WA, the Karshner Museum and Center for Culture & Arts is a vibrant local museum that is dedicated to promoting education, arts, and culture through its various events and displays.
Visitors to the museum can expect to be immersed in a world of learning and creativity, as they explore the diverse exhibits that showcase the rich history and heritage of the region.
From interactive displays to hands-on activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Karshner Museum. One of the highlights of the museum is its commitment to fostering a love of the arts among visitors of all ages.
Through workshops, classes, and special events, the museum provides opportunities for individuals to explore their creative side and develop new skills.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 253-841-8748
Address: 309 4th St NE, Puyallup, WA 98372, United States
Website: karctr.puyallupsd.org
5. White River Valley Museum
White River Valley Museum in Milton, WA, USA is a small local history museum that offers a glimpse into the past.
The museum showcases a variety of displays that highlight different aspects of the region’s history. One of the unique displays at the museum is a Japanese immigrant home. This exhibit provides visitors with a look into the lives of Japanese immigrants who settled in the area.
From traditional architecture to everyday items, the exhibit offers a fascinating insight into the culture and lifestyle of the early Japanese immigrants. Another interesting display at the museum is a 1924 caboose.
This historic train car gives visitors a chance to step back in time and experience what it was like to travel by train in the early 20th century.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 253-288-7433
Address: 918 H St SE, Auburn, WA 98002, United States
Website: wrvmuseum.org
6. Harbor History Museum
The Harbor History Museum in Milton, WA, USA offers visitors a unique look into the local heritage and maritime history of the area.
The exhibits at the museum are dedicated to showcasing the rich history of the harbor, including the development of the maritime industry in the region.
One of the highlights of the museum is a historical one-room schoolhouse, which provides a glimpse into what education was like in the past.
Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of the area’s past and how it has shaped the community today. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of Milton and gain a deeper appreciation for the heritage of the region.
Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about it.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 253-858-6722
Address: 4121 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98332, United States
Website: harborhistorymuseum.org
7. Pioneer Farm Museum
The Pioneer Farm Museum in Milton, WA, USA is a unique cultural institution that offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s agricultural history.
Established in the early 20th century, this museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the tools, equipment, and practices that were used by early settlers in the area.
One of the main attractions at the Pioneer Farm Museum is the historic farmstead, which features a restored farmhouse, barn, and outbuildings.
Visitors can explore these buildings and learn about the daily lives of the families who lived and worked on the farm.
The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs that give visitors a hands-on experience of life on a farm in the early 1900s.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 360-832-6300
Address: 7716 Ohop Valley Rd E, Eatonville, WA 98328, United States
Website: pioneerfarmmuseum.org
8. Puget Sound Museum of Natural History
The Puget Sound Museum of Natural History is a hidden gem in Milton, WA, USA. This museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural history of the Puget Sound region.
From exhibits on local wildlife to displays showcasing the geology of the area, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this museum. One of the highlights of the Puget Sound Museum of Natural History is its collection of fossils.
Visitors can marvel at ancient artifacts and learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the region. The museum also features interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages, making learning about natural history fun and engaging.
In addition to its exhibits, the Puget Sound Museum of Natural History also offers educational programs for schools and community groups.
Rating: 9.6
Phone: +1 253-879-3356
Address: 1517-1565 N Union Ave, Tacoma, WA 98416, United States
Website: pugetsound.edu
9. Fife History Museum and Cultural Center
The Fife History Museum and Cultural Center in Milton, WA is a must-visit for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Located in the heart of downtown Fife, this museum offers a unique glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the area.
Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the town’s early settlers, its growth and development over the years, and its vibrant cultural scene.
From artifacts and photographs to interactive displays, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Fife History Museum and Cultural Center. The museum also hosts special events, workshops, and lectures that delve deeper into the town’s past and present.
Whether you’re a local resident looking to learn more about your community or a visitor eager to explore the history of Milton.
Rating: 9.6
Phone: +1 253-896-4710
Address: 2820 54th Ave E, Fife, WA 98424, United States
Website: fifehistorymuseum.org
10. Fife Historical Society
The Fife Historical Society in Milton, WA, USA is a small but impactful museum dedicated to preserving the history of the local community.
Visitors to the museum can expect to learn about the early settlers of Fife, the growth of the town over the years, and the important events that have shaped its history.
The museum features a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that offer a glimpse into the past of Fife.
From old farming tools to vintage photographs of the town’s main street, the exhibits provide a fascinating look at how life in Fife has evolved over the years.
One of the highlights of the Fife Historical Society is its interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to engage with the history of the town in a hands-on way.
Rating: 9.6
Phone: +1 253-896-4710
Address: 2820 54th Ave E, Fife, WA 98424, United States
Website: fifehistorymuseum.org
11. Job Carr Cabin Museum
Located in Milton, WA, the Job Carr Cabin Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
The museum is a to-scale replica of an 1865 frontier home, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past.Stepping inside the museum, visitors are transported back in time to the early days of Milton.
The exhibits showcase the city’s rich history, highlighting significant events and developments that have shaped the community.
One of the main attractions at the museum is the cabin itself, which is meticulously recreated to reflect the style and architecture of the 1860s.
Visitors can explore the different rooms and learn about the daily life of early settlers in the area. In addition to the cabin, the museum also features displays and artifacts that offer insight.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 253-627-5405
Address: 2350 N 30th St, Tacoma, WA 98403, United States
Website: jobcarrmuseum.org
12. Sumner Ryan House Museum
The Sumner Ryan House Museum in Milton, WA, USA is a historic landmark that offers visitors a glimpse into the past.
This museum is housed in a beautifully preserved Victorian-era home, giving guests the opportunity to step back in time and experience life as it was in the late 19th century.
The museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase the history of the area, including displays on early settlers, local industry, and the development of Milton.
Visitors can explore the rooms of the house, which have been meticulously restored to their original grandeur, and learn about the lives of the people who once called this place home.
One of the highlights of the Sumner Ryan House Museum is the collection of artifacts and photographs that provide insight into the daily lives.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 253-863-8936
Address: 1228 Main St, Sumner, WA 98390, United States
Website: sumnerhistoricalsociety.com
13. Museum of Glass
The Museum of Glass in Milton, WA, USA offers a unique experience for visitors with its diverse indoor and outdoor glass-art exhibits.
The museum showcases a wide range of glass artwork created by talented artists, providing a glimpse into the world of glass artistry. One of the highlights of the Museum of Glass is its cone-shaped studio, where visitors can watch working artists in action.
This interactive experience allows visitors to see the creative process up close and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of glassmaking. The indoor exhibits at the Museum of Glass feature a variety of glass art pieces, ranging from intricate sculptures to colorful installations.
Visitors can explore the different styles and techniques used by artists to create stunning works of art.
Rating: 9
Phone: +1 253-284-4750
Address: 1801 Dock St, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States
Website: museumofglass.org
14. Buffalo Soldiers Museum
The Buffalo Soldiers Museum in Milton, WA showcases the history and contributions of African American soldiers in the United States Army.
The museum features exhibits detailing the experiences of the Buffalo Soldiers, who served in the post-Civil War era and played a significant role in the western expansion of the United States.
Visitors to the Buffalo Soldiers Museum can learn about the challenges and triumphs faced by these brave soldiers as they served their country with honor and distinction.
The museum offers a unique perspective on American history, highlighting the often overlooked role that African Americans played in shaping the nation.
With artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays, the Buffalo Soldiers Museum provides a comprehensive look at the lives of these remarkable soldiers.
The museum aims to educate and inspire visitors, fostering a greater understanding.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 253-272-4257
Address: 1940 S Wilkeson St, Tacoma, WA 98405, United States
Website: buffalosoldierstacoma.org
15. Bug & Reptile Museum
Located in Milton, Washington, the Bug & Reptile Museum offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The museum is known for its kid-friendly exhibits, which feature both live and preserved bugs and reptiles.
Children will have the opportunity to see a variety of insects up close, from colorful butterflies to creepy crawlers like spiders and scorpions. In addition to bugs, the museum also houses a collection of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and turtles.
Visitors can learn about the different species on display and gain a greater appreciation for these often misunderstood creatures. The museum is housed within a small gift shop, making it a convenient stop for families looking for a fun and educational outing.
Rating: 8.8
Address: 1118 Charleston Beach Rd W, Bremerton, WA 98312, United States
Website: bugmuseum.com
16. Tacoma Art Museum
The Tacoma Art Museum, located in Milton, WA, USA, is a cultural hub that showcases a diverse range of art exhibits. One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of Dale Chihuly glass works.
Chihuly is a renowned glass artist known for his vibrant and intricate glass sculptures. In addition to the Chihuly glass works, the museum also features exhibits on European Impressionism.
This art movement, which originated in France in the late 19th century, is characterized by its use of light and color to create a sense of atmosphere and mood in the paintings. Japanese prints are another focal point of the museum’s collection.
These prints, known as ukiyo-e, depict scenes from everyday life in Japan during.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 253-272-4258
Address: 1701 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States
Website: tacomaartmuseum.org
17. Jester Auto Museum
The Jester Auto Museum in Milton, WA, USA is a unique attraction that showcases a collection of vintage automobiles from different eras.
Visitors can explore the history of automotive design and technology through the carefully curated displays of classic cars. The museum features a variety of vehicles, ranging from early models from the early 20th century to iconic cars from the mid-20th century.
Each car has been meticulously restored to its original condition, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and engineering of these historic automobiles.
In addition to the impressive collection of cars, the Jester Auto Museum also offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
From hands-on activities to guided tours, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the history of automobiles and their impact.
Rating: 9.8
Phone: +1 360-269-1312
Address: 321 Hamilton Rd, Chehalis, WA 98532, United States
Website: jesterautomuseum.com
18. Pacific Bonsai Museum
Pacific Bonsai Museum in Milton, WA, USA is home to a stunning collection of over 100 bonsai trees. These trees come from various countries including China, Japan, Canada, Korea, Taiwan, and America.
Each tree has been carefully cultivated and shaped to create unique and beautiful works of art. Visitors to the museum can marvel at the intricate designs and delicate beauty of the bonsai trees.
The collection includes a wide variety of species, each with its own story and history.
Some trees have been passed down through generations, while others have been carefully cultivated by skilled bonsai artists. The Pacific Bonsai Museum offers a peaceful and serene environment in which to explore and appreciate these stunning creations.
Rating: 9.6
Phone: +1 253-353-7345
Address: 2515 South 336th St, Federal Way, WA 98003, United States
Website: pacificbonsaimuseum.org
19. Children’s Museum of Tacoma
The Children’s Museum of Tacoma in Milton, WA, USA is a fantastic destination for families with young children. This museum offers five playscapes that are specifically designed to provide hands-on exploration for kids.
Each playscape is unique and engaging, allowing children to learn while having fun. One of the playscapes at the Children’s Museum of Tacoma focuses on sensory play, with activities that engage children’s senses of touch, sight, and sound.
Another playscape is centered around imaginative play, where children can pretend to be doctors, chefs, or astronauts.
There is also a playscape that encourages physical activity, with climbing structures and obstacle courses for kids to enjoy. In addition to the playscapes, the Children’s Museum of Tacoma offers educational.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 253-627-6031
Address: 1501 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States
Website: greentrike.org
20. Chihuly Bridge of Glass
The Chihuly Bridge of Glass in Milton, WA, USA is a stunning pedestrian bridge adorned with vibrant glass installations created by renowned artist Dale Chihuly.
As visitors walk across the bridge, they are surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes that create a mesmerizing visual experience. Each glass piece on the bridge is carefully handcrafted by Chihuly and his team, showcasing intricate details and unique designs.
The combination of natural light and the translucent quality of the glass creates a magical atmosphere that changes throughout the day. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass serves as both a functional pedestrian walkway and a work of art, seamlessly blending functionality with creativity.
The bridge connects different parts of the city while also providing visitors with an immersive art experience.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 866-468-7386
Address: Bridge of Glass, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States
Website: museumofglass.org
Conclusion
Museums in Milton, WA provide a valuable opportunity for residents and visitors alike to learn about the rich history and culture of the area.
With a variety of exhibits and collections, these museums offer a glimpse into the past and allow individuals to connect with their community in a meaningful way.
Whether exploring the local history museum or experiencing the art and science museum, each venue offers a unique and educational experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Museums in Milton, WA are a valuable resource that should be cherished and supported by all who appreciate the importance of preserving and celebrating our shared heritage.
Tony Spadafora