Northwest USA Museums and Culture

The Imaginarium, Alaska's only hands-on Science Discovery Center, is designed as a place where people can have fun learning about science by actually doing science. <br> Located in downtown Anchorage, The Imaginarium resembles a living laboratory, where you can stand inside a bubble, ponder the magnitude of the universe in a planetarium, discover ocean life in a marine touch tank, observe and touch exotic reptiles, or learn the principles of physics while playing with specialized toys.

Stepping into Pratt Museum means diving into what makes Kachemak Bay tick—the wild landscapes, the people who call it home, and how it all connects to the wider world. The collection spans art, science, and human stories that invite you to think differently about your surroundings and spark conversations worth having. Winter visits bring a particular quiet to the galleries, where you can linger over exhibitions and programs without the summer rush, making it an ideal time to really absorb what the region's natural and cultural heritage reveals about itself and its place beyond Alaska's shores.

This Haines institution houses something you won't find anywhere else on Earth—a sprawling collection devoted entirely to hammers. More than 1500 examples span from ancient Rome through today, each one telling a different story about how people have shaped their world. Walking through these winter-quiet galleries, you get a real sense of how one simple tool has evolved across centuries and cultures. The museum traces human ingenuity through the lens of what might be our most fundamental invention, making it an unexpectedly fascinating way to understand how we've built civilization. During the colder months, it's the perfect refuge to spend a few contemplative hours exploring craftsmanship and history without leaving the warmth indoors.

Step inside to explore the maritime stories that shaped Alaska's coastlines and communities. This museum holds itself as the singular institution across America devoted entirely to safeguarding the state's seafaring past, from fishing traditions to shipwreck histories. Winter visits bring a particular quietness to the galleries—the kind of stillness that makes the exhibits feel especially intimate, as if the old vessels and photographs are sharing their secrets just with you. Walk through displays capturing everything from the earliest Native boat builders to modern-day fishing fleets, all preserved with meticulous care by those who understand how deeply the ocean runs through Alaska's identity.

Known as the only museum in Sitka that contains elements of all of Sitka’s history,the Sitka Historical Museum is packed with displays, photographs, andartifacts from Sitka’s Tlingit, Russian, and American history. This is a great first stop for travelers to orient themselves to Sitka.

Step back into the Klondike Gold Rush era and discover the stories that shaped this historic frontier town. Our carefully curated collection of gold-rush artifacts, vintage photographs, and personal memorabilia brings Skagway's wild past to life, offering a fascinating glimpse into the adventurers and dreamers who once flooded through these streets seeking fortune.

The purpose of the Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center, Inc., an educational institution of the Haines Borough, is committed to collecting, preserving and interpreting through history, art and unique blending of diverse cultures within the Chilkat Valley. The Sheldon Museum's presentation of artifacts, clan trust property, and memorabilia enhances quality of life for area residents and visitors; informs researchers and historians; inspires artists and creative writers; and encourages community pride through permanent, temporary, and traveling exhibits, and through a variety of programs for schools and the public.

Discover Alaska's most compelling natural stories in one place—from ancient glaciers and wildlife to Indigenous cultures and geological wonders. Since 1994, this Eagle River institution has been the only museum in the state dedicated exclusively to understanding Alaska's unique environmental and cultural heritage. Explore captivating exhibits and join hands-on science classes that bring Alaska's extraordinary past and present to life.

The Museum of the Aleutians is a 9,400 square foot building and is the only archaeological research and Museum storage facility for the Aleutian Region.

Step back into Alaska's layered past by exploring how Orthodox faith shaped the region's earliest communities. The galleries here showcase intricate icons, delicate embroidered pieces, and objects spanning from when Russians first settled these lands through today. Winter visits carry a contemplative quality—the quiet galleries feel especially intimate during the darker months, and the spiritual artwork takes on a deeper resonance when snow blankets the landscape outside. Discover how art and devotion intertwined across nearly three centuries of Alaskan heritage. http://www.russianorthodoxmuseum.com/

The Ilanka Cultural Center honors the full heritage and culture of the Eyak, Alutiiq, Ahtna, and Tlingit peoples. We are dedicated to the revival and preservation of Native crafts and skills for future generations. Ilanka is the Alutiiq word for “family,” and the Ilanka Cultural Museum is pleased to share Alutiiq heritage with you – our food and languages, art and regalia, songs and dances.

The Alaska Veterans Museum is planned with a focus on honoring our nation's veterans and insuring that because of the sacrifices they made to defend America's freedom, "They Shall Not Be Forgotten." As President Calvin Coolidge said, "A nation which forgets its defenders, will itself be forgotten."

The Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry (MATI) started in 1967 as the Air Progress Museum. It was a small collection of Alaskan transportation artifacts gathered for the centennial celebration of the United States purchasing Alaska from Russia in 1867. The exhibit was on International Airport Road in Anchorage.

Preserving, displaying, and honoring Alaska's aviation heritage.

At the Baranov Museum you can discover the history of Kodiak, Alaska through a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits, educational programs, and special events. <br> Explore Kodiak's rich history, from Alutiiq culture and the Russian colonial period to the early American era, WWII and the present day. The Baranov Museum is located within Kodiak's 200-year-old National Historic Landmark building known as the Russian American Magazin, or the Erskine House.

Located in Anchorage on 5th Avenue beneath the 5th Avenue Parking Garage, the Alaska Trooper Museum is operated by the Fraternal Order of Alaska State Troopers (F.O.A.S.T.) with the goal of sharing the history of the Alaska State Troopers. The museum tells the colorful story of a dedicated team of police officers who continue to bring law and order to one of the most unusual, rugged and far-flung jurisdictions in America.

Walk into a space where Alaskan creativity comes alive on every wall. This nonprofit hub showcases cutting-edge work from regional artists, with rotating solo shows that celebrate fresh perspectives and bold ideas. Beyond the gallery itself, you'll find lectures and musical performances that deepen the conversation around art, community workshops for adults ready to develop their skills, and initiatives bringing artists directly into classrooms. The center also organizes the Homer artists studio tour, giving visitors direct access to working studios. Even in winter's quieter months, the intimate gallery atmosphere draws people seeking cultural connection and the chance to acquire meaningful pieces directly from those who made them.

Learn about Cordova's colorful and fascinating history at The Cordova Historical Museum.

The Palmer Visitor Information Center is your contact point for questions and information on the Palmer area. Palmer is located in the scenic Matanuska River valley, with the Chugach and Talkeetna mountain ranges ringing the valley.

Discover the stories that shaped Valdez—from Gold Rush adventures to modern resilience. Our museum preserves the voices, artifacts, and traditions that define this remarkable community, inviting you to connect with the people and events that continue to inspire our town today.

Step inside this local treasure to discover the remarkable stories of Petersburg's pioneers, fishermen, and families who shaped this unique Alaskan community. Since 1968, the museum has been collecting and sharing the genuine history of the people and places that make this region so special. It's a warm, welcoming spot to connect with the rich heritage that defines Petersburg.

The Anchorage Museum brings the best of Alaska to the world and the best of the world to Alaska. <br> Through a combination of art, history and science the Anchorage Museum creates a rich, deep understanding of the human experience and offers something for everyone.

Step inside Kodiak's cultural heart and discover 7,500 years of Alutiiq heritage brought to life through ancient artifacts and stories that still resonate today. The Alutiiq Museum offers a window into the traditions, ingenuity, and resilience of Alaska's Native people—perfect for a meaningful winter visit when you have time to really connect with the past.

Discover the glittering world of Idaho's mining past and geological wonders at this gem tucked into the Historical District. Nestled beside the historic Old Penitentiary, the museum brings the state's underground riches and earth science story to life through captivating exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities—perfect for curious minds of any age.

Discover the incredible stories of aviation and World War II history at this community-supported museum in Idaho. Explore fascinating exhibits that bring to life the technology, culture, and brave individuals who shaped North America during one of history's most pivotal eras. Plan your visit today and experience hands-on learning that connects the home front to the war front.

Tucked in the heart of Hailey, this charming 1882 adobe building invites you to explore the rich stories of Blaine County. Founded in 1962, the museum preserves local history within its distinctive walls—once a liquor store, movie house, and even an armory during the Spanish-American War. Step inside to discover artifacts and memories that bring Idaho's pioneer heritage to life.

The Boise Art Museum champions excellence in the visual arts through exhibitions, collections and educational experiences and is nationally recognized for leadership, innovation and excellence in the visual arts.

The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho opened its doors to the public on Oct. 19, 2002, and is operated by the Board of Directors as a 501(c)3 nonprofit art museum and art education center.

The Bird Aviation Museum & Invention Center offers: Indoor Space of 16,000 square feet, Restrooms with Handicap Accessibility, State-of-the-Art Kitchen & Gift Shop.

A non-profit educational arts organization founded in 1971 by Glenn and Bill Janss. The Center offers cultural experiences that are exceptional for a community located far from urban centers. Our purpose is community service, and the arts are an integral part of our development as human beings.

Founded in 1995, the Idaho Black History Museum is a 501 (c)3 organization established to educate individuals about the history and culture of African Americans, with special emphasis on African Americans in Idaho. Housed in the historic St. Paul Baptist Church building and located in Boise's Julia Davis Park, the museum presents exhibits and provides educational and community outreach programs including lectures, films, workshops, literacy programs, and musical performances. <br> The museum's purpose is to build bridges between cultures to explore issues that affect Americans of all cultures and ethnicities. Come by today.

The Idaho Military History Museum has been established for the purpose of "preservation, display and interpretation of military history and artifacts that have a geographical tie to the history of the people and state of Idaho". <br> The Idaho Military History Museum was opened in 1995 by the Idaho Military Historical Society.

The Museum was started by aircraft enthusiast John Bagley. The museum opened in 2006, with the goal that gives visitors the opportunity to see up close some of the machines that have served America and provided us with the freedoms we currently enjoy.

The Basque Museum & Cultural Center provides a look into the heritage of the Basque communities of Idaho and surrounding areas. <br> Boise, Idaho has long been a central location where Basque immigrants first congregated after coming to the United States from the Spanish Basque Region. As immigrants established their lives here, Basques became well known for their hard work and perseverance. <br> The Basque Museum & Cultural Center provides a look into the Basque heritage by exhibits, collections, and tours. As a cultural center, it's a gathering place for events and educational opportunities - in which people of all backgrounds can participate in Basque activities. <br> Located in downtown Boise, Idaho, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center provides an active central location for maintaining the Basque culture in the United States.

Founded back in 1972, this community-driven organization launched its museum doors just a year later and has been growing ever since. What started as a single building has blossomed into an entire Village experience, with multiple structures clustered together that you can explore at your own pace. The dedicated team running things continues to fuel the expansion through generous memorials and contributions from locals who care about preserving the area's past. Winter visits here feel particularly intimate—fewer crowds mean you can linger in the quieter galleries and really soak in the stories, while the crisp outdoor air makes wandering between the Village buildings feel like stepping back in time even more vividly.

Escape the cold and step into Idaho's fascinating stories—from ancient pharaohs to dinosaurs to the epic Lewis and Clark expedition. This premier museum brings the region's natural and cultural heritage to life through world-class traveling exhibits, interactive programs, and displays that spark curiosity for visitors of all ages. Perfect for a winter day of discovery and wonder.

Inside the Priest Lake Museum are vignettes of yesterday, historic exhibits and videos of Priest Lake, history that include interviews with local pioneers' first hand accounting of events. Unique books (including the recently published "Pioneer Voices of Priest Lake") and DVDs, focused on the region's colorful history, available for sale. <br> The Museum, located at 38 Priest Lake Museum Road, just north of the junction of Luby Bay Road with West Lakeshore Road, is operated totally by volunteers. It is scheduled to be open 10AM to 4PM on Memorial Day weekend, then daily starting the follwing Sataurday through Labor Day. The Museum is closed Mondays except for holiday Mondays. <br> The Priest Lake Museum Association was formed by a handful of volunteers to provide visitors and residents with an awareness of the area's rich past. The Association was formed in 1979, incorporated in 1980 and received its 501c3 tax-exempt status in 1981. The Museum opened its doors to the public in 1990. The Museum Association depends on in-kind contribution, monetary donations, membership and volunteers for its ongoing operations. http://thepriestlakemuseum.com/

Winter visitors find themselves in a hushed, contemplative space where the University of Oregon's collection comes alive across thoughtfully arranged galleries. The museum exists to deepen how locals and travelers understand the natural world around them, with particular attention to Oregon's unique ecosystems and the cultures that have shaped this region. Spanning anthropological artifacts to geological specimens, the exhibits connect you to both immediate surroundings and distant corners of the globe—the kind of place where a rainy afternoon becomes an unexpected adventure through time and discovery.

Four Rivers Cultural Center Museum gathers within its walls, the wonders of more than a century of history. The museum exhibits trace the settlement patterns of the Northern Paiutes, Basque, Japanese/Americans, Hispanic, and Euro American immigrants. The visitor's exhibit tour begins with an educational film, designed to provide a historical context to the exhibit gallery.

Step inside a beautifully preserved 1920s Natatorium and discover the compelling stories that shaped Eastern Oregon. The Baker Heritage Museum's expansive exhibits bring the region's mining boom, timber era, ranching heritage, and diverse communities—including the vital contributions of Chinese settlers—to vivid life across 33,000 square feet. Lose yourself in artifacts and displays that reveal how resilient pioneers and settlers built a thriving community in this corner of Oregon.

Dive into hands-on science that sparks curiosity and wonder at this dynamic museum where learning feels like play. From interactive exhibits to immersive programs, you'll discover why science matters in ways that actually stick with you—perfect for curious minds of all ages looking to explore, experiment, and have fun this winter.

The Museum’s permanent collection of over 5,000 cataloged items includes paintings, sculpture, and works on paper by over 100 distinguished artists ranging from early American Tribes through contemporary masters. The Museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions are augmented with innovative educational and scholarly programs emphasizing art appreciation, art history, natural science, creative writing, and American history.<br> The Museum has become an important educational center and meeting place for the Jackson Hole region. In 1994, the National Museum of Wildlife Art received the Wyoming Humanities Award for exemplary efforts in fostering the humanities in Wyoming. More than 76,000 people visit every year, and over 10,000 children visit the Museum each year, often as part of their school curricula.

Step into Wyoming's story through compelling exhibits that bring the state's rich heritage to life. This dynamic museum celebrates the people, landscapes, and pivotal moments that shaped the Rocky Mountain West, offering visitors an immersive journey through centuries of human and natural history. Perfect for a meaningful winter visit when you can take your time exploring without the summer crowds.