Explore 10 Rural Museums on the Olympic Peninsula

So often when you think of a museum it’s located in an urban area, which might be large and daunting. But here on the Olympic Peninsula you can leave the big city behind and explore our collection of fascinating rural museums with insightful locals eager to share their first-hand knowledge. From the Pacific Ocean to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and along the Hood Canal we have venues that celebrate our cultural heritage, history, industry and art. Before you go, be sure to check the hours of operation for each museum.

1) Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum

1880 Bayview Avenue, Neah Bay, WA 98357 • 360.645.2711

The museum houses and interprets 300 to 500-year-old artifacts recovered from the Ozette Archaeological Site as well as other historic and replica pieces and photographs related to the Makah Tribe. LEARN MORE

3) Forks Timber Museum

1421 S. Forks Avenue, Forks, WA 98331 • 360.374.9663

The classic log cabin structure invites you to step back in time for a deeper look into the rich history of the early settlers, homesteading, farming and logging in the Pacific Northwest. LEARN MORE

3) Sequim Museum and Arts

544 N. Sequim Avenue, Sequim, WA98382 • 360.681.2257

Three buildings—the Museum, Administrative Center and the old Dungeness Schoolhouse—offer opportunities to see local art, historic displays and changing exhibits. Be sure to check out the Manis Mastodon story and display. LEARN MORE

5) Carnegie Museum

205 S. Lincoln Street, Port Angeles, WA 98362 • 360.417.8545

The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe manages this museum displaying cultural and historical artifacts relating to the history of the tribe and information about the Elwha River Dam Removal Project. LEARN MORE

5) Joyce Depot Museum

50883 Hwy. 112, Port Angeles, WA 98363 • 360.928.3568

The original log train depot built in 1914 is home to the Joyce Museum, housing historical memorabilia from the surrounding area rich in history. LEARN MORE

6) Port Townsend Aero Museum

105 Airport Road, Port Townsend, WA 98368 • 360.379.5244

This historic aviation museum displays over 25 aircraft dating from 1924 through 1959. If you or your family members are enthralled with classic planes, be sure check out the collection. LEARN MORE

7) Jefferson Museum of Art & History

540 Water Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368 • 360.385.1003

Located in the 1892 historic city hall building, this museum showcases local history, an art gallery, plus the original jail and fire hall. The museum is part of the Jefferson County Historical Society who also manages the Commanding Officer’s Quarters, the Rothschild House, Research Center and the Gateway Visitor Center. LEARN MORE

8) Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum

Fort Worden, 200 Battery Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368 • 360.385.0373

This military museum provides history about the Coast Artillery with special emphasis on the Harbor Defenses of Puget Sound as they functioned from the late 1800s to the end of World War II. LEARN MORE

9) Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center

150 SE Kwuh-Deegs-Altxw, Shelton, WA 98584 • 360.432.3839

Here you’ll discover the story of the People of the Water through a series of exhibits and displays depicting the relationship between the tribal members and seven inlets of South Puget Sound. LEARN MORE

10) Lake Quinault Museum

354 S. Shore Road, Quinault, WA 98575 • 360.288.2361

The rich histories of the proud communities surrounding Lake Quinault are preserved through objects of historical and educational value with seven exhibit rooms. LEARN MORE

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Learn more about the Olympic Peninsula’s fascinating history, cultural heritage and how people have lived and worked in this magnificent area for centuries, all while exploring the peninsula’s natural beauty. Bring the family and discover the treasures within our small-town museums.

Top cover photo: Port Angeles Cabin | Courtesy of North Olympic History Center/Clallam County Historical Society, Port Angeles, WA