The Center for Wooden Boats (CWB) is a unique museum located in Seattle, dedicated to preserving and documenting the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest area of the United States. It offers a deep dive into the rich maritime history of the region, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in history and maritime culture.
Founded by Dick Wagner in the 1970s, the Center for Wooden Boats has expanded to include three sites. These are the South Lake Union campus in Lake Union Park, the Northlake Workshop & Warehouse at the north end of Lake Union, and The Center for Wooden Boats at Cama Beach State Park on Camano Island. Each site offers a unique perspective on the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest.
The Center for Wooden Boats boasts a collection of more than 170 vessels, primarily small sailboats and rowboats. This extensive collection provides a comprehensive overview of the types of boats used in the Pacific Northwest throughout history, offering a unique insight into the region's maritime past.
Specialized & Alternative Science & Technology Maritime
#2 Free museums in Seattle #2 Science & Technology in Seattle #1 Maritime museums in Seattle #2 Free museums in Washington state #3 Science & Technology in Washington state #1 Maritime museums in Washington state #69 Free museums in United States #59 Science & Technology in United States #23 Maritime museums in United States
Winter: January 3, 2024 - March 10, 2024 | 10:00am-4:00pm | Last boat out @ 2:30pm.
Spring: March 13, 2024 - September 22, 2024
Wednesday - Friday 12:00pm-7:00pm Last boat out @ 5:30pm.
Saturday - Sunday 10:00am-6:00pm Last boat out @ 4:30pm
Summer: June 24, 2024 - August 30, 2024
Monday - Friday 11:00am-7:00pm Last boat out @ 5:30pm.
Saturday - Sunday 10:00am-6:00pm Last boat out @ 4:30pm
Autumn: August 31, 2024 - October 27, 2024 |10:00am-6:00pm | Last boat out @ 4:30pm.
Autumn/Winter: October 30, 2024 - December 10, 2024 | 10:00am-4:00pm | Last boat out @ 2:30pm
Thanksgiving Closure: November 23, 2024
Winter Closure December 11,
Valley Street 1010, Seattle
No exhibitions in Center For Wooden Boats have been found.
Center For Wooden Boats has 1 rating.
The Center For Wooden Boats in Seattle offers visitors a hands-on experience with maritime history. Many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to see and learn about various types of wooden boats, from small rowboats to larger sailboats. The center's location on Lake Union provides a picturesque setting for boat enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Visitors often praise the knowledgeable and passionate staff who are eager to share information about boat building and sailing. The center offers boat rentals, which many find to be a highlight of their visit, allowing them to experience the water firsthand. Free public sailings on Sundays are particularly popular and frequently mentioned in positive reviews.
The museum's workshops and classes on boat building and restoration are well-regarded, offering both educational value and practical skills. Many appreciate the center's efforts in preserving maritime traditions and craftsmanship.
However, some visitors note that the experience can be weather-dependent, with outdoor activities less enjoyable during rainy or cold days. A few reviewers mention that the exhibits and facilities could benefit from updates or expansion to provide a more comprehensive museum experience.
Overall, the Center For Wooden Boats is well-received for its interactive approach to maritime history, beautiful setting, and educational programs. While it may not offer the extensive exhibits of larger museums, its hands-on experiences and community focus make it a valued attraction in Seattle.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
Discover museums near Center For Wooden Boats in or around Seattle.