All animal museums to visit in Washington state

Delve into the diverse world of animals at 16 animal museums in Washington state. These museums showcase a variety of species, habitats, and the role of animals in our ecosystem.

Are you an animal lover looking to explore the best animal museums in Washington state? Here are your best options:

  1. Woodland Park Zoo1

    Woodland Park Zoo

     Seattle, WA
    The Woodland Park Zoo is a wildlife conservation organization and a zoo situated in the Phinney Ridge neighborhood of Seattle, Washington, USA. It is a recipient of numerous awards across multiple categories. The zoo is a part of the western half of Woodland Park and has a rich history dating back to its establishment on the estate of Guy C. Phinney, a Canadian-born sawmill owner and real estate developer.
  2. Online discount!Seattle Aquarium2

    Seattle Aquarium

     Seattle, WA
    The Seattle Aquarium is a public aquarium that has been serving the community since 1977. It is conveniently located on Pier 59 on the Elliott Bay waterfront, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike. The aquarium offers a variety of exhibits and educational programs, making it a great destination for families and individuals interested in marine life.
  3. Pacific Science Center3

    Pacific Science Center

     Seattle, WA
    The Pacific Science Center is an independent, non-profit science center located in Seattle. Its mission is to ignite curiosity and fuel a passion for discovery, experimentation, and critical thinking. This makes it an ideal destination for those who are interested in science and learning.
  4. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium4

    Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

     Tacoma, WA
    The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium (PDZA) is a combined zoo and aquarium located in Tacoma, Washington, USA. It is owned and managed by Metro Parks Tacoma, a government agency dedicated to providing quality park services and facilities. The zoo and aquarium offer a unique experience for visitors, with a wide variety of animal species and aquatic life.
  5. Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture5

    Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture

     Seattle, WA
    The Burke Museum boasts a collection of over 12 million artifacts and specimens. These include totem poles and dinosaur fossils, with the majority of the collection originating from the state of Washington. This extensive collection provides a comprehensive insight into the natural history and culture of the region.
  6. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park6

    Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

     Eatonville, WA
    The Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, located in Eatonville, Washington, is a unique animal reserve that resembles a zoo. It is recognized and accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a reputable organization in the field. The park specializes in the care and exhibition of native animals, providing visitors with an authentic and educational experience of the local fauna.
  7. Cougar Mountain Zoo7

    Cougar Mountain Zoo

     Issaquah, WA
    Located in Issaquah, Washington, Cougar Mountain Zoo is an 11-acre non-profit zoological park. It is situated on the north slope of Cougar Mountain, approximately 15 miles east of Seattle. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the Seattle area.
  8. Sequim Museum & Arts8

    Sequim Museum & Arts

     Sequim, WA
    The Sequim Museum & Arts is a local history museum situated in downtown Sequim, Washington. The museum offers free admission to all visitors, making it an accessible destination for tourists of all budgets. It provides a deep dive into the local history and culture of the region, making it an ideal stop for those interested in learning more about Sequim and its surroundings.
  9. Verlot Public Service Center9

    Verlot Public Service Center

     Granite Falls, WA
    The Verlot Public Service Center, located on the Mountain Loop Highway eleven miles east of Granite Falls, is a part of the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. It was formerly a ranger station but has since been transformed into a visitor center after its merger with the Darrington Ranger District. This change has allowed the center to expand its services and become a hub for visitors to the national forest.
  10. Cat Tales Wildlife Center10

    Cat Tales Wildlife Center

     Mead, WA
    Cat Tales Wildlife Center, located in Mead, Washington, is a USDA Licensed - Class C - Exhibitor. This classification is the same for all zoos, indicating that Cat Tales meets the necessary standards for animal care and safety. The center is dedicated to the rescue and protection of big cats and Northwest wildlife, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with these magnificent creatures.
  11. Whatcom Museum - Old City Hall11

    Whatcom Museum - Old City Hall

     Bellingham, WA
    The Whatcom Museum, located in Bellingham, Washington, is a renowned natural history and art museum. It has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, a recognition that attests to its high standards in terms of collections, programs, and operations. The museum offers a rich blend of natural history and art exhibits, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in both fields.
  12. Stonerose Fossils12

    Stonerose Fossils

     Republic, WA
    The Stonerose Interpretive Center & Eocene Fossil Site is a non-profit public museum and fossil dig located in Republic, Washington. Established in 1989, the center houses a vast collection of fossils that have been featured in various publications and scientific works. The center was the result of a collaborative effort between artist Wesley 'Wes' Wehr and then Republic City council member Bert Chadick, who envisioned a public interpretive center and fossil dig that would allow people to explore a world-class fossil site and interact with researchers studying the finds.
  13. 13

    Wolf Haven International

     Tenino, WA
    Wolf Haven International, formerly known as Wolf Country and Wolf Haven America, is a sanctuary for wolves and a non-profit organization based in Tenino, Washington. The organization was founded in 1982 and is dedicated to providing educational programs about wolves, engaging in wolf-related activism, and operating as a sanctuary for displaced, captive-born wolves.
  14. 14

    Karshner Museum

     Puyallup, WA
    The Karshner Museum, also known as the Paul H. Karshner Memorial Museum, is a natural history museum situated at 309 4th Street NE, Puyallup, Washington. This museum is a unique destination for those interested in natural history and cultural artifacts.
  15. 15

    Puget Sound Museum of Natural History

     Tacoma, WA
    The Puget Sound Museum of Natural History is situated in Tacoma, Washington. It is conveniently located on the campus of the University of Puget Sound at 1500 N. Warner St. Tacoma, WA 98416. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are interested in exploring the rich natural history of the region.
  16. 16

    Whale Museum

     Friday Harbor, WA
    The Whale Museum, located in Friday Harbor, Washington, is a natural history museum that was established in 1979. It is a place where visitors can learn about the fascinating world of whales and their environment.