All geology museums to visit in Washington state

Discover the Earth's secrets at 6 geology museums in Washington state. These museums feature exhibits on rocks, minerals, fossils, and the geological processes that shape our planet.

Are you fascinated by the Earth's natural history? These are the geology museums you should visit in Washington state:

  1. Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture1

    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.
  2. Verlot Public Service Center2

    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.
  3. Yakima Valley Museum3

    Yakima Valley Museum

     Yakima, WA
    The Yakima Valley Museum spans a vast 65,000-square-foot area and provides a comprehensive look into the rich history of the Yakima Valley. The exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the natural history of the region, the culture of the American Indians who lived there, the life of the pioneers, the early city life, and the development of the fruit industry. These exhibits offer a deep dive into the past, providing visitors with a better understanding of the region's history and culture.
  4. Ginkgo Petrified Forest Interpretive Center4

    Ginkgo Petrified Forest Interpretive Center

     Vantage, WA
    The Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park/Wanapum Recreational Area is a significant geologic preserve and public recreation area. It spans over 7,124 acres along the western shoreline of the Columbia River's Wanapum Reservoir in Vantage, Washington. This vast area offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and appreciate the natural beauty and geological significance of the region.
  5. Stonerose Fossils5

    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.
  6. 6

    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.