Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture

The Burke Museum is a natural history museum on the University of Washington campus and displays fossils, rocks, animal specimens, and cultural objects from various periods. The exhibitions are arranged across multiple floors and offer an overview of the region's natural history and its inhabitants.

The museum was founded in 1899 from a collecting tradition that started with a naturalist club at a local high school in the city. Over the 20th century, the institution grew to its current size through donations and scientific expeditions.

The collections feature objects from Native American peoples, especially from Pacific Northwest tribes, allowing visitors to learn about their history and traditions. You see handcrafted tools, clothing, and spiritual items that show how these communities lived.

The museum is located on university grounds and is accessible by public transportation or car. Plan to spend at least a few hours to comfortably explore the different exhibition areas.

The museum houses the world's largest collection of mounted bird wings, which helps researchers study bird characteristics and evolution. This specialized collection draws ornithologists from around the globe.

Location: Seattle

Operator: University of Washington

Address: 4303 Memorial Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98195

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00; Monday off

Phone: +12062217083

Website: https://burkemuseum.org

GPS coordinates: 47.66052,-122.31156

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:43