What a pleasant visit I had at the Northwest African American Museum. There was so much to take in as I learned about the history of this area and the many first African Americans who lead in significant areas of leadership. One of the best hidden gems that I encourage you, especially if you are a Luther Vandross fan is to see his exhibit. I was able to see six of his grammys and the show outfits he and his singers wore in his televised concert. It is a must see to see his hand written notes and the manner in which he used his musical genius. The staff is super friendly and knowledgable. Make this a to do on your list if you visit Seattle. read more

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The Northwest African American Museum is one of my favorite museums because it's more inclusive with the community, and not solely art. During the holidays the museum hosts several holiday events, we had the opportunity to take pictures with Santa! The staff were all very courteous, and entry was simple. The Northwest African American museum combines art, history, and community perfectly; I highly recommend! read more

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NAAM is such a great place for families! From photos with Santa and crafts in the winter, to bounce houses and kids crafts on Juneteenth...they know how to put on an event! The feeling of community that I see my children feeling is everything. Performances, artists, art...in so many forms...it's incredible. Inside, family loves the book vending machine and the kids corner area with books and toys. The interactive exhibits are fun and informative. My kids like opening all the doors and using the headphones to hear stories. They love seeing people that look like family having huge impacts on history. Just a great place. Not to mention, The staff is friendly and helpful and never hard to find. I recommend the membership, there's enough going on year round to make it worth it. read more

Northwest African American Museum - Luther Vandross exhibit - Museums Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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It was really affordable and worth the visit. It's not big so you can easily explore the whole museum within a few hours but there's also plenty to see so you won't be disappointed. There was a mix of historical information and new art exhibits. They had multiple displays that you can touch and find more information in drawers and behind secret doors. read more

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The NAAM is a great museum in Seattle! Awesome spot to soak up some knowledge and appreciate some history. You can easily spend about an hour here. Check your employer for discounts on tickets. Parking on site. Friendly staff. read more

We tabled a resource event for the annual Every Month is Black History Month Community Health and Resource Fair. The space offered information and canvas that supports the African culture. A museum that captures our heritage of businesses and lands in the Pacific Northwest. The museum shares a garden of grass park, named in the honor of Jimmy Hendricks. Prices are affordable for the family to enjoy, relaxing enough to have an intimate hang out or enjoy self. read more

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Came here as it was free admission on MLK day. I will say it was a nice way to spend a couple hours save for the large crowd. Despite the crowd though it was actually warming to see so many people, of all shapes and sizes coming out to the museum. There were some additional events and food trucks present on the outside of the museum. The Volunteer at the front desk was helpful in pointing out what was going on, where specific galleries were and some news about the museum, such as it being reopened after an extended closure. The museum isn't terribly big, but if you take your time walking through and taking in all of the displays and galleries it's a great way to spend a couple hours. My favorite part was the hall that has history of Black Americans in the Pacific Northwest as well some even coming from Montana. All places where even presently there many population-wise, but it's interesting reading stories of how and why they arrived in those areas, all dating back to the 1900's. Some here in Washington proper. Down the Hall you see roles undertaken by the first time by Black Americans in the PNW including formal positions, such as attorneys and town officials. I'm glad to have been able to check out this Museum and would recommend for anyone who enjoys museums or as an educational trip for kids. read more

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The Northwest African American Museum reopened on Martin Luther King (MLK) Jr Day in 2023 - the 40th anniversary of the MLK Jr. federal holiday. After a 3-years closure during the pandemic, they remodeled, and the museum looks fantastic. The historical portions highlight the journey to the Pacific Northwest (PNW) showcasing the pioneering spirit of the African Americans escaping the racist laws of the south in 1844. Alas, the Oregon Country was also racist, that it was illegal for Blacks to settle there. They moved further north, to present-day Olympia, where they were finally able to settle down, build homes, and farm. Other historical portions highlight contributions of the African Americans who call PNW home throughout the decades. These two sections were my favorites. They also have sections showcasing current artists, community outreach, and lessons opportunities. The museum is modest sized. Depending on how thoroughly you read the displays, it might be an hour or two visit. While you are at the museum, be sure to visit the Jimi Hendrix Park outside. There is parking for visitors. Pay attention to the signs as the museum shares a building with residences. Need to park at visitors only. read more

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This is a must see of Seattle. This museum along with Wing Luke, should be on everyone's list, if you really want to learn as well as understand Seattle. Both are small but jam packed with information. The museum has free parking and not too far from the bus stop. It is up an hill so keep that in mind. The gift shop is small but the museum is great. Also make time to walk around or go when they have an event. read more

The Northwest African American Museum is a must add to your PNW vacation! We enjoyed touring the museum and learning the history of African Americans in the area. The statement, "We are a Northwest museum that uses black heritage to cultivate hope and healing for all" describes the space beautifully. Our family enjoyed the entire experience touring the museum, learning about each piece of art displayed by the talented artists, and learning about the history of the building and its significance. We will definitely be back anytime we're in the area. read more

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Wow! What a lovely space. The expansive parking lot and beautiful exterior are also quite noticeable at nighttime. Inside, the warmth of the colors of artwork inspire and welcome you. We were here for the celebration of the 200th Anniversary of the Births of the Bab and Baha'u'llah, a festive and commemorative time for Baha'is around the world. The evening rental included time for us to peruse the beautiful artwork and exhibits; as well as the interactive ones! A large room was made available to us with seating for over 100 persons; complete with screen and projector, sound system and varying lighting options for the presentations. The hallway provided a cramped, but open space where we could enjoy tea and cookies after the evening program. Overall, staff and security were friendly and warm, the space quite hospitable and truly a wonderful location for any special or noteworthy event! read more

Northwest African American Museum - Museums Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I give this museum an A for effort! I've been to a number of black history and cultural museums throughout the country. For this reason, I was truly interested in visiting the Northwest African American Museum while traveling to Seattle last weekend. This museum is very small and encompasses black history among the entire Northwestern United States region, not just Seattle or Washington. I found it interesting that the theme of this museum describes the plight of black people who migrated while on the Oregon Trail. There were multiple mentions of one black person who founded a settlement, kind of to the point where it seemed like this museum did not have anything or any other historical figures to talk about. It was kind of redundant, and I felt like it needed to be edited a bit so that he wasn't mentioned all over the exhibit. There was an art gallery that showcased photographs by black artists. The photographs were very nice. The last exhibit was called "You're Not From Around Here?" I really liked this section, as it gave a real and honest look at the feelings and perspectives of how black residents of Seattle feel about their experience being among such a small black population in the area, and how they feel like their experiences aren't represented on the national forefront when compared to that of the South or the East Coast. It was interesting, and gave me a real and honest look at how certain people feel. I think it's great that this museum exists, however, I think that the large space could be better utilized, and that there has got to be more black history and culture in this region that is not being represented at this museum in its current state. I look forward to returning and hopefully seeing even more here the next time. read more

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Inspiring story of local residents actions to occupy and preserve historic school building and turn into a museum and affordable housing for residents. Well crafted exhibits. Like the introductory welcome video by local teens. read more

I am an artist. I took pictures of a few of my paintings and had them printed up on mugs and tote bags. I was able to walk in and speak with the lovely woman by the name of Stacy a few years ago she gave me the opportunity to have a display in their gift shop. I'm very grateful for the opportunity. This is the first time I was paid for my work and I received a check from the African-American Museum so that is awesome and amazing. I'd love to walk through and see all of the amazing accomplishments that Black people have made this is definitely a cool place to visit it's got a beautiful green area outside as well. This is a must see read more

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I really love this place! This museum is full of rich African American history both nationwide and Northwestern. In addition there are amazing art installations. For example, this month Hiawatha Davis' iconic woman exhibit is on display and it is spectacular. Definite a must visit id in Seattle. read more

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Such an interesting place. It is relatively easy to get to by car and parking is free. The person at the front desk was friendly, polite and had recommendations on where to start. While the museum is small it is full of interesting exhibits. One of the prize exhibits is a hat Hendrix wore at a 1968 concert in LA. NAAM participates in FREE Thursdays. It has a gift shop and reading room. The Museum is housed in the century old Colman School building which overlooks a beautiful sprawling green park named for rock legend Jimi Hendrix. Located just outside the Museum entrance is perfect for a family picnic. Free Tours Public tours are available led by trained docents. Please call at (206) 518-6000 for more information. Wednesday - Sunday 11am-5pm Open late on Thursday until 7pm Closed Monday and Tuesday read more

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I've been wanting to stop by here since 2014 when I first heard of it. Although small, NAAM is packed with rich and vibrant history. The most beautiful thing is seeing a strong sense of pride, determination, bravery and desire to contribute to the growth of America IN SPITE OF bring kidnapped from Africa, dragged half way across the globe, raped of identity and granted freedom with no money to our name. Even after slavery, we struggled to establish a living across the country. You'd be surprised about reception in Portland..it's infamous and worth a Google if you don't end up at NAAM. I feel sadness and joy seeing Africans, Caribbeans and African-Americans continue to persevere. There is a lot of art of/by black people that didn't make it, but it's still a really good educational museum. So worth visiting during the harsh climate America is once again experiencing. We will get through this together ! Happy Black History Month read more

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I had the opportunity to visit this museum, for the first time, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. There's a little bit of parking available, on-site, on two small lots. However, I'd expect to have to utilize the residential parking, in the area around the museum if it was a, particularly, busy day. The building is a large historical school house from the early 1900s and is really very beautiful. When I visited, there were colorful paintings and art exhibits up from different local artists. Several of the larger displays, in the hall area, were dedicated to providing information about the historical experiences and contributions of Black Americans in the Pacific Northwest; which was my primary reason for visiting. They were put together really nicely in a way that encouraged curiosity and told soo many interesting stories. One of the back rooms were showing films, another hosted a spoken word performance, and there's a modest library that features Black authors. I walked away happy to have enjoyed an opportunity to be educated about an important part of Pacific Northwest History. I enjoyed my visit, immensely! read more

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We are visiting Seattle from Arizona and saw a billboard that said 'Funky turns 40' and I'm so glad that we did! We enjoyed our visit to the museum and talking to our children about many of the positive aspects of OUR history! I personally loved the Funky turns 40 exhibit and remembering all of the positive cartoons and images of my childhood. read more

Northwest African American Museum - Museums Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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This is a nice place! It's small but there is so much to see. And you get to touch some of the exhibits. That's a big plus if you have children with you. I'll go back again. read more

Northwest African American Museum - Cute stuff in the gift shop - Museums Near Me - Seattle, Washington

The highlight of my trip to Seattle! First, let me start of by saying this this is not your typical "African-American" Museum and it is very small. However, the amount of history radiating throughout this building will leave you in aww. I never imaged such much history and current black activism could take place in Seattle. However, this museum does not solely explain the African-American History of Seattle, it tells the story of the African-American experience and history among the entire Northwestern United States. This place is truly a hidden gem and a must visit while visiting Seattle. read more

Northwest African American Museum - Front entrance - Museums Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This is a very well-presented and -managed museum of the history of African Americans in the Pacific Northwest, comprising Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, with a slight emphasis upon the cities of Tacoma and Seattle. It is a self-paced museum (at least when I went), and exhibits are clearly marked with descriptions of what you're looking at. There are a few interactive sections as well, where you can watch and listen to people and events, or open drawers to find "treasures" that give more depth to the displays. One exhibit has a large-form book with several pages you can turn to read the pages, which was interesting. There are many donated items to help illustrate the history of the area, from advertising pamphlets to church bulletins to black-owned or -operated newspapers. The emphasis is upon the people who live or have lived here, but there is one section with a globe that illustrates where our African American neighbors have come from, with no holding back about the terrible circumstances that stole them from their families and neighbors, put them on overcrowded ships, and brought them to be sold off as machines. But it also shows that there is an incredible will to fight back against pain and death, and that African Americans, who often came to the Pacific Northwest to escape terrible injustice elsewhere, still had to fight that same injustice here. And yet these were ordinary people--servants, porters, mechanics, teachers, preachers, doctors, and the like--who built a community where they landed. I think it's important to see our history as it is. It's great to see the good parts, of course--to see Larry Gossett, Norm Rice, and Ron Sims as full-size images in the lobby, as a great reminder of what people can do when they have just the tiniest slice to thrive and lead--but it's also necessary to see all the bad as well--the riots and the destruction and the oppression, which remind us that the past can either instruct us of what not to do, or guide us on what we should do. The museum itself occupies most of the ground floor of the old Colman School, and the docent gave me a small tour of the building & told me about the history of this wonderful old school. There's a gift shop with a few themed items and books, and there is a genealogy center to do some research on your roots, as well as a reading room. There is also a gallery on the ground floor which hosts various exhibits throughout the year. At the time of my visit (January 2018) there were three or four photographers represented by a collection of their works, as well as an exhibition of collages and "found items" from the past which are turned into art. The photos were gorgeous, and each photographer's work showed how much the eye of the photographer determines the mood and the effect of the photo. Very nicely done. The collage work was also interesting as it is possible to get quite close to the art. (Reminder: do not touch the work of an artist! Look only!) The several representations of "St. Felicia" and the mythology connected with her were all quite moving and even humorous--St. Felicia, for example, is encircled by outthrust arms, showing us her palm. It was funny and challenging, and a reminder that art doesn't have to be static to be moving. This is a great stop for anyone who lives or who is near the Seattle region and who wants to know more about our common history and to understand the lives of our neighbors and friends. * I should add that I've lived here for 25 years, drive by the Colman School every day on the way home from work, and never knew this museum existed. Only the kind suggestion by a friend last week informed of its existence. I'm just sorry I didn't know about this sooner and didn't visit it before. read more

Parking is free and the exhibits are detailed and fascinating. The Jimi Hendrix exhibit is so much more personal than I expected. The details of his life from grandparents to his too short adult life really gave you a sense of the person he was and I love him even more than I did before. The featured artist exhibit is breathtaking and must be seen in person to fully appreciate. She uses a wax technique that I've never seen before that gives each piece such depth. She makes you feel each picture, I loved it. I am on a bit of a journey of self discovery and I found it very inspiring to see all of the people in the museum as ordinary people who did extraordinary things. I loved it here and I totally recommend it to anyone. I didn't have my kids with me but there are some interactive things that they would enjoy. The Jimi Hendrix garden was not completed when I went but I will go back to see it when it is. read more

Northwest African American Museum - Have to see it in person to get the depth of the materials used but beautiful nonetheless. - Museums Near Me - Seattle, Washington

My family and I came to the museum's MLK Day celebration January 15th. Usually the museum is closed on Mondays, but the Holiday was a special occasion. There was a good crowd there to enjoy the special activities the museum had. There were people giving Dr. King's speeches, crafts for kids, book readings, vendors, and of course the museum's exhibits! There was so much to see and do that I'll have to come back another time. Make sure you take time to look in the gift shop as well. So many wonderful books and items to see and purchase. I'm so glad this museum is here in Seattle. Looking forward to returning soon. read more

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Wonderful venue for special occasions. The staff is very helpful and accommodating, from the events coordinator to the front desk staff. We used an outside caterer with no problem. There was a generous amount of time for setup and breakdown. We loved having the park right outside, where people could take pictures and little ones could run around. read more

I have watched and attended several events over the years it has greatly improved within the last two years. New leadership makes a huge difference. Marie Kidhe the events coordinator is a rock star. The exhibits, the parties and the community engagement is outstanding. My mother held her wedding reception here and Marie and Jamala went out of their way to ensure it was a success. read more

What an awesome place to visit. Very rich African American History. My partner and enjoyed the experience. read more

Northwest African American Museum - Enjoying rich history. - Museums Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Did you know George W. Bush is perhaps one of the most influential in African-American history? Oh gosh, no, not the one that was so ineffectual he watched an entire city drown. I'm talking about the first African-American settler in the Pacific Northwest that essentially built the state of Washington. God bless my tour guide when they eloquently stated, "This is the ONLY George W. Bush, as far as I'm concerned." This museum located at the former Colman School in Central District has only been around since 2008, but for such a young museum this is mightily impressive. The admission cost is $6, but with three exhibit galleries, it works out to be only $2 each! As well, they have a computer lab that is sponsored by the LDS church for the public to help trace their family genealogy, which is free of admission charge - you can literally just walk right in to use the computers! The Journey Gallery looks at Pacific Northwest African-American history starting from the slave trade and it examines culture, religion, art, history, social dynamics, and all sorts of other factors that impacted the African-American community. You get to learn more about George W. Bush here too! Right now in the Northwest Gallery they have an exhibit called "Stories that Cover Us." I love this exhibit (especially the title) because it features quilts done by the Pacific Northwest Quilters where each one is a reflection on identity and culture. The works displayed by these artists are just simply breath-taking. I've never really knew quilts could be such wonderful pieces of art until now! Make sure you see the "Straighten Up and Fly Right" quilt because that's my favorite. The last gallery is the Legacy Gallery and right now it's the history of the Tacoma Civil Rights movement. It starts at World War II and continues to look at local activism up until today. This is a wonderful museum and definitely worth checking out. The knowledge you walk out of here with is just astounding! read more

Guess what people it's FREE yes FREE the first Thursday of every month! Otherwise it's just a mere $6.00 and I say it's well worth $6.00. I went in expecting something a similar to that of the Wing Luke but less and boy was I wrong. The museum is visually stimulating and well put together. Not only do you learn about the African American experience in the Northwest but you also learn about their journey here. The Journey Gallery is an interesting gallery and tells the story of how African Americans arrived in the Northwest. In here you'll find photos, artifacts and personal stories that are all interesting and informative, this was my favorite gallery. The Northwest Gallery is filled with the history of the African American experiences. You'll learn about icons, community leader and heroes in this exhibit. If you go before February 2009 you'll get to see the wonderful exhibit, "Creating a World, Making a Life: Jacob Lawrence and James W. Washington, Jr." in The Northwest Gallery. Taken from the website "The artwork and objects here reveal the interests and passions of two artists who were central in helping us understand the power of creativity." There work is impressive and their stories inspiring, well worth a visit. The Legacy Gallery was empty when I went so I'm not sure what's going in there next but it looks like a great place to rent out for meetings or events. They also have a multimedia learning center which features resources to assist people in tracking their family history which I thought was rather cool. If you haven't been yet I highly suggest a visit, for just 19,000 square feet they sure have a lot of wonderful exhibits for you to see and enjoy. read more

I loved this museum so much I moved in! No, literally, they have amazing loft-like apartments with 20 foot ceilings and exposed brick walls above the museum! But back to the museum...great layout, wonderful and interactive displays with loads of information, wonderful and friendly staff with a nice "gift store" nook in their ancestry library. Come check them out! read more

Northwest African American Museum - Cool interactive displays - Museums Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Hmm. I'm not sure why all of the other reviewers are so ecstatic about this museum. Maybe it was better in 2008/2009? Here's the breakdown: Two back rooms serve as the main exhibit (rotating), before that is a hallway which is more-or-less a timeline of PNW African American history (and one of Jimmy Hendrix's hats), and by the check-in there is a library with some computers preloaded with ancestry.com. Don't get me wrong this little museum is cool, but makes me a little depressed. Maybe it's because it is a reminder of the lack of black history (comparatively) in the North West. What I most appreciate about NAAM is the conversations that they host. I recently went to one concerning, novelist, James Baldwin about race and sexuality. Aside: there is a "James Baldwin in Turkey" They had a guest speaker (well prepared) then broke into groups for poignant conversation. After that the facilitators shared our conversations/ideas with the entire room. I think that the NAAM functions best as a community involvement and discussion forum. read more

After living in Seattle for 13 years and even residing in the Central District a while, I am very embarrassed to admit that we did not discover how great this place was until 2015. A fantastic place to access local history, especially the African-American experience in the Pacific Northwest. We attend the events as well as exhibitions and are moved every single time by the work and the people devoted to creating and presenting it to the public. read more

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Small museum focusing on African American history generally & the role of African Americans in the development of the NW specifically. Occupies an old school which had a predominantly Black student body before it closed. Has a very interesting timeline display focusing on important events & people who contributed to the growth & development of the NW. Also a very interesting photo & short documentary film being show on the life of James Baldwin while living in Turkey in the 60's. Worth the small price of admission. Interesting side note: The park next to the museum is planned as a future park & memorial to Jimi Hendricks. Don't know what if any effect this may have on the memorial to Jimi at Greenwood Cemetery in Renton but both are sponsored by the Hendrick's family. read more

My business needed a reasonably priced event space for a holiday luncheon and a friend suggested I try NAAM. Marie, the Event Coordinator, was a pleasure to work with. She helped us pick out a room from her facility that met our needs. She allowed us to utilize some of the facilities dishes for our luncheon so we didn't have to bring everything. She was there that day to make sure that the space was set up correctly and to assist us with our last minute panic items. My employees thought the space to be very clean, private and quiet which allowed us to thoroughly enjoy our morale event. If you need a meeting or party room in the Central District which is close to downtown with a professional vibe, look no further than NAAM. They will even allow your participants to tour the museum for free included with the rental fee. read more

Friendly and welcoming. Small museum, particularly because an aisle was not visible (new exhibition was being installed). Couple artifacts from Jimy Hendrix and History of migration towards Pacific NW. Contemporary art installation from local artist. Will have to come back! Hostess let us in with my boys for free, as a consequence. Nice library in the gift shop, with couple comfy armchairs, and 10% off when you check-in yelp! I recommend if you have 1Hr to spare in the neighborhood. read more

Great little gem in Seattle. We brought our high school Black Student Union here and spent an hour looking through the Black Panthers display and a walk through African American history in the USA. Great images and display. Includes a library and a small shop. read more

The young person in the front is friendly and smiles so nicely. Very informative and we learned a lot. Look up red lines for the Seattle CD neighbor- read more

Really enjoyed coming to this museum. I was there for the Everyday Black exhibit and thought there were great pieces. The rest of the museum was interesting as well. It was a bit smaller than I thought it was but the substance is really great and it was nice to be around so many black people that appreciate art! read more

Great place to learn about history. Plan to spend at least two hours there. You can't rush through it. The migration of African Americans to the northwest was fascinating. read more

I was visiting Seattle for a conference and a colleague suggested that we visit and I was delighted. The experience was amazing and we took excellent photos. We plan to let our friend know about it when they are in the area. read more