Seattle’s Museum Of Pop Culture Has Something For Everyone

Located in Seattle, Washington, the Museum of Pop Culture is just one of the many attractions located near the famous Space Needle. Founded in 2000, the museum has only continued to grow throughout the decades, adding new experiences and exhibits.

From a video game room to a spooky walk through some of the most terrifying horror movie costumes of all time, the Museum of Pop Culture gives guests a chance to learn more about their favorite pop culture moments and icons while also encouraging guests to think critically about the media they consume.

One of the biggest attractions in the museum is the “Star Wars” props and costumes scattered throughout the museum. One of the most photographed items in their collection is the Death Star II filming miniature, which was designed by Bevel Lemelisk and used in the film “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi” in 1983.

Unfortunately, there are not many props from the “Star Wars” prequel trilogy or sequel trilogy, which wrapped up with “The Rise of Skywalker” in 2019. However, there is much for fans to enjoy, such as the Greedo face mask and hands that were worn by Paul Blake in the 1977 film “Star Wars: Episode IV: A New Hope.” The display also includes Stuart Freeborn’s concept sketch for the character as well.

No, Beyoncé is not actually performing in Seattle! But the outfit that she wore in the “Upgrade U” music video is on display for fans to see up close and in person. Also on display is the glittering black catsuit that Lizzo wore during her 2018 New Year’s Eve performance and a sequined jacket that was formerly owned by Michael Jackson.

Outfits by Prince, Kim Kardashian, and many more pop culture icons from the past and present also make an appearance. In addition to outfits, there is also a huge collection of guitars on display from some of the biggest musical acts in history. There is also a special display dedicated to Nirvana that features real journey entries from the diary of Kurt Cobain.

Unfortunately, the costumes from the latest “Wicked” movie aren’t on display just yet! However, a few costumes from the “Wizard of Oz” have made their way to the museum. Comedian Bert Lahr originally portrayed the Cowardly Lion in the 1939 film. Believe it or not, the costume was actually made of real lion pelts, which made it difficult for the actor to perform under the bright lights of the MGM set.

For fans of fantasy, there are also several weapons in the museum from “Game of Thrones” and “Lord of the Rings.” Sauron’s staff, Frodo’s sword Sting, Gimli’s axe, are all located in the museum. For fans of “Harry Potter,” there are many items on display, including a Gryffindor scarf taken from one of the later film, Luna Lovegood’s issue of The Quibbler from “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” in 2007, and Harry Potter’s wand, which was used during the filming of the series from 2001 to 2011.

Depending on how you end up in the horror section of the museum, you may end up walking slowly down a spiral staircase with eerie music playing in the background. While you’re there, you may run into the Alien creature that made an appearance in the 1979 film directed by Ridley Scott.

Also on display is the Jason Vorhees costume from the “Friday the 13th” film series. Several villains from “Doctor Who” also make an appearance, including a Cyberman costume and a Dalek. Props, set pieces, and costumes from “Star Trek,” “Terminator,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” and more were added to the museum back in July.

With new items being added to the museum regularly, you never know what you might find when you visit!

The Museum of Pop Culture is located in Seattle, Washington, only a few blocks from the Space Needle. It is open from 10 AM to 5 PM every day except Wednesday, when the museum is closed. The museum does close for holidays, like Thanksgiving, so it’s best to check the schedule before planning a visit.

General admission tickets are generally $26.50 per person, although the museum does have special events that one can add to the price of admission. For example, the museum currently has a display on its upper floor that features Seattle’s first-ever Keith Haring exhibition.

Over 240 of his original artworks and objects have been put on display for fans to enjoy. Entry to the museum and access to this limited gallery is $33.50 per person. Unfortunately, this special exhibition will only be available for a limited time and will close on March 23, 2025.