If you love music, movies, gaming, or sci-fi, Seattle's Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP) is your ultimate playground. Designed to celebrate the evolution of pop culture history, this immersive museum offers you a chance to explore legendary pop culture artifacts, movie props, and stunning exhibits dedicated to the creative forces that shape entertainment today.
Whether you're a lifelong pop culture enthusiast or simply curious about the worlds of fantasy, horror, and rock 'n' roll, MOPOP has it all for you. Step inside and discover the magic behind your favorite fandoms, from sci-fi classics to grunge music legends.
Exploring the World of Pop Culture at MOPOP
Founded in 2000 by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, MOPOP is home to more than 85,000 artifacts, making it one of the largest pop culture collections in the world. The museum celebrates the artists, films, music, and gaming innovations that have left an enduring mark on entertainment.
Why MOPOP Is a Must-Visit for Music, Film, and Gaming Fans
MOPOP isn't just a museum — it's an experience. Unlike traditional museums that focus solely on historical preservation, MOPOP brings pop culture to life through hands-on exhibits, immersive storytelling, and rare, legendary pop culture artifacts.
For music lovers, MOPOP houses exclusive memorabilia from some of the most influential artists in rock and pop history. From Jimi Hendrix's iconic guitars to Nirvana's early recordings, the museum offers an intimate look at the artists who shaped entire music genres.
Film buffs will find themselves surrounded by stunning artifacts from beloved science fiction, fantasy, and horror films. Original costumes, scripts, and movie props transport you into cinematic worlds, offering a rare glimpse into how legendary films were brought to life.
Gamers will also be captivated by MOPOP's deep dive into the evolution of video games. Whether you're interested in vintage arcade machines, groundbreaking console releases, or interactive gaming experiences, MOPOP offers a hands-on journey through decades of gaming history.
MOPOP's commitment to pop culture history ensures that both longtime fans and new generations can appreciate the impact of these creative industries. With interactive elements, rotating exhibits, and a focus on education and engagement, MOPOP remains a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about entertainment and storytelling.
Iconic Exhibits and Collections at MOPOP
MOPOP's exhibits are a love letter to the most iconic moments in pop culture. Whether you're drawn to the gritty energy of grunge, the mind-bending worlds of sci-fi, or the heart-racing thrills of horror, there's something here to ignite your fandom. Get ready to step into immersive worlds packed with legendary artifacts, where pop culture history comes to life.
Music Legends – From Jimi Hendrix to Nirvana
Seattle is the birthplace of grunge, and MOPOP gives you an all-access backstage pass to its biggest legends. Check out Jimi Hendrix's actual guitars, handwritten lyrics, and stage costumes. Then, dive into the Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses exhibit, where rare concert footage and memorabilia tell the story of how Seattle changed rock forever.
Science Fiction and Fantasy – A Universe of Imagination
Step aboard a futuristic starship in the Infinite Worlds of Science Fiction exhibit, where artifacts from Blade Runner, Star Trek, and War of the Worlds bring sci-fi history to life. Fantasy lovers can journey through Fantasy: Worlds of Myth and Magic, featuring over 400 legendary props and costumes, including treasures from The Lord of the Rings.
Horror and Gaming – The Dark and Interactive Side of MOPOP
Love a good scare? Scared to Death: The Thrill of Horror Film plunges you into the eerie world of horror cinema, featuring creepy movie props and behind-the-scenes secrets from the scariest films of all time.
Gamers, get your thumbs ready — the gaming section lets you trace the evolution of video games and even play classics from decades past. Whether you're into old-school arcade cabinets or modern console gaming, there's something here for every level of gamer.
Interactive Experiences – Step Inside Pop Culture
MOPOP goes beyond static displays, offering immersive exhibits where you can interact with pop culture history firsthand. Ever wanted to rock out like a pro? The museum's Sound Lab lets you play instruments, remix songs, and create your own beats, while augmented reality exhibits bring favorite fandoms to life. MOPOP also hosts educational programs, workshops, and live performances. From panels with industry insiders to hands-on creative workshops, MOPOP's events keep the experience fresh.
The Architecture of MOPOP – A Work of Art Itself
Even before stepping inside, MOPOP's striking design makes an incredible impression. Designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, the museum's flowing, metallic exterior embodies the essence of creativity and innovation. The building's undulating curves and fragmented shapes were inspired by the energy and spontaneity of music, particularly the raw power of electric guitars.
To achieve this unique look, Gehry used over 21,000 individual aluminum and stainless steel shingles in a mix of bold colors — red, blue, silver, and gold. These panels shift in hue depending on the angle of light, creating a structure that feels alive, much like the constantly evolving world of pop culture. The fragmented appearance of the building was intentional, reflecting the way music, film, and gaming are built from different influences and constantly reshaped by new ideas.
Inside, the creative energy keeps flowing. The museum's open, fluid spaces encourage wandering and discovery, much like the creative process itself. The use of brilliant lighting, futuristic design elements, and unexpected textures mirrors the bold, unconventional nature of pop culture. Whether it's a dimly lit horror exhibit, a neon-lit sound lab, or a sci-fi-inspired fantasy wing, each space within MOPOP feels distinct and immersive, much like stepping into different pop culture worlds.
MOPOP's architecture is not just a shell for its exhibits. It's an extension of the creative spirit that drives the museum's mission. The building itself tells a story of artistic risk-taking, breaking the mold of traditional museums and embodying the imagination, rebellion, and innovation that define pop culture.
Save on Admission to MOPOP and Nearby Attractions
Exploring MOPOP is even better with Seattle CityPASS® tickets, which include admission to MOPOP along with other top attractions like the Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium, Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, and Chihuly Garden and Glass. With CityPASS® tickets, you can explore Seattle's best things to do while saving on admission.
Seattle Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Seattle, we recommend finding lodging near Seattle's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.comHeader Image © Courtesy of MOPOP