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Location
Best time
Plan to visit on a weekend between 1-3 PM if you want to access the touch tanks, as they are only open during these specific times.
Visitor tip
Don't miss the MV Kalakala exhibit (a detailed model of the historic ferry) and 'The known world as of 1643' globe—both are highlighted as standout exhibits that provide unique historical perspectives.
Best time
Take advantage of extended Thursday evening hours (open until 8 PM on the Third Thursday of each month) for a less crowded experience and to combine your visit with other Tacoma waterfront activities.
About Foss Waterway Seaport
Historic building with maritime exhibits. Historic seaport featuring maritime history & local culture exhibits, plus view of the bay.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Maritime Heritage Museum
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Thursday-Sunday 10am-4pm (extended hours Third Thursday until 8pm)
- Highlights
- Hands-on maritime learning, Tacoma's maritime heritage exhibits
What visitors say
Do check their website before coming for the upcoming event-related closures. Five stars just for updating visitors on the website. The museum itself is very spacious. You enter, fill out a form at the front desk, and enter through the…
We did a boat tour of foss waterway and ended up at the museum. So much fun. It was a fantastic tour and the museum was spectacular. Bring the kids , bring the grandkids or the grandparents. Great for all ages.
A stunning waterfront venue with incredible character and views! As a wedding DJ and MC, I’ve had the privilege of performing at many venues—but Foss Waterway Seaport stands out as one of the most memorable. The…
From 631 Google reviews
Did You Know?
- Features a model of the MV Kalakala ferry, a historic vessel whose restoration efforts ultimately failed and the ferry was disassembled, making this one of the few places to see a representation of this important regional maritime artifact
- Displays a historically significant globe labeled 'The known world as of 1643' that notably omits the US West Coast, illustrating how the Pacific Northwest remained uncharted during that era
- Offers free admission to all visitors, making maritime history and science education accessible to families of all economic backgrounds
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