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Step 1
Take time to admire the exterior before you enter EMP|SFM (Experience Music Project and Science Fiction Museum). The amazingly fluid shapes designed by Frank Gehry are covered with stainless steel and aluminum shingles. Inside the music building, you'll find interesting memorabilia, interactive exhibits and more that cover rock and roll, its precursors and succeeding genres. The project also sponsors events such as concerts, films and family programs. The Science Fiction Museum celebrates science fiction films, books and concepts--and the people who created them. EMP|SFM is located at the base of the Space Needle on Fifth Avenue North (see Resources below).
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Step 2
Learn everything you ever wanted to know about aircraft at The Museum of Flight. The fascinating and comprehensive collection includes the first Air Force One, several fighter aircraft and the big Concorde. You can climb aboard, sit in cockpits, enjoy fly-ins, participate in children's workshops and learn about the heroes of aviation. Also, don't miss the varied exhibits, such as "Space--Exploring the New Frontier." The museum is at 9404 E. Marginal Way South (see Resources below).
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Step 3
Head for the sea and enjoy a host of hands-on activities at the Odyssey Maritime Discovery Center. Harborwatch Exhibits feature binoculars, radar screens and computers to help you identify ships. At Sharing the Sound Gallery, you can have a virtual kayak ride, simulate steering a ship and much more. Other galleries get visitors involved with all aspects of fishing and sea trade. The center is found at 2205 Alaskan Way on the city's central waterfront (see Resources below).
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Step 4
View the artwork of the Seattle Art Museum in three locations: the downtown campus at 1300 First Ave.; the Seattle Asian Art Museum in Volunteer Park; and the Olympic Sculpture Park in Belltown. Innovative exhibits downtown include short videos looped together to reflect aspects of the Northwest; "Target Practice," which describes artists who literally attack their work; and the SAM Next series that spotlights emerging artists. The Asian Art Museum covers Asian visual culture, with exhibits such as "Chinese Art: A Seattle Perspective," and the Olympic park offers nine acres of provocative sculptures (see Resources below).
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Step 5
Visit the Henry Art Gallery for a taste of modern art and aesthetics. Exhibitions include thought-provoking sculptural displays, video installations and "Light Reign," a fascinating space that combines architecture, light and the sky. You can take a guided tour of the Henry, watch films, attend concerts or participate in group meditation in the "Light Reign" space. The Henry is located at 15th Avenue NE and NE 41st Street (see Resources below).
