2 Best Sights in Seattle, Washington

Seattle’s most debated architectural landmark, this 140,000-square-foot complex was designed by Frank Gehry, who drew inspiration from electric guitars for its gleaming, curvaceous form. Inside, the building’s bold design sets the stage for rock memorabilia from legends like Bob Dylan and the heavyweights of Seattle’s grunge era. A permanent exhibit traces the city’s musical evolution, while the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame showcases iconic artifacts from across pop culture—including an Imperial Dalek from Doctor Who, Captain Kirk’s command chair from Star Trek, and Neo’s coat from The Matrix Reloaded.

If you're in Pioneer Square on a Thursday between 11 am and 3 pm, this museum occupying the bottom floor of the Seattle Fire Department's headquarters includes eight historic rigs from Seattle dating from the 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as artifacts (vintage helmets and uniforms, hose nozzles, and other equipment) and photos, logs, and newspaper clippings recording historic fires.