The Seattle Center EMP is one of the city’s iconic attractions, whether the locals like it or not. Designed by Frank Gehry, the building has the same sheet metal construction seen at his other creations, such as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao or the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and its bright-colored exterior ensures that the building stands out, even on a cloudy day. Seattle is a city where creativity is celebrated, and there is no better example of it than this museum, which centers on the history of music. The Experience Music Project opened in 2000 and allows visitors to relive the music of their past.

Located in the same building as the Sci Fi Museum in Seattle, the Experience Music Project is near a few other top attractions. This area of Seattle, called Seattle Center, is also home to the most famous attraction in the city, the Space Needle. After you’re done gazing down at the incredible views from the observation deck, visit the EMP to learn about Washington state native Jimi Hendrix.

There are few museums that will intrigue every member of your family or group, but the Seattle Center EMP will do just that. While parents are off being nostalgic about their favorite musicians from the 60s, kids will happily keep busy exploring the interactive multimedia displays. Music can also be a great way to share memories. Parents might find that certain songs and musicians bring up stories they will want to share with their kids.

Seattle Map

While the Experience Music Project is sure to be on the top of your list, don’t miss out on the Sci Fi Museum in Seattle either, which has exhibits on Star Wars and other science-fiction classics, as well as traveling exhibits that have spotlighted culture phenomena including the Muppets and Battlestar Galactica. Seattle is full of attractions that will be fighting for your attention during a short trip, but if you love music and science fiction, the Experience Music Project and Sci Fi Museum should be right at the top of your itinerary.