Oddball Museums in the PNW That Are Surprisingly Fun

The Pacific Northwest is home to some unique and downright quirky museums that offer memorable experiences far from the typical museum fare.

Here’s a list of oddball museums across Oregon, Washington, and Northern California that are worth a visit.

The Hat Museum – Portland, Oregon

Tucked away in a historic Portland home, The Hat Museum is dedicated to the history and art of hat-making.

With over a thousand hats on display, it’s a fascinating stop for anyone interested in fashion, history, or just a bit of eccentricity. Tours give visitors an up-close look at rare hats from different eras and cultures.

LeMay – America’s Car Museum – Tacoma, Washington

While technically about cars, this museum is full of oddities that will thrill any vintage car enthusiast.

Located in Tacoma, it’s one of the largest car museums in the world, with everything from luxury classics to unusual oddities and rare finds. It’s a perfect stop for those who appreciate history with a bit of flair.

SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention – Bellingham, Washington

This quirky museum in Bellingham celebrates the wonders of electricity and radio, featuring everything from early phonographs to vintage radios.

Visitors can see rare artifacts like an original Edison light bulb and experience “MegaZapper” electrical shows that demonstrate the power of electricity in action.

Oregon Vortex and House of Mystery – Gold Hill, Oregon

This unusual spot is known for its mind-bending optical illusions and gravitational anomalies.

Located in Southern Oregon, the Oregon Vortex draws visitors curious to experience its strange phenomena, where objects seem to defy gravity. It’s a must for anyone fascinated by the unexplained.

The Peculiarium – Portland, Oregon

This museum/store hybrid is a haven for fans of the strange and unusual. Filled with curiosities, horror-themed displays, and interactive oddities, the Peculiarium is one of Portland’s quirkiest attractions.

From alien autopsies to horror movie memorabilia, this place is as weird as it gets.

National Yo-Yo Museum – Chico, California

Located in Northern California, the National Yo-Yo Museum celebrates the classic toy with an impressive collection of yo-yos, including the world’s largest wooden yo-yo, which weighs over 250 pounds.

This niche museum is fun for all ages and offers a surprising look at the world of competitive yo-yoing.

Seattle Pinball Museum – Seattle, Washington

Pinball lovers will find a paradise in this interactive museum dedicated to the classic arcade game.

The Seattle Pinball Museum features dozens of vintage and modern pinball machines that visitors can actually play. Each machine has a story, and it’s a nostalgic trip that’s as educational as it is entertaining.

The Ape Cave Lava Tubes – Mount St. Helens, Washington

While not exactly a museum, this natural attraction near Mount St. Helens takes visitors into a subterranean world formed by ancient lava flows.

The tubes are a fascinating place to explore the region’s volcanic history, offering a self-guided experience with a slightly eerie, otherworldly feel.

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These oddball museums provide a fun escape from the ordinary, letting you explore the quirky side of the PNW. Whether you’re into hats, electricity, yo-yos, or lava tubes, there’s something here for everyone who loves a good dose of the unusual.