The Museum of Pop Culture, or MoPOP, is a nonprofit museum in Seattle dedicated to contemporary popular culture. Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in 2000, MoPOP was originally named Experience Music Project and has since expanded its scope to include various aspects of pop culture, including music, video games, science fiction, and much more.

Vision and Mission

MoPOP’s vision is to be a destination for the exploration of pop culture and its capacity to inspire human creativity. Its mission is to make creative expression a life-changing force by offering experiences that inspire and connect communities.

Location

The museum is situated at the Seattle Center, near the Space Needle, and is housed in a striking building designed by world-renowned architect Frank O. Gehry. The address is:

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
325 5th Avenue N,
Seattle, WA 98109,
United States

Website

Visitors can find more information about the museum, including current exhibits, events, and ticket prices, on the official MoPOP website: www.mopop.org.

Opening Hours

MoPOP typically welcomes visitors throughout the year, but hours of operation may change due to special events or holidays. Standard opening hours are often as follows:

• Monday-Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

However, always check the museum’s official website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information.

Exhibits and Collections

MoPOP’s exhibits are known for their interactive and immersive nature, featuring a range of items from iconic movie costumes to rare music memorabilia. Notable exhibits include:

• Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses: The world’s most extensive exhibition of Nirvana memorabilia.
• Sound Lab: An interactive space where visitors can experiment with making music.
• Indie Game Revolution: Featuring playable indie video games and spotlighting the work of independent game developers.
• Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame: Honoring the lives and works of the genre’s most influential creators.
• Infinite Worlds of Science Fiction: An exploration of the props and technology imagined by science fiction films and literature.

Educational Programs and Events

MoPOP offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, including camps, workshops, and community events that encourage learners to develop their creative potential. The museum also hosts special events like pop culture trivia nights, concerts, and panel discussions with artists and creators.

Tips For Visiting

When planning a visit to MoPOP, consider these suggestions:

1. Ticket Purchases: Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long lines, especially during peak times like weekends and holidays.
2. Membership Option: For frequent visitors, a membership may offer savings with additional benefits such as members-only events.
3. Public Transportation: The museum is easily accessible via public transportation, which is convenient for those staying in downtown Seattle.
4. Photography: Photography is allowed in most exhibitions, but check the museum’s photography policy before your visit.
5. Food and Drink: The museum’s Culture Kitchen offers a variety of food and beverage options to enjoy during your visit.
6. Accessibility: The museum is committed to accessibility for all visitors, offering resources like wheelchairs and sensory bags for checkout.

Conclusion

The Museum of Pop Culture is a dynamic institution that offers a deep dive into the past, present, and future of pop culture across various mediums. From the history of rock ‘n’ roll to the frontiers of fantasy and science fiction, MoPOP celebrates the creative process, the cultural contributions, and the collaborative spirit at the heart of pop culture. Whether you’re a music aficionado, a gamer, a sci-fi enthusiast, or just curious about the cultural artifacts that define our times, MoPOP is an engaging and enlightening destination that promises a fun and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.