Hidden away on the south side of Union Bay and just across the Montlake Bridge from University of Washington [1], Museum of History and Industry (2700 24th Ave. E, 206/324-1126, www.seattlehistory.org [2], 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily, $8 adults, $7 seniors, students, and military, $6 ages 5–17, and free for kids under 5, free to all on Tuesday) is Seattle’s [3] finest historical museum and a great place for kids.
The Museum of History and Industry’s primary exhibit focuses on Seattle’s 150-plus years of history through artifacts, photos, and interactive displays. A noisy and fun exhibit on salmon fishing includes historical photos, a climb-aboard fishing boat, an "iron chink," and a hilarious "industrial fish."
Other ongoing exhibits include a walk-through 1880s Seattle street, displays on the great Seattle fire of 1889, and ornately carved figureheads from old sailing vessels. Additional exhibits change periodically.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/seattle/sights/university-district/university-washington
[2] http://www.seattlehistory.org
[3] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/seattle