At 719 S King St in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District, the Wing Luke Museum explores the histories, art and culture of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. Its exhibits bring together photographs, objects, interviews and personal stories, with displays that change over time. Join a guided tour to see preserved spaces in the former East Kong Yick Building, including a historic store and hotel rooms. The museum also has interactive activities that invite you to draw, write or share a story in response to the exhibits.
Stories from Pacific communities
The Wing Luke Museum focuses on Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander histories and culture in the Pacific Northwest. Its community-led approach brings residents’ experiences into exhibitions and programs. Across its galleries, photographs, keepsakes, interviews and artworks connect individual stories with subjects such as migration, work, community life and social justice.
The museum is named for Wing Luke, the first Asian American elected to public office in the Pacific Northwest. Exhibitions have also explored his life and the history of the region’s many communities. Rotating displays mean the subjects on view can change; check the current exhibition information when planning your visit.
Historic spaces and guided tours
The museum occupies the East Kong Yick Building, which was created in 1910 with pooled resources from Chinese American pioneers. The building once provided a hotel for Asian migrants arriving in Seattle. Its historic rooms include a preserved hotel and a former imports shop, giving context to the building’s earlier community life.
These areas are accessible through guided tours, not by wandering through the galleries alone. Tours connect the rooms and artifacts with Seattle’s immigrant history and the people who lived and worked in the neighborhood. The museum also runs neighborhood tours on subjects including immigration, Bruce Lee and food. Check the schedule before you go, as tour availability and subjects can differ.
Exhibits that invite participation
Some displays ask you to respond rather than simply read or look. Activities can include drawing, writing a message, sharing a story or trying on traditional clothing. Contributions can remain for people who visit later, making participation part of the exhibition experience.
Exhibitions cover a range of Asian Pacific American experiences, including art, identity and community history. A continuing Bruce Lee display explores his connection to Seattle, where he attended the University of Washington and opened his first martial arts studio. The museum also has activities for children, including a dedicated kids’ space.
FAQ
Where is the Wing Luke Museum?
It is at 719 S King St in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District.
Can you visit the historic hotel rooms on your own?
No. The historic spaces are accessible through guided tours. Check the tour schedule before your visit.
Is admission free on any days?
The museum has free admission on the first Thursday of each month. Online sign-up is recommended for popular exhibitions.
How can I get to the museum?
Street parking in the International District is limited. The museum is near the International District station on Seattle’s Link light rail.
