Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center
The basics
Permanent exhibits at the discovery center start with the stories of Bill and Melinda Gates, then continue through the challenges and solutions the foundation has identified around the world. Special exhibits are wide-ranging, from design showcases to a spotlight on women’s work. Free tours of the visitor center are offered each day it’s open, and can be booked on the discovery center website.
Things to know before you go
*This is a great spot for families with older kids. While there’s plenty for younger children as well, teens can fully engage with the educational exhibits. *Staff assistance and supplementary materials are available for vision- and hearing-impaired visitors. *The discovery center is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
How to get there
The discovery center is located at 440 5th Avenue North, close to the Space Needle. Pay parking is available nearby at the Seattle Center Fifth Avenue Garage, and the Monorail Seattle Center station is a 5-minute walk away. It’s also possible to arrive by bus; nearby stops on 5th Avenue have service from Metro Buses 3 and 4.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Open from Tuesday through Saturday year round, the discovery center is closed on most major holidays. When planning your visit, it’s worth consulting the website to see if any events are scheduled. Talks ranging from entrepreneurship to global issues feature leaders from around the US and beyond.