Seattle Art Museum (SAM)

Fun Fact: The giant Hammering Man outside SAM works harder than most of us on Monday mornings—and never takes a break!

Located in the heart of downtown, the Seattle Art Museum (or SAM for locals) is the city’s premier spot to get your culture fix. Whether you’re into modern masterpieces, ancient artifacts, or local Indigenous art, SAM’s ever-changing exhibitions offer something for everyone. The museum is home to more than 25,000 works, including everything from American pop art to Asian ceramics.

Don’t forget to stop and take in the massive Hammering Man sculpture outside, a 48-foot-tall kinetic installation that’s been tirelessly pounding away since 1992. Inside, you can get lost in collections that span continents and centuries, making it a perfect escape from the rainy Seattle weather. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for an inspiring afternoon, SAM will challenge your perspective in the best way possible.