Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center

Overview

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Discovery Center is a museum that showcases the work and impact of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It features interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and personal stories that highlight the foundation's efforts in global health, education, and poverty alleviation.

The center provides a unique insight into the foundation's initiatives and the global challenges they address.

Educational Philanthropic

Location

Address

440 5th Avenue North, Seattle, Washington

Neighborhood: Downtown Seattle

Coordinates

47.606200, -122.333100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$10

Children

$5 (ages 5-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

3-4 hours

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild and pleasant

• Gardens in bloom
• Outdoor exhibits

summer

Warm to hot

• Extended summer hours

autumn

Cool and pleasant

• Fall foliage
• Harvest-themed exhibits

winter

Cold and rainy

• Holiday lights and decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring a valid ID
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

Valid ID Printed or digital tickets Comfortable walking shoes

seasonal

Jacket or umbrella Warm layers in winter

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Some walking and stairs required

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit/debit cards, Cash

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $10

parking $8

food $15-25

souvenirs $10-50

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks in advance
• Official website
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available for online ticket holders

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Gates Foundation Discovery Center

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, cafe, outdoor areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center, cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Distance: 20 km

Travel Time: 30-40 minutes

taxi

$45-55 30-40 min

public_transport

$5-6 45-50 min

From City Center

Distance: 2-3 km

metro

$2.50 15 min

bus

$2.50 20 min

taxi

$10-15 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It showcases the impactful work of a globally recognized foundation and offers a unique educational experience

Historical Significance: The foundation has played a significant role in global health and education initiatives

Insider Tips

Free entry during certain hours
Best views from the upper-level windows
Local favorite spots for coffee and snacks

Local Recommendations

• Try the local coffee at the on-site cafe
• Ask for recommendations from the friendly staff
• Visit the nearby Pike Place Market

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the modern facade with the cityscape

Result: Great architectural shot

#philanthropy #seattle #architecture

Outdoor garden

Best Time: Spring or autumn

Tips: Use the natural light and colors

Result: Beautiful nature and garden shots

#garden #nature #seattle

Interactive exhibits

Best Time: During the day

Tips: Capture the interactive displays and multimedia

Result: Unique and engaging exhibits

#museum #interactive #discovery

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, public spaces

prohibited areas Private events, restricted exhibits

flash photography Not allowed in indoor exhibits

commercial photography Permit required for commercial use

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in outdoor areas, restricted indoors

selfie sticks Allowed, but be mindful of other visitors

Nearby Attractions

Seattle Art Museum

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Museum

Pike Place Market

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Market

Space Needle

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Landmark

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Distance: 1.2km

Walking: 18 min

Type: Art Gallery

MoPOP (Museum of Pop Culture)

Distance: 1.5km

Walking: 20 min