Visit
the Shafer Historical Museum
Please note, special circumstances may change these hours at any time. In our neck of the woods, that could be extreme heat, smoke, wildfire, snow&ice or volunteer availability to staff the museum. If the museum is not hosted when you arrive, you are welcome to explore the grounds on your own.
Spring & Summer Hours
MAY 2023
Opening Day Friday May 12
The Museum buildings will be open & hosted Friday-Sundays only, starting May 12.
Grounds & outdoor displays are available on your own during daylight hours, closed at dusk.
SUMMER 2023
Memorial Day through the week after Labor Day (Monday May 29-Sunday, September 10)
The Museum buildings will be open & hosted by docents Daily 10:00am-5:00PM
Grounds & outdoor displays are available on your own during daylight hours, closed at dusk.
SEPTEMBER 2023
Monday, September 11 through October 1 The Museum buildings will be open & hosted Friday-Sundays only.
Grounds & outdoor displays available on your own during daylight hours, closed at dusk.
Winter Hours
Grounds available during daylight hours on your own, featuring mining and farming collections outdoors. Buildings are CLOSED.
Please note: Snow is not cleared. Path to Riverside Avenue/Hwy 20 is not maintained or cleared and should not be used in ice/snow conditions. Use is at your own risk.
Archives are available by appointment year 'round.
Admission
Admission is by donation. Suggested minimum is $5 per adult. Youth are free.
The museum relies on admissions to share and preserve the history of the Methow Valley, yet is available to all regardless of ability to pay. Please give generously!
Cash, checks or contactless credit card payments accepted.
We are a Blue Star Museum, offering free admission to active duty military and their families.
Location & Parking
285 Castle Avenue, Winthrop, Washington
Easy, plentiful on-street parking is available on Castle Avenue. A footpath from Riverside Avenue/Hwy 20 provides (steep uphill) walking access from the main street of Winthrop.
ACCESSIBILITY
Ramps to buildings. Gravel pathways and boardwalks make an uneven surface difficult for wheels (walkers, strollers, etc). Parking is level and close to the entrances.
Guided Tours
Docents lead tours by reservation - please email staff@shafermuseum, phone or check in with the docent on-site. All tour guides are volunteers so advance requests are recommended.
Large Group Tours
Available by request for schools, tour operators or other organized groups. Please phone or email at least 2 weeks prior to your desired date staff@shafermuseum.org or (509) 380-9911. Guides are volunteers and we need time to ensure staff are available to meet you. A tour fee and admissions fees are collected in advance or at the time of your tour.
Museum Archives
All year 'round, photos, documents, books and research materials are accessible in our archives office by appointment. If needed, research services are available for a small fee that directly supports preservation efforts. Contact us to come in: staff@shafermuseum.org
Selections of the Museum's collections are available ONLINE.
What are your favorite places?
The Shafer Museum is one of Ralph Munro's! The former Washington Secretary of State visited the museum and shares what he likes the best in this video.
Blue Star Museums provide free admission for active duty military and their families. Welcome to the Shafer Museum!