The SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention (formerly the American Museum of Radio and Electricity) is an interactive museum located in Bellingham, Washington, United States, which offers educational experiences for audiences of all ages through galleries and public programs that illustrate the development and use of electricity, radio and the related inventions that changed the course of human history. The museum features a collection of artifacts showcasing four centuries of human innovation from 1580 into the 1950s.
The museum began in 1985 as an informal collection of radio sets, spare parts, schematics, recordings, and vintage magazines and manuals owned by a Bellingham resident, Jonathan Winter Winter's collection continued to grow, and by 1998, the Bellingham Antique Radio Museum was officially established, with the more than 800 radio sets from Winter's collection forming the core of the museum's collection.
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | Closed |
Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Thursday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Friday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Saturday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Sunday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Nicole Floyde | Feb 17, 2018
I really enjoyed going to the SPARK Museum as it was such an enjoyable experience. When I first walked in there was a timeline about how electricity started and some of the science behind it. I also got some review of the science of atoms and as well as hands on experiences with understanding on how electricity works. Later they had a show that was very interactive and enjoyable. There were some need to see attractions during the show that I would recommend. There was also a lot of antique artifacts there for people that enjoy history. I was given an opportunity to learn about the different machines that offered music in the last two centuries. The people there were also very knowledgeable and social with the attendees. One of the interns there was very informed on everything and wasn't afraid to show me as well as some other young adults some of the inventions he was interested in and gave very detailed explanations on how to use them the same intern also explained the sound machines of the 1880-1920's with great detail and kept it interactive. I would recommend this museum to anyone with a interest in STEM or history as well as an interest in learning. I would also love to come back again with some friends as well.
Kristin Cook | Jan 4, 2018
Really cool place. There are so many cool things to look at, experiments to try, a small library and play area, and they usually do a kind of electricity "demonstration" which is super neat. This place isn't great for little kids though. Seriously, don't bring them; they'll be bored to tears and will touch all the things they are not supposed to touch. I'd say age 10 and up will have a good time. I could have easily spent at least half my day there, or more, but I brought a 5 year old, so...
Peggy Schultz | Jan 6, 2018
Wonderful museum with a LOT of things to see and learn about. Saw a dad and son practically getting a private tour with all the additional info that comes with helpful, knowledgeable staff (we slowed down to listen in for awhile). Even if you aren't all that interested in the history of electricity and early communication the artistry of these early machines is worth a walk through.
Emerald Shih | Oct 26, 2017
Excellent place, a gem hidden in the town. You can learn so much about the history of electricity and see the real stuffs as the developments advance. Very friendly and helpful staff too. Jim is the volunteer we met. He is so knowledgeable and helpful that we really enjoy the visit. Suggest to budget at least two hours. Definitely will bring friends and family to visit again.
Steven Marc Brydesen | Feb 12, 2018
Charming museum filled with objects whose history I wish I understood fully. The Cage of Doom & Electricty Show were entertaining, though a bit pedestrian.
Ed Dron | Mar 22, 2018
Fantastic museum! Make sure you take a guided tour. The kids had a blast and learned a lot.
Branwyn Elizabeth | Apr 15, 2018
I absolutely LOVED this museum! Super informative and interactive! Abby was fantastic and really made the place come alive! Literally, the special show in the back was an amazed electrical frenzy! Five stars for sure, would do again!! Seriously, go see the show.
Julio Rulii | Apr 11, 2018
Museum was fun to poke around in, I would visit again. I would not, however, see the show again unless it was condensed from an hour and 10 minutes down to about 25. For as many gadgets there seemed to be, there was entirely too much talking (with looonng pauses and pacing the stage to look for things). Also the raffle process could be streamlined. Of course the mega zapper was cool and the very first balloon trick, but I wanted to leave 25 minutes into the show.
Valerie Gerry | May 2, 2018
Fun, fun place! Very interesting and educational for all ages! Friendly and informative staff! Highly recommend the Spark Museum!
June Saxton | May 28, 2018
Loved it! The museum staff is so helpful and knowledgeable. Small but there's a lot packed in there. The only drawback is the limited parking.
Niecee KrullMayfield | Jun 21, 2018
Loved it! And so did our five year old grandson, but he is respectful of property and people and understands the difference between artifacts and toys. Other children that were there were not and had to be reminded several times, not just by the parent.
Dan Hilts | Jul 11, 2018
Awesome experience, great teaching experience from the beginning of radio and television to present day lots of hands on and the demonstration that costs extra is very cool but make sure you take hearing protection it gets very loud. The place isn't very noticeable there isn't much signage so if you don't use GPS you'll not find it easily.
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