Living Computers Museum: A Journey into the History of Computing

Modern technology surrounds us everywhere, but have you ever wondered where it all began? There’s a place where you can not only learn about the history of computing but also experience it firsthand, feeling the evolution of the technologies that have become a part of our lives. This unique space brings the past and future together, with interactive exhibits that make the journey engaging for all ages.

The Living Computers Museum in Seattle is a place where technology comes to life. Here, you can see fully functioning vintage computers, understand their role in shaping the IT world, and explore interactive displays that bridge the gap between the past and the future of technology.

Story

Located in Seattle, the Living Computers Museum + Labs provides visitors with an innovative insight into the history of computers. The exhibitions will allow visitors to get acquainted with the history and influence of computer technology. You will follow the process of translating fantastic ideas into reality.

Living Computers Museum + Labs is a computer technology museum located in Seattle. LCM+L showcases vintage computers and retro operating systems, gives you the opportunity to use computers in person and feel the history. You will also plunge into the world of an American teenager from the end of the last century, full of slot machines, tape recorders and Nintendo game consoles.

The museum includes an 80s classroom with "modern" Apple II computers and a typical "friend's basement" with a classic Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) console. You can immerse yourself in nostalgia not only by playing the NES, but also by fiddling with the TRS-80 color computer at the workbench.

LCM+L also hosts a wide range of educational programs and events in its state of the art laboratories. According to an archived version of the museum's website, their goal is to "breathe life into our cars so that the public can see, hear and interact with them." And they manage to fulfill this goal in full.

In the four decades since Microsoft was founded, entrepreneur and philanthropist Paul Allen has continued to explore the boundaries of technology and human knowledge. With his company Vulcan Inc. Paul has worked to save endangered species, slow climate change, improve the environment, develop new technologies, fight epidemics, and study how the human brain works.

In all of his endeavors, Allen has constantly pushed people to challenge traditional thinking, collaborate across disciplines, and rethink everything possible.

Paul has invested huge amounts of money in his hometown of Seattle. In early 2006, he founded the Living Computers Museum and Labs, then called PDPplanet. Allen wanted to provide the public with an innovative museum that explored the history of computers and their impact on progress. Most exhibits require interaction with antique computers.

In 2012, the museum expanded its collection of vintage computers. In 2016, the building expanded with the addition of exhibits on the 1st floor showcasing state-of-the-art technology, as well as three computer learning labs. LCM+L continues to assemble and bring to life historically significant computers and software.

Permanent Exhibitions

VR/AR allows visitors to experience the virtual and augmented reality that researchers have been trying to create for decades. Finally, they have discovered a way to change how we perceive and interact with things, which they are ready to share with us.

The Big Data Exposition contains the tools that are used to track, decipher and analyze our digital footprints. Visitors to the exhibition will learn about the importance of big data, what a digital footprint is and what its role is.

The museum gives visitors the opportunity to explore unmanned vehicles. The exhibition explains why self-driving cars are revolutionary, how they can impact transportation networks and also change urban areas.

Game Makers Space is a lab that offers visitors the opportunity to create their own video game, while the IoT Workshop is full of a variety of devices and accessories that make it easier for us to access the Internet and use smartphones.

Tours

Education is of utmost importance to the museum. At LCM+L, visitors can participate in various hands-on workshops that introduce them to different technologies. In addition to these, the museum offers individual and group tours.

The staff ensures that their tours cover all aspects of the educational program. Students of all ages can visit the museum after their school completes a special form, which helps tailor the most suitable activities offered during the visit.

The museum is located in Seattle, in an area that is easily accessible by public transportation or car. If you’re driving, parking is generally available near the museum, though it’s worth considering peak hour congestion.

Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the exhibits. This will allow you to take your time in all the galleries, participate in interactive activities, and ask staff any questions you might have. If you intend to try your hand at programming or experimenting with the exhibits, you might need even more time.

Helpful Tips for Visitors

It’s a good idea to check the schedule before your visit. The museum sometimes hosts special events, workshops, or guided tours that can make your experience even more enriching. Tickets can be purchased in advance on the museum’s website to avoid waiting in lines.

There’s a small relaxation area on-site where you can take a break, enjoy a coffee, or grab a snack. For souvenir enthusiasts, the museum features a gift shop offering themed books, computer models, and other memorable items.

Quick Tips for Tourists:

• Start your visit at the beginning of the museum to ensure you don’t miss any interesting sections.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the exhibition space is quite large.
• Pay attention to the operating hours, as they may vary depending on the season or holidays.
• Visit the interactive zones first if you’re short on time.
• Check if tours or special events are available on the day of your visit.

These simple tips will help make your trip as convenient and enjoyable as possible.

Seattle attracts tourists with its unique blend of nature and technology. If you’d like to see Seattle from a fresh perspective, turn to American Butler. Dive into the history of computing in America — book a tour with us today!