Washington State is the perfect place for pop culture fans, with a mix of nostalgia, modern art, and hands-on experiences. Over break, I took a trip down there and checked out three awesome spots: the Funko Pop! Headquarters in Everett, Thomas Dambo’s sculpture Jakob Two Trees in Issaquah, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) in Seattle. Each place had its own unique vibe, celebrating creativity, fandom, and storytelling in different ways. It was definitely a trip to remember!
Funko Pop! Headquarters – A Collectible Wonderland
Located in Everett, the Funko Pop! HQ is more than just a store—it’s a must-visit for collectors. The moment you walk in, you’re surrounded by massive Funko figures from Marvel, Disney, Star Wars, and Harry Potter. The detailed displays make you feel like you’ve stepped into your favorite worlds.
One of the coolest parts is the Pop! Factory, where you can customize your own Funko figure. Even if you’re not a hardcore collector, the fun atmosphere and creative displays make it totally worth the visit.
Jakob Two Trees – A Hidden Gem of Storytelling
A short drive south to Issaquah, Jakob Two Trees by Danish artist Thomas Dambo offers a totally different kind of art experience. Dambo is known for his giant wooden trolls made from recycled materials, and this one feels like something straight out of a fairy tale—tucked into the forest, peeking from behind the trees like he’s playing hide-and-seek.
Unlike the fast-paced, collector-driven vibe of Funko, this sculpture encourages you to slow down and connect with nature. Part of Dambo’s global project to promote sustainability through storytelling, Jakob Two Trees is a must-see for anyone who loves folk tales and creative eco-art.
Museum of Modern Pop Culture (MoPOP) – A Tribute to Fandom
The last stop on this pop culture trip was Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). The building itself, designed by Frank Gehry, looks like something from the future, which fits perfectly with what’s inside. MoPOP dives into all things pop culture—sci-fi, fantasy, music, horror, and gaming.
One of the coolest exhibits is the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame, which has costumes and props from Star Trek, The Lord of the Rings, and Doctor Who. Horror fans will love the spooky props in the Horror Exhibit, showing how the genre has changed over time.
Music lovers can check out exhibits dedicated to Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix, two of Seattle’s biggest music legends. There’s even a Sound Lab where you can play instruments and experiment with recording. MoPOP isn’t just a museum—it’s a hands-on experience that brings pop culture to life.
Final Thoughts
From the playful nostalgia of Funko HQ to the eco-conscious storytelling of Jakob Two Trees and the immersive world of MoPOP, these three locations showcase the diverse ways pop culture manifests in Washington State. Whether you’re a collector, an art enthusiast, or a music lover, each stop offers a unique way to connect with creativity and fandom. If you’re ever in Washington, make time for this pop culture trifecta—you won’t be disappointed.
