Microsoft Visitor Center: Examining the Bits
Located near the center of the main campus in Redmond, the Microsoft Visitor Center offers a chance to see some of the technology company's story, and a significant chunk of computing history as well, in its small-but-select museum. Frequently updated with the latest in Microsoft technology, the Microsoft Visitor Center's exhibits are usually interactive, such as the enormous globe showing how Microsoft products are being used across the world.
Although there's no comprehensive sense of the company, the exhibits work to showcase moments in its history, such as the first personal computer, a gathering of its first employees (including a gangly and very young Bill Gates), and early X-box games.
Visitors also get a chance to glimpse the future with a model home showcasing Microsoft's smart technology and how it can be used, such as a kitchen counter capable of reading UPC codes and tracking what's in the refrigerator. While younger children may not find much to interest them, the gamers will.
The small museum won't take too much time to tour. Luckily the Microsoft Company Store sits close at hand, ready to supply visitors with Microsoft branded apparel, pens, cup holders and a wealth of other trinkets. Unfortunately, the software section is open only to Microsoft personnel and former workers.
HelloSeattle Tip: Call before visiting; the museum is sometimes booked for private events.
Posted on Jan 27, 2011 by Cat Rambo
