When art, sci-fi and pop culture collide

Talk of the town: Inspired by the energy and fluidity of music, the Frank Gehry-designed building remains one of Seattle's most divisive works of architecture.

Part museum, part interactive playground, the Experience Music Project was built by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen to house his collection of music memorabilia. Numerous events are held here, including the Science Fiction Festival and the EMP Pop Conference, which attracts academics and musicians from all over. In this capacity, the EMP is an important community venue that advances the study and appreciation of music.

But the real focus of the museum is, of course, the exhibits. The standing Jimi Hendrix exhibit is composed of Allen's own collection, and various rooms highlight different musical histories and traditions. The Science Fiction Hall, for example, features books, posters and film memorabilia.

While some of the exhibits are underwhelming, the EMP is worth the trip to see the interesting and controversial architecture and the traveling exhibits, which often outshine the main collection.