You don’t have to grow up eating processed canned meat to appreciate the SPAM Museum, but it probably helps if you come in with a sense of humor.

Located in Austin, Minnesota, the SPAM Museum leans fully into its reputation. This isn’t a quiet, glass-case museum where you whisper your way through history. It’s bright, interactive, and clearly aware that most visitors walk in thinking, Wait… there’s a whole museum for this?

And somehow, it works.

The boys and I both like the product, and although Shannon isn't a big fan, she agreed to take the two-hour drive down from the Twin Cities during our Summer trip to check it out. The museum walks you through the origin story of SPAM, introduced by Hormel in 1937. What started as a practical canned meat quickly became a cultural icon, especially during World War II, when it helped feed soldiers and civilians alike. That global reach becomes a big part of the story here. SPAM isn’t just a Midwestern pantry staple; it’s eaten (and loved) all over the world.

The exhibits guide you at a comfortable pace. You’re not stuck reading wall after wall of dense text. You’re also not rushed through flashy displays with no substance. There’s a good balance between learning something new and just enjoying the absurdity of how much history can come from a single can.

The museum feels very hands-on. There are interactive stations, themed displays, and plenty of visual storytelling. It's accessible for kids without boring the adults. Even if you think you know SPAM (or think you don’t like it) the museum does a great job of reframing it into a much bigger story. One about food, innovation, and marketing.

Admission to the museum is free.  This isn’t an all-day commitment, but it’s substantial enough to feel worthwhile rather than gimmicky. Make sure to check out the gift shop at the end of the tour!

What makes the SPAM Museum especially fun is that it never takes itself too seriously. It embraces the novelty, leans into the jokes, and still manages to be genuinely informative.