Top 100 best museums in Arizona

The Musical Instrument Museum, also known as MIM, is situated in Phoenix, Arizona. It was officially opened to the public in April 2010. This museum is a great destination for music lovers and those interested in learning about different cultures through their musical instruments.

Taliesin West is not only a historical site but also the headquarters of the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. Visitors have the opportunity to tour the property and gain insights into Wright's architectural teachings and his lasting impact on the field.

Biosphere 2 is a unique architectural and ecological marvel located in Arizona, USA. Constructed in 1991, the primary objective of this project was to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that could function independently from the outside world. This ambitious endeavor was an attempt to prove that life could be sustained long-term within a closed ecological system.

The Pima Air & Space Museum, situated in Tucson, Arizona, holds the distinction of being one of the world's largest aerospace museums that is not funded by the government. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in aviation and space exploration, offering a vast collection of nearly 400 aircraft spread over an expansive 80-acre display area.

Have you ever heard or read about the 1881 gunfight at the O.K. Corral? Well, this is the site where it all happened.

The Phoenix Art Museum, situated in Phoenix, Arizona, is the largest museum for visual art in the southwest United States. It spans an impressive 285,000 square feet, making it a significant cultural landmark in the region.

Mystery Castle is a unique fortification situated near the South Mountain Park in Phoenix, United States. This distinctive structure was built in the 1930s and offers a unique glimpse into the past. Its location near the park provides a scenic backdrop, making it an interesting destination for tourists looking for something different to explore.

The Phoenix Zoo, situated in Phoenix, Arizona, is a recognized member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). These memberships reflect the zoo's commitment to high standards of animal care, conservation, and education.

Nowadays almost everyone knows what Route 66 is, but less is known about it's history and former purposes. Come here to learn more!

The Petrified Forest National Park is a significant natural attraction located in the northeastern part of Arizona, near the city of Flagstaff. It encompasses the Painted Desert, a vast area known for its colorful and eroded badlands. The park is easily accessible via the Interstate 40 highway, making it a convenient destination for those traveling in the region.

Jerome State Historic Park, located in Arizona, US, is home to the Douglas Mansion. This mansion was constructed in 1916 by a family who played a significant role in the mining industry in Jerome, Arizona. The mansion stands as a testament to the rich history of the area and the influential people who contributed to its development.

Lowell Observatory is an astronomical observatory situated in Flagstaff, Arizona. It is one of the oldest observatories in the United States and is listed as a building of historical interest. The observatory welcomes up to 70,000 visitors a year who participate in guided tours and observe various night wonders through the Clark telescope and others.

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, located in Tucson, Arizona, is a unique combination of a zoo, museum, and botanical garden. It spans over 22.24 acres, offering visitors a comprehensive view of the desert's flora and fauna. The museum is internationally recognized as a botanical institution and is known for its herbarium, ASDM.

Homolovi State Park, located in Arizona, United States, is a significant historical site that preserves over 300 Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites. These sites provide a glimpse into the lives and cultures of the Ancestral Puebloan people, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and archaeology.

The Navajo National Monument is a federally protected area located in the state of Arizona. It is managed by the National Park Service, ensuring its preservation and maintenance. The monument is named after the Navajo people who currently inhabit the area. It is situated near U.S. Route 160, 80 km northeast of Tuba City and 36 km southwest of Kayenta.

San Xavier del Bac is a historic Spanish Catholic mission situated about 16 kilometers south of downtown Tucson, Arizona. It is located on the Tohono O'odham Indian reservation, adding a unique cultural aspect to the site. The mission was named in honor of Saint Francis Xavier, a pioneering Catholic missionary and co-founder of the Society of Jesus.

Montezuma Castle is a significant historical site, being one of the best-preserved prehistoric buildings in North America. Constructed by the Sinagua Indians from the 12th century, this cliff dwelling offers a unique glimpse into the past. The Sinagua, whose name means 'without water' in Spanish, were agricultural people who built their homes into the rock faces, likely for protection against hostile tribes.

The Arizona State Capitol, located in Phoenix, United States, is a significant historical site. It was once the seat of the Territorial and State Legislatures of Arizona, as well as several executive offices. However, these offices have now been relocated to nearby buildings. Today, the Capitol is preserved as the Arizona Capitol Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the state's rich history.

The Arizona State Capitol, located in Phoenix, Arizona, has a rich history as it once housed the territory and state legislature, along with various executive offices. Today, these offices have been relocated to surrounding buildings, and the building itself has been transformed into the Arizona Capitol Museum. This transition allows visitors to delve into the history of Arizona in a unique and immersive way.

The Arizona Science Center is situated at 600 Washington St in Downtown Phoenix, Arizona. It is nestled within the Heritage and Science Park, making it easily accessible for visitors. The location is central and convenient, offering a variety of nearby attractions and amenities for tourists.

Pipe Spring National Monument, located in Arizona, is a site steeped in the history of American Indians, early explorers, and Mormon pioneers. This National Monument offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of American history, providing a glimpse into the lives and cultures of these diverse groups. The monument is administered by the National Park Service and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.

The Grand Canyon National Park, situated in the state of Arizona, is among the oldest national parks in the United States. This park is a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and history for future generations. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of the world's most iconic natural landscapes.

The Heard Museum, located in Phoenix, Arizona, is a private, non-profit institution committed to promoting American Indian art. The museum presents the narratives of American Indian people from a first-person perspective and showcases both traditional and contemporary art by American Indian artists and those influenced by American Indian art.

The Desert Botanical Garden is a vast 140-acre botanical garden situated in Papago Park, at 1201 N. Galvin Parkway in Phoenix, central Arizona. This expansive garden offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse flora of the desert environment, making it an interesting destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is a significant botanical destination in Arizona. It was established in the 1920s by William Boyce Thompson, a mining entrepreneur. Thompson, who had previously been with the American Red Cross in Russia, recognized the immense importance of plants as raw materials for human food, clothing, and building materials. He decided to use his wealth to optimize the use of plant resources, leaving the arboretum as part of his legacy.

The Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting, officially known as the National Historical Fire Foundation, is a unique institution dedicated to the historical preservation of firefighting equipment from around the globe. This museum provides a comprehensive look into the evolution of firefighting equipment and techniques, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history, firefighting, or simply looking for a unique museum experience.

Tuzigoot National Monument is a preserved site of a 2- to 3-story pueblo ruin. It is located on a limestone and sandstone ridge just east of Clarkdale, Arizona, and stands 120 feet above the Verde River floodplain. This location offers a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape and a glimpse into the past.

The Reid Park Zoo, established in 1967, is a city-owned and operated nonprofit zoo situated within Reid Park in Tucson, Arizona. Spanning across 24 acres, the zoo is a significant part of the city's recreational and educational offerings, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore and learn about a wide variety of animals in a well-maintained environment.

The Rosson House, situated at 113 North 6th Street at the corner of Monroe Street in Downtown Phoenix, Arizona, is a historic house museum. This location offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and history of the late 19th century. The house was built between 1894 and 1895 and is a prime example of the Stick Eastlake Queen Anne Style of Victorian architecture.

The Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium is a large 215-acre establishment located in Litchfield Park, Arizona, near Phoenix. It offers a wide variety of experiences for visitors, making it a great destination for those interested in wildlife and nature.

Tohono Chul Park is a preserved area and desert botanical garden that spans 49 acres. It is situated in Casas Adobes, a suburb of Tucson, Arizona. The park is a haven for desert flora and fauna, offering visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the unique ecosystem of the Sonoran Desert.

The Pueblo Grande Ruin and Irrigation Sites are significant pre-Columbian archaeological sites located in Phoenix, Arizona. These sites feature a prehistoric platform mound and ancient irrigation canals, offering a glimpse into the lives of the people who once inhabited the region. Visitors can explore these historical structures and learn about the advanced irrigation systems that were developed by the Hohokam, the ancestral Native Americans who lived in the area.

The Adobe Mountain Desert Park, also known as The Railroad Park, is a unique park complex located in Glendale, Arizona. It is home to several organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of railroading, including the Sahuaro Central Railroad Heritage Preservation Society, the Sahuaro Central Railroad Museum, the Arizona Model Railroading Society, and the Maricopa Live Steamers. These organizations offer a variety of exhibits and activities for visitors to enjoy.

The Phoenix Police Museum is situated on the 1st floor of the Historic Phoenix City Hall, at the intersection of 2nd Ave and Jefferson Street. This location is easily accessible and central, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

The Center for Creative Photography (CCP), established in 1975, is a research facility and archival repository located on the University of Arizona's Tucson campus. This center is dedicated to the preservation, interpretation, and availability of materials that are essential to understanding photography and its history. It is a significant location for those interested in photography as an art form.

In 2010, MOCA relocated to a former fire department building on Church Avenue. This move allowed the museum to expand its exhibition space and further develop its programs. The building's unique history adds an additional layer of interest for visitors, as it combines modern art with a piece of Tucson's architectural history.

The Martin Auto Museum, located in Glendale, Arizona, is a non-profit institution dedicated to preserving collectible automobiles. The museum's mission is to educate the public about the history and significance of these vehicles. The collection includes a wide range of cars, from vintage to modern, each with its own unique story. The museum is a testament to the evolution of the automobile industry and serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this important aspect of American culture.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff is a unique botanical garden that spans over 200 acres. It is home to a variety of drought-tolerant plants that are representative of the high desert area of the Colorado Plateau. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in botany, ecology, or simply enjoying the beauty of desert flora.

The Yuma Territorial Prison, located in the Arizona Territory of the United States, has a rich history dating back to July 1, 1876, when it admitted its first prisoner. This historical site provides a glimpse into the past, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the prison's history and the lives of those who were incarcerated there.

The Mesa Arts Center, located in downtown Mesa, Arizona, is a complex dedicated to performing and visual arts. This center is a hub for creativity and artistic expression, offering a variety of performances and exhibitions throughout the year.

The Arizona Museum of Natural History, originally known as the Mesa Southwest Museum, is a natural history museum situated in the city of Mesa, Arizona. It showcases the natural and cultural history of the southwestern United States, making it a significant destination for those interested in understanding the region's past.

The Tucson Botanical Gardens (TBG) is a significant botanical attraction located in the heart of Tucson, Arizona. Spanning 5.5 acres, the gardens comprise 20 distinct sections, each showcasing a unique aspect of botanical life. This diverse collection of gardens offers visitors an opportunity to explore a wide range of plant species in one location.

Tubac Presidio State Historic Park is situated in Tubac, Arizona, and is a significant site that conserves the remnants of the Presidio San Ignacio de Tubac along with other structures. These preserved sites provide a chronological account of European colonization in this Southern Arizona town.

Museum concerned with the omnipresent Route 66. Full of various information, artifacts and memorabilia.

The Sharlot Hall Museum, located in Prescott, Arizona, is an open-air museum and heritage site. It was opened in 1928 by Sharlot M. Hall with the aim of preserving the history and culture of the Central Highlands of Arizona. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of this region in an open-air setting.

The Museum of Northern Arizona, located in Flagstaff, Arizona, serves as a repository for Indigenous artifacts and natural history specimens from the Colorado Plateau. This museum is a significant destination for those interested in learning about the Indigenous cultures and natural history of the region.

The DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Historic District is now a public museum. Visitors can explore the unique buildings, immerse themselves in the natural desert setting, and appreciate the artistic works of Ettore DeGrazia. The museum offers a unique opportunity to experience the fusion of art and nature.

Sahuaro Ranch, founded in 1886 by William Henry Bartlett, is a historical site located north of Glendale, Arizona. The ranch, rich in figs and other fruit orchards, vineyards, and fields of alfalfa, has all of its historical structures restored and is administered by the Parks and Recreation Department of Glendale. It was listed in the National Register of Historical Places on March 7, 1980.

The Verde Canyon Railroad is a heritage railroad that provides a unique journey between Clarkdale and Perkinsville in Arizona. It operates on a 20-mile stretch of the Clarkdale Arizona Central Railroad, offering passengers a chance to experience a piece of history while enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.

The Titan Missile Museum, also known as Air Force Facility Missile Site 8 or Titan II ICBM Site 571-7, is a former Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) site. It is located approximately 40 km south of Tucson, Arizona in the United States. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of Cold War history.

The Pendley Homestead Historic District is a significant part of Sedona's history, located within the Slide Rock State Park. This district is situated on State Route 89A, approximately 7 miles north of Sedona. It was officially recognized and listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) on December 23, 1991, marking its importance in the historical landscape of the region.

The Planes of Fame is a large aviation museum situated at Chino Airport in Southern California. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the history of aviation and see a variety of aircraft up close. The museum is easily accessible and provides a fascinating insight into the world of aviation.

The Niels Petersen House, located in Tempe, Arizona, is a recognized historic landmark. It holds a place on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, marking it as a significant site in American history. The house is a prime example of Queen Anne Style brick architecture, a style that was prevalent in the Salt River Valley.

The Phoenix Trolley Museum, incorporated as the Arizona Street Railway Museum, is a historical institution established in 1975. The museum is dedicated to the preservation of original Phoenix trolley cars and related memorabilia. It showcases the significant role these trolleys played in the history of Phoenix, the fifth largest city in America.

Fort Apache Historic Park is a significant tribal historic park of the White Mountain Apache tribe. It is situated at the former site of Fort Apache on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. This location offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the Apache tribe, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in Native American history.

The Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve, previously known as the Deer Valley Rock Art Center, is a 47-acre nature preserve located in the Deer Valley area of Phoenix, Arizona. The preserve is home to over 1500 petroglyphs from the Hohokam, Patayan, and Archaic periods, which are visible on 500 basalt boulders scattered across the site.

Fort Lowell, located in Tucson, Arizona, has a rich history dating back to May 20, 1862, when it was established as a military post by the United States Army. This historical site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, providing an understanding of the military operations that took place in the region during that time.

Manistee Ranch, located in Glendale, Arizona, was established in 1897 by Herbert W. Hamilton, a native of Wisconsin. The ranch was known for its abundance of citrus fruits and dates, making it a significant agricultural site during its operational years.

This rather special museum has a particular concern in exhibition of miniatures of all sorts.

The Tempe Center for the Arts (TCA) is a publicly owned performing and visual arts center located in Tempe, Arizona. It is a hub for various forms of artistic expression, offering a platform for both performing and visual arts. The center is open to the public, making it an accessible destination for tourists interested in the arts.

Besh-Ba-Gowah is a significant archaeological site that features a 200-room prehistoric Salado masonry pueblo. This ancient settlement is situated on a broad ridge that offers a panoramic view of Pinal Creek. The site provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the Salado culture and their architectural prowess.

Tovrea Castle, located at 5041 East Van Buren Street in Phoenix, Arizona, is a historic structure and landmark. It is situated on a 44-acre property that is bounded by the Red Mountain Freeway, Washington Street, Van Buren Street, and the Main Post Office. This location makes it easily accessible and a significant point of interest in the city.

The Arizona State University Art Museum, also known as ASU Art Museum, is an art institution established in 1950 in Tempe, Arizona. The museum's foundation was made possible through the generous donation of modern American and Latin American artworks. This rich collection forms the core of the museum's exhibits, offering visitors a unique insight into the artistic expressions of these regions.

Fort Verde State Historic Park, located in the town of Camp Verde, Arizona, is a compact park that aims to conserve elements of the fort from the Apache Wars era as they were in the 1880s. This park provides a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and experience a piece of American history.

The Bonelli House is situated at the intersection of Fifth and Spring Streets in Kingman, Arizona. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient starting point for exploring the city's historic district. The house's prominent location also reflects its historical significance in the community.

The Barringer Crater, also known as the Arizona Crater or Meteor Crater, is a renowned impact crater located approximately 55 kilometers east of Flagstaff in the desert of northern Arizona, United States. Named after mining engineer and businessman Daniel Moreau Barringer, it is considered one of the most famous impact craters on earth.

McFarland State Historic Park is a quaint historic park nestled in the heart of downtown Florence, Arizona. It is conveniently located on the corner of Main and Ruggles streets, making it easily accessible for visitors. The park's central location allows tourists to explore the surrounding area and immerse themselves in the rich history of Florence.

The Rex Allen Arizona Cowboy Museum and Willcox Cowboy Hall of Fame is located in Willcox, Arizona, United States. This museum is dedicated to the life and career of Rex Elvie Allen, an American film and television actor, singer, and songwriter known as the 'Arizona Cowboy' and 'Mister Cowboy'. Born and raised just 40 miles north of Willcox, Allen became famous in the 1950s as one of the last singing cowboys and as the narrator of many Disney nature and Western productions.

The E. N. Jenckes Store, located on Main Street in Douglas, Massachusetts, is a historic store that offers a glimpse into the past. This two-story wood-frame structure, built in 1833, is a testament to the Greek Revival architectural style. The store was built by Elias Balcome and was operated by the Jenckes family for most of the 20th century.

The Amerind Foundation is a unique institution that serves as both a museum and a research facility. Its primary mission is to preserve and interpret the rich histories and diverse cultures of Native American peoples. Visitors to the museum can expect to gain a deep understanding of Native American heritage through the various exhibits and collections on display.

The Shemer Art Center and Museum, located in Phoenix, Arizona, serves as both an art education facility and a gallery. This unique combination allows visitors to not only appreciate the art on display but also learn about the techniques and history behind it.

The Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum, formerly known as the University of Arizona Mineral Museum (UAMM), is situated in the Pima County Courthouse in downtown Tucson, Arizona. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique setting for the museum's extensive collection.

The University of Arizona Poetry Center, located in Tucson, Arizona, is home to one of the most extensive collections of contemporary poetry in the United States. It is the largest open shelf collection of its kind, making it a unique destination for poetry enthusiasts and literary tourists alike.

The Southern Arizona Transportation Museum is a unique destination in Tucson, Arizona. It is situated in the former records vault building at the Southern Pacific Depot, a historic site that has been renovated by the City of Tucson. This museum offers a deep dive into the history of railroads and transportation in the region, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.

The Tombstone Epitaph is a monthly publication based in Tombstone, Arizona. It is dedicated to covering the history and culture of the Old West. The newspaper was founded in January 1880, making it the oldest continually published newspaper in Arizona. This rich history makes it a significant part of the cultural heritage of the state.

The Cave Creek Museum is a non-profit organization situated at the foot of the Black Mountains in the town of Cave Creek, Arizona. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

Oracle State Park, located in Arizona, US, is a vast expanse of natural beauty, preserving 3,948 acres in the northeastern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. This park offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Arizona, from the rolling foothills to the towering mountains.

The Burton Barr Central Library serves as the central library of Phoenix, Arizona. It is also the administrative headquarters for the Phoenix Public Library. This library is named after Burton Barr, a prominent figure in Arizona's political history. As the flagship location for the Phoenix Public Library, it plays a significant role in the city's cultural and educational landscape.

The Pioneer Living History Museum, also known as Pioneer Village, is situated at 3901 W. Pioneer Road in Phoenix, Arizona. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the history of the region.

The Children's Museum of Phoenix is housed in the historic Monroe School, located at 215 North 7th Street in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. This building, which was designed by Norman Foote Marsh in the Neoclassical or Classical Revival style, served as an elementary school and then a high school from 1914 to 1972. Since 2008, it has been the home of the Children's Museum of Phoenix, providing a unique and historic setting for the museum's exhibits and activities.

Art museum and historic home that is worth seeing! Unique and refreshing place set in an old Victorian house.

The Jewish History Museum, previously known as the Jewish Heritage Center of the Southwest, is located in a historic synagogue building in Tucson, Arizona. This museum is a testament to the rich Jewish history of the region and offers a unique opportunity to explore this heritage in a setting that is both historic and culturally significant.

The Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block (TMA) is a significant cultural institution located in the Presidio District of downtown Tucson, Arizona. It serves as both an art museum and an art education institution, offering a diverse range of exhibitions and educational programs. The museum's location in the heart of the city makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.

The Old Pueblo Trolley is a non-profit educational corporation located in Tucson, Arizona. Its primary mission is to preserve the history of mass transit in the state. The organization is divided into three divisions: the Street Railway Division, the Motor Bus Division, and the Museum Division. Each division plays a specific role in preserving the state's mass transit history.

The Arizona State Museum, established in 1893, serves as a significant repository for archaeological resources. It not only stores and exhibits artifacts but also offers educational and research opportunities. The museum's rich history and its commitment to preserving and showcasing artifacts make it a fascinating destination for those interested in archaeology and history.

This charming museum deals with the history of Arizona and Arizonian nature. Also features nice gardens at the premises.

The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park is a significant historical site in Arizona, United States. It is located in the town of Tombstone and is dedicated to preserving the original Cochise County courthouse. This two-story Victorian-style building was constructed in 1882 and once housed various county offices, including those of the sheriff, recorder, treasurer, and the Board of Supervisors, as well as courtrooms and a jail.

The Mohave Museum of History and Arts offers visitors an introduction to the history of Northwestern Arizona. The museum's collection includes dioramas, murals, and numerous artifacts that illustrate the region's development from prehistoric times to the present day.

Out of Africa Wildlife Park is a unique wildlife park and zoo situated in the beautiful town of Camp Verde, Arizona. This park offers a unique opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with a variety of wildlife species in a safe and controlled environment.

The Kinishba Ruins is a significant archaeological site located in eastern Arizona. It is a 600-room Mogollon great house that provides a glimpse into the ancient Mogollon culture. The site is administered by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, ensuring its preservation and maintenance. Visitors to the site can explore the ruins and learn about the Mogollon culture and their architectural practices.