All archaeology museums to visit in Arizona

Uncover the secrets of the past at 18 archaeology museums in Arizona. These museums feature artifacts and exhibits that reveal the history of ancient civilizations.

Are you curious about ancient civilizations and archaeological finds? Here are the archaeology museums you must see in Arizona:

  1. Homolovi State Park1

    Homolovi State Park

     Winslow, AZ
    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.
  2. Navajo National Monument2

    Navajo National Monument

     Shonto, AZ
    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.
  3. Montezuma Castle National Monument3

    Montezuma Castle National Monument

     Camp Verde, AZ
    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.
  4. Tuzigoot National Monument4

    Tuzigoot National Monument

     Clarkdale, AZ
    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.
  5. S'edav Va'aki Museum5

    S'edav Va'aki Museum

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  6. Arizona Museum of Natural History6

    Arizona Museum of Natural History

     Mesa, AZ
    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.
  7. Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Museum7

    Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Museum

     Tubac, AZ
    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.
  8. Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve8

    Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve

     Glendale, AZ
    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.
  9. Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park and Museum9

    Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park and Museum

     Globe, AZ
    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.
  10. Amerind Museum10

    Amerind Museum

     Dragoon, AZ
    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.
  11. Cave Creek Museum11

    Cave Creek Museum

     Cave Creek, AZ
    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.
  12. Arizona State Museum12

    Arizona State Museum

     Tucson, AZ
    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.
  13. Mohave Museum of History and Arts13

    Mohave Museum of History and Arts

     Kingman, AZ
    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.
  14. Kinishba Ruins14

    Kinishba Ruins

     Fort Apache, AZ
    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.
  15. Walnut Canyon National Monument15

    Walnut Canyon National Monument

     Flagstaff, AZ
    Walnut Canyon National Monument, situated near Flagstaff, Arizona, is a unique natural attraction carved into a wooded plateau of pines. This location offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature. The monument is easily accessible and provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.
  16. Wupatki National Monument Visitor Center16

    Wupatki National Monument Visitor Center

     Flagstaff, AZ
    The Wupatki National Monument, located in north-central Arizona near Flagstaff, is a significant site for Native American archaeology. It is managed by the National Park Service, in collaboration with the nearby Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. This monument offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the Native American people.
  17. Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve17

    Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve

     Glendale, AZ
    Located just outside the city is a quarter-mile nature trail that offers visitors a glimpse into the region's natural and historical significance. The trail is notable for its petroglyphs, native desert plants, and local wildlife. Further academic relevance is provided by the preserve's display of h
  18. 18

    Museum of Indigenous People

     Prescott, AZ
    The Museum of Indigenous People, previously known as the Smoki Museum of American Indian Art and Culture, is situated in Prescott, Yavapai County, Arizona. The museum houses a vast collection of Native American artifacts, making it a significant cultural and historical site. The museum's collection includes a variety of artifacts, each telling a unique story about the indigenous people of the region.