The best museums in Phoenix in September 2025

These are the top 20 best museums in Phoenix, United States, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2025. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

For a complete overview of museums in Phoenix, their exhibitions and discount cards & passes, see our overview page with all museums in Phoenix.

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Looking for the best museums in Phoenix? These are the best ones:

  1. Online discount!Musical Instrument Museum1

    Musical Instrument Museum

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  2. Phoenix Art Museum2

    Phoenix Art Museum

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  3. Mystery Castle3

    Mystery Castle

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  4. Phoenix Zoo4

    Phoenix Zoo

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  5. Arizona Capitol Museum5

    Arizona Capitol Museum

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  6. Arizona State Capitol6

    Arizona State Capitol

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  7. Arizona Science Center7

    Arizona Science Center

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  8. Heard Museum8

    Heard Museum

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  9. Desert Botanical Garden9

    Desert Botanical Garden

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  10. Hall of Flame Fire Museum10

    Hall of Flame Fire Museum

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  11. The Rosson House11

    The Rosson House

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  12. S'edav Va'aki Museum12

    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.
  13. Phoenix Police Museum13

    Phoenix Police Museum

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  14. Phoenix Trolley Museum14

    Phoenix Trolley Museum

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  15. Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights15

    Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  16. Shermer Art Center16

    Shermer Art Center

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  17. Burton Barr Central Library17

    Burton Barr Central Library

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  18. Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix18

    Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix

     Phoenix, AZ
  19. Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum19

    Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum

     Phoenix, AZ
    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.
  20. David and Gladys Wright House20

    David and Gladys Wright House

     Phoenix, AZ

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