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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 in Flagstaff, Arizona , United States . Lowell Observatory was established in 1894, placing it among the oldest observatories in the United States, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965. In 2011, the Observatory was named one of "T

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.

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.

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.

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 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 serves as a historic house museum located in Phoenix's Heritage Square. It was built between 1894 and 1895 and still sits in its original foundation in downtown Phoenix . Named for Dr. Roland Lee Rosson and his wife Flora Murray Rosson, the house changed hands numerous times before

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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 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.

Pleasant museum offering insight into the history of the breathtakingly beautiful nature of Arizona.

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.

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.

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

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 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.

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 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 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.

Sea Life Arizona is a large, interactive aquarium situated in the Arizona Mills mall in Tempe, Arizona. Spanning 26,000 square feet, the aquarium offers a unique experience for visitors, with thousands of aquatic creatures on display.

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.

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.

Fort Huachuca is a United States Army installation , established on 3 March 1877 as Camp Huachuca. The garrison is now under the command of the United States Army Installation Management Command . It is in Cochise County , in southeast Arizona , approximately 15 miles (24 km) north of the border w

Castle Dome Landing, located in the Castle Dome Mountains of Yuma County, Arizona, is a historical ghost town. It was initially established around 1863, serving as a transport depot and mining camp. This site offers a glimpse into the past, providing visitors with a unique perspective on the early mining activities and life in the Arizona Territory.

The Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park, previously known as the Yuma Crossing State Historic Park, is a significant historical site located in Yuma, Arizona, US. This park is part of the Yuma Crossing and Associated Sites on the National Register of Historic Places in the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area. It was an essential quartermaster depot during the 1870s, where goods were shipped up the Colorado River from the Gulf of California and stored at Yuma for distribution to the desert frontier forts in the Southwestern United States territories.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, spans across a vast 30-acre area. This park is a unique destination that offers a blend of history, nature, and entertainment. It's a great place for families, train enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the rich history of railroads in Arizona.

Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is situated in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona. The museum, which opened its doors in January 2015, is located on the former site of the Loloma Transit Station. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique blend of the old and new, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Cutler-Plotkin Jewish Heritage Center, formerly known as Temple Beth Israel, holds a significant place in the history of Phoenix, Arizona as it was the first permanent Jewish congregation in the area. This historical significance adds a layer of depth to the visitor experience, providing a glimpse into the early Jewish community in Phoenix.

The Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum, also known as Airbase Arizona Aircraft Museum, was established in 1978. It is located in Falcon Field in Mesa, Arizona. This museum is a significant part of the Commemorative Air Force, being the 10th unit of this organization. It is home to one of the largest Commemorative Air Force units in the world.

The Mesa Historical Museum, located in Mesa, Arizona, is a significant institution that was inaugurated in 1987 by the Mesa Historical Society. The museum's primary objective is to preserve and showcase the rich history of Mesa, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the city's past.

The Arizona Historical Society (AHS) is a non-profit organization that aims to connect people through the power of Arizona's history. This mission is carried out through four regional divisions, each with a representative museum. The divisions are located in Tucson, Tempe, Flagstaff, and Yuma. The society was founded in 1884 by a group of pioneers who wanted to preserve their stories and provide charitable service to the local community.

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.

Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is a significant historical site located in Flagstaff, Arizona, adjacent to Northern Arizona University. This park is home to the duplex residence of Timothy and Michael Riordan, influential lumber barons of the early 20th century. The mansion, built in 1904, is a testament to the Riordan brothers' impact on the development of Flagstaff and northern Arizona in various sectors including lumber, railroads, cattle, banking, and politics.

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.

The International Wildlife Museum, located in Tucson, Arizona, is a non-profit natural history museum. It was founded in 1988 by C. J. McElroy as part of an educational initiative of the Safari Club International Foundation. The museum's mission is to educate the public about the diverse wildlife of the world and the importance of conservation.

The Arizona Historical Society (AHS) is a non-profit organization that aims to connect people through the power of Arizona's history. It operates through four regional divisions, each with a representative museum. The divisions are located in Tucson, Tempe, Flagstaff, and Yuma. The society was founded in 1884 by a group of pioneers who wanted to preserve their stories and provide charitable service to the local community.

The San Bernardino Ranch, also known as the Slaughter Ranch, is a historic site located in the southern San Bernardino Valley. It is situated near the San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge in the southeastern part of Cochise County, Arizona, United States. This ranch is significant due to its association with the beginning of cattle ranching in southern Arizona and northern Mexico. It was the home of the Old West lawman John Horton Slaughter from the 1880s until his death in 1922.

The Navajo Nation Museum, located in Window Rock, Arizona, is a cultural institution dedicated to the history of the Navajo people. The museum offers traditional exhibits, a research library, and programs aimed at preserving and reviving the Navajo language. It is situated in the heart of a 27,000-square-mile Navajo reservation, making it a significant cultural hub for the Navajo Nation.

The Painted Desert Inn is a historic complex located in the Petrified Forest National Park in Apache County, eastern Arizona. This location offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Arizona Railway Museum, situated in Chandler, Arizona, was established in 1983 as a non-profit organization. This museum is a significant destination for those interested in the history of railroads, offering a unique insight into the development and impact of the railway system in Arizona and the Southwestern United States.

The Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory is a significant astronomical observatory in America. It is owned and operated by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO), marking it as their largest field installation outside of their main site in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This makes it a notable destination for those interested in astronomy and the work of the SAO.

This historic railroad station - built in 1908 - is the boarding station of the Grand Canyon Railway.

Yet another place popular mainly among skywatchers. They boast with one of the biggest binocular telescopes in the world!

The George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, located in Phoenix, Arizona, was originally Carver High School. This institution was established during a period of school segregation, specifically to serve African-American students. The building's history provides a unique insight into the educational and social conditions of the time.

The Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, also recognized as the Prescott Animal Park Association (PAPA), is a non-profit organization located in Prescott, Arizona. This sanctuary is dedicated to the care and preservation of both native and exotic animals, providing them a safe and nurturing environment.

If you already got tired of the beautiful nature Arizona offers, here is something to tingle your art senses.