Museums are one of the best ways to learn about a new home and a welcome escape on a hot afternoon. Phoenix has several museums with national reputations, from American Indian art to musical instruments from around the world. This guide introduces the ones newcomers ask about most and how to plan a visit.
Key takeaways
- The Heard Museum, founded in 1929, is known for American Indian art and culture.
- The Musical Instrument Museum displays more than 5,300 instruments and objects from around the world.
- Museums are a good summer activity, and many offer memberships that pay off with repeat visits.
Heard Museum
The Heard Museum in central Phoenix has been dedicated to American Indian art and culture since its founding in 1929. According to the museum, it has become internationally recognized for its collections, exhibitions and festivals. Its galleries, outdoor sculpture spaces and courtyards make it a pleasant visit in any season. It is near the light rail, which makes it easy to reach from downtown.
Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum, known as MIM, is in north Phoenix. According to the museum, it displays more than 5,300 musical instruments and objects from every part of the world. Visitors use headsets that play music and video as they approach each display. There are also hands-on areas where you can try instruments. Plan several hours; many visitors come back more than once.
Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Art Museum, on Central Avenue in Midtown, has collections that span many periods and regions, including American, Latin American, Asian and contemporary art, along with fashion design. It hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year. It is also on the light rail line.
Science and history
Downtown has a science center with hands-on exhibits that are popular with families, and the Valley has several history museums covering Phoenix’s growth, from ancient canal builders to the modern city. Some are small and run by cities or historical societies. They are a good way to understand why the Valley looks the way it does.
Museums at a glance
| Museum | Focus | Area |
|---|---|---|
| Heard Museum | American Indian art and culture | Central Phoenix, near light rail |
| Musical Instrument Museum | Instruments and music worldwide | North Phoenix |
| Phoenix Art Museum | Art from many periods and regions | Midtown, on Central Avenue |
| Science center | Hands-on science | Downtown |
Which to visit first
To understand the region and its history, start with the Heard Museum. For a full day that appeals to almost everyone, the Musical Instrument Museum is a strong choice. Art lovers should head to the Phoenix Art Museum. Families with young children often enjoy the science center.
Tip: Check each museum’s website for free or reduced-price days and for membership options. A membership can pay for itself in a few visits, especially through a long summer.
Planning your visit
- Check hours, since some museums close one day a week.
- Buy tickets online for special exhibitions.
- Allow two to four hours for the larger museums.
- Use the light rail for museums along Central Avenue.
- Look for evening events, which are popular in summer.
Festivals and events
Several museums hold annual festivals, markets and concert series, many of them in the cooler months. The Heard Museum’s annual Indian Fair and Market is one of the best known. Check event calendars and plan ahead, since popular events can sell out.
Museums as a summer strategy
Many Phoenix residents treat museums as part of their summer routine: indoor, air-conditioned and interesting. Pair a museum with lunch nearby and you have a full day out without heat stress. For more ideas across the year, read Things to Do in Phoenix, Season by Season.
Museums across the Valley
Phoenix is not the only city with museums worth a visit. Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa and other Valley cities have their own art centers, history museums and science attractions, and university campuses host galleries and collections open to the public. Exploring them is a good way to get to know the different cities you may be choosing between. See Phoenix Suburbs Compared: Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler and More for an introduction to each.
Visiting with children
Many museums offer family programs, hands-on areas and discounted or free admission for young children. Weekday mornings are usually quieter. Pack snacks for breaks, and check whether strollers are allowed in galleries. Short visits that end before children get tired often work better than trying to see everything.
Common mistakes
The most common mistake is trying to see a large museum in an hour. Another is not checking hours and arriving on a closed day. Visitors also sometimes miss special exhibitions that require separate tickets. Plan ahead and give each museum the time it deserves.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Heard Museum known for?
American Indian art and culture. It was founded in 1929.
How long does the Musical Instrument Museum take?
Many visitors spend several hours. There are more than 5,300 instruments and objects on display.
Can I reach museums by light rail?
The Heard Museum and Phoenix Art Museum are near the light rail along Central Avenue.
For outdoor days, see Papago Park and the Desert Botanical Garden.