Arizona State Capitol Museum
Explore Arizona's rich history in the beautifully restored 1901 Capitol building, featuring legislative chambers, governor's office, and diverse exhib...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Guided tours available
Arizona State Capitol Museum
Best Time
Guided tours available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Arizona's rich history in the beautifully restored 1901 Capitol building, featuring legislative chambers, governor's office, and diverse exhibits.
"This is one of the best State Capitol buildings/museums I’ve ever visited, filled with historical artifacts and great information. FREE!"
🎯 Free Admission!
Explore the rich history of Arizona without spending a dime. This museum offers free admission for all visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With four floors of exhibits, you'll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is a must for a full exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Capitol Chambers
Second Floor
Step back in time in the beautifully restored legislative chambers and governor's office, offering a glimpse into Arizona's past governance.
Pioneer and Military Memorial Park
Across the street
Adjacent to the Capitol, this park honors Arizona's pioneers and military history with impressive monuments and exhibits.
Gratitude Car Exhibit
Main Exhibit Area
Discover the moving story of the 'Gratitude Car,' a symbol of Franco-American friendship and a repository of unique historical artifacts.
Miniature Arizona Train Display
Second Floor
Marvel at a detailed miniature train setup showcasing Arizona's historical railway systems from the early to mid-1900s.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Unlock Free Access with Library Passes
Plan for Guided or Self-Guided Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Explore the rich history of Arizona without spending a dime. This museum offers free admission for all visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With four floors of exhibits, you'll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is a must for a full exploration.
📱 Check Library Culture Pass
Save on admission by using a Culture Pass from your local Arizona library. Plan ahead as passes are popular!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Many visitors find themselves spending 3-4 hours exploring the diverse exhibits. Don't rush your visit!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Explore the rich history of Arizona without spending a dime. This museum offers free admission for all visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
With four floors of exhibits, you'll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is a must for a full exploration.
📱 Check Library Culture Pass
Save on admission by using a Culture Pass from your local Arizona library. Plan ahead as passes are popular!
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Many visitors find themselves spending 3-4 hours exploring the diverse exhibits. Don't rush your visit!
🙋♀️ Ask Info Desk Staff
The staff at the information desk are incredibly helpful and can point out hidden gems you might otherwise miss.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Arizona State Capitol Museum for its free admission and wealth of historical information, offering a deep dive into the state's past. Many appreciate the well-preserved historic chambers and engaging exhibits, finding it a worthwhile and educational experience that goes beyond textbook learning. Some minor drawbacks include potential for crowds during peak times and the need for comfortable shoes to explore all four floors.
"I really liked this place! Here you can feel the real history of Arizona - not dry dates from a textbook, but living facts and objects behind which stand the destinies of people.
There are many exhibits and all are very different, but I was especially impressed by the gratitude car - the same one that France sent to America after World War II. Inside it are unique things donated by the French, and in itself it is a symbol of friendship and gratitude.
The history of Arizona itself is also well revealed in the museum. I learned that these lands once belonged to Mexico, and in 1848, after the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, the United States paid $ 15 million for huge territories, which included California, Nevada, Utah, part of Arizona and New Mexico. And a little later, in 1854, there was another Gadsden Purchase - then for $ 10 million the United States received the southern lands of Arizona and New Mexico.
This was necessary to build a railroad, which eventually connected the coasts. It was very interesting to read how they voted to create a state, what difficulties people went through and how the culture of the region was formed. It is amazing how difficult it all was - and how many destinies are connected with this land.
Overall, the impressions are very positive.
This is not just a museum, but a place where you can spend a few hours and leave with a feeling that you learned and felt something important.
I recommend it to everyone who is nearby - it is worth it!"
Roman Journalist
"This has to be one of the best State Capitol buildings/ museums I’ve ever visited. It is filled with many historical artifacts and great information. There is also a phenomenal Pioneer and Military Memorial Park right across the street from the Capitol! The best part? It is FREE!"
Nikola Matson
"Nice stop and what turned into four hours to kill prior to a baseball game became a very educational tour. Many exhibits to choose from. Learned a lot of the history of Arizona long with other portions of the southwest. Tour was free and ours was unguided although M-W-F they are guided. Parking about 1.5 blocks from the Capitol. Focus paid to Arizona residents like Justice Sandra Day O'Connor as well as a replica of the actual house chambers. If you are a history buff this would be a good tour for you!"
Rob Sjoberg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arizona State Capitol Museum is located at 1700 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85007. It's accessible by car, and public transportation options are available in downtown Phoenix. Parking is typically available nearby.
Yes, there is parking available near the Capitol building, often just a block or two away. It's recommended to check for any specific parking restrictions or fees.
Yes, downtown Phoenix has a robust public transportation system, including bus routes that serve the area around the State Capitol. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient options.
While specific accessibility details can vary, historic buildings like the Capitol often have accommodations for visitors with disabilities. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information on accessibility.
The Arizona State Capitol Museum typically operates during standard business hours on weekdays. It's always best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current operating hours, as they can change.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Arizona State Capitol Museum offers free admission, making it an accessible historical experience for everyone.
Generally, advance booking is not required for general admission as the museum is free. However, for special events or group tours, it's wise to inquire about reservation policies.
Yes, many Arizona libraries participate in the Culture Pass program, which can provide free passes to the Arizona State Capitol Museum and other attractions.
The museum is typically open on weekdays. Specific hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official Arizona State Capitol Museum website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
The museum is housed within the historic Capitol building, allowing visitors to see restored chambers and offices. Access to all areas may depend on ongoing legislative sessions or events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features exhibits on Arizona's governmental, political, and social history, including restored chambers, the governor's office, and artifacts like the 'Gratitude Car.' There's also a miniature train display. +1
Yes, guided tours are offered on select days, typically Monday through Friday. These tours provide deeper insights into the history and exhibits.
Most visitors find that 3 to 4 hours are needed to fully explore the museum's four floors and numerous exhibits.
The museum offers engaging exhibits that can be interesting for older children and teens, especially those with an interest in history and government. Interactive elements and the miniature train display can be highlights.
The museum covers a broad spectrum of Arizona's history, from its territorial days and statehood to significant political and social developments, including its ties to Mexico and the Gadsden Purchase.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use inside the Arizona State Capitol Museum. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. It's always good to check for posted signage.
The restored legislative chambers, the grand chandelier, and the exterior of the historic Capitol building offer excellent photo opportunities. The Pioneer and Military Memorial Park across the street also provides scenic backdrops.
While personal photography is usually allowed, commercial photography or videography may require special permits. Always adhere to museum guidelines regarding photography.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, especially for interior shots of the historic chambers. A smartphone with a decent camera will also capture most exhibits well.
Searching for hashtags like #ArizonaStateCapitolMuseum or #PhoenixCapitol on Instagram and TikTok can provide a wealth of visual inspiration from other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider planning your visit around a guided tour if your children enjoy interactive learning. The Pioneer and Military Memorial Park across the street also offers an opportunity for kids to explore outdoor monuments. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there are four floors to explore, and pack snacks and water, as food options inside the museum may be limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, take advantage of the Arizona library Culture Pass program. Many libraries offer free passes that can be used for admission to various attractions, potentially including this museum. Planning your visit on weekdays might also mean fewer crowds, enhancing your experience without additional cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Arizona's Rich History
Key exhibits delve into the territorial era, the process of statehood, and the lives of prominent Arizonans, including a focus on figures like Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. The museum also highlights the complex history of land ownership, including periods under Mexican rule and the significance of the Gadsden Purchase. This immersive experience goes beyond dry facts, connecting visitors to the human stories behind Arizona's development.
Beyond the political history, the museum showcases social and cultural milestones. The 'Gratitude Car' exhibit, a symbol of international friendship, and the detailed miniature train display depicting early 20th-century Arizona railways, offer unique perspectives. The Pioneer and Military Memorial Park across the street further complements the historical narrative, making the entire area a rich destination for history enthusiasts.
Navigating the Capitol Building
One of the notable features is the miniature train display on the second floor, which recreates Arizona's historical railway systems. This intricate setup offers a unique visual representation of the state's early transportation infrastructure. The museum also houses exhibits on the USS Arizona, connecting Arizona's history to national events, and details the construction of the Capitol building itself, highlighting the architectural and engineering feats of its time.
For those interested in a more structured visit, guided tours are available on select weekdays. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide deeper context and answer questions. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a self-guided tour, allowing them to explore at their own pace and focus on the exhibits that most capture their interest.
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