Arizona State Museum - A white building with palm trees in front of it
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Arizona State Museum

4.5
·333 reviews·Tucson, United States

Arizona State Museum: Uncover centuries of Southwestern Native American history and artistry in Tucson's oldest museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Arizona State Museum - A white building with palm trees in front of it

Arizona State Museum

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Arizona State Museum: Uncover centuries of Southwestern Native American history and artistry in Tucson's oldest museum.

4.5
(333 reviews)

"A must-visit for its incredible pottery and basketry collections, offering a cool cultural immersion."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free for Young Explorers

Admission is free for visitors aged 17 and under, making it a great family outing.

Student Discounts Available

University of Arizona CatCard holders get in free; a great perk for students!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Pottery Collection

Ancient Pottery Collection

Marvel at one of the world's largest collections of Native American pottery, showcasing ancient artistry.

Basket Weaving Exhibits

Basket Weaving Exhibits

Discover intricate basketry from talented Diné artists, offering a glimpse into traditional craftsmanship.

Indigenous Cultures Display

Indigenous Cultures Display

Explore the lives and traditions of ten Native American nations through immersive, walk-through displays.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Tucson Heat

Escape the desert sun at the Arizona State Museum. It's a great indoor activity, especially on scorching days. Consider it a cool respite while exploring the University of Arizona campus. Reddit

Plan Your Visit Time

While the museum is relatively small, some visitors note exhibits can be closed for rotation. Check their website beforehand to ensure all desired displays are accessible. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Hot summer days
Why
Perfect indoor escape
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sally Black is a Diné basket weaver that I’ve been a fan of for quite a while. When I came across her booth at the Arizona State Museum it was like meeting a celebrity. Sally was kind enough to speak to us for a little bit about her life and her art and show us a few of her baskets. She is a living treasure and I’m so glad I finally got to meet her. #sallyblack #navajo #navajobasket #basketweaver...
medicinemangallery
649 likes • 8.7K views

Free for Young Explorers

Admission is free for visitors aged 17 and under, making it a great family outing. Reddit

Student Discounts Available

University of Arizona CatCard holders get in free; a great perk for students! Reddit

Thank you thank you Arizona State Museum!! 🙏🏼☺️ What an honor ❤️. It was 107 degrees here in beautiful Tucson and I so enjoyed going through the exhibit and seeing images from other Native photographers! The exhibit wraps us this weekend so I’m ecstatic that I got in at the buzzer 😂. #photographylife #myblessedlife #indigenousart
nativegirlphotos
84 likes • 2.1K views
There’s so much to see on campus! Visit Centennial Hall and catch a Broadway show, or check out the exhibits at the Arizona State Museum.
uazadmissions
1.3K likes • 29.2K views

Gift Shop Treasures

Don't miss the gift shop for authentic Southwestern arts, crafts, jewelry, and books. Entry is free! Reddit

Check Exhibit Status

Confirm which exhibits are open before your visit, as some may be closed for rotation. Reddit

reddit.com

tips on unique/cultural places to see in Tucson

Tips

from all over the internet

Free for Young Explorers

Admission is free for visitors aged 17 and under, making it a great family outing. Reddit

Student Discounts Available

University of Arizona CatCard holders get in free; a great perk for students! Reddit

Gift Shop Treasures

Don't miss the gift shop for authentic Southwestern arts, crafts, jewelry, and books. Entry is free! Reddit

Check Exhibit Status

Confirm which exhibits are open before your visit, as some may be closed for rotation. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(333 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Arizona State Museum for its impressive collections of ancient pottery and basket weaving, highlighting its value as a cool escape from the heat. While some find it small and note occasional exhibit closures, the affordable admission and free entry for youth and students make it a worthwhile cultural stop in Tucson.

"Pros: Very interesting ancient pottery section, interesting section on basket weaving
Cons: Very small, only a portion of the pottery section is dedicated to ancient pottery.

I was very excited to visit this, but ended up feeling disappointed and that the $10 entry fee was not worth it. Even though I took my time, I was in and out in less than 1hr. It didn't help that one of their rotating exhibits was closed for rotation out. It would have really helped if they had some kind of notification about this on their website so I would have known to visit at some other time."

Catsur na

"Currently have 3 exhibits available for viewing (jewelry, woven material & ceramics). The largest collection of Native American history in the country. Their archive consists of both old and newer pieces.

Good spot to beat the heat for a few minutes & free for catcard holders ($5 regular admission)."

Brooke Halle

"One of the great museums to visit in the state, AZ State Museum is situated right at the UA campus in Tucson.

I can only imagine how fun this building must have been as a library, back in the day.

I would recommend as an escape on a hot day. Nice exhibits, and a few occasional chances to peek 'behind the curtain' when it comes to the work done at a museum."

Sam Rauhalammi

What People Like

Impressive pottery collection
Intricate basket weaving
Great value for money

What People Dislike

Can feel small
Occasional exhibit closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Arizona State Museum is located on the University of Arizona campus in Tucson, within Centennial Hall. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking garages. Public transportation options are also available, with several bus routes serving the university area. Instagram

Yes, there are several parking garages and lots near Centennial Hall on the University of Arizona campus. Some may have hourly rates or daily fees. It's advisable to check the university's parking services website for the most current information and rates. Instagram

Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option if you're already exploring the University of Arizona campus or nearby areas. However, Tucson can be spread out, so consider ride-sharing or public transport for longer distances. Reddit

Yes, the University of Arizona campus is well-served by Tucson's public bus system. Several routes stop near Centennial Hall, making it accessible for those relying on public transport. Instagram

The Arizona State Museum is located in Centennial Hall. Using a campus map, either physical or digital, will be helpful. Centennial Hall is a prominent building, and signage on campus can guide you. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Regular admission is typically around $5. However, it's free for visitors aged 17 and under, and for University of Arizona CatCard holders. Reddit

Yes, admission is free for those 17 and under and for University of Arizona CatCard holders. Memberships are also available, offering additional benefits. Reddit

Generally, advance booking isn't required for general admission. However, for special events or group visits, it's always a good idea to check the museum's official website or contact them directly. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Arizona State Museum website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times, as well as any potential closures. Instagram

Absolutely! University of Arizona CatCard holders receive free admission to the Arizona State Museum. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum features extensive collections on Southwestern Native American cultures, including ancient pottery, basket weaving, jewelry, and katsinas. They also host temporary and permanent exhibits. InstagramReddit

Most visitors find they can explore the museum in about an hour, though those deeply interested in the research archives might spend longer. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers engaging displays on Native American cultures that can be interesting for children. Admission is also free for those 17 and under. Reddit

Yes, the museum has a well-regarded gift shop offering a wide selection of authentic Southwestern arts, crafts, jewelry, and books. Entry to the gift shop is free. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted. It's best to check for posted signs or ask museum staff. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Arizona State Museum does not have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, the University of Arizona campus has numerous dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants, located a short walk away. Instagram

You'll find a variety of dining choices on and around the University of Arizona campus. These range from quick-service spots to cafes and restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets. Instagram

Typically, museums discourage bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition areas to protect the artifacts. It's best to consume any food or beverages outside the museum galleries. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Personal photography for non-commercial purposes is usually permitted. However, always check for specific signage regarding flash photography, tripods, or video recording restrictions. Instagram

The exhibits themselves, particularly the detailed pottery and basketry, offer excellent photographic opportunities. The architecture of Centennial Hall can also be visually appealing. Instagram+1

While personal use is generally allowed, it's wise to avoid professional photography setups or commercial use without prior permission. Always be mindful of other visitors and the museum's guidelines. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Arizona State Museum is a great option for families visiting Tucson. Admission is free for children 17 and under, making it an affordable outing. Reddit The exhibits on Native American cultures, including pottery and basketry, can be visually engaging for younger visitors. The museum's manageable size means kids won't get overwhelmed, and it provides a welcome break from the desert heat. Reddit

Consider focusing on the most visually striking displays, like the vast pottery collection and the intricate basket weaving. The walk-through displays depicting the lives of ten Native American nations can also spark curiosity. Remember to check for any interactive elements or special family programming the museum might offer. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Arizona State Museum is an excellent choice. Admission is just $5 for adults, and it's free for anyone 17 and under. Reddit If you have a University of Arizona CatCard, you get in for free! Reddit The gift shop is free to enter, offering a chance to browse unique Southwestern crafts without any pressure to buy. Reddit

Given its size, you can experience the core exhibits in about an hour, making it a cost-effective way to immerse yourself in local history and culture without a significant time or financial commitment. It's a perfect addition to a day of exploring Tucson on a budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Southwestern Culture

The Arizona State Museum is a treasure trove of Southwestern artifacts and culture, serving as the University of Arizona's primary repository for archaeological and ethnological collections. Opened in 1893, it holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest museum in Arizona. Its mission is to preserve and interpret the human history of the American Southwest and northern Mexico. Reddit

The museum's collections are vast, with a particular emphasis on the Native American heritage of the region. Visitors can expect to see an unparalleled collection of ancient pottery, intricate basket weaving, vibrant katsina dolls, and detailed jewelry. These exhibits offer a profound connection to the ancestral peoples and contemporary communities of the Southwest, showcasing their artistry, traditions, and daily lives. InstagramReddit

Beyond the permanent displays, the Arizona State Museum also hosts rotating exhibits that delve into specific themes or highlight contemporary artists. These temporary exhibitions provide fresh perspectives and ensure there's always something new to discover. The museum also houses a significant research library, making it a vital resource for scholars and anyone interested in in-depth study of Southwestern archaeology and ethnology. Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Travelers

Many visitors find the Arizona State Museum to be a compact yet deeply informative experience. While some note its size, the quality of the exhibits, especially the ancient pottery and basket weaving, is consistently praised. Reddit It's often recommended as an excellent way to beat the Tucson heat, offering a cool and engaging indoor activity. Reddit

For those planning their visit, checking the museum's website for current exhibit status is a good idea, as temporary closures for rotation can occur. InstagramReddit The $5 admission fee is widely considered worthwhile, especially given the richness of the collections. Furthermore, the museum offers significant value for certain groups: admission is free for those 17 and under, and University of Arizona CatCard holders also enjoy complimentary entry. Reddit

Don't overlook the museum gift shop, which is free to enter and offers a curated selection of authentic Southwestern arts and crafts, jewelry, and books. It's a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs and support local artisans. Reddit

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