23 Aug A Day at the Museum
Here in the Valley of the Sun, we are culturally blessed with a plethora of museums to visit. Whether your interest is music, art, history or science, there is a place for you to enjoy. Here are a few of the more popular options . . .
Phoenix Art Museum—The largest art museum in the Southwestern United States, the Phoenix Art Museum is home to a large collection of art, sculpture in the outdoor garden, as well as festivals, art films, live performances, and photography exhibitions. The website is updated with current as well as future special exhibits so you’ll never miss whatever is new. There are a restaurant and a Museum Store on site.
Heard Museum—This museum focuses on American Indian art and history, and offers a fascinating, in depth look at this beautiful culture. With a combination of contemporary art by Native Americans as well as ancient artifacts and textiles, the history of the tribes is well-represented and presented.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix—This incredible, multi-story museum literally has something for every age. Babies will enjoy the baby areas, toddlers will be able to enjoy most of the areas and elementary-age children will have the run of the entire museum. Packed full of interactive exhibits from the Noodle Forest, to the recreated grocery store and restaurant, to the book loft, art studio and multi-story Schuff-Perini climber, this museum can easily take an entire day to discover.
Musical Instrument Museum—This incredible museum is ranked in the top 20 museums in the United States by Trip Advisor. With over 360 exhibits, representing every nation, this comprehensive museum is a delight for adults and children alike. The MIM lets you experience all facets of music via sound, videos, and instrument exhibits. The onsite café is also very popular.
Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve—This museum on a 47-acre Sonoran Desert preserve features the largest concentration of Native American petroglyphs in the Phoenix area.
Arizona Science Center—This center is popular with all ages, but children especially will enjoy its many interactive and hands-on exhibits. Be sure to check out the planetarium, the IMAX movie and any special exhibits. Free coupons are sometimes available to Phoenix Library members.