Free Museums in Phoenix

"A cultural staple of the Greater Phoenix area, the Phoenix Art Museum boasts a collection dedicated to the variety of mediums, themes, styles, and dimensions that represent contemporary Phoenix. Photography, fashion, painting, balloons — you’d be more surprised by what you don’t find here than by what you do!. Kids will love the Make It!"

"The museum of choice for science lovers, both adults and children, visiting Phoenix. This museum and its more than 350 exhibits, collections, and experiences will make you exercise your mind like never before!. The interactive screens, together with the exhibited projects and available education programs, make this scientific experience an unforgettable learning experience."

"Experience a hurricane, lie on a bed of nails, walk through a human stomach, and so much more. Visiting the Arizona Science Center is one of the best things to do in Phoenix with kids because it uses a hands-on approach to science and learning. Staff members present live science demonstrations throughout the day, so be sure to check the daily schedule upon arrival."

"The Arizona Science Center, which is located right in Downtown Phoenix, offers hands-on exhibits, a CREATE Makerspace, and a planetarium. It’s a great place to go to get away from the heat."

"Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park is an ancient archeological site situated in downtown Phoenix near the Sky Harbor International Airport. Left by the Hohokam culture, the site is the largest preserved archeological site in the city and is a National Historic Landmark and Phoenix Point of Pride. Located on the 1,500-year-old archeological site is the Pueblo Grande Museum, which features a variety of galleries which showcase items and artifacts from the prehistoric Hohokam archeological village site."

"The Hall of Flame Fire Museum is both a historical look at the profession and a tribute to firefighters who have been killed in the line of duty, or noted for their heroism. An afternoon here is fun for the whole family. On display at the museum are exhibits dating back to 1725, including old fire engines and some very curious types of fire extinguishers."

"More than 100 fully restored pieces of fire apparatus dating from 1725-2004 originating in America, England, France, Austria, Germany and Japan. The National Firefighting Hall of Heroes honors firefighters who have died in the line of duty or been decorated for heroism. Another gallery explores the history of wildland firefighting in the U.S. 10 a.m."

"This is the last of the museums that we are going to visit in the city of Phoenix. It is not the typical museum that you find in any city so, in my opinion, it is one of the best museums you can visit. The pieces, collections, and history of both the Arizona fire department and other regions of the world, is an unforgettable experience."

"Consider adding an IMAX or Planetarium show to your visit. This museum is fun for families with older children and teens, as well as young children."

"The Arizona Latino Arts & Cultural Center (ALAC) invites visitors into its cultural space for a celebration of Latino culture. The organization also strives to empower local artists and make them part of a greater arts and culture network. Inside, visitors can explore ALAC’s Galeria 147, the main exhibition area that features the work of artists as well as musical shows and dance features."

"This is not just one of the free museums in Phoenix you should visit when in the downtown area. The Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural Center is also a great hidden gem that holds events for local artists from Hispanic and Native communities to showcase their work. It’s truly a beautiful organization helping a great cause."

"Think back to your childhood days spent racing around the neighborhood playing Cops and Robbers, and you’ll quickly realize why you should visit this museum dedicated to the brave “boys in blue.” From safety training to history lessons, everything law enforcement is on display for your family to explore. Resources and materials are abundant, and make learning fun: Get an inside look into SWAT operations, learn about the history of diffusing bombs, pay your respects at the 9/11 memorial, and so much more. Online kids’ resources are available, too, so they can access fun coloring pages and learn an important safety lesson along the way."

"Exhibits include a mock-up of an early 1900s police station, a police car, motorcycle, bomb robots, helicopter and a 9/11 memorial display. Learn about SWAT training and how technology is used in law enforcement. Children can try on real Phoenix Police uniforms and get “sworn in” as police officers while visiting the museum."

"This museum tells the history of the Phoenix Police Department. There are old guns and vintage photos, plus police cars, a three-wheel motorcycle that kids can climb into and uniform shirts they can try on. An exhibit explains the events leading to the landmark U.S."

"Founded in 2006, Royal Coffee Bar is family owned and humbly provides fresh, unpretentious coffee and espresso drinks in classic European style. A significant portion of the operation, including roasting, takes place under the roof of a quaint historic Heritage Square carriage house built in 1899. Each of their locations has been known to employ baristas that take coffee quite seriously, never hesitating to remake an entire drink with a fresh batch of beans for the sake of quality joe."

"The Heritage Square location serves as the roastery and operates out of a quaint brick carriage house. You can also find them in two Biltmore Fashion Park locations to grab a drink while you shop. Biltmore Fashion Park2502 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix"

"Royal Coffee Bar started from small beginnings back in 2006 and now have four locations around Phoenix. Their super loyal customers are a testament to the quality and standards they’ve maintained over the years."

"The Orpheum Circuit was a chain of theaters around the country that hosted movies and vaudeville shows. It was begun in 1886 and continued until 1927 when it became part of Radio Keith Orpheum (RKO) corporation. The Phoenix theater was built from 1927 to 1929."

"The Gallery at Tempe Center for the Arts, which includes 3,500 square feet of exhibit space, presents exhibitions that complement artworks with educational materials, artist demonstrations, and community events. The gallery frequently shows works by emerging and established Arizona artists working in diverse mediums, often organized around themes such as pop culture, identity, or water. Exhibits include opportunities to meet artists, watch artists work, and engage in related hands-on activities."

"Families will enjoy a show with Childsplay at the Tempe Center for the Arts. These kids’ shows are perfect for young kids and often include a Q&A with the performers after the show. Check the theater’s schedule in advance to see if there is a kids’ show happening during your family vacation."