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Museum of Northern Arizona: Exploring the Colorado Plateau

Discover the art, culture, and natural history of the Colorado Plateau at Flagstaff's renowned Museum of Northern Arizona.

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The Museum of Northern Arizona (MNA) in Flagstaff safeguards and showcases the natural and cultural heritage of the Colorado Plateau. Founded in 1928, the museum features exhibits on anthropology, biology, geology, and fine art, with a strong emphasis on the region's Native American tribes.

A brief summary to Museum of Northern Arizona

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee entry, especially during peak season.
  • Check the museum's calendar for special events, programs, and tours, including behind-the-scenes collections tours.
  • Explore the nature trail on the museum's campus for a chance to see local wildlife.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the museum's exhibits and grounds.
  • Visit the Museum Shop for authentic Native American art, jewelry, and other unique souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Flagstaff, the Museum of Northern Arizona is accessible via Mountain Line Route 5. This route runs from the Downtown Connection Center to various stops along Fort Valley Road. Get off at the Fort Valley Rd. / Winding Brook Rd. stop (Stop Code: 128), which is a short walk to the museum. The bus fare is $2.

  • Walking

    For those staying in accommodations closer to the north end of downtown Flagstaff, the museum is accessible by foot via Fort Valley Road/Highway 180. The walk is approximately 3 miles and should take around an hour. Be aware that portions of the walk may be along the highway shoulder.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services offer a direct route to the Museum of Northern Arizona from anywhere in Flagstaff. A taxi from downtown Flagstaff will cost approximately $8-$11 and take around 6 minutes.

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Discover more about Museum of Northern Arizona

The Museum of Northern Arizona (MNA), established in 1928, stands as a cornerstone of cultural and scientific preservation in the Southwest. Founded by Flagstaff citizens, including Dr. Harold S. Colton and Mary-Russell Ferrell Colton, its mission is to protect and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of northern Arizona. The museum's exhibits offer a deep dive into the region's rich tapestry. Anthropology exhibits explore 12,000 years of human occupation on the Colorado Plateau, highlighting the daily lives and traditions of contemporary tribes. The geology gallery showcases the area's dramatic geological history, featuring models, fossils, and mineral specimens. Art enthusiasts can appreciate the fine art collections, while the natural history exhibits delve into the unique biology of the region. Don't miss the life-size skeletal model of Dilophosaurus, a dinosaur that once roamed Northern Arizona. Beyond its exhibits, MNA's 200-acre campus offers a connection to the natural world. A nature trail winds through a basalt canyon along the Rio de Flag, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife. The museum also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, including the annual Hopi Festival of Arts and Culture.

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