Discover the Wonders of the Arizona Museum of Natural History
Explore the Arizona Museum of Natural History: A captivating journey through the wonders of nature and ancient civilizations in Mesa, AZ.
A brief summary to Arizona Museum of Natural History
- 53 N Macdonald, Mesa, Downtown Mesa, Arizona, 85201, US
- +1480-644-2230
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
The Arizona Museum of Natural History is a captivating destination that brings the natural world to life through a diverse array of exhibits. Visitors can step back in time to explore the prehistoric age, featuring impressive dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays that make learning fun. The museum also houses engaging exhibits that delve into the rich cultural history of the Southwest, showcasing artifacts from ancient Native American civilizations. For those with an interest in geology, the museum provides an insightful look into the geological formations that have shaped Arizona's stunning landscape. The informative displays and educational programs cater to visitors of all ages, making it an ideal spot for families seeking a memorable outing. The museum's layout encourages exploration, allowing guests to navigate at their own pace and discover hidden treasures along the way. Plan your visit to coincide with one of the museum's special events or educational workshops to enhance your experience. With its interactive learning opportunities and a commitment to preserving the natural history of the region, the Arizona Museum of Natural History serves as a valuable resource for both locals and tourists. Whether you're a history buff, a geology enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out, this museum promises an enriching experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday for a less crowded experience.
- Check the museum's website for special events and workshops during your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning exhibits and dinosaur displays.
- Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy all the exhibits.
- Consider bringing a packed lunch for a picnic in the nearby park after your visit.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Scottsdale, you can take the Valley Metro bus route 81. Start at the Scottsdale Waterfront (near the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art). Board the bus heading north on Scottsdale Road. Stay on the bus for approximately 20 minutes until you reach the intersection of Scottsdale Road and Camelback Road. Here, transfer to bus route 40, which will take you east. Ride the 40 bus for about 30 minutes until you reach the stop at Main St & Macdonald in Mesa. From there, it’s a short walk (about 5 minutes) north on Macdonald, and you will arrive at the Arizona Museum of Natural History located at 53 N Macdonald.
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Light Rail
From Scottsdale, head to the nearest light rail station in Tempe. You can take bus route 81 from Scottsdale to the Scottsdale Waterfront, then transfer to the 40 bus to reach the Tempe light rail station at Apache Blvd. Hop on the light rail heading towards Mesa. Stay on the light rail for about 30 minutes until you reach the Mesa Arts Center stop. From there, walk north for about 10 minutes on Macdonald Avenue to reach the Arizona Museum of Natural History at 53 N Macdonald.
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Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
For a more direct and quicker option, you can use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Simply open the app, input your pickup location in Scottsdale, and set the destination to 'Arizona Museum of Natural History, 53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201'. The ride will take approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle in Scottsdale and ride to the museum. Start by heading east on the Arizona Canal Trail. After about 6 miles, you’ll merge onto city streets that lead into Mesa. Follow the bike lanes until you reach Main St in Mesa, then ride south on Macdonald Avenue until you reach 53 N Macdonald. This route is approximately 8 miles and can take about 40-50 minutes, depending on your cycling speed.