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Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA)

Explore contemporary art, architecture, and design at Scottsdale's premier museum. Rotating exhibitions, unique installations, and community engagement await.

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The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA), located in the heart of downtown Scottsdale, Arizona, is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art, architecture, and design. Since its founding in 1999, the museum has become a vital cultural resource for the Southwest, attracting both local and international visitors.

A brief summary to Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

Local tips

  • Save money by purchasing your tickets online in advance.
  • Visit on Thursdays or the second Saturday of the month for pay-what-you-wish admission.
  • Take advantage of the free Scottsdale Trolley System to reach the museum.
  • Check the museum's website for information on current exhibitions, events, and holiday hours.
  • Explore the surrounding Scottsdale Arts District, including the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and Scottsdale Public Art.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    SMoCA is located in downtown Scottsdale and is easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions. From the Old Town Scottsdale area, walk east along 2nd Street towards Scottsdale Civic Center. The museum will be on your right, just past the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Look for the entrance on the east side of the building. There is no fee for walking.

  • Public Transport

    Valley Metro and the free Scottsdale Trolley System have routes near the Scottsdale Arts campus. Take the Valley Metro Indian School route to Scottsdale Road or Drinkwater Boulevard, then walk south toward Scottsdale Civic Center. Alternatively, take the Scottsdale Road/Rural Road route to 2nd Street, then walk east. The free Scottsdale Trolley System's 68CM (68th Street/Camelback) or MLHD (Miller Hayden) routes will take you to Indian School Road, a short walk south of Scottsdale Civic Center. A single ride on Valley Metro costs $2.

  • Driving

    SMoCA is located at 7374 E 2nd St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. From the north, take Scottsdale Road south, turn left on Second Street, then left on Wells Fargo Avenue. From the south, take exit 7 from the Red Mountain Freeway (202) for Scottsdale Road north, turn right on Second Street, then left on Wells Fargo Avenue. From the east, take exit 47 from the Pima Freeway (101) for Indian School Road west, turn left on Drinkwater Boulevard, right on Second Street, then right on Wells Fargo Avenue. Free parking is available at the Civic Center Lot and Garage at 3888 N Wells Fargo Ave and the Civic Center Library Garage at 3803 N Drinkwater Blvd. Limited street parking may also be available. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around $5-$10 per hour at nearby paid lots.

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Discover more about Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) is a dynamic institution that explores the constantly evolving world of contemporary art, architecture, and design. Housed in a minimalist building designed by architect Will Bruder, a retrofit of a former movie theater, the museum offers a unique and engaging visitor experience. SMoCA features five galleries that host a variety of rotating exhibitions and works from its permanent collection. The museum is committed to showcasing diverse artists and perspectives, including those from Muslim, African American, and Indigenous communities. Visitors can explore a range of media and themes, from thought-provoking installations to innovative architectural designs. In addition to its galleries, SMoCA offers several unique spaces for visitors to enjoy. Knight Rise, a skyspace by artist James Turrell, provides a tranquil environment for experiencing the beauty of the desert sky. The SMoCA Lounge serves as a living, functional art installation and community engagement space. The Shop@SMoCA offers a curated selection of design objects, books, and gifts. SMoCA is more than just a museum; it's a cultural hub that fosters creativity, innovation, and dialogue. Through its exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, SMoCA seeks to build audiences for contemporary art and provide opportunities for artistic expression.

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