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Arizona State Museum: A Window into the Southwest's Past

Explore 13,000 years of Southwestern history and culture at the Arizona State Museum. Discover ancient artifacts and enduring Native traditions.

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The Arizona State Museum (ASM), established in 1893 on the University of Arizona campus, is the oldest and largest anthropological research museum in the U.S. Southwest. It safeguards and showcases the region's rich archaeological and cultural heritage, with a focus on the history of Native peoples who have called the Southwest home for over 13,000 years.

A brief summary to Arizona State Museum

Local tips

  • Check the Arizona State Museum website for updates on the reopening of exhibits and for information on current online programs and events.
  • Take advantage of the University of Arizona campus's beautiful park-like setting and explore other nearby museums and attractions.
  • Consider using public transportation or the Sun Link streetcar to reach the museum, as parking on campus can be limited.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Arizona State Museum is located on the University of Arizona campus at the northeast corner of Park Avenue and University Boulevard. From anywhere on campus or the Main Gate Square, follow the signs to the intersection of Park Avenue and University Boulevard. The museum is located on the northeast corner of the intersection, just inside the Main Gate.

  • Public Transport

    The Sun Tran Bus Route #1 stops right in front of ASM on Park Ave, just north of University Blvd. Refer to the Sun Tran website for routes, times, and fare information. The Sun Link Modern Streetcar operates daily with varying hours, with stops close to ASM. Check the Sun Link website for route details and a printable route map. A single ride costs $2.00.

  • Parking

    The closest garage parking is available for a fee at either the Main Gate Garage (815 E. Second Street) at Euclid Avenue and Second Street, or at the Tyndall Avenue Garage (880 E. 4th Street) at Euclid Avenue and Fourth Street. Both garages are accessible from Euclid Avenue. Fees are $2/hour. Payments are taken at Exit Gates and Pay Stations 24/7 with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Cash or checks are not accepted.

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Discover more about Arizona State Museum

Founded in 1893, the Arizona State Museum (ASM) stands as a vital link to the past, preserving and interpreting the rich cultural heritage of the American Southwest and northwest Mexico. As the oldest and largest anthropological research museum in the region, ASM is home to millions of artifacts, including the world's most comprehensive collections of Southwest Indigenous pottery and Native North American basketry. The museum's collections span 13,000 years of human history, offering insights into the lives of the region's first inhabitants and the enduring cultures of its Native peoples. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring pottery, jewelry, baskets, textiles, and tools, each telling a story of adaptation, innovation, and cultural expression. ASM also boasts an extensive photographic collection, with over 500,000 images documenting the region's people, traditions, and archaeological sites. ASM is not just a repository of artifacts; it's a dynamic research and teaching center. Museum scholars conduct cutting-edge research in archaeology, ethnology, and related fields, while the museum's public programs, including exhibits, lectures, and hands-on activities, engage visitors of all ages. ASM is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution and accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Currently, the Arizona State Museum is closed for an extended period (2-3 years, starting August 1, 2024) for extensive maintenance and upgrades to its north building. However, the museum continues to offer events, programs, classes and travel opportunities.

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