The Arizona State Museum (ASM) is a premier cultural and educational institution located in Tucson, Arizona, on the campus of the University of Arizona. As the oldest and largest anthropology museum in the Southwest, it has been a cornerstone of the region's cultural and historical heritage for over 120 years. Founded in 1893, the museum's mission is to collect, preserve, and interpret the cultural and material treasures of Arizona and the surrounding region, with a focus on the Native American cultures of the Southwest.
Introduction to the Arizona State Museum
The Arizona State Museum is renowned for its extensive collections, which comprise over 3 million objects, including artifacts, photographs, and archival materials. The museum’s collections encompass a broad range of topics, including the history and culture of Arizona, the Native American tribes of the Southwest, and the archaeology of the region. With a strong emphasis on education and outreach, the museum offers a wide range of programs and activities for visitors of all ages, from guided tours and exhibits to workshops and lectures.
Permanent Exhibits at the Arizona State Museum
The Arizona State Museum features a variety of permanent exhibits that showcase the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. Some of the notable exhibits include the Egyptian Collection, which features a range of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies, sarcophagi, and other funerary objects. The Southwest Indian Art exhibit showcases a diverse range of Native American art and artifacts from the region, including pottery, weaving, and jewelry. The museum also features exhibits on the history of Arizona, including the Arizona Treasures exhibit, which highlights the state’s rich mineral and mining heritage.
| Exhibit | Description |
|---|---|
| Egyptian Collection | A collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies and funerary objects |
| Southwest Indian Art | A showcase of Native American art and artifacts from the Southwest, including pottery, weaving, and jewelry |
| Arizona Treasures | An exhibit highlighting the state's rich mineral and mining heritage |
Planning Your Visit to the Arizona State Museum
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Tucson, the Arizona State Museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the cultural and historical heritage of the Southwest. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm. Admission is free, although donations are appreciated. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum’s exhibits, or join a guided tour, which is available at an additional cost.
Special Events and Programs at the Arizona State Museum
The Arizona State Museum offers a wide range of special events and programs throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and cultural festivals. Some of the notable events include the Native American Heritage Month celebrations, which take place in November and feature traditional music, dance, and crafts. The museum also hosts the Tucson Meet Yourself festival, which celebrates the city’s diverse cultural heritage with music, food, and craft vendors.
- Native American Heritage Month celebrations
- Tucson Meet Yourself festival
- Lectures and workshops on topics related to the museum's collections and exhibits
What are the museum’s hours of operation?
+The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.
Is admission to the museum free?
+Yes, admission to the museum is free, although donations are appreciated.
Can I take a guided tour of the museum?
+Yes, guided tours are available at an additional cost. Please contact the museum in advance to schedule a tour.
