Summer should be a time of fun for the whole family. Kids are out of school and excited to relax at home. But after about a week, most parents will probably hear their kids calling out several times a day, “Mom! Dad! I’m bored!” Get ready to nip that boredom in the bud and have some interesting places to take them that will engage their minds with free Arizona museum experiences. Not only will they have something to fill their time, but even better, these adventures are at no cost! 

READ ALSO: 23 best Arizona staycation deals for 2023

Phoenix Art Museum 

Enjoy thousands of objects and works of art at Phoenix Art Museum’s Family Fun Days on May 28 and July 30. Families are offered free admission for all and access to other fun events throughout the day.  

The museum also regularly offers “Pay-what-you-wish Wednesdays” where you can enter the museum by donating an amount of your choice after 3 p.m. Special exhibits are not included but are offered at reduced rates. 

Heard Museum 

On the third Saturday of June, July and August, head over to the Heard Museum to enjoy Free Family Summer Saturdays. These events will include extra activities sure to be fun for the whole family. 

Phoenix Police Museum 

Discover the history of Police in Phoenix. Historical vehicles and exhibits show off what the Phoenix Police Department has done and continues to do for the city. Admission is free every day the museum is open. 

Children’s Museum of Phoenix  

First Friday in Downtown Phoenix just became fun for the whole family. From 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. the Children’s Museum of Phoenix offers free admission, but it is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. So, arrive early if you want to be sure your family gets in. 

Capitol Museum Tours 

Located in the Arizona State Capitol building, the capitol museum offers a look inside the history of the state. Free pre-booked guided tours are offered Monday through Friday, and free walk-in guided tours are offered Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 10:15 a.m. 

Chandler Museum 

Explore the history of Chandler on every visit and look forward to a couple of different rotating exhibits focused on Arizona’s and America’s history this summer. Admission is free every day the museum is open. 

ASU Art Museum 

Check out a variety of art exhibitions featuring drawings, paintings and sculptures inspired by a wide range of topics. Admission to the museum is free every day it is open. 

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) 

Every second Saturday of the month, head over to SMoCA for free to explore various exhibits of modern art. Tickets do still need to be reserved in advance even though the admission fee is waived. 

The museum also offers “Pay-what-you-wish Thursdays” where you can enter the museum by donating an amount of your choice, but tickets do still need to be reserved in advance. 

Penske Racing Museum 

Got a need for speed? Check out all of the cars, trophies and racing memorabilia on display. The museum is free to explore every day it is open.  

Tempe History Museum 

Take a day to look into the past, present and potential future of the city of Tempe. Admission is free every day the museum is open, but donations are accepted. 

Buddy Stubbs Historical Motorcycle Museum 

Located at the Buddy Stubbs Harley Davidson dealership, this museum is filled with historic motorcycles dating back to 1903. The museum is free every day it is open. 

Huhugam Heritage Center 

It is always a good day to learn about native history. This center highlights the history and culture of the Gila River Indian Community. Admission is free every day the museum is open. 

West Valley Art Museum 

A hidden gem in the Peoria City Hall Art Gallery, this museum has been curating collections inspired by cultures around the world for decades now. The museum is free to enter every day it is open.