Experience AZ magazine is Arizona’s go-to travel and adventure guide, showcasing the best places to eat, stay, shop, explore and experience across the state. Here are five museums to experience the Old West in Arizona, as featured in the latest issue of Experience AZ.
Phippen Museum
Named after local artist and first president of the Cowboy Artists of America, George Phippen, the Phippen Museum is an Arizona treasure. It presents museum-quality Western art exhibits, educational opportunities and unique art events for visitors of all ages. The facility is home to the Kemper & Ethel Marley Western Art Gallery showcasing two detailed studio replicas, four amazing galleries, a well-stocked museum store, multipurpose classroom, research library and four outstanding permanent exhibits, including the Bill & Marion Gary Western Heritage Gallery and the Arizona Rancher and Cowboy Hall of Fame.
Information: phippenartmuseum.org
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West
This highly rated museum located in Old Town Scottsdale features regularly changing and ongoing exhibits of Western and Native American art, rare artifacts and cultural treasures on loan from some of the world’s foremost collectors and institutions. A Smithsonian Affiliate since 2015, the museum has been, once again, named “Best Western Museum” in the nation (True West Magazine). Exhibitions at Western Spirit include authentic Old West cowboy gear, paintings and bronzes by acclaimed contemporary and historic western artists, and Hopi pottery masterworks. Among the historic artifacts on exhibit are Captain Meriwether Lewis’ presentation style pipe tomahawk and Native American buffalo robes.
Information: westernspirit.org
Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
Once a notorious prison in the late 19th century, it now houses exhibits on the lives of inmates and the challenges of the Old West. Visitors can explore the historic cellblocks, see original prison artifacts and learn about the hardships of life during the territorial period, making it a stop for history enthusiasts.
Information: azstateparks.com/yuma-territorial
Arizona Natural History Museum
The Arizona Natural History Museum offers a trip through the state’s natural heritage through family-friendly exhibits and events. Showcasing everything from prehistoric fossils to Native American cultures, the museum displays Arizona’s diverse ecosystems and history. Visitors can explore displays on dinosaurs, geology and wildlife, all while engaging in educational programs that bring the past to life.
Information: arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org
Desert Caballeros Western Museum
An adventure for all ages, Desert Caballeros Western Museum exhibitions and free guidePORT audio tours tell the fascinating stories of the American West. Showcasing prized works by George Catlin, Albert Bierstadt, Thomas Moran, Frederic Remington, Charles Russell, Cowboy Artists of America and Taos Society of Artists, this museum keeps the artists of Arizona’s past close to its heart. Step into scenes that are expertly modeled after the history of the region and desert frontier and experience what life was like for early settlers and on Wickenburg ranches. Or take a visit to discover the importance of gold mining history and see examples of Arizona minerals.
Information: westernmuseum.org
