Arizona Capitol Museum — Attraction in Phoenix

Arizona Capitol Museum at 1700 W Washington St in Phoenix, AZ is not just a museum; it's a living testament to the rich history and democratic spirit of Arizona. Here's why Arizona Capitol Museum deserves a 5-star rating:

Historic Significance: Situated in the heart of Phoenix, the museum is housed in the Arizona State Capitol, a building with immense historical significance. It provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the state's political and cultural heritage.

Educational Exhibits: The museum features a wide range of educational exhibits that bring Arizona's history to life. From the early territorial days to the present, each exhibit is meticulously curated to engage and inform visitors about the state's evolution.

Architectural Beauty: The Arizona State Capitol, an architectural marvel, is a highlight in itself. Visitors can appreciate the grandeur of the building and its significance in the context of Arizona's political landscape.

Interactive Displays: The museum offers interactive displays that enhance the learning experience. Visitors can actively engage with exhibits, making the exploration of Arizona's history both informative and entertaining.

Capitol Grounds: The well-maintained Capitol grounds provide a peaceful and picturesque setting. It's a welcoming space for visitors to stroll, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.

Legislative Chambers: Access to the legislative chambers adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. Visitors can step into the very spaces where decisions shaping Arizona's destiny are made, creating a connection to the democratic process.

Educational Programs: The museum's commitment to education extends to its programs, including guided tours, workshops, and events. These initiatives cater to diverse audiences, making the museum an accessible and enriching resource for learners of all ages.

Commemoration of Democracy: Arizona Capitol Museum serves as a commemoration of democracy, highlighting the values that shape the state's governance. It encourages visitors to reflect on the importance of civic engagement and the democratic principles that underpin Arizona's identity.

In conclusion, Arizona Capitol Museum stands as a beacon of history, education, and democracy. It's a must-visit destination for those seeking to delve into Arizona's past and gain a deeper understanding of the democratic ideals that continue to shape its future. I eagerly look forward to my next visit to the Arizona Capitol Museum for another enlightening journey through the...

This place should not be considered a museum, nor is this a family-friendly capital to visit. Having visited over half of the state capitals, we can confidently say this ranks the lowest in every aspect.

The first issue is the facility's security. After reading reviews, it’s clear that there is an ongoing problem with security personnel overstepping their authority. Our experience reinforced this when we were approached by an older African American gentleman, approximately 5’7’’ with a closely shaved head, who identified himself as the sergeant-at-arms. He instructed us to quiet our one-year-old, claiming the child was too disruptive. What followed was harassment, as security continued to track our every move, making us feel unwelcome and uncomfortable.

Secondly, when I brought this to the attention of the so-called “museum” information desk, the staff member merely laughed while working at her desk, dismissively remarking that she hadn’t had time to complete her task sooner.

Lastly, the claim that this is a great place to learn about Arizona’s history is misleading. You can learn far more online than from the limited and poorly displayed information here. The only unique exhibits are a section about the USS Arizona and a Lego replica of the Arizona state flag. Additionally, they fail to display portraits of all state governors, featuring only about the first ten. Finally, the gift shop was disappointing as there were limited items to purchase.

Overall, this experience was deeply disappointing, and I would not recommend this place to anyone seeking an informative or...

Tour the AZ Capital Museum, Senate, and House of Representatives

The historic Capitol building housed the Arizona Territorial and State Legislature until 1960 and Executive Offices until 1974. The building was then restored and rededicated as the Arizona Capitol Museum, officially opening in 1979.

Tour on your own or take a guided tour (to learn fun facts like how the statue on top was picked because it was the cheapest in the Sears catalog at the time). See different rotating art and history exhibits throughout the year. Learn the timeline of Arizona becoming a state. See artifacts recovered from the USS Arizona. (My favorite was the wine bottle and glasses given by President Gerald Ford to the last remaining survivors to toast their fallen comrades) Check out the original office of the governor and portraits of governors past. Have fun watching the model railroads running all through a variety of Arizona scenes. See the beautiful tile state seal and find out how it came to be. (And how it was made by artists in another state, after just reading a description, and learn what they left out). Finish by browsing the gift shop for items with the state seal, postcards, books, and more.

Also, be sure to step inside the Senate and House of Representatives to see where our local government meets. You can stand in the public gallery and see the chambers (even while currently being renovated).

Be sure to walk through the Wesley Bolin Plaza that is home to multiple memorials dedicated to different...