Musical Instrument Museum, Phoenix

This was not a place originally on our list of places to go when we came into town for vacation. Were told by some that we needed to go. We went and the prices are a little too high for my taste. But the museum is definitely very large and takes more than a couple hours to go through. Getting there later in the day we were not able to see all the exhibits and go to everything we wanted to see as they were closing the museum down so would have liked to see everything because there is way too much to see and read/learn. The part of the museum where it’s hands on was fun where you get to play instruments from all over the world. The Artist gallery with all the famous musicians was my favorite part and wish that section was bigger and don’t believe Taylor Swift should have had that big of an exhibit as she had when being compared to Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley. Other than that a cool experience but recommend starting much earlier in the day maybe mid morning so you can be done in time for closing.

This place is awesome, such a cool and interesting museum. We actually came here for a concert and it was beyond what I expected. It was a small to medium sized venue with comfortable seats and positioned so that everyone can see the stage and no seat is too far back. The sound is amazing it is like you are in a recording studio. Definitely recommend checking it out if you haven't seen a show here, and definitely check out the museum it is a must see, super cool and interesting!

Wonderfully exhausting! Very accessible to wheelchairs and walkers, which are available free of charge on a first come, first served basis. (Same with baby strollers.) We spent six hours and didn't cover everything. I'd suggest starting with Africa through Latin America if you're somewhat familiar with North America and European music. Restaurant is a little pricey but the food is worth it. We should have shared one meal because the hamburger was so big. Definitely going again - and again!

This place is remarkable! While the $20 entry fee may initially look high, it only takes a few minutes to realize they are actually undercharging. They give you a head set that plays sound for various video monitors throughout the museum, when you approach, which, overall, work very well. Because of the number and extent of displays, you can easily spend at least a day here and still not fully appreciate all the exhibits. It was amazing how many different categories were covered, which were probably more than most people would even think of. The special China display is, also, well worth the additional fee. It is hard to describe how much this adds to the experience of the museum. It's rather awe inspiring. To call the cafeteria a cafeteria is almost an insult. The cafeteria is clearly a step above what you would expect. The food choices, preparation, and service actually make the higher charges of a museum cafeteria reasonable. This is definitely a must do, when in Phoenix, or Arizona for that matter. To those who designed it and made it possible, well done! I only wish they had been involved in some of the AZ freeway development.

Truly an amazing experience. We don't live in Arizona, but this museum is now a staple every time we visit; we have been there 3 times in the last year. Biggest downside is, if you bring young kids, you will need multiple visits because there is so much to see, read and listen to that it takes the afternoon. But, the upside with young kids is the room where you can play the instruments; my 3 year old loves that room; we spend almost an hour in that room. Also, the courtyard is lovely and a nice respite. I believe they also have family activities; we've never been around when they're happening, but I've seen a dedicated family room.