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Arizona State Museum, Tucson

4.2

#10 of 21 in Museums in Tucson

Natural History Museum Museum

The Arizona State Museum, founded in 1893, was originally a repository for the collection and protection of archaeological resources. Today, however, ASM stores artifacts, exhibits them and provides education and research opportunities. It was formed by authority of the Arizona Territorial Legislature. The Museum is operated by the University of Arizona, and is located on the university campus in Tucson.HistoryNative peoples have existed in the North American continent for more than ten millennia. ASM investigates habitations, lifeways, art and communication in which these peoples in the Southwest engaged.Museum staff investigate archaeological sites of past occupiers of North America to discover how people lived, what they ate, what they wore and how they created their art. These people lived day-to-day, created homesites and villages that, in many cases, have crumbled or been destroyed by natural forces.An early and significant director of the Museum, Emil W. Haury, conducted numerous archaeological excavations in the Southwest and taught students and others about his methods and discoveries.CollectionsASM holds artifacts created by cultures from the past as well as those presently active. The types of artifacts include pottery, jewelry, baskets, textiles and clothing. Archaeological objects were unearthed during excavations by museum staff and others. Ethnological items (those not acquired from excavation) have been donated by Native American tribes, acquired from individuals, as well as purchased by ASM.

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Reviews

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

123 reviews

Google

4.2

M D

The museum offers not only an escape from the summer heat but a fascinating insight into the early history and development of Arizona. more »
Rainbo1

This museum on the University of Arizona campus currently has an exhibit tracing the history of weaving textiles and baskets from roughly 4000BC to the present. It is very interesting as it traces the... more »
gmm421

I wasn't sure about this when we went there, but I'm glad we did. There is a lot of information, and it was interesting to see parts of past Native American history occurring in our modern times. I re... more »

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Google

Paul Schulte

This is a great museum right on the edge of the UA campus. One section tells you at great length about the growth and demise of the Hohokam and the other part tells of the tribes still active in the Southwest. How they were originally, how outside influences affected them and how they are now. Fascinating!!!!

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Andy Chesley

My son and I went several weeks back, and we both loved it. The facilities on the university campus are always immaculately kept, and full of history. My son loved the Native American exhibits, especially the pottery. Seriously, you're missing out if you don't take advantage of the university's facilities and explore what's around.

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Mikey B

Amazing artifacts and displays . Learn about American Indian culture and see real artifacts . Very clean and nice inside and very comfortable couches to sit and relax.

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Arman Garcia

Very beautiful in presenting history, but it's all about native culture. Which is great, but I was also looking forward in other history categories.

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Richard Hintz

Summary based on one visit: --didn't have high expectations, but found the exhibits quite interesting --reasonable entry fee --parking in fee lot nearby --some very nice items in the store, especially better quality Hopi silver. Prices seemed lower and variety of higher quality pieces greater than some other places. If you're making a significant purchase, inquire whether it makes financial sense to join the museum for the discounts.

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To discover the tranquility of the Sonoran Desert, book your stay at an inn just a short drive from Tucson. Staying on the outskirts of the city allows you quick and easy access to some of Arizona's wildest areas, though it does require a car if you wish to enjoy Tucson's shops and restaurants. For the ultimate in indulgence, consider one of the city's award-winning luxury resorts, which feature full-service spa and fitness centers, championship golf courses, lighted tennis courts, and indoor swimming pools.

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Arizona State Museum, Tucson

M D

Rainbo1

gmm421

Paul Schulte

Andy Chesley

Mikey B

Arman Garcia

Richard Hintz

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