Arizona Heritage Center at Papago Park

Overall a nice experience, but the exhibits are quite dated. It's very large on the inside and spread over two floors but I felt some of the exhibits could really be updated as you can tell they haven't been for quite awhile. There was a very large focus on World War II as well. That's great, but a lot of other museums cover that so I felt it was a bit redundant. I would've liked to have seen more about Native American and other parts of Arizona history. Or especially some more recent history within the last 30 years.It's $15 for adults and $12 for seniors, but I felt that was a little bit high for what you get in return. I could easily see this being a free museum like the Tempe History Museum. At least it should be a donation type of system, $15 was a bit steep for what you get in return. There is plenty of parking out front so that part is very easy. I feel this is especially suited for elementary school kids versus the avid museum visitor.

Some education, items to touch and ride for kids & a gift shop. All that one needs for at least an hour plus of entertainment. Some of the more contemporary exhibits ERA & Stolen Sisters were a little to high to read and view.

The rather impressive building is easy to spot as you drive down College Rd just south of McKellips Rd. The land in front of the building is beautifully landscaped with saguaro cacti and creosote, and parking is more than ample. It's free to walk around the grounds, where you can see the outdoor exhibits on the importance of water in the desert and how water usage has changed throughout the history of the state. There is a fee to enter the Museum inside the Center. The exhibits are good and give you a much deeper knowledge of the movers and shakers who shaped modern-day Arizona as well as how commerce, industry, and WWII transformed the state. I wish there were more exhibits about the native populations before the 19th and 20th centuries; but then for that, one can go to the Heard Museum in downtown Phoenix.

A group of us attended a special event here and the venue is great! As a long-time AZ resident, I had no idea this place existed and now I would love to go back and explore more. Our group had the opportunity to explore the exhibits and conduct our brief presentations in the auditorium. The exhibits have everything from Desert Cities display, a gem and mineral exhibit with a moon rock (won't the kiddos love that) and displays about live in early Arizona. It was really fun and intriguing. The auditorium probably seats a couple of hundred comfortably. The Center was practically empty during our stay that day. No crowds are nice some time. There is plenty of parking and I don't believe there is a fee. Just make a donation.

Went here with some friends who are taking their kids on a trip and I thought well it's something to do and I have to tell you it was a really informative educational relaxing afternoon. They have really done a great job with this really amazing museum exhibition place. If you want to learn more about Arizona and Arizona culture it is a really great place especially if you have kids but even if you don't I thought it was a really good enlightening afternoon.

Great place to learn about Arizona's History and culture. Learn about how Arizona and Phoenix became what is it today. Come early and beat the crowds. There's a section of the famous Phoenix Lights that appeared over the city on March 13, 1997. till today, the mystery is still unsolved. There a display on how the state mines Copper and how it contributes to the country. Training for the military also played a part in forming the state. Great place for students of all ages to learn about History of Arizona.

Pretty cool museum of the history of Arizona. The Frank Lloyd Wright exhibition is a must see!Who knew WWII pilots trained at Phoenix area airports?? Cool history, lots of interactive activities, movies and videos throughout the museum, copper mining in the area and the 1st solar home. Easily spent an afternoon exploring.$12 admission was so worth it. There were childrens activities plus 9-12 year olds can request a Natural History Gallery activity and handle moon rocks, meteorites and other cool stuff. The gemstone section was so interesting with nice size rocks and information. Copper mining was in several areas of the museum. It wasn't busy when I visited. There was no map or brochure to guide you but there was lots of information in the various areas throughout the museum. Didn't see a docent just a receptionist behind a desk who took the money.

Alley decided to check out a culture pass and head over to the Arizona Heritage musuem at Papago park. The best thing about culture passes are that they are free so she can check out new places while keeping in her budget. She enjoyed the interactive exhibits and the movies that brought history to life. She was disappointed that the headphones did not offer any music selections like were advertised. The studio room was cool but empty. The most surprising thing about the museum was the Japanese American internment camp exibit. It was nice to see this part of American history acknowledged. There was much to read and look at. The interactive components kept Alley entertained and engaged. She recommends a culture pass to this museum, bring the kids for fun time and a picnic lunch at the park.

Went to a wedding at this venue. It was absolutely amazing and timeless. There was so much to see. They had the bartending spread out where everyone could have a drink without waiting in line. They even had food at the venue. It was absolutely absolutely stunning in the best wedding I have ever been to. So elegant. I will definitely book this venue for future events.

One of the most interesting places to visit in Phoenix area.Most recommended and puts context on why Phoenix is what it is - it's history and how it grew. Always thought the land was all useless - but in fact the city grew up over very productive farmland!!Looking for something interesting to do in Phoenix (other than hiking, shopping and restauranting) and happened on this place.If you have not gone, certainly recommend - seems like a hidden gem!