Are you looking for an exciting way to spend your weekend in or around Gilbert, AZ? Look no further than the numerous museums in the area! From art to history to science, there is something for everyone to explore. And the best part? Many of these museums offer special deals, including free admission days and discounted rates for families. Keep reading to learn about the top museums you need to visit in and around Gilbert, AZ.

A dinosaur fossil at a natural history museum.

Arizona Museum of Natural History

If you love fossils and dinosaurs, this museum is a must-visit. The Arizona Museum of Natural History features exhibits on the prehistoric past of Arizona, as well as the geology and anthropology of the region. You can also check out a replica of a Hohokam village and a working paleontology lab. Admission is $13 for adults and $7 for children, and the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday.

Petersen House Museum

Take a step back in time and visit the Petersen House Museum, a perfectly preserved farmhouse from the early 20th century. Located in Tempe, this museum gives visitors a glimpse into what life was like for early settlers in the region. Admission is free, although donations are appreciated, and the museum is open on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month.

Arizona Railway Museum

Are you a trainspotter? Then the Arizona Railway Museum is the perfect museum for you. Located in Chandler, AZ, this museum features a variety of locomotives and rolling stock from the golden age of rail travel. You can also take a ride on a vintage train during special events. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children, and the museum is open on Saturdays.

Gilbert Historical Museum

Learn about the history of Gilbert, AZ, at the Gilbert Historical Museum. This museum features exhibits on the town’s founding, as well as its development over the years. You can also explore a 1913 schoolhouse and a 1920s pharmacy. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children, and the museum is open from Thursday to Saturday.

Arizona Science Center

Have some fun with science at the Arizona Science Center in Phoenix. This museum features hands-on exhibits on everything from electricity to space to genetics. You can also catch an IMAX movie or visit the planetarium. Admission is $22 for adults and $16 for children, and the museum is open every day.

Phoenix Art Museum

Enjoy some culture at the Phoenix Art Museum. This museum features exhibits of art from around the world and throughout history, including American, European, Asian, and Latin American art. You can also check out the fashion and photography collections. Admission is $24 for adults and $5 for children, and the museum is closed on Mondays and Sundays.

Children’s Museum of Phoenix

Keep the little ones entertained at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. This museum features interactive exhibits on art, science, and culture, designed for kids aged 0-10. You can also check out the outdoor play area and the imaginative play spaces. Admission is $17 for everyone aged over 1, and the museum is open 7 days a week in the summer.

Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum

Discover contemporary art at the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum. This museum features exhibits on a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, and photography. You can also attend special events like artist talks and workshops. Admission is free, although donations are appreciated, and the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday.

Heard Museum

Immerse yourself in Native American culture at the Heard Museum in Phoenix. This museum features exhibits on the art, history, and traditions of Native American peoples, with a focus on the Southwest. You can also check out the outdoor sculpture gardens and the gift shop. Admission is $22.50 for adults and $9 for children, and the museum is closed on Mondays.

Musical Instrument Museum

Experience the sounds of the world at the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix. This museum features exhibits of musical instruments from around the world, including examples from every continent. You can also enjoy concerts and workshops in the performance spaces. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children, and the museum is open every day.

Museums in Gilbert

In conclusion, there are some fantastic museums in and around Gilbert, AZ, that you really need to visit if you haven’t already. From the prehistoric past to contemporary art, there is something for everyone to explore. And if you need a break from all that culture, don’t forget to check out Crème de la Crème, a local bakery that serves up delicious treats. Happy exploring!

Pexels Photo by Jonathan Cooper