Arizona Museum of Natural History and Science Center features hands-on exhibits, a five-story IMAX Theater, and a state-of-the-art Dorrance Planetarium. It is located at 53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201. The center also hosts special exhibits every few months. Families with children of all ages will enjoy the museum’s historic Monroe School Building, which is home to 300 play experiences and interactive displays.
The Director of the Arizona Museum of Natural History (AZMNH) oversees curatorial and educational programs, collections, and research. Learn More about Tempe, AZ, she works to ensure adherence to state, federal, and local regulations, as well as the American Association of Museums’ standards. Her role also requires her to demonstrate initiative and judgment in the development and conduct of program initiatives. She must work within the Arizona Museum of Natural History’s Code of Ethics and maintain a collaborative relationship with the Arts and Culture Department.
The Arizona Museum of Natural History is home to a diverse collection of natural and cultural exhibits. Several of the permanent exhibits are focused on the origin and development of the Southwest, while temporary exhibits focus on Native American history and ancient species. The AZMNH also has a gallery devoted to South American culture. It also hosts exhibitions about archaeology and culture in Central Arizona.
The AZMNH is kid-friendly and affordable. There are exhibits for children of all ages. Visitors can explore giant prehistoric skeletons in the museum’s lobby and examine megalodon jaws. The museum also hosts an educational and cultural park known as Mesa Grande Cultural Park.
During summer months, families can take advantage of a special summer camp for kids. The dinosaur-themed program, Dino Discovery, is geared toward children ages six to ten. It includes specialty tours, experiments, fossils, and games. Snacks and beverages are included. This camp is held July 11-15, and costs $140 for a five-day session.
Visitors can also visit Dinosaur Mountain, a dinosaur exhibit that places dinosaurs in their natural habitat. Another exhibit, “Rulers of the Prehistoric Skies,” explores the evolution of flight. Unfortunately, the exhibit was temporary. However, pterosaurs can still be found throughout the museum.
Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s art collection. The museum’s expansive collection of contemporary art includes works by Diego Rivera and Claude Monet. Browse around this site, families can also enjoy a family-friendly Scavenger Hunt at the museum. Kids can also enjoy the museum’s PhxArtKids gallery and its miniature period Thorne Rooms.
A popular place for families with young children, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is among the country’s top ten children’s museums. With over 300 exhibits, the Children’s Museum aims to arouse children’s curiosity and inspire discovery. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs.