Arizona Museum of Natural History

Located in the heart of downtown Mesa, the Arizona Museum of Natural History (AzMNH) offers an immersive journey through Arizona’s natural wonders, prehistoric past, and cultural heritage. From towering dinosaur replicas to ancient Native American artifacts, this family-friendly museum blends interactive learning with serious science, making it one of the top attractions in the American Southwest for curious minds of all ages.

Recommended For

Families with Kids: Dig for fossils, marvel at dinosaurs, and enjoy hands-on exhibits.

Dinosaur Fans: Explore lifelike models, fossils, and a thrilling Dinosaur Mountain experience.

History Buffs: Learn about Arizona’s prehistoric, Native American, and Old West history.

Science Enthusiasts: Discover exhibits on geology, archaeology, paleontology, and the cosmos.

What to Expect

Historic Setting: Housed in Mesa’s original 1937 City Hall, the museum has undergone major expansions and renovations.
Extensive Collections: Features over 60,000 artifacts across 74,000 square feet of exhibit space.
Southwest Focus: Showcases the cultural and natural history of Arizona and the greater Southwest region.
Interactive Experiences: Includes dig pits, Exploration Station, and rotating exhibits to keep every visit fresh.

Permanent Exhibits

Cenozoic Lobby: Enter through a dramatic display of giant fossils like Columbian mammoths and a massive megalodon jaw.
Natural History Exhibit: Journey from the Big Bang through the evolution of humans and the history of Earth using satellite images and computer-generated visuals.
Dinosaur Mountain & Dinosaur Hall: See fossils, moving animatronics, and explore extinction theories in a Jurassic Park-like setting.
Arizona Through Time: Witness Arizona’s geologic transformation from prehistoric oceans to desert landscapes.
Fun with Arizona History: Experience mining, stagecoaches, and Wild West tales in this playful nod to state history.

Southwest Cultures & Ancient Civilizations

Southwest Cultural Exhibit: Explore Native cultures like the Hohokam, Anasazi, and Mogollon through replica homes, pottery, and interactive landscapes.
Mesoamerica & South America: Discover colossal Olmec heads, Mayan architecture, and ancient Peruvian ceramics.
Current Special Exhibit – Cultures of Ancient Americas: A rotating exhibit highlighting Native American life, including pit houses and early ceramics.

Paleontology & Natural Science

Paleo Dig Pit: Kids can uncover replica fossils and dinosaur eggs—perfect for budding paleontologists.
Cretaceous Seas: Learn about sea-to-land transitions and prehistoric life before dinosaurs.
Rulers of Prehistoric Skies: Marvel at the giant Pterosaurs in this high-flying exhibit of prehistoric aviators.

Interactive Learning

Exploration Station: A hands-on science space open during peak hours or by reservation for school groups and parties.
Southwest Archaeological Team: Volunteer group supporting the museum’s research and excavations, especially at Mesa Grande.

Mesa Grande Cultural Park

Mesa Grande is a nearby archaeological site featuring a preserved Hohokam temple mound. While not located on museum grounds, it’s operated in collaboration with the museum and requires a separate admission. Visitors can explore ancient ruins and learn about ongoing preservation efforts.

Events & Rentals

Birthday Parties: Includes a private party room and all-day museum access.
Corporate Events & Proms: Host memorable events in a unique, educational setting.
Private Research Access: Professors and researchers can book appointments to explore the museum’s archived collections.

Arizona Museum of Natural History, 53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201 | Phone: 480-644-2230