FREE museum under the state capitol copper dome! Four floors commemorating the history of Arizona in the original Capitol building. As this is a State museum it is only open Monday through Friday until 4:00 p.m. There is a full room containing four or five levels of a working HO-scale model railroad set containing historicTown replicas of Flagstaff, Phoenix, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, a small mining operation, and the Grand Canyon. The newest addition (currently in the works) is the Grand Canyon walkthrough showing all the levels of geology. The docent there gives a thorough description of how the railroad played a role and came to Arizona. This museum shows the good and not-so-good aspects of Arizona history. There are several rooms on the Buffalo soldiers, women's roles in our government and the suffrage movement, Japanese internment camps, and the USS Arizona. We entered the legislature as well as the gallery. This museum was very nicely put together and gives an impartial history of our state's government. We spent about an hour and a half enjoying the architecture, the lighting and the displays. I highly recommend this to everyone, particularly those new to the area!

The museum retains the history and charm of the original Arizona state capitol with many relevant and varied stories told. The structure itself has details to be seen. From the exterior focal point of the seventeen foot winged figure weather vane atop the dome, to the detailed in floor state seal mosaic, sadly not done by an Arizonan, this a unique state capitol. There are plenty of exhibits that show different points of view about Arizona. Women and the suffrage movement and how Mexican American women were treated is discussed. There is a lengthy and well presented exhibit about labor and civil rights pioneer Dolores Huerta. She was a powerhouse for labor and for freedom. Another enlightening exhibit presents the Japanese American internment camps in Arizona. The panels tell the story of day to day life for those forced there. There are several murals done specifically for the state of Arizona by Alonzo Megargee. The Canyon de Chelly work is stunning. A visit is well worth it to this understated former capitol building that tells truthful and honest story of Arizona. The staff is great and very willing to answer questions.

Absolutely worth spending the better part of a day herr. So much to see. Arizona is such a young state, with a short but amazing history, social, cultural, political and otherwise. It all can be see here and because all is so accessible, and the staff so helpful, it is a like taking an American history course and a civics course at the same time. Oh! The original capitol building, its additions and new buildings are like walking down a time tunnel. We started with the original building. Then the 39' addition. The 60's addon and finished with the "new" (70's) senate and house buildings. The difference between the first house chamber and the current version is amazing. Be sure to visit the many outdoor memorials also. We did this first which I recommend. If these don't make you appreciate where we've been and how much better our world is today because of our ancestors striving and suffering, then you should check your pulse.

We learned a lot about Arizona politics by visiting this place. I was under the impression that this was the place where the legislators met and passed laws and stuff like that. Well, at one time, it was. We were told that this building is largely unoccupied and is, as in the title, a museum. You are free (and it is free) to walk all four floors. There are several docents and volunteers to tell you about the history of this place. It's very well preserved, clean and bright. One highlight is the miniature railroad room. Even if you are not into model railroads, there is a lot of history in this large display room. This is where you will find the experts on this building and, for that matter, Arizona state history. Another bonus, it is located on the memorial grounds where there are several memorials.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

My daughters and I went to the Arizona Capitol Museum on 10/04/23. We were greeted by Sally who was very sweet and full of information. She gave us a quick rundown of what was located on each floor and sent us on our way. When we got to the second floor, we met John. He offered us a tour of the model trains exhibit. John was amazing! He was full of information about the city and of each town the train passed through. When we were done, he walked us out to the foyer which overlooked the state seal of Arizona. He then proceeded to tell us the history of the capital building and its little details from the tile work to the lighting. We didn't have time to go to each floor, but we will be back and hope to see both of these amazing people!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

It's definitely a museum, not to be confused with a state capitol! We were unable to visit the actual capitol building without a purpose, we were told the only tours were at the museum. We found the museum interesting and there was a bit of Arizona history in a few of the rooms. It was mostly art exhibits and tributes. We are more interested in the actual state capitol buildings history and seeing the functions of the different state governments so it wasn't quite what we expected. The model railroad exhibit was our favorite!! It's a beautiful building and definitely an Arizona treasure!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

The best rating I can honestly give is 2 stars. EVERYTHING on the outside and inside of the building is, at best, lackluster. If you're looking for Arizona momentòs or gifts, don't waste your time. For a state with its natural beauty and financial resources, it's disappointing that the capitol building is not a point of pride. I was hoping to get some Arizona gifts for friends out of state and the selection in the teeny, tiny room they call a gift shop was laughable. Arizona, you can do a lot better, On the other hand, they have done a wonderful job with the displays thar are across the street in Brawley Plaza. It definitely is worth seeing.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

This museum is an interesting and casual museum for the history of Arizona's capitol. I was surprised or caught of guard that this building is really a museum and not officially used for government business. The museum is spread out across the different rooms and floors of the capitol building. The floors and rooms have different topics, so you can seek out what interests you. There is a model railroad on the main floor for the young and old train enthusiasts. The museum is free and self-paced. Grab a map at the desk near the entrance. Don't forget to wander the grounds in front of the capitol as well.

We've visited a number of state houses and this was a good one to see the original building and how it has expanded over time. Great history from the time Arizona was a territory, how the US gave them to become a state if they joined with New Mexico as one state, but they opposed that offer and a few years later became a state on their own. We did get to see the current Senate chamber, but not the House of Representatives which is undergoing some renovations. They have a very extensive active miniature train display, with trains running and volunteers working on it.

We were looking a low cost something to do with our kids. You really can't get much more low cost than free. The volunteer staff they have are very helpful and knowledgeable. The exhibits are informative and great to see. Being from another state, I was not aware of much of the history of Arizona. This museum was great in informing me of many things I didn't know about Arizona. Admission is free. The cafe is great. Restrooms on each floor. And the best part was that after the kids complained about going, they said it was cool when we had finished.

I visited here back in 2017 and found myself learning new things now as well. What I found interesting was my kids commenting how my home state was so different than theirs. Desert yes but knowing the history makes every state. During my visit there was a model train exhibit showcasing the 5 Cs of Arizona. Very lovely how they incorporated this into major towns. Rich history in this place and loved the many hours spent.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Very interesting to walk through. In and out in about an hour. Not to many people there. 2nd time I've been here, it is nice the change out some exhibits. The AZ history and geology is a cool piece. Don't forget to walk through the military memorial across the street by the parking.
Price for adult entry
Free
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Parking
Parking is in the lot to the east. Nice military memorial connected to parking lot.

The Arizona Capitol Museum was incredible! The building was originally constructed from 1899-1901. This museum is 4 floors with both an elevator for those who need one as well as stairs. There is vast history to learn about the building, the USS Arizona, Arizona governors, etc. Each floor has restrooms. Be sure to grab a map from the desk in the front entrance. The admission is FREE! Allow yourself at least an hour to pour through the history enclosed in each room of each floor.

Beautiful state capitol - great mix of museum and functional capitol office buildings (it's all in a little quad area). Hands down, favorite part was the train room!!! SO AMAZING!!! Literally we've been to half of the state capitols but never experienced a state like that. They lay out the history of the state, famous places and events, and have it all reinacted with the trains. Fun interactive activity to also learn about the state. ⛰

The inside of the original capitol building is no longer used for offices. Instead it is a museum. We didn’t look around much, but it would be a good place for a restroom break or some water. We spent a while strolling around the plaza across the street with all of its monuments and memorials. They are very well done. It’s a nice complex.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Amazing place. Full of history related to Arizona. Stones, leaders from the past , awards. Everything you need to know about Arizona is covered in the building. It's a 4 story building and a gift shop. The train station on the second floor is a must watch. Gift shop is open until 2 . Museum is opened until 4pm. Worth a trip
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

One of the better state capitols! The museum inside if very educational, and the design of the building is very unique! The copper rotunda. However interesting this building may be, the inside rotunda is plain and not as artistic as most of the state capitols. Still probably one of the best things to do in Phoenix!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

A great place to visit in downtown Phoenix close to the government buildings. I didn't know the museum existed until someone told me. Lots of interesting exhibits and free parking is available only a few minutes walk away from the museum. Definitely a good place to take children as it is free to visit and the staff are super helpful and friendly.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

For free entry (which includes a tour guide if you time it right) I was extremely satisfied. There are lots of exhibits inside alongside the history of the state museum itself (I recommend the USS Arizona exhibit). I would recommend visiting the memorial garden across the road too
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Neat place to visit with exhibits on every level. I really liked the 1st floor art gallery which has some large colorful paintings by Frank Ybarra on display until March 31st 2020. There is a free parking lot just to the east of the capitol complex, and in the adjoining park there are a number of sculptures and memorial displays, including a full-sized outline of the USS Arizona.

I had a lovely time here. I you don't need much time to view the museum and there's a park right across the street with beautiful memorials. My favorite part was the minute train and town replicas. Our tour guy John was very informative and friendly
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

A great, decidedly underutilized asset in Arizona! The tour was very informative, entertaining, and engaging, getting the history of the capitol, the fight for statehood, expansion of the buildings, all contributed to a wonderful experience!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Decent and free place to visit and learn all about Arizona and it’s capitol. The only complaint I have is the lack of manners from a security person in the west end of the capitol when I asked how to get to the museum! Of course there were no signs pointing in the direction of the museum. Otherwise, I had a very nice visit to the capitol museum. Recommended.

So many interesting exhibits and sites to see so many vivid sculptures and monuments and memorials that you better pack a lunch when you come check this place out there is plenty to do plenty to see and makes you really really respect the fallen soldiers and honorable citizens and troops of this country God bless America amen

Interesting Museum giving the history of Arizona, treatment of the Japanese during ww2, and also on the Arizona USS. Took an hour to complete. Recommended to visit if you are nearby, since it is free.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

One of the most diverse Capitol visits we've done. This is #26 for us. Loved seeing the timeline in the old governor's office and the pieces from the USS Arizona! The members of the staff were came across were very friendly and told us stories of the different pieces including information about the weather vane!

Walked around and saw a lot of memorabilia from the second world War and history of Arizona's part in it. Great place to visit and explore it's history followed by a trip to the park and it's memorials. Theres also a new coffee shop right accross from the gift shop total win for me. …

The working Capitol has since moved to a newer building, but the classic is available to tour. Capitol is well maintained and has a few exhibits to peruse.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

if you want to know all about AZ history this place is a MUST visit!!! remember start from top to bottom... amazing place to know where this place has come from. I had never been here and I've been in Phoenix for 30 plus years. will definitely come back.

Beautiful state capitolyou can learn so much about Arizona and its history. ️highly recommended for all ages.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Nice, clean landscape. The capitol building brings a featured architect of the northeast with a long forming history. There were some areas of the museum still closed such as the exhibition area of the train AT&SF train history. Need to visit once

A surprisingly wide range of interesting history and entertainment. Be sure to spend time outside with the many monuments!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Very informative. I loved seeing and hearing about the USS Arizona. Molly, our guide was very good, extremely knowledgeable.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

My goal is to see all 50 state capitol buildings, I have seen about 25 so far, and I can confidently say this was the most boring and disappointing so far. The building itself isn't too bad, although it is strange compared to the others.

This Capitol is amazing! It's a real museum with tons of information about Arizona's agriculture, POV camps, judicial system, politicians, USS Arizona and much more! They also have a big railway model developing and that's really cool!

There's some interesting stuff, only if you're really interested in history and/or government and most of it requires reading. Nonetheless, there cool historical facts, models, sculptures, and a couple rooms that are art exhibits.

Great experience plenty of Arizona history. There is also a great model railway as one of the exhibitions.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Nice museum, but would have preferred more general Arizona history, and less Arizona government history
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

We enjoyed many parts of the museum including the trains, the Grand Canyon Centennial exhibit, the Arizona flag made out of Legos, and the gift shop. They also have some great artwork created by both adults and children.

Great experience for the kids. It was a good place y to learn about Arizona and the tour was great
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

I came here in Arizona 5 years ago to work. My colleagues brought me here to learn the history of Arizona. 2 months from now, my family is finally coming with me. This is the first place where we go when they are here.

It's a nice visit, but not very popular at night. My visit felt like I was visiting a ghost town. The capitol is not well lit and lacks public parking spaces in proximity. If you are lacking time just skip this place.

I went to March for Our Lives to march for gun safety. It was great. I'm always encouraged to see so many reasonable, caring people in Arizona! No tickets involved.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Completely surprised about how interesting the museum was. Enjoyed walking around at our own pace. Isn’t a comprehensive review, but worth the free cost of admission. Take some time to walk the grounds as well!

I am so thankful that I got to experience the old capitol building, USS Arizona display
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

The current exhibit featuring women artists of Arizona is not to be missed! Today, many artists were there in person for the opening. Exhibit hours are during the week and the third Saturday of each month.

I love history, especially Arizona local history. I definitely think that this is a place everyone should visit who is either from Arizona or lives in Arizona that wants to learn more about the state.

Good museum exploring history of the state and its famous citizens. Lots of art affects from USS Arizona. I would budget up to an hour to explore all rooms. Keep in mind that the admission is free.

An excellent museum with lots of historical and interesting displays. One can easily spend 90-120 minutes here.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Visiting this museum was an enlightening journey through time. The exhibits were meticulously curated, and the audiovisual presentations added a captivating dimension to the experience.

I lived here my entire life but never been to Capitol. It's a lovely building converted museum. Learned quite a few new things. The staff was very nice and easy to navigate.

Went on a school field trip with my son, and it was amazing. Wish I would have gone there sooner. I would like to go back and take more time looking at all the monuments.

Wonderful museum. Nice to see the rail display.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Its free! The volunteer has loads of information just ask a question. You are able to explore all floors of the building. Good history on the statehood of Arizona.

A beautiful place to discover some of Arizona's rich history. Fun Fact: There's a Starbucks on the main level of the Capital bldg. I never expected that. …

Very cool! Never been and lived in AZ almost my whole life. Lots of statues & interesting info. Would be nice to go when it is good weather & not too hot!

Nice museum in the old territorial Capitol building. Good displays and exhibits. Helpful staff. Not one of the prettiest capitol buildings we have seen.

Our family enjoyed a visit. Easy parking, beautiful grounds and a remarkable building. Period furnishings and a lot of history. Worth the time.

Tour the AZ Capital Museum, Senate, and House of Representatives The historic Capitol building housed the Arizona Territorial and State

Had a lovely experience with John F Long Elementary choir performing at the Capitol
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

Truly had a great experience here! Be sure to stop by the railroad room because it was far and away the highlight thanks to Craig!!

Super nice museum. Very nice staff. Nice exhibits. A great miniature railroad exhibit all Arizona areas. Free to get in, a must see

There was amazing architecture and the tour guides were very informative. I also got two souvenirs for a great price.

Be sure to check out the room with the model trains. If you're lucky like we were, you'll get a fantastic tour.

Lots of interesting exhibits and information. We also went next door to see the present day Senate chambers.

Beautiful capital. Easy parking. Lots of history.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

it does have a giant flag of the state of Arizona!! Its so good!! who build that!!

Great historical location with lots of information had a great time!

The USS Arizona Museum is awesome. Everyone should know about this

Very informative and tour guide Very helpful and informative