The Museum of Northern Arizona sits at the base of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff on the road leading to the Grand Canyon.
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Museum of Northern Arizona

4.7
·1k reviews·Flagstaff, United States

Explore the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Colorado Plateau through captivating exhibits on Indigenous peoples, geology, and dinosaurs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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The Museum of Northern Arizona sits at the base of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff on the road leading to the Grand Canyon.

Museum of Northern Arizona

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Colorado Plateau through captivating exhibits on Indigenous peoples, geology, and dinosaurs.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Amazing and very interesting museum. Big enough to walk around and see plenty of stuff."

Vertical photo
TIP

Student Perks 🎓

NAU students often get free admission! Check current policies before your visit.

Kid-Friendly Fun 👨‍👦‍👧

Hands-on exhibits, coloring stations, and a play area make it great for families.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 1,260 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Indigenous Cultures of the Colorado Plateau

Indigenous Cultures of the Colorado Plateau

Main Exhibit Halls

Explore vibrant exhibits showcasing the art, history, and traditions of Native American tribes like the Hopi and Navajo.

Dinosaur Fossils

Dinosaur Fossils

Paleontology Wing

Marvel at impressive dinosaur skeletons and learn about the ancient life that once roamed Northern Arizona.

Geology and Natural History

Geology and Natural History

Geology Exhibits

Discover the fascinating geological formations and diverse flora and fauna that define the unique Colorado Plateau.

Collecting in a Changing World

Collecting in a Changing World

Special Exhibition Hall

See recent acquisitions reflecting the evolving art, culture, and science of the Colorado Plateau.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Museum of Northern Arizona

The Museum of Northern Arizona (MNA) in Flagstaff offers a deep dive into the Colorado Plateau's natural and cultural heritage. Plan for 2-3 hours to explore exhibits on Indigenous cultures, geology, and paleontology. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially if traveling with children, as interactive elements are a big hit.

Tickets & Student Discounts

General admission is $18, with discounts available for students and Native Americans. Children under 10 are free. Your ticket grants all-day access, allowing you to leave and return. NAU students often receive free admission, so check for current student perks before you go.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Interactive exhibits are lively
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Can be busier, especially with families
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Officials say a person in Arizona has died from the Plague. According to Northern Arizona Healthcare, the person showed up with symptoms at the Flagstaff Medical Center, and died on the same day. That person, according to officials, tested positive for Yersinia pestis, the bacteria that causes the Plague. The Plague, per the Cleveland Clinic, usually spreads through bites from fleas that previousl...
@fox10phoenix
323K likes • 4.2M views

Student Perks 🎓

NAU students often get free admission! Check current policies before your visit. Instagram

Kid-Friendly Fun 👨‍👦‍👧

Hands-on exhibits, coloring stations, and a play area make it great for families. Instagram

Only in Flagstaff 🍂🌧️ #downtownflagstaff #flagstaffarizona #northernarizonauniversity #thunderstorm #rainstorm
@downtownflagstaff
75.6K likes • 297.8K views
#ICYMI 🗣️ NAU Students get FREE admission to the @museumofnaz 🤩 Stop by to see the beauty of the Colorado Plateau & learn about our regions science & Indigenous culture 🏛️ #MuseumOfNorthernArizona #Museum #MuseumVisit #Flagstaff #FlagstaffArizona #FlagstaffAZ #NAU #MyNAUView #NorthernArizonaUniversity
nauflagstaff
1.5K likes • 38.8K views

All-Day Access 👍

Your ticket allows you to leave and re-enter the museum on the same day. Reddit

Gift Shop Treasures 🍯

While pricey, the gift shop offers unique, high-quality items reflecting the museum's collections. Reddit

Big news! The Museum of Northern Arizona was awarded a grant by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, an agency of the State of Arizona! These funds help support our mission to serve as a gateway to the Colorado Plateau—engaging local, regional, and global audiences with life-enriching knowledge and experiences. #grateful #Arizona #museumlife
museumofnaz
45 likes • 775 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Student Perks 🎓

NAU students often get free admission! Check current policies before your visit. Instagram

Kid-Friendly Fun 👨‍👦‍👧

Hands-on exhibits, coloring stations, and a play area make it great for families. Instagram

All-Day Access 👍

Your ticket allows you to leave and re-enter the museum on the same day. Reddit

Gift Shop Treasures 🍯

While pricey, the gift shop offers unique, high-quality items reflecting the museum's collections. Reddit

Explore the Grounds 🌿

Don't miss the nice walking trails and courtyard outside the museum. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Northern Arizona for its engaging exhibits on the Colorado Plateau's natural and cultural heritage, particularly its detailed displays on Indigenous peoples and impressive dinosaur fossils. Many highlight its surprising kid-friendliness with hands-on activities. While the gift shop is noted as expensive, the overall experience is highly recommended for both locals and tourists seeking to learn about Northern Arizona.

"Amazing and very interesting museum. Big enough to walk around and see plenty of stuff. Not too big to tire you out from walking and reading. Bathrooms are available in more than one part of the museum and the court yard is beautiful. Many artifacts, plenty of seating available. Lots of activity sections for children. The gift shop is expensive but if you have the money then the stuff is extremely nice to get. The staff was courteous and pleasant. Plenty to learn about the history of the natives, the land, and the symbolism in the art work. Highly recommend visiting for all locals and tourists.
$18 a person.
Discounts for students and native Americans.
Children under 10 are free.
Ticket is for all day. You can leave and come back the same day."

Analisa Harvey

"Took my two young daughters to check it out and they loved it! Lots of things they are aloud to touch and tons of information to teach them about culture and history. They loved the dinosaurs the most but they definitely learned some things and were very happy with the trip."

jordan blair

"This museum contains plenty of artifacts from native Americans and nature. After visiting you’ve learned a lot from the history and environment of Northern Arizona. Outside there are a few nice walking trails."

Bas Geerdink

What People Like

Engaging Indigenous exhibits
Impressive dinosaur fossils
Kid-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Expensive gift shop

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Museum of Northern Arizona is located at 3101 N Fort Valley Rd, Flagstaff, AZ. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options might be limited, so checking local bus routes is recommended if you're not driving. Instagram

Yes, the museum offers parking for visitors. It's generally ample, making it convenient for those arriving by car. Reddit

Driving is the most straightforward option. If you prefer not to drive, you can explore Flagstaff's public transit system or consider a rideshare service. Instagram

Absolutely! NAU students often receive free admission to the Museum of Northern Arizona, so be sure to bring your student ID. Instagram

Yes, the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is also located in Flagstaff and can be visited alongside the museum for a fuller Flagstaff experience. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission is $18 per person. Discounts are available for students and Native Americans, and children under 10 get in for free. Reddit

Yes, your ticket is valid for all-day access, meaning you can leave and return later the same day. Reddit

The museum offers discounts for students and Native Americans. It's always a good idea to call ahead or check their official website for the most up-to-date information on all available discounts. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons or if you're visiting with a group. Check the museum's website for online booking options. TikTok

Museum hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Museum of Northern Arizona website for the most current operating hours before your visit. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect a diverse range of exhibits covering the natural and cultural heritage of the Colorado Plateau, including Indigenous cultures, geology, paleontology (dinosaurs!), and local flora and fauna. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's surprisingly kid-friendly! There are hands-on exhibits, coloring stations, and a dedicated play area that make learning fun for children. Instagram

Most visitors find 2-3 hours to be sufficient to explore the main exhibits without feeling rushed. Reddit

While not always explicitly advertised, knowledgeable staff and guides are often available to enhance your understanding of the exhibits. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. It's best to check for specific signage within the museum. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum typically has a gift shop that may offer some snacks or beverages, but it's not a full-service restaurant. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit, or pack your own snacks if allowed. Reddit

Flagstaff has a vibrant food scene. You can find various dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, a short drive from the museum. Instagram

Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibit halls to protect the artifacts. Check the museum's policy or enjoy your refreshments in designated outdoor areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant colors of Navajo textiles, the intricate details of Hopi katsina dolls, and the impressive scale of dinosaur fossils. The museum's architecture and outdoor spaces also offer scenic shots. Instagram

Flash photography is usually prohibited inside museums to prevent damage to delicate artifacts. Always look for signs or ask staff if you're unsure. Instagram

The exhibits on Indigenous art, especially textiles and pottery, are visually stunning. The dinosaur skeletons also make for dramatic and impressive photographs. Instagram

Yes, the museum's architecture and the surrounding grounds, including any outdoor art installations or walking trails, are great for photography. Instagram

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