Tempe History Museum
Discover Tempe's rich past through engaging exhibits, from Old West days to unique local history, all for free!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Tempe History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Tempe's rich past through engaging exhibits, from Old West days to unique local history, all for free!
"A small but enjoyable and free museum for all ages."
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
Enjoy this gem without spending a dime! Admission is always free, making it a perfect budget-friendly outing.
🚗 Park with Ease
Ample parking is available, often shared with the library next door. Stress-free arrival guaranteed!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tempe Signs Exhibit
Rotating Exhibit Hall
Explore vintage local business signs, photography, and videos that tell the story of Tempe's visual history.

Old West Days
Main Exhibit Area
Step back in time with artifacts, clothing, and toys from Tempe's boomtown era.
Dry Surf & Skate History
Special Exhibit Area
Discover the fascinating history of skating in Tempe, featuring pool and ramp culture and iconic skaters.
Kid-Friendly Interactive Zone
Children's Area
Engage with hands-on displays, a craft station, and a play area designed for younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Parking
Interactive Fun for All Ages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
Enjoy this gem without spending a dime! Admission is always free, making it a perfect budget-friendly outing.
🚗 Park with Ease
Ample parking is available, often shared with the library next door. Stress-free arrival guaranteed!
🧒 Kids Love the Play Area
Interactive exhibits and a dedicated play space will keep the little ones entertained for hours.
⏳ Allow an Hour
Plan for about an hour to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy the interactive elements.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
Enjoy this gem without spending a dime! Admission is always free, making it a perfect budget-friendly outing.
🚗 Park with Ease
Ample parking is available, often shared with the library next door. Stress-free arrival guaranteed!
🧒 Kids Love the Play Area
Interactive exhibits and a dedicated play space will keep the little ones entertained for hours.
⏳ Allow an Hour
Plan for about an hour to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy the interactive elements.
📚 Combine with Library Visit
The Tempe Public Library is right next door, perfect for a combined outing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Tempe History Museum for its free admission and engaging, interactive exhibits that appeal to all ages. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, along with convenient parking, add to the positive experience. While small, the museum offers a rich and enjoyable glimpse into Tempe's past.
"This was a wonderful place. There is so much to see that I can't wait to go back. The staff are great people and full of helpful knowledge. Excellent nearby parking. Museum is FREE, FREE, FREE as of 6/21/2025."
Ronald W.
"This small museum has a cool exhibit on Tempe's Old West days, with old clothes, tools, and toys that show how fast the town grew. The rest of the museum covers everything from culture and film to desert living and ASU history, with fun interactive stuff for kids, free admission, and a gift shop full of unique finds."
Pamela Murray
"This small museum is currently exhibiting Tempe's Old West history, and I found it very interesting to read about how quickly the town changed and spread. Included in the exhibit are pieces of clothing, tools, and toys from this boomtown era. The rest of the museum has displays from an ethnic standpoint to the movie industry to sustainability in the desert to ASU history. One corner has a truck, books, and costumes so that kids can get hands-on. Admission is free, and the museum shop has lots of unique gift items. Bonus: the Tempe Public Library is right next door"
msbusyblonde
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tempe History Museum is conveniently located and easily accessible. Ample parking is available, often shared with the adjacent Tempe Public Library, making it straightforward to find a spot.
Yes, there is excellent nearby parking available for visitors. This parking is often shared with the Tempe Public Library, so you should have no trouble finding a space.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in the provided content, Tempe has a robust public transportation system. Checking local transit schedules for routes near the Tempe Public Library would be advisable.
The museum is generally accessible, with interactive exhibits and a play area designed for various ages. Specific accessibility details for wheelchairs can be confirmed by contacting the museum directly.
The museum is located near the Tempe Public Library. Using a GPS or mapping app with 'Tempe History Museum' or 'Tempe Public Library' as the destination should guide you effectively.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Admission to the Tempe History Museum is completely FREE! This makes it an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly attraction for everyone.
No advance booking is typically required for general admission as the museum offers free entry. However, for special events or group visits, it's always a good idea to check the museum's website or contact them directly.
Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Tempe History Museum website for the most up-to-date information on daily hours and any special holiday closures.
Yes, the museum frequently features rotating exhibits. Past exhibits have included 'Tempe Signs,' 'Dry Surf,' and displays on Old West days, offering fresh perspectives on local history.
Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly, with interactive exhibits, a craft station, and a play room that kids thoroughly enjoy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore Tempe's growth through exhibits on Old West days, culture, film, desert living, and ASU history. Interactive displays and rotating exhibits like 'Tempe Signs' offer diverse insights.
Yes, the museum is known for its hands-on elements. There's a dedicated play area, a craft station, and interactive displays that make learning about history fun for children.
Most visitors find that about an hour is sufficient to explore the main exhibits and enjoy the interactive features. However, you could easily spend longer if you get deeply involved in the displays.
Artifacts range from clothing, tools, and toys from Tempe's boomtown era to vintage local business signage, and items related to the town's cultural and academic history.
Yes, the Tempe History Museum features a gift shop offering unique finds and souvenirs related to local history and culture.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Tempe History Museum itself does not appear to have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are encouraged to explore the dining options available in the surrounding downtown Tempe area.
Typically, museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibit areas to protect the artifacts. It's best to consume any food or beverages outside the museum or in designated areas if available.
Given its location near the Tempe Public Library and downtown, there are numerous restaurants and cafes within walking distance, offering a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes.
While the provided information doesn't specify a cafe at the library, it's common for public libraries to have small cafes or vending areas. It would be worth checking the library's amenities if you're looking for a quick bite nearby.
Downtown Tempe offers a wide array of dining establishments, many of which are family-friendly. You'll find options ranging from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants suitable for all ages.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed inside the Tempe History Museum. However, flash photography might be restricted to protect exhibits. Always check for posted signage or ask staff.
While personal photos are usually permitted, flash photography is often prohibited to preserve delicate artifacts and displays. Professional photography or videography may require special permission.
The 'Tempe Signs' exhibit, with its vintage signage, and the 'Old West Days' display, featuring historical artifacts, are particularly visually interesting and make for great photos.
Selfies are generally acceptable as long as they are taken respectfully and without flash. Be mindful of other visitors and the exhibits around you.
Look for well-lit displays and visually striking artifacts. The entrance area, the 'Tempe Signs' exhibit, and any interactive stations often provide good opportunities for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for about an hour to explore the engaging displays, which cover everything from Tempe's Old West days to unique exhibits like 'Tempe Signs.' The museum's accessible nature and engaging content ensure that both children and adults will find something to spark their interest. Don't forget to check for any special family events they might be hosting!
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a stroll through the adjacent Tempe Public Library or explore the many affordable dining options in downtown Tempe. The museum offers a rich cultural experience that is both enriching and incredibly cost-effective.
🤓 History Buffs
Keep an eye on their rotating exhibits, which often highlight specific aspects of Tempe's past, such as the fascinating history of skateboarding culture or the town's cinematic connections. The knowledgeable staff are also a great resource for deeper insights.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Tempe's Past: Key Exhibits
Beyond its origins, the museum delves into various facets of Tempe's identity. Rotating exhibits, such as the popular 'Tempe Signs' showcase, highlight the visual history of local businesses through vintage signage, photography, and videos. Another engaging display explores the history of Dry Surf and skating culture in Tempe, featuring iconic skaters and the evolution of the sport.
Furthermore, the museum touches upon broader themes including cultural heritage, the film industry's connection to Tempe, sustainable desert living, and the history of Arizona State University (ASU). These diverse exhibits ensure a comprehensive understanding of what has shaped Tempe into the city it is today, making it a rich learning experience for all ages.
Family Fun and Interactive Learning
Many of the exhibits are designed with interactivity in mind, ensuring that children (and adults!) can get hands-on with history. From exploring historical items to participating in themed activities, these elements transform a traditional museum visit into an engaging adventure. This approach is frequently praised by visitors who appreciate the museum's commitment to making history fun and memorable for all ages.
With free admission, the museum becomes an even more attractive option for families looking for affordable entertainment. The combination of engaging exhibits, interactive zones, and a welcoming atmosphere makes the Tempe History Museum a highly recommended spot for a family outing.
Community and Events at the Museum
Beyond specific holidays, the museum frequently updates its schedule with special events, orations, and live music, encouraging repeat visits and deeper engagement with local history. Checking their website or social media channels is the best way to stay informed about upcoming activities, which can range from educational talks to family-focused programming.
The museum's proximity to the Tempe Public Library and the Edna Art Center further enhances its role as a cultural center. This shared location allows for potential collaborations and offers visitors the opportunity to experience multiple cultural attractions in one visit, making it a cornerstone of Tempe's community life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit