One of the best museums I have been into — the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in Phoenix, Arizona is a load of wonders in a middle of the dessert. It is a place for those who adore music or for just anyone who would like to learn the culture of music around the world. You have to set aside at least 3 hours to cover and enjoy all the exhibits that are spread in two floors. The collections are jaw-dropping, unmatched. From Asia, to Africa, to the Americas, you will see musical instruments that date back as far as the beginning of time!

The MIM has a collection of over 15,000 instruments from all over the world, ranging from ancient to contemporary. The exhibits are organized by geographic region and visitors can explore music and instruments from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Oceania, and the United States. Each exhibit includes information about the cultural and historical context of the music and instruments, as well as audio and video samples of the music being played.

One of the unique features of the MIM is its use of technology to enhance the museum experience. Visitors are given wireless headsets that automatically play music and information about the instruments as they approach each exhibit. There are also interactive displays that allow visitors to play virtual versions of instruments from different regions, such as a gamelan orchestra from Indonesia or a taiko drum from Japan.

The MIM also has a concert series featuring performers from around the world, as well as educational programs and workshops. The museum’s goal is to promote cross-cultural understanding through music, and to showcase the diversity and richness of musical traditions from around the globe.

The museum’s building itself is also a work of art, with a modern design that features a large glass atrium and soaring ceilings. The outdoor courtyard is home to sculptures and a musical instrument garden where visitors can explore the sounds and shapes of various instruments.

Entrance fee is $20 per person and you get a pair of headphones. The headphone automatically turns on once you are near the exhibit. You’ll get to listen to music and tunes from every corner in the world.

Bring your kids, the museum is a venue for the whole family.

Here are few photos I took.

A room of guitars.

Qanun from Egypt.

Philippine instruments.

I wrote a separate post listing the past and present Philippine musical instruments. Read it here.

It is called Kakhi, from Nepal.

The Arabian Peninsula displays.

The Ayacastes, from Honduras.

The American Music Culture in one big room.

Sax from France.

Kids love the play room.

There is a room where you can try many of the instruments that are seen on display.

There is a place for Elvis.

A place for Toby Keith.

And even for Taylor Swift!

Indeed, music is the language of the soul.

From the most bizarre to the most modern instrument, you won’t be disappointed visiting the Musical Instrument Museum. It’ll be well worth the trip.

By the way, there is a cafeteria inside the museum that serves a variety of food.

Learn more.

Contact.

Address: 4725 East Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85050
Phone Number: +1 480-478-6000

Admission Fee.

General: $20
Teens (ages 13–19): $15
Children (ages 4–12): $10
Children (ages 3 and under): Free
Members: Free

Where to stay.

Find your hotel accommodation using this link: Find the Best Deals at hotels.com!

Find your way.

See more of my Arizona travels.

See also: My other travel adventures.