Start your visit to this Phoenix, Arizona attraction in the Orientation Center with a short film that will orient you with the Capitol. With four floors, over 20 exhibition areas and a museum store, there is something for everyone at the Arizona Capitol Museum.
Exhibits
First Floor Museum Exhibits
U.S.S Arizona Flagship of the Fleet
Learn about U.S.S Arizona. From the ship’s silver service showcased in the Museum to its memorial at Wesley Bolin Plaza in front of the Capitol, U.S.S Arizona is a symbol of the state and reflects the turning point from the nation when it was sunk during the invasion of Pearl Harbor and the U.S. formally entered World War II.
Merci Train
See Arizona’s Merci Train boxcar and learn about the gifts it was filled with when given to the United States by the people of France. Merci Train was France’s way of thanking America for their generosity after World War II.
Defense to Development
Discover all of the monuments and memorials in and around the Capitol in Defense to Development’s interactive touch table. Additionally, the touch table examines Arizona’s role in the World War II effort and details Arizona’s growth after the war.
Second Floor Museum Exhibits
AZ Takes Shape
The Territory of Arizona was established on February 24, 1863. Discover how events and the executive branch formed present day Arizona in AZ Takes Shape.
Gov’s Office
Learn about the role of the Arizona Governor in Gov’s Office. This exhibit is reconstructed to appear as it did during the first year of the statehood and contains a statue of Arizona’s first state governor, George W.P. Hunt. Additionally, the exhibit includes a video featuring Arizona’s current governor.
Executive Offices
Across from the Gov’s Office is Executive Offices. Learn about the changes that the 20th Century brought to Arizona and United States governments. During this progressive era, laws were passed to benefit the health, safety and education of citizens. In order to implement such laws, the Arizona Government formed many new departments that are still in use today.
SOS Office
Arizona’s Secretary of State has many important duties. Learn what they are as you watch a video featuring Arizona’s Secretary of State in the SOS Office.
Hereby is Established a Territorial Library
Hereby is Established a Territorial Library celebrates the 150th anniversary of the Arizona State Library. The Arizona State Library is the oldest cultural institution in Arizona and plays a pivotal role in shaping both the cultural and governmental landscape of the state.
Third Floor Museum Exhibits
Historic Senate and House Chambers
The Historic Senate and House Chambers are located across from each other on the third floor of the Arizona Capitol Museum. While the original chamber of the Arizona Senate is used today for special occasions, meetings and government events, the House Chamber has been restored to reflect its 1910 appearance during the Arizona Constitutional Convention.
State Symbols
Discover the state symbols that represent Arizona’s environment, society and economy. State Symbols features 3-D models, an Arizona Tartan stone of engraved symbols and a state flag built from LEGO bricks.
Arizona Seals
See examples of the Arizona State Seal and Territorial Seal. Additionally, Arizona Seals examines the uses of the current official State Seal.
We the People
In We the People, learn about Arizona’s Constitution. Then, discover how Arizonans have changed the constitution through referendums and initiatives.
Campaign for Statehood
Learn about the Joint Statehood proposal made by the U.S. government three years after construction was completed on the new capitol building. During this time the U.S. government proposed that Arizona and New Mexico Territories be reunited to form a single state. However due to protests from Arizonans, Congress passed the Enabling Act of 1910, which allowed the territories to apply for statehood separately.
Fourth Floor Museum Exhibits
Senate and House Galleries
On the fourth floor of the Museum are the Senate and House Galleries. From the Senate Gallery view public events and programs held in the historic Senate Chamber. From the House Gallery, marvel at the portraits of former speakers of the House that ring around the top of the Gallery.
The Copper Dome
Between the Senate and House Galleries is the Copper Dome. Stand beneath the dome and see a close up view of the Winged Victory statue through the oculus.
Shopping in the Museum Store
Be sure to stop by the Museum Store, located on the first floor of the Arizona Capitol Museum. A unique selection of books, jewelry and unique custom-designed products including merchandise inspired by the Capitol’s art and architecture are available to purchase.
- Enjoy a snack or lunch in the Executive Tower adjoining the Museum.
- Do not forget your camera. You are welcome to take pictures and videos of your experience at the Arizona Capitol Museum.