Arizona Heritage Center announces closure beginning in May
(INDEPENDENT NEWSMEDIA/MADELINE BATES)
Entrance to the Arizona Historical Society Museum
Posted Wednesday, April 29, 2026 2:54 pm
The Arizona Historical Society announced the Arizona Heritage Center will temporarily close to the public beginning May 17, 2026 to implement major improvements and upgrades throughout the building.
The museum is expected to remain closed through at least June 2027.
This closure follows the identification of repairs to building systems, most significantly, the replacement of the building’s fire-suppression system.
These improvements will require the removal, protection, and reinstallation of exhibitions to ensure the long-term preservation of Arizona’s historical artifacts.
Secondary improvements and projects will focus on major updates to many of the museum’s permanent exhibit galleries, several of which have not been touched in nearly three decades.
“While this project may have started over an issue of facilities care, the end result will be a newer, more dynamic, and more refreshed museum: one that embodies the learning styles and tools of the 21st century in our exploration and celebration of the history of Arizona in those centuries past.” said AHS Director Dr. David Breeckner.
In preparation for the project, AHS will undertake a process to safely deinstall exhibitions and secure artifacts throughout the duration of the work. The scope and care required for this effort are expected to extend the closure for approximately one year.
Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit before May 17, 2026, as this will be the final opportunity to experience current exhibitions at the Arizona Heritage Center before the temporary closure.
While the museum galleries will be closed, the Arizona Heritage Center will continue to host public programs and events and welcome opportunities for partnering with community organizations. In addition, the Arizona Historical Society’s museum in Tucson will remain open and plans are underway to reopen the Pioneer Museum in Flagstaff this year.
The museum at 1300 N. College Avenue is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and admission is $15.
