Wooooow is what I will start with. I found the museum on the visit Phoenix website when I was looking for a touristy thing to do on a Saturday afternoon. As per the site, it's been rated the number 1 attraction in Phoenix on TripAdvisor so I was definitely gonna go.
So yesterday afternoon, I visited the museum with my sister. We were there at around 3:00pm. The entrance area is nice with water fountains on the outside. The inside, is very chic and really nicely done. It seems that you can plan a wedding there as we saw a sign as we were walking in guiding people to the left side of the museum for the wedding.
Right by the entrance slightly on the right is the area where you get your tickets. Entrance fee is $20 for adults. There was a special event happening where they were showing Chinese instruments (besides all the other ones already in the museum) but we were apparently there pretty late since they close at 5 and just touring all the sections and viewing everything takes anywhere from 3-4 hours! So we passed on the special event. Something to note, there are No food and drinks allowed (even inside your purse) and no backpacks either. You would have to leave your stuff at the reception and they will give you a ticket to collect them later. You are also handed a headset so you would be able to listen to the music playing on all the screens as soon as you step in front of them. Nice idea!
So we started and the fascination began. I have never in my entire life seen so many musical instruments. As per their site and if I remember correctly, they showcase over 6,500 instruments from around the world.
The place is so well organized and extremely clean. The museum is divided into sections. I will stop here and not say more to not spoil the experience for anyone.
This is an amazing experience, I am so glad I went. 3-4 hours is correct if not more might be needed. I actually did not have the chance to finish all the sections so it shouldn't be a surprise if I check in here again!
Definitely worth visiting. Wear comfy shoes, don't bring any food and drinks and spare a whole morning or afternoon to enjoy!