Scottsdale, AZ is a vibrant city with a plethora of art and culture to explore. From weekly art walks to explore the old town to a variety of museums, galleries, and shops, there is something for everyone. While some of these attractions are part of the Culture Pass program, there are also many that offer free admission or regular days of free admission. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is one such place.
It is devoted to answering some of humanity's most enduring questions through an extensive research program in astronomy, astrophysics, and earth and space sciences. The National Portrait Gallery is another great option. It is the only museum of its kind in the country and pays tribute to the history of the United States through the lives of its citizens. Train enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Chandler's own Arizona Railroad Museum, which houses old wagons that were used in the past for local and long-distance travel.
The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center amplifies the voices of Asian Pacific Americans on the Internet and across the United States. The Smithsonian's National Postal Museum is filled with treasures that teach and inspire millions of visitors 364 days a year, free of charge. The museum also offers scholarships and internships to bright young academics from around the country and around the world. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, the Scottsdale Performing Arts Center, and Scottsdale Public Art are divisions of Scottsdale Arts.
The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center is a world leader in coastal ecosystem research and reports on real-world decisions about policies and business practices for a sustainable planet. The National Museum of American Indians promotes knowledge and understanding of native cultures in the Western Hemisphere through partnerships with native peoples and others. The Chandler Center has an extensive public art collection, while Chandler's wide variety of public art works are displayed in city buildings, parks, and public spaces throughout the community. The National Air and Space Museum commemorates the history of aviation and space flight and educates and inspires the next generation of pioneers in the aerospace industry. The Smithsonian Institute Archives capture, preserve, and make available to the public the history of this extraordinary institution and its contributions to the world. If you're looking for performing arts, head to the Chandler Arts Center which offers excellent acoustics to see a variety of live performances, just a short walk from downtown Chandler's unique restaurants and nightlife.
