Located at 51 E 10th St in Tempe, Arizona, the ASU Art Museum has earned a 4.4-star rating from 436 reviews. Visitors consistently describe the building itself as a major draw, with many noting its unique architecture and the thoughtful, culturally inclusive exhibits inside. This review roundup synthesizes what actual visitors have said to help you decide if a visit is worth your time.
ASU Art Museum at a Glance
The ASU Art Museum is a free-to-the-public art museum and gallery space on the Arizona State University campus, open Wednesday through Sunday according to one reviewer. It is categorized as an art museum, art gallery, arts organization, museum, and tourist attraction. The museum offers free Wi-Fi, has restrooms, and is noted as family-friendly and good for kids. Accessibility features include a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, toilet, and lift. Parking options include free street parking, a free parking lot, and paid parking options nearby. The museum can be reached by phone at +1 480-965-2787, and more information is available on its website at asuartmuseum.org.
What Do Visitors Like About ASU Art Museum?
Overall, visitor feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the free admission, the stunning architecture, and the quality of the rotating exhibits. Reviewers like Bee noted the museum "exceeded expectations" for a free venue, while William Ramsey called it "king" among smaller Phoenix-area art museums. However, one reviewer, Charity Christensen, offered a more mixed perspective, noting beautiful displays but also "a lot of nothing, empty spaces and closed spaces," suggesting the museum could benefit from more active management.
1. Architecture as a Destination
Multiple reviewers emphasize that the building itself is worth the visit. Barb Halpin stated "The building itself is a worth a visit," and Julie Ray described it as feeling "like you are descending into a stone pyramid." Dan noted design elements resembling Mayan pyramids, and msbusyblonde called the building "just as intriguing and unique as the art." The U-shape of the building was also highlighted as making it easy to navigate without missing anything.
2. Free Admission and Parking
A recurring theme is the value proposition of free admission. Amy Epperson confirmed "Admissions is free," and msbusyblonde noted the museum is "free to the public and open Wednesday thru Sunday." Parking is also complimentary in the lot in front of the museum, though BC Land cautioned that the adjacent parking garage costs $4. Sara O added that parking is free but visitors should "note your license plate."
3. Thoughtful, Culturally Inclusive Exhibits
Reviewers frequently comment on the quality and relevance of the exhibits. Barb Halpin found the immigration exhibits "moving and pertinent," noting a 1981 painting about undocumented people still felt relevant. Amy Epperson was impressed with works on migration spanning 50+ years that "felt so contemporary," and appreciated seeing self-taught artists like Michelangelo Lovelace. William Ramsey mentioned seeing Japanese wood prints, Luchador masks, protest signs, and a Georgia O'Keeffe painting.
4. Friendly and Helpful Staff
The staff receives consistent praise. Morgan Brady, who brought daycare kids, said "The staff is lovely!" and found them "so kind and helpful." Bee noted the front desk was "so friendly," and Sara O appreciated that staff "makes themselves available without feeling like they're following you around." TOMBSTONE described staff going "above and beyond" when answering a question about the fountain.
5. A Quick, Manageable Visit
Visitors note the museum is small but can be enjoyed in a reasonable timeframe. Bee reported it took about two hours to go through everything, while BC Land estimated about one hour. Daniel noted there are about five galleries. The compact size makes it an easy addition to a Tempe day out, with msbusyblonde suggesting pairing it with campus shops and a rooftop bar.