Is It Worth It? Why My Trip to the MIM in Arizona Was Everything I Thought It Would Be and More

Some places really aren't worth the hype, and then there are the places that far exceed one's expectations. For me, the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix, Arizona, or the "MIM," is one of those attractions that lives up to its hype and then some. The first time I went to the MIM was nearly 10 years ago. The only other times I've been back since were for one concert and to take my daughter to a music class when she was a toddler. Recently, I made a return trip to this world-class museum, and it was even better than I remembered.

Living in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area, I am always blown away by what there is to do here. Not only are hiking, dining, and shopping abundant but so are attractions, including museums. One of the most remarkable local museums here is the MIM, "The World's Only Global Musical Instrument Museum," home to more than 7,500 musical instruments from around the globe.

Not too long ago, I took my boyfriend and second-grade daughter to the Musical Instrument Museum. Although I had been here once, many years before, I was still in awe of its collections as we walked through. When we checked in, we were handed headsets, allowing us to listen to music from instruments on display for an immersive experience.

The first gallery we entered was The Orientation Gallery on the first floor. Here, we marveled at guitars and other instruments from around the globe. Many of the guitars were created with such artistry that my jaw dropped. These are, indeed, museum-worthy pieces.

Moving on, we took the escalator to the second floor, where we found the Geographic Galleries divided by regions. There were instruments from the U.S. and Canada, the Middle East, Asia and Oceania, Latin America, Africa, and Europe. It's incredible to see the differences in instruments between each region of our planet.

The Geographic Galleries are my favorite part of the museum. They are a fascinating look into musical instruments and the musical history of every country and territory. As a world traveler, I became nostalgic as I listened to music from countries I've spent time in, like Turkey, Greece, and Morocco, and found myself longing to return.

In addition to hearing music through our headsets at each exhibit, we could learn about musical traditions, how they are a part of a country's culture, and, in some cases, how specific instruments are made.

After we took a trip around the world through musical instruments, we headed back downstairs to the Experience Gallery, where visitors can play different instruments. This hands-on experience is perfect for children—my daughter had so much fun as she played around with a guitar and then a harp!

Whether you love music or are a musician yourself, visiting here is truly inspiring. It's also a fantastic museum for travelers and history lovers. The MIM offers something for all!

If you haven't yet been to the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix, Arizona, I urge you to make plans to visit. Not only will you see its impressive collection of instruments throughout numerous galleries, but you can attend a concert, sign your kids up for a music class, or attend an event. Check the MIM's website and Facebook page for upcoming events, exhibitions, and concerts.

If you're coming from out of town to visit the MIM and explore some of Phoenix's other attractions, book a stay at Cambria Hotel Phoenix, located less than two miles away.