Be in Awe of the Antique and Contemporary Miniatures Found at This Museum in Tucson

Tucson, Arizona is the perfect place for a vacation! After all, it treats its guests (and residents) to 350 days of sunshine a year. You may be tempted to see its diverse ecosystem that is the Sonoran Desert, or hike the top of beautiful mountains. However, you shouldn’t be focused on the outdoor destinations. Did you know that this place is also home to the Museum of Miniatures? This museum will take you to different lands and times both real and imagined. Don’t miss out on these underrated yet wonderful place. Keep reading…

If You’re Looking for a Unique Experience for All Ages, the Museum of Miniatures Is Perfect for You!

Source: Lightswitch

As far as interesting places are concerned, you’d definitely find a whole bunch in Tucson. Thankfully, you can also visit an interesting museum that displays tiny renditions of famous abodes. Isn’t that a break from your typical visits to the beautiful downtown murals or the high-tech golf club? Museum of Miniatures, also known as the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, has one promise: you will be transported through space, time and imagination, just by observing each unique little piece of art. They have a vast collection of over 500 miniature houses, room boxes, artifacts and figurines displayed in three captivating exhibits.

Source: Lightswitch

You can visit the Enchanted Realm if you want to visit a “imaginary world” where woodland creatures, fairy castles, snow villages, witches and other mystical artifacts abound. There is also the History and Antique Gallery which is perfect for history junkies. This exhibit represents various time periods, giving the guests a glimpse of history. You will also see how craftsmanship and technique have changed over time. It signifies our progress as humans. Lastly, you will see the oldest miniature house in the United States that was crafted back in 1775. The third exhibit is called Exploring the World. From its title, you will be delighted by the various pieces from several countries such as Germany, Holland, Italy, U.K., France, Japan, Thailand and Spain.

At times (or several times throughout the year), the Museum of Miniatures also puts up temporary displays that either feature a specific point in history or a particular context of society or culture. They might also highlight notable miniature artists.

The Magic of the Place Can’t Be Overstated

Source: Facebook

You might think that visiting a place called “Museum of Miniatures” may seem boring. But you’ll be surprised to find that it is definitely better than you would have thought! You don’t need to judge this place right away. The bottom line is, you won’t get bored here. The mini delights that surround your eyes will keep you fascinated.

Source: Facebook

Are you a teacher? Then you might find their miniature piece on teachers really interesting. Aside from that, you will see many miniature items such as neat pots, pans, dishes, and food. There are also a few dollhouses that date back over 200 years ago. If you are looking for something modern, you’ll find it there, too!

You can bring your child here and leave them in the “special” area with fairies and such. They can also participate in a fun search and find activity! This is simply a good place to visit whether you just want to get out of the house or expand your mind a bit. If you are truly impressed, you can even avail of their membership offers.

What Can You See Inside the Museum of Miniatures

Source: Facebook

We already said it before, you will discover a magical world of miniatures here! The miniature figures serve as the key pieces that transport you to different lands and times because they all tell different stories. For instance, just look at this Danish Antique Shop created by an unknown artist in the early 1900s. Ask yourself, “What can I figure out about the culture and time period that this miniature represents?”

Source: Facebook

You’ll probably hear yourself with that question multiple times because there are over 500 miniature houses and room boxes that are expertly positioned in over 15,000 square-feet of state-of-the-art exhibit space!

Source: Facebook

Some of the dollhouses inside this museum date back to 1742. Your kid will surely be interested to see how it looks like. There are also contemporary fine-scale miniatures, enchanting collectibles, special programs, and temporary exhibits. There is something new to see each time! That’s what makes this place worthwhile.

It was Chicago Tribune who said that the “magic of this place cannot be overstated.” You better allot a couple of hours touring this fascinating museum. Don’t rush looking at an entertaining and interactive array of antique and contemporary miniatures as well as enchanting artifacts.

Source: Instagram

Lastly, don’t you just love their ultra-big door that makes you feel like a mini version of yourself? Yes, that is to remind you that you are indeed entering the Museum of Miniatures.

What You Should Know

Source: Facebook

• This is a nice half-hour kinda museum. But if you are really interested in miniatures, you might find yourself touring the place for hours.
• They offer military discounts as well as 2 free admissions for teachers.
• If you are coming to visit, keep in mind that there will be lots of kids there – may it be a weekday or a weekend.
• You will get a history lesson while looking at the miniatures of all kinds, from periods dating back to 1740. It gives the full art experience in a different way. You will be amazed by all the impressive pieces such as houses, scale replicas, Christmas towns, mice scenes, and more.
• You are not allowed to use flash photography, but you can use your phone flashlight to see better and take pictures without the flash. Lighting inside the museum can be pretty low.
• Before you go, you should look at the adorable gift shop in the lobby that is full of cute little items.

How to Get Here

Source: Facebook

If you’re coming to the Museum of Miniatures via commute, you should take Bus Route 34. Here are the directions if you are using a private car:

From I-10 Eastbound

1. Take the Miracle Mile exit (255) before turning left (east) on Miracle Mile and traveling approximately 1 mile to Oracle Road.
2. Turn left on Oracle Rd. It is approximately ¼ of a mile from Fort Lowell Road.
3. Go right (east) onto Fort Lowell Road and continue east. At some point, Fort Lowell Road will become Camp Lowell Drive.
4. Look to the north side of Camp Lowell Drive approximately a 1/4 mile past Columbus Boulevard and you’ll find the Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures.

From I-10 Westbound

1. Take the Miracle Mile exit (255), before turning right (east) on Miracle Mile to Oracle Road.
2. Turn left on Oracle Rd approximately ¼ of a mile to Fort Lowell Road.
3. After that, turn right (east) to Fort Lowell Road and continue east. You will be approximately 3 ½ miles from Camp Lowell Drive.
4. Look to the north side of Camp Lowell Drive approximately a 1/4 mile past Columbus Boulevard and you’ll find the Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures.

From I-19 or South Tucson

1. Travel north via I-19 and merge onto I-10.
2. Take the Miracle Mile exit (255), before turning right (east) on Miracle Mile to Oracle Road.Turn left on Oracle Rd approximately ¼ of a mile to Fort Lowell Road.
3. After that, turn right (east) to Fort Lowell Road and continue east. You will be approximately 3 ½ miles from Camp Lowell Drive.
4. Look to the north side of Camp Lowell Drive approximately a 1/4 mile past Columbus Boulevard and you’ll find the Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures.

Website: https://theminitimemachine.org/
Location: 4455 E Camp Lowell Dr, Tucson, Arizona 85712

What could be your biggest find in this museum? Tell us all about your experience in the comments below. You should also check out these equally cool museums in Tucson!