The West of the Imagination, and the Real West at Scottsdale's Museum of the West


I visited Scottsdale's Museum of the West today and I loved it.

I enjoy learning about history, especially of the West, and I appreciated the balance between the West of the Imagination, and the Real West presented at this museum. No, I'm not kidding here, please let me explain.

The West of the Imagination is that wonderful thing created by Buffalo Bill, Roy Rogers, and John Wayne. It's a glamorous West of daring cowboys and noble Indians. And I gotta admit, I just love it. But please understand that I know it's just fiction. But that's OK - it's great fiction.

The museum I visited today was an awesome balance of both the West of the Imagination and the Real West. There were signed photos of John Wayne, and a genuine Winchester '73.

I like historical accuracy, but I'm not one of those people who says, "well actually..." and then ruins everything for everyone. I don't want to be that guy. So I embrace the West of Imagination. Everything is bigger and bolder there. It's a good feeling.

Winchester '73 at Scottsdale's Museum of the West.

Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West
3830 N. Marshall Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

 Hours
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday:
9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday: 9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed Monday

 Admission Prices
Adults: $13
Seniors (65+) and Active Military: $11
Students (Full-time with ID) and Children (6-17): $8
Members and Children 5 and Under: FREE

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