Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is a premier cultural institution situated in Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona. Established in January 2015, the museum resides on the historic grounds of the Loloma Transit Station (N Marshall Way and E 1st St). With a sprawling two-story layout encompassing 55,000 square feet, the museum showcases the art, culture, and rich history spanning 19 states in the American West, Western Canada, and Mexico. Former Scottsdale mayor Herb Drinkwater (1936-97), who served from 1980-1996, envisioned the museum, which became a reality through the City of Scottsdale’s ownership and the dedicated operation by The Scottsdale Museum of the West, a non-profit organization established in 2007.

Our Mission

Western Spirit Museum tells the story of the North American West through its visual culture. We collect, preserve, and share art, artifacts, and media that reflect the West’s diverse cultures, complex histories, and enduring spirit—exploring how it has been experienced, imagined, and remembered. Through exhibitions, programs, and scholarship, we spark imagination, foster dialogue, and deepen understanding of how the West has been shaped and reshaped across time.

Our Vision

Western Spirit Museum aspires to be a trusted and dynamic institution where the art and culture of the North American West is studied, shared, and reimagined, expanding public understanding and shaping the future of Western storytelling.

Our Partners

Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is owned by the City of Scottsdale and managed and operated by Scottsdale Museum of the West, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. We rely upon private support including tax-deductible contributions, memberships, exhibition and program sponsorships, and private hosting of events to fund our operation. We work in partnership with Experience Scottsdale.