This summer, there’s more than one way to experience Western Spirit Museum. From films and gallery tours to scavenger hunts and live artists, every visit offers something different to explore at your own pace.

Spend your Sundays with the West on the big screen. Every Sunday at 2 PM, Reel West Sundays brings classic Western films and curator-led conversations to the theater.

This season’s screenings are presented in conjunction with Still in the Saddle: A New History of the Hollywood Western, the museum’s exhibition exploring the evolution of Western film from 1969–1980. Featured films and series highlight legendary actors, filmmakers, and defining moments in Western cinema.

Following each screening, Chief Curator Dr. Andrew Patrick Nelson or guest film experts lead a discussion on the history and cultural impact of the films and filmmakers featured in the series.

Dr. Nelson is a leading authority on Western cinema, art, and culture and the author of Still in the Saddle: The Hollywood Western, 1969–1980. His work has been featured in The New York Times, The Hollywood Reporter, and on NPR, and he regularly appears as a commentator on the History Channel and other networks. He also cohosts the Western film podcast How the West Was ’Cast.

Choose from three scavenger hunts designed to help you explore the museum in new ways.

• Main Galleries Hunt  A closer look at art and objects throughout the museum
• New Exhibitions Hunt  Explore four new galleries in the Louis Sands IV Center without missing a detail
• Hidden Treasures Hunt  Search for hidden miniature-sized Zuni carvings throughout the museum

Kids receive a prize upon completion.

Join a docent each day for stories, insights, and a deeper look at the exhibitions and collections. Included in general admission pass. No registration required.

As part of our Summer Series, experience creativity in action as local artists Anton Nowels, Kathy Howard, Paul Steele, and Milly Guthrie paint live throughout the museum galleries every Friday from 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Memorial Day through Labor Day. Watch the artistic process unfold up close, meet the artists, and gain insight into their techniques and inspiration.

Artists will also be painting live during the museum’s First Thursday events each month from 12 p.m.–3 p.m.

Summer is also a great time to take advantage of special access programs and offers:

• Blue Star Museums Free admission for active-duty military families
• Culture Pass Free admission through participating libraries Old Town
• Old Town Scottsdale Passport Buy one, get one free admission offer. Go to Old Town Scottsdale for more information. 

Now on view: four newly opened exhibitions in the Louis Sands IV Center, continuing to draw visitors from across the region. If you missed opening week, summer is the perfect time to experience the new galleries at your own pace.