Museum of Making Music
- Admission
- $15 adults, $10 seniors, students, and youth (ages 3-12), free for children under 3
- Hours
- Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Closed Mondays
- Duration
- 1.5 - 2 hours
- Parking
- Free parking in the museum's dedicated parking lot
- Access
- Fully wheelchair accessible with accessible restrooms and designated parking spaces
Discover the history of the music products industry at this hands-on museum. You can trace the evolution of instruments from the 1890s to today and even play vintage and modern instruments in the interactive lounge. It's a hidden gem for music lovers of all ages.
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Opened in 2000 by the NAMM Foundation, the Museum of Making Music celebrates the history of the music products industry from the 1890s to the present day. Visitors can explore how musical instruments are made, sold, and used to shape popular culture over the decades.
The museum features vibrant exhibitions organized chronologically, showcasing vintage instruments, historic advertisements, and audio samples. A highlight of the experience is the interactive Innovation Studio, where guests of all skill levels can try playing various instruments themselves.
Following a major renovation in recent years, the museum offers a modern, immersive experience that connects visitors directly to the creative process. It stands out as a unique destination where music history is not just observed but actively heard and played.
Ratings
museumVisitor Tips
- ◆ Check the museum's events calendar before visiting, as they frequently host intimate live concerts and educational workshops.
- ◆ Don't skip the hands-on instrument area, which features state-of-the-art gear and is fun for both beginners and experienced musicians.
- ◆ Plan for about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and experiment with the interactive displays.
Heads Up
- ◆ The museum is typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so be sure to verify their operating days before planning a trip.
- ◆ The interactive instrument play areas can sometimes get loud and crowded, particularly when school field trips are visiting.
Common questions
Can you actually play the instruments at the Museum of Making Music?
Yes, the museum features several hands-on exhibition areas where visitors are encouraged to play a variety of instruments, including acoustic and electric guitars, drums, and digital keyboards.
How much time should you plan to spend at the Museum of Making Music?
Most visitors spend between 1 and 2 hours to fully explore the galleries and try out the interactive instruments.
Is parking free at the Museum of Making Music?
Yes, there is a dedicated, complimentary parking lot directly in front of the building for museum visitors.