I love museums. Whether it's for art, history, or science, seeing the achievements of humanity on display is always a great way to open your mind and appreciate what your fellow man has done.

An Art museum exhibit
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There's none more interesting, however, than the more off-kilter museums, ones that show off a niche craft or research that nowhere else in the world does.

Tucson might have the best of the best.

What is the Mini Time Machine?

The store of Tucson's Mini Time Machine starts in the 1930s, when Patricia and Walter Arnell began to find an affinity for miniatures. Whether they were sculptures of tiny humans or fully furnished houses, they didn't care.

Several Exhibits in Tucson's Mini Museum
Credit: Old Man Exploring via YouTube
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In 1979, the Arnells moved to Tucson, and their collection kept growing. They envisioned a way to share their interest with the world, and with the help of organizations like the National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts (NAME) and International Guild of Miniature Artisans (IGMA), they began to work on their magnum opus.

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What's it Like Inside?

Nowadays, the Mini Time Machine is a sprawling exhibit, showcasing the absolute best in miniature sculptures and dioramas. The "time machine" name came from the idea that guests would be transported through time based on the different sections they visit. This couldn't be closer to the truth.

The inside of a miniature
Credit: Old Man Exploring via YouTube
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Walking through the exhibits took me on a journey through time, not just in the periods the art was based on, but also the time it was made. There are pieces from 1889 to present day on display, and all just as impressive. From the Enchanted Forest, to the "Around the World" section, this is an Arizona staple you don't want to miss.

[The Mini Time Machine][Old Man Exploring via YouTube]

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