After discovering the Heard Museum in the book "1000 Places to go Before You Die", we put it on the list of ''must sees' for a recent trip to Phoenix. TAKE THE LIGHT RAIL We took the light rail to the museum from our downtown hotel. There's a stop just down the road. GET A DISCOUNT The adult entry fee was $26 and we used our AAA membership for an exciting $1 off. I feel by the time you're paying $50+ for a couple, the cost is getting off-putting. LOCKERS AVAILABLE We used their complimentary storage lockers for our carry-on luggage as we were on our way to the airport afterwards. You also have to stow water bottles in the lockers. There are a couple of water fountains around the museum in case you get parched. ALLOW HALF A DAY The museum is a quality museum with a lot to see and read, but you really have to be into southwest stuff to really appreciate it in my opinion. After a few hours we were getting slightly overwhelmed, glassy-eyed and tired/bored with aching backs. (To be fair, it was our fourth museum in 3 days, so we were a little burned out!) STAY FOR LUNCH We really enjoyed an excellent lunch at the cafe in the courtyard and highly recommend it. EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP(S) There's a high-end store where you can purchase expensive rugs, jewelry, sculptures, etc. and there's also the 'Mugs and T-shirts' souvenir store and a small coffee shop. RIDE SHARE DROP OFF AND PICK UP The ride share pick-up and drop off is around the back at one end of the parking lot. Helpful? read more

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My husband and I really enjoyed this museum! We spent about 4 hours here (with a break at the cafe) and did not see everything. We are planning to return soon to finish the areas we didn't have time to see. There is a ton of information on Native American culture and history. There are also a lot of videos scattered throughout to learn even more. My favorite gallery was the Majestic Figures section. The figurines are extremely intricate utilizing various materials. Food options here are better than most museums. I really enjoyed the sit down restaurant with a full menu in the courtyard area. It's different than most museums who have a small cafe with limited options or none at all. If you live in Phoenix or are visiting this is a must see! read more

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This is thE primo museum to visit in the American Southwest. The artifacts are well-curated and well-notated. The building is exquisite, both inside and out. This is an honest and much needed tribute to Native American history, culture and the people, here and gone. It touches on every aspect of Native American life, culture and experience, going back centuries. If you plan to visit Phoenix, this is a must-do. I will never forget this place. It will have a lasting impact, I know. read more

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This museum has an amazing selection of artifacts and is very well put together. The Native American boarding school exhibit is very well done. We took one of their free tours and it was great! The guide provided information that wasn't just on the plaques that you could read about and I learned a lot even though I grew up in Phoenix and have already been to the museum a couple times. read more

What a great place to visit for American Indian culture, art work and artifact's. If you have people in town visiting or a leisurely day off, this museum is your next stop! They also have a restaurant for lunch served 11am-3pm with outdoor seating. read more

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Amazing museum! Somehow after living in AZ for two decades I don't think I've ever been to the Heard museum. They have family free days during the summer sometimes which is amazing so we took advantage of that! This place is really pretty, art is amazing! We loved the room with the screens showing videos of nature and the little star lights above. They had events too and performances. Some interactive exhibits as well. Would 100% visit again. read more

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The Heard Museum in Phoenix is an absolute treat as exhibits focus on Native American artifacts and history, in a very modern and enjoyable setting. The architecture itself of the building is great, as you navigate beautiful courtyards exploring the various galleries. The Heard Museum isn't information overload either as some niche museums tend to be. I especially loved the collection of Native American baskets, clothing, and figurines. I learned quite a bit of the history of their education/schooling, and the challenges they faced in attending schools with non-Native Americans, as I don't recall any emphasis on that as part of general education growing up. I much preferred my visit to the Heard Museum over my visit to the nearby Phoenix Art Museum. I'd return to the Heard Museum as the collection is excellent, and would recommend a visit to those visiting Phoenix who like specialty/niche museums. read more

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North Parking Lot-Spaces are very narrow, Not much Handicapped Parking. If there is a conference/etc going on, parking is tough. Very clean and well organized. Great Displays and present read more

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The greatly curated collection of Native American artwork is breathtaking. Not only is it an art museum, but it is also a history museum and there is so much to take in and learn. The boarding school exhibit was tough to digest. The museum is serene yet very large so plan about 2 hours. I can go on and on but I do want to give away too much. I loved the museum and will return. read more

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The Heard museum wildly exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend visiting ! The museum has quite the extensive collection of indigenous arts and history. The museum showcases both modern and older pieces. read more

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This is an amazing museum. All the exhibits were very interesting. The Basha family had gifted many American Indian baskets to the museum. The collection was very impressive. I came mainly to see the art and sole exhibit as well as the famed Maria Martinez pottery. Both exhibits were thorough and educational. There was a private room showing a Code Talker video. My favorite gallery is in the Sandra Day O'Conner area. There are 3 featured bead artists who make their own dolls and bead the clothing. Incredible work! I highly recommend visiting this museum during these exhibits. Huge free parking lot, EV chargers and WiFi . read more

Heard Museum - Painting - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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What a beautiful museum. We were fortunate enough to be there for the 35th Annual World Championship Hoop Dancing Competition and saw Josiah Enriquez capture his 2nd world championship in a row on Sunday, Feb 16 2025. Such a beautiful event and terrific grounds. We explored inside the museum and the exhibitions are so special. I could spend hours looking at the artifacts and textiles and pottery made by different tribal communities. I spent less time than I would have because I wanted to spend more time watching the dancers, so I'll definitely be back! read more

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Great museum to learn about the native peoples of the southwest. The displays need a tiny bit more powerful light as some of them are pretty hard to read unless you are standing very close which then makes it harder to for others when people are in the way blocking the sight lines. It would also be helpful to have a bit more personal information about people in the tribes. There are a few of those being the headset to your east type of thing however having more voices would bring the place more alive. Also a depiction of what a reservation layout looked like would help take it past here's another clay bowl and woven basket since they do all look so similar. read more

Heard Museum - Diorama of a pueblo oven - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Much more than we could absorb in one visit !! We are already planning our return. We never even made it to the second floor where the boarding school exhibit was presented. read more

Since its founding in 1929 this incredible museum is a fascinating, intriguing and incredibly educational forum. We visit the Heard multiple times a year. It offers brilliant and fine traditional to modern artworks from outstanding and creative Native Americans. With its twelve galleries, over forty thousand items on exhibition, one can spend hours viewing, perusing and enjoying a vast array of exhibitions - and constantly change the exhibits with new and fascinating pieces from the arts and cultures of our indigenous people. From their presenting and hosting annual world hoop dance competitions, El Mercado de Las Artes, The Indian Fair and Market to the incredible Southwestern architectural design, the facility is an outstanding venue for enjoying what it offers. With its fantastic gift shop, eatery and lounging areas both inside and out, you will experience both the old traditions and the new atmosphere. This is an incredibly beautiful experience which a one-time visit will not satisfy. As my wife and I do, we never tire of visiting Heard. read more

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This was a really neat museum to visit. Lots of interesting exhibits with amazing artwork and history about the Native Americans. The Art and Sole exhibit was fun to check out with the unique painted Converse shoes. The Away From Home boarding school exhibit was emotional and eye opening. Definitely need to come visit again as there is so much to see and learn! read more

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Amazing exhibit at the Heard " Art & Sole " this exhibit is going to be a hit with my 5th grade students when we arrive for our field trip ! Looking forward to seeing more of the museum and current exhibits !! read more

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The Heard Museum is a world renowned Museum specializing in Native American Art and History. It is a wonderful place. The exhibits and displays are top notch and they often also sponsor events like hoop dancing championships. The courtyards are beautiful. There is plenty of parking, right on the light rail path, and the cafe is good. First Friday is a good way to introduce yourself or reacquaint since it is usually free admission. It also will usually have a First Friday event attached with it. The last time I went on a First Friday they had a silent disco event. This was very innovative and a blast. Whomever thought of this idea is brilliant. They give you a headset which has three channels. You pick your jam. One color channel is 70's music, another color channel is 80's music, and another color channel station is recent/current music. You pick and dance. The DJ they hired brought along some props you could borrow like hula hoops, scarves, and flashy light rings. It was especially cute watching the kiddos jamming to, well it appears, nothing. hahahaha! It is so Odd but fun to watch people dancing silently at the silent museum disco. Ha, ha. Great time and great museum. read more

Loved the entire museum! Very well laid out and detailed with the art, videos etc. highly recommend!

Impressive collection of Native American art! I visited the Heard Museum on a Saturday morning, and there were a fair number of people visiting, but I did not feel overcrowded at any point. I spent about 1 hour and 15 minutes here admiring the exhibits. The collection of Native American art was extensive and organized by tribe. There was also an interesting exhibit exploring the impact of "Indian" boarding schools. Overall, I was impressed by the Heard Museum and think it is worth your time during a visit to Phoenix. read more

Arrive early and plan to spend 3 - 4 hours here at a minimum! My regret is only planning for 2 hours. I was able to change my schedule a bit for 45 more minutes and it still wasn't enough. The tour is a must! We were on the 2nd tour and it was full! I normally avoid large tour groups but am so glad that I stuck it out. There was so much knowledge and interesting history that I appreciate hearing about. After the tour, we rushed through most of the exhibits but the Indian Dolls and Maria Martinez (black pottery) exhibits really caught my eye. The most impactful exhibit was about the Indian Boarding Schools. I had heard about them, but had no idea to what extent it affected people. Overall, the entire museum is nice and in a unique set of buildings with beautiful grounds. There were plenty of free parking as well. read more

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Fun museum! Lots of history! I would absolutely recommend to people who visit phoenix. There's so many cool things to see and learn about. Friendly employees. read more

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We were able to see the Bashe Basket and Jewelry Collection. It is amazing how old and delicate these weaving were. The condition of these baskets was stellar! My favorite permanent collection are the Hopi kachina dolls. The guide was able to explain their purpose and how to spot quality. There are some over 109 years old. read more

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Outstanding Museum! We learned so much about Native American History. The museum has a lot if fascinating exhibits. We spent 2 hours there and didn't see everything. We plan a 2nd visit soon. The Heard Museum history dates back to 1929, and was founded by Dwight and Maie Heard. The Heards were collectors of Native American art, and that's how the concept of Heard Museum started. The museum is extremely well maintained, with well marked exhibits. We took advantage of a free tour, and I was so glad we did. Tour guide Betty was excellent! She was extremely knowledgeable and made the tour fun. Adult admission is $25.00 and admission for children is $10.00. The museum has a cafe that has reasonably priced food and drinks. They also have a gift shop. I will attach my photos as well. read more

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The Heard Museum is singularly unique in Arizona. I had not been there since a grade school field trip many years ago. It did not disappoint. The Goldwater basket collection was my favorite exhibit along with the sculpture garden, but there are many excellent collections to see. This is a great place for Arizona residents & visitors to visit for a reminder of Az heritage. We toured for a little more than an hour but we are already planning a return trip. read more

This museum is home to a collection of Native American art focusing on southwest indigenous tribes. The museum is housed in a gorgeous building. It is very spacious with lots of open space. I went on a guided tour which was a great way to see the museum and understand the history behind the various exhibits. There is an exhibit dedicated to Indian boarding schools which is powerful and heartbreaking. Would definitely recommend this for anyone coming to the area. read more

Heard Museum - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Open everyday from 10a-4p, I came here for the First Friday event, which was free. I think this is a fabulous idea and allows those that may not otherwise be able to attend or afford admission, the luxury of exploring this great museum. On First Friday events, they offer music and sample bites out in the courtyard, plus free admission from 5-8p. NOTE: get in line for the food right away, they will be gone 7p or earlier. The campus includes 12 exhibition galleries, free self-guided audio tours, outdoor sculptures, a cafe, coffee cantina, museum shop, bookstore, amphitheater, auditorium and courtyard. When I attended in February, there were 8 exhibits, the bookstore and coffee shop open. Walking through the bookstore, standing in line for the food samples and walking through the exhibits at a medium-quick pace, I was able to explore 5 of the 8 galleries in 3 hours, staying on the ground floor the entire time. read more

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The Heard is a wonderful museum that is both historic and modern, most of which appears to be intended to uplift the history and culture of native peoples. Many of the exhibits, particularly the boarding school exhibit, were sobering and thought-provoking. If I could recommend one thing, it would be to take advantage of the free docent-led tours held throughout the day. Our docent was able to add some color and context to the exhibits, providing a greater level of personal enrichment than we would have received had we decided to go it alone. We gave ourselves 2.5 hours and we still ran out of time! We didn't even have the chance to browse the gift shop and bookstore. The Heard is a local gem and one worth visiting every time you're in the area. read more

Gayle, Ron, Meg, and I recently spent a fascinating visit to the Heard Museum. I especially enjoyed Native American Boarding School exhibit, of which I had seen similar ones at the Stewart Indian School and the Nevada State Museum (both in Carson City). I'd love to go back to all 3 and see them again, as there is so much history here that I need to understand even more. The Heard Museum building itself is architecturally striking, with the first person traditional and contemporary art, tribal, and other exhibits being well displayed in a welcoming environment. Don't miss the First Nations war memorial before you enter the museum proper and the gift shop (separate review). This is a Museum that I'd gladly be a member. read more

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Very emotional museum, worth the visit and lots to learn about native Americans. Beautiful artwork and stories of native American culture read more

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I enjoyed coming to this museum. I enjoy going to museums and decided to go to this one since it has to do with Native Americans and also the special exhibit had First Nations work. It is a large museum and it has a good docent lead tour. read more

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Five stars all around! Wow-what a very educational and eye-opening experience. We decided to visit heard as we were in town to see the Angels Baseball Spring training. I homeschool both my children and we happen to be studying the history Native American boarding schools. We are generational Navajos and my grandmother actually attended an Indian boarding school in Utah. I was very pleased with the content and exhibits at Heard and how they highlighted the beauty of the Native Culture. We will definitely return next year! read more

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This is a wonderful example of what a museum should bring to the world. Rather than focus solely on the art and life of the various tribes, the museum also lets visitors know the terrible history of these cultures. Go not only for the beautiful art but also for a history lesson. read more

Heard Museum - Various bowls and pots made for use and not for tourists - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This was my first time at this museum. I took my 12 year old and we got free passes from the library. The exhibits are so interesting and laid out wonderfully. It took us about an hour and a half to walk through the whole museum. There's so much to look at! No food or drinks of any kind are allowed, including water bottles. It's worth the trip! read more

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I recently visited the Heard Museum and was blown away by the Native American art exhibits. The intricate beadwork and pottery displays were my favorites. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the Southwest's rich history. read more

Heard Museum - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Southwestern art and more at the Heard. Tours are provided too. Learn more about Indian and the southwest. Recommended read more

Heard Museum - Fritz Schloder - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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This museum is located in what appears to be the 'arts' district of Phoenix - near other art and performing arts venues on the western edge of downtown, I think. They have a large parking lot adjacent and behind the building. We arrived a bit early and explored a sculpture garden / memorial out front related to Native American veterans, which was interesting. The complex is designed around an inner courtyard, so you need to access that to get to the museum, gift shop, or cafe. All the exhibits here are related to Native American culture. Some are older artisan items like belt buckles and silverwork. There is also an extensive gallery of art (paintings and sculptures) either by or depicting Native American themes. There are rotating exhibits on things like concina work. They also featured a gallery related to highlighting the wide variety of different Native American sub-cultures. In addition, they house the collection of Kachina figures amassed by former Senator Barry Goldwater. They have a large variety on display and we were told they had an even larger set stored in the basement that they rotate up periodically. There is also a small outdoor sculpture garden within the museum. Finally, the upstairs was devoted to another rotating exhibit about 'Indian Schools' and their impact on the tribes and children who attended. It was a sad exhibit but worth seeing - a reminder of what large government bureaucracies inevitably lead to. This is worth a visit if you are in the Phoenix area. read more

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Every time I come to the Heard Museum, I have a great time. It is a rather small space, so don't expect to spend a ton of time here, but the exhibits are always thoughtful and well put together. I was so excited to check out this temporary exhibit on Hawaiian surfing. It is the first exhibit put together on surfing from native Hawaiians, in partnership with the Bishop Museum in Waikiki. Although the exhibit a small, there is so much of fascinating history, which makes it a very digestible afternoon, to spend with family or friends, or even on your own! If you are planning on being a frequent visitor, it is better to invest in a membership, as it pays for itself within two visits unless you are a senior or student visitor. There is also a restaurant and Café on site as well as a large bookstore. I have never had the food, but it always seems to have some patrons! The heard Museum is definitely a place to check out if you are in downtown Phoenix. read more

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We knew this was a museum we wanted to visit while in town and we were not disappointed. There was plenty of parking and buying tickets was easy. So much history of tribes in the area as well as artwork and other Native American history. A must visit while in the Phoenix area. read more

Heard Museum - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

The restaurant is sooo good! We went to see the boarding school exhibits which were outstanding, but we were shocked to find this gem of a lunch restaurant! What a great day we had there! read more

Heard Museum - Shrimp! - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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