I really enjoyed seeing the different native american displays in their permanent collection "HOME: Native People in the Southwest". It featured different artifacts from different tribes- Navajo, Hopi, etc. I really enjoyed learning abou the different tribes from different areas of th U.S. I also loved the jewelry on temporary display " Symmetry in Stone: The jewelry of Richard I. Chavez" it really displayed his talent in manipulating stone into lovely modern jewelry. I also liked the sculptures and some of the paintings. I did NOT enjoy the temporary modern native american art featured in "Dear Listener" and would have preferred not to have seen it. The artist Nicholas Galanin has a STRONG POV and was too aggressive for my tastes. I am not pleased that my $18 paid for this. Minus 1 star for this exhibit. The museum store had a lot of beautiful jewelry and weavings done by native americans but they were quite expensive and outside of my budget range as I am new to this type of jewelry. read more

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Quite an impactful museum, with a nice little cafe and a decent bathroom. Toilet paper was very quality, and the layout was nice. The museum was very stunning, and could shift your view of the american west if you didn't know about all of the colonialism and murder and such. read more

Well worth visiting and taking time to learn about how the Indians were indoctrinated to our culture and taken from theirs. This is not dissimilar to forced culture change by break up of families, something that occurred to others in WWII. Not to be missed. read more

Very good museum with a nice collection of Native American art, specifically Hopi, Navajo, Apache and Pueblo. It is not a very large collection, so make sure to take the tours, which will fill you in on everything related to the Heard Museum. I was lucky enough to visit while they had a Frida Kahlo & Diego Rivera exhibit. I lucked out! read more

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Embarrassed to admit it, but today was the first time I've visited this museum, despite working in Downtown Phoenix for years. The Frida and Diego exhibit is what drew us here and being First Friday, we saved on the museum admission price and paid $7 for the special exhibit. We arrived before 6 to beat the crowds and am so glad we did. Once we left an hour later, the line stretched out to the circular grassy area and the parking lot was busy. Back to the exhibit. I especially loved the photographs because I'm used to seeing the paintings and portraits but not many real-life pics. I personally can't imagine having my life on display like this but there were so many photos to appreciate. They were definitely a celebrity pair. I liked the background information about the couple's life and history together and separately. There was a timeline in the main entrance that detailed the major events of their lives. A cool area of the exhibit featured Frida-inspired fashion which I adored. Celebrating Frida's birthday, the Phoenix Fridas were present and selling their neat handiwork. There were also crafts for the kiddos and a watermelon sample station outside. After we made our way through the exhibit, we walked around the museum where there were considerably less people and took in the local history of Native Americans. For $7, this was totally worth it. The outside courtyard is precious and on a cooler day, this would be a lovely place to hang out, especially since they have a cafe and gift shop as well. read more

Heard Museum - Beautiful Frida (& Diego) exhibit - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This was a great museum, with a lot of information that unfortunately is not taught in American schools. The exhibits were beautifully displayed, and I really liked how the staff provided more background info when they noticed people showing interest reading the info that was posted. I was also impressed with their COVID protocol, staff and visitors were masked, and they provided stylus pens for touchless access to the reader boards throughout the museum read more

My first attempt to visit this museum was on one of their "first Friday" nights.. the place was packed.. the line reached down the side walk and into the street.. unfortunately they hit capacity and we were given free passes to visit on another day.. I did have the opportunity to visit again and am so glad I did .. the Frida Kahlo exhibit was beautiful.. paintings by both Frida and Diego and photographs of the couple and their lives filled the hall.. they had selfie photo stations and art stations for the kids. I enjoyed the American Indian art on display and the tour guides were friendly and funny and kept their groups entertained.. I spent two hours roaming around this place and still think i missed some rooms.. I will definitely be back .. they have a restaurant on the grounds also with patio seating.. read more

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I went to the Heard Museum by myself while my husband was at a conference. I thought I might spend an hour or 2, I was there for 4. I took 2 different guided free tours and they were amazingly informative not only on what we were seeing but about the history of the tribes and the native peoples. The Away from Home exhibit was informative and heart wrenching to see how these children were treated and how this practice nearly devastated the languages and future of these tribes. This is a must visit when you are in Phoenix. read more

I've loved this museum since I was a kid and it has grown and changed so much for the better. It's extraordinary. Every time I visit Phoenix I try to make a pilgrimage here and see one of the temporary exhibitions. We used to go here on school field trips in grade school and sit in the courtyard, grinding corn on the old Native American stone grinders. They are still here! While the museum has become very high-tech, they have also kept the older historic pieces and they now have some fantastic new exhibitions; it's so well curated. The collections have become so diverse and the museum's focus has become much more socially conscious and strongly reflects the Native American community all over the continent. It now has a thought provoking exhibition about the social consequences of the old Indian School in Phoenix and what it really was. The traditional exhibitions of Native American arts and crafts are still there with all the beautiful pottery, Kachina dolls and the Navajo hogan. But what I really love are the new temporary exhibitions, including one with provocative works by Kent Monkman, abstract art, video installations, LGBTQ+ artists, and things that you never would have seen 40 years ago at this museum. And on the other side of the spectrum they have photographic images of the southwest by Barry Goldwater. The museum's Native American art and Southwestetn focus is much more broad and diverse than it used to be. Phoenix has changed and progressed into the 21st century and so has this museum. It's really well done and with the COVID-19 pandemic they've managed to work around the complications. I felt very safe; everything is sanitized. The outdoor areas are gorgeous with gardens, fountains and they have a wonderful restaurant and a really chic and very high-end gift shop. All in all I think this is one of my favorite museums in the southwest and it's definitely worth a trip. Especially if you've been here before, even a few years ago, it has changed so much and it's really worth another visit. Thought provoking and beautifully curated. read more

Heard Museum - The famous Navajo Hogan inside of the Heard Museum. - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I couldn't pass up the opportunity to see my favorite artists Frida and Diego. Having traveled to Mexico to see The Frida Kahlo Museum (The Blue House) there was no way I was going to miss this. So thank you Heard Museum for bringing this array of greatness to the Valley. I am truly a big fan and I made sure to bring the entire family to enjoy this exhibit. $7 extra to see the exhibit on top of entry fee. Thank you Heard Museum for the Military discount. Beautiful grounds, shops and cafe. So bring some cash so you can buy the T-Shirt. Frida and Diego exhibit had a few famous paintings on display, many photographs and replica costumes. I do wish the museum would post some Etiquette "rules" while viewing the exhibit. Some cackling women were super loud and obnoxious and one dumb-dumb was taking pictures painfully close to the photographs! I just wanted to say, "Hey buzzards! For the love of God please stop calling her Frida "Kaylow" It's pronounced "Kah-lo". Other than those distractions it was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. My son is a history buff so he really enjoyed the Native American history. The Barry Goldwater Kachina collection has always been my favorite. Overall a great way to spend a few hours out of the sun. read more

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What a beautiful museum with so much to see and learn. We are so happy to have had a chance to visit the wonderful place. So much art in paintings, jewelry, baskets, clothing, sculptures and much more. read more

Such a cool museum! Would highly recommend if you're in the area or have never been! The staff is very friendly, the facility is clean, and has parking for guests. read more

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Amazing museum! I recently went on First Friday (donation night!) and was so pleasantly surprised to find ahout a dozen people working live and weaving Navajo rugs and blankets. Navajo weaving fascinates me and it was an absolute delight to be able to talk to some of these incredible artists ahout their works. A large gallery showed many different styles of Navajo textiles, with both hand spun and commercial yarns. There was also a very cool immersive spoken and written exhibit featuring a Navajo creation story, narrated and written in the Navajo language with English written alongside. This exhibit was majestic, calming, and inspiring! I make it in to the museum about 2 or 3 times a year and am always happy with the rotating exhibits. If you like Navajo textiles... Get in there right away and check it out! read more

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Rich in history and artifacts. The Heard Museum is a must stop. Curated rooms flowing with Jewelry, Pottery, Textiles, Pottery and Kachinas. Truly enjoyed this special visit. read more

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Great exhibit from mid western hemisphere of America to the west;all different tribes. But from the Midwest to the east, they don't display any tribes. For example, The Algonquins, the Cheyenne Native Americans, and the Cherokees are missing. Lots of oil painted art, statues, dolls, and really interesting historical lessons fill every room. Absolutely worth going! However, it deserves three stars, because it's full of lies. They tell about what Europeans "did" to the Native Americans. But, what they don't tell you, they intentionally cut out is, how Native Americans slaughtered other Native American tribes ,and stole their land. They also don't say too much about is how the Europeans worked well with the Native Americans for about 30 years. Also ,the security staff is mediocre. They are a bunch of bored people and will circle around you like hawks and make you feel weird. read more

I had the opportunity to go as a Yelp Elite and this was also my first time visiting the Heard Museum. I went on a Sunday morning right after they opened and it was the perfect time to go. Tons of parking and open space, before getting into the Museum. Once inside, tickets/checking in is super quick and easy, they make you sanitize your hands, grab a stylus to use on the videos throughout the Museum and also provide masks as well if you need one. The floors throughout the whole Museum, besides outside, have arrows on the ground for you to follow while maintaining 6ft distance from other guests. There is SO MUCH to see and read here, they have beautiful set ups for each section of the Museum along with loads of visuals and sounds throughout each room as well. The entire building and landscape of the property is so peaceful and relaxing, the gift shops and coffee shop are a must visit as well. The Leon Polk Smith exhibit was beyond amazing. The size of the artwork and the history of his entire life with each stage of his art and how it progressed was truly amazing. I am so sad I have never been here before to see other exhibits that go on here but before I left I bought a membership so I wouldn't mix the next one! read more

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Not kid friendly! This place is awful! I tried bringing my baby's bag in with a water flask and they forced me to put it up front. The security guards walk around like they're border patrol. There are no exhibits that are actually interesting aside from jewelry jewelry and more jewelry! The native culture embodies the blessings of children and its unfortunate because there are no children exhibits, nothing for children to do nor are they welcomed to walk around without having security guards following behind you. In addition, I witnessed the CEO telling his staff about not using the space in the museum to its fullest potential. Take in mind that he was talking about an exhibit of costumes that were supposed to represent women who have been missing or misrepresented. Talk about disrespectful! I was shocked when I asked a representative who he was because I was voicing my complaint. This place is ran by white people who are using the native culture to make money. I did not see any native folks working there! They should have them as directors, educators, greeters! A human body that can speak and are not muted behind glass walls while we smile and stare not knowing what the hell we are looking at. Things are seen different when they have meaning. This place is just not it for me... they should take a look at some other museums to get some inspiration. Oh wait!!! The best part was the CEO leaving and driving like a maniac in his Mini Cooper. I was like wow as I slowly pulled up next to him at a light (love those moments) while he scrolling on his cell phone. Winning! read more

This was not my intended destination, but, boy, was I glad I ended up here. I originally was headed to the Phoenix Art Museum but it was Free Saturday and parking was not to be had. Instead, I went literally around the corner to the Heard. What a find. This museum complex is situated around a courtyard flanked by the museum, auditorium, gift shop, cafe, coffee shop and book store. I ate a very quiet and serene lunch here outside in the courtyard by the trickling water feature. (Although lunch was just OK, the surroundings made the meal.) There are also many outside sculpture areas. I bypassed the tour inside to explore on my own. The museum is quite inclusive covering the arts and artifacts of many Southwestern tribes. The art glass and ceramic "fence" in the foyer is amazing. Make this your intended destination. read more

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We were looking for some place to get out of the heat and learn a little something. Our party of three each had our favorite things to look at while walking through the different exhibits. I am not sure if the exhibit about residential schools is a permanent or a special exhibit but it is something that needs to be seen. The entrance fees are quite affordable. If you have a college ID you can get a discounted rate. read more

An interesting museum of Native American art and artifacts and history. Lots to see, read and experience. And while I enjoyed it thoroughly, I don't know that I'd pay $18 to see it again. I liked the paintings that were on an upper mezzanine the most. I've uploaded two of those here. Artworks and art museums are my thing when I travel and this was what I really wanted to see. Yes, there's a tragic history between the United States and it's indigenous people. It is a story that should be recorded, told and shared often. Let's never let this happen again. read more

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This place is one giant history lesson. You can learn about the way that the Hopi, Navajo, and 20 other recognized tribal nations lived and see the tools they used. I was blown away at how many artifacts were were on display, and how they were used way back in the day. There is a comfy coffee café and lunch café, and places to sit all over the place so you can take a rest. There are tours every hour that I would highly recommend joining as the guides can help paint a picture on how each tribe used to live. There is also a jewelry shop that my girlfriend was quite impressed with. Lastly, you must visit the bronze statues out front that depict the Native Americans involvement in WWI and WWII. There is enough here to keep you occupied for hours so this is a must see if you're in Phoenix. read more

Heard Museum - Unique paintings - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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The Heard Museum is probably one of the best we have ever been in! The history of the indigenous First Nation people in North America is both sad and very compelling. And, the collection the Heard family has assembled and the museum has added to is incredible. Yet, it's the little exhibits that move me the most. I am still brought to tears whenever at the end of touring, I come to the hand crafted dolls of the US Marine WWII Navajo code talkers raising the American flag (See photos). On our most recent trip here, we enjoyed the Barry Goldwater Bolo Tie exhibit, and listening to the tour guide of First Nation peoples in Arizona. BTW, the best deal is becoming a Member of the Heard by showing your AAA card. It's a small discount but you get their magazine and newsletter. Enjoy! read more

Great museum embracing Native American culture and highlighting the past, present, and future. We came here for the Frida Kahlo photography exhibit and while it was a little smaller than I expected, it gave some insight to and was a fascinating, candid slice of Frida Kahlo's life. The other exhibits show various cultural items such as pottery, tribal dress, and religious art. I especially loved the wall of kachina dolls, seeing all the different spirits personified in doll form. There is also a section for contemporary art and a large mural in the section dedicated to the various tribes that live in Arizona. One of the most interesting exhibits for me was the section on Native American aid in our wars, especially the Code Talkers in World War II. The Heard Museum also hosts various events, such as a lovely chocolate festival I had attended a year or two ago, and Native American dinners. Admission for adults is $18 and free for Native Americans. read more

Just an amazing collection of Native American art and artifacts anywhere. The Heard Museum is a must visit if in the Phoenix area. You can easily walk around here and explore all the exhibits and after a few hours still not have seen it all. So many different tribes are represented here. Baskets, bowls, artwork, clothing, dolls, ceremonial outfits, kachinas, and more from many tribes are on display. What is impressive is that most of the pieces on display are donated by private collectors. Senator Barry Goldwater's collection of about 400 kachinas were donated and on display among many others who gave to the museum. There are also free hourly tours by knowledgeable museum staff. There is even a children's area with hands on crafts, exhibits, and learning tools. The layout of the museum is very open and thought provoking, the exhibits are displayed well, and the staff helpful. On site terrific cafe, gift/book store, and coffee shop too. Definitely a must to see if interested in Native American cultures, art, and history. read more

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Tip #1 - This museum participates in First Friday! What does that mean you ask? It means admission is free! Double check the information before you go, but when I went the free admission was from 6pm-10pm. Tip #2 - Free parking that doesn't seem to fill up too fast. When visiting a downtown establishment, this is important to know. They have their own parking lot and there isn't any charge to park there. Tip #3 - Visit the craft area that is not far from the entrance. Most people assume this is just for kids, but I tried doing one of the crafts and had a ton of fun doing it. Plus, I got a free souvenir! Tip #4 - Look at a map. The first floor of the museum is pretty easy to navigate, but the second floor can be a little confusing. We almost missed an entire section, but luckily ended up finding it after following another guest to an outside door. I recommend this museum if you haven't already been there! read more

This is a very nice museum. It was build in 1929 so it's not a big crazy building. It's low and chill. Lots of great art and facts. I enjoyed the raw photos and maps showing what used to be the natives land and what they have now. I got a culture pass from my library and I'm so glad I did. I really enjoyed the museum. read more

I wanted to visit the Heard Museum for years because I had read about their extensive collections. As I walked around for the first time, I was surprised because it's obvious that the Heard is trying to be a lot of things at once: a gallery of art, a cultural center, a history museum, and a sales gallery. It can make a visit more challenging because the lines between these different aspects can be blurry. An exhibition of one of my favorite sculptors, Allan Houser, brought me to the Heard. As much as I enjoyed seeing his sculptures, his works were displayed like a last-minute house guest: wherever there was room. Aside from a great timeline of his accomplishments, curatorial context for the viewer seemed to be absent. This can be frustrating but it shouldn't discourage a visit to the Heard. You'll just have to do some of the heavy lifting yourself. There is a lot to see and the acres of katsina figures alone can keep you entertained for while. I don't write about museum gift shops because they don't have anything to do with the museum experience but the Heard's gift shop is an exception because it sells high quality genuine Native American rugs. This is a valuable learning experience because, unlike in a museum setting, you can touch these textiles and get a true appreciation of the skill and time required to produce such quality. Aside from a visit to Hubbell Trading Post in northeastern Arizona, the Heard's gift shop can provide a nice experience in itself. So, yes, go to the Heard and get your hands dirty. It's worth it. read more

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I am so glad I had the opportunity to recently visit the Heard Museum--it is a wonderful gem in Phoenix. There are multiple exhibits of Native American art and history, with a particular focus on the southwest. There is a tour (maybe once every hour or so) that gives you the layout of the museum, and then you can go in and follow up on particular exhibits that interest you. The overall layout and building/grounds (especially the outside) are beautiful. Plenty of outdoor seating and makes for a great afternoon in Phoenix. read more

Great exhibits. Really enjoyed performances by dancers and musicians. Great restaurant too!

My husband wanted to go by here after leaving our hotel from hell.... I had never heard of it and knew nothing about it but I am so glad we went. It is the oldest and largest Native American Museum I think in all the US. It was phenomenal. There were films, and artifacts, and jewelry and clothing and room after room and at least 2 floors. I learned so much and it was such a pleasant experience. I would go back here in a heartbeat. My only complaint was lack of parking combined with people's obvious inability to park correctly! There were no parking spaces in the lot next to the museum and we went to the one a little farther away and at least 6 parking spaces had cars taking up double spaces or parked OVER THE LINE. When I finally fund a spot I could fit our rental into we couldn't get the doors open wide enough to get out because people on either side had parked too close to the lines. We did finally find a spot but that was my biggest complaint. The facility was well worth touring. Recommend 10/10. read more

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Be sure to see the Boarding School Experience. It's an exhibition about how the US government put Native American children into boarding schools in the late 1800s to the present day. I was unaware these schools existed. Seriously, we took children as young as 5 away from their families in order to "civilize" them in federally run schools. Its heartbreaking but worth your time to have a better understanding about our not so perfect American past. Unfortunately you won't find anything else about the ugly truth about America's past and Native Americans. There's nothing about the Trail of Tears or Wounded Knee. Perhaps the Heard Museum will soon have the courage to tell an unvarnished history of America. read more

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I got 2 anytime tickets to this museum as a Mother's Day gift. We waited till now for weather reasons since we like to take the light rail to things in Phoenix. We forgot the printed tickets and our phone doesn't have internet. They offered to check their records. We gave them our daughter's name and it was found immediately. We got right in. It is a wonderful place. Beautiful displays and very thorough. Then we went to their restaurant. The food there was great. I would definitely recommend it. The appetizer, Nibbles and Bits is wonderful. Our server was very attentive and made the experience even more wonderful. It was an hour ride each way on the rail, but a nice young man gave up his seat for us. We didn't ask, he just did it. All In all a very positive experience. Thanks to everyone there. read more

Five stars for the museum itself, which is one of the best I've ever been to (and I have access to all of NYC's museums, so that's saying something! Lol!) 1 star for the gift shop, which is beautiful, but staffed by rude employees. I've been fascinated by Native American culture for decades, so I couldn't wait to enjoy a few hours at the museum by myself. It was incredible and I thoroughly enjoyed it. After the museum, I went to eat at the cafe, purchased items in the book shop, sat in the courtyard and then saved the best for last as I made my way to their high end gift shop. It's very impressive; It could almost be a museum itself with all the high quality items in stock. When I entered the shop, I greeted an older woman behind the counter who glanced at me as I walked in, but she ignored me and just went back to a long conversation she was having with a lady on the other side of the counter. I wandered around taking everything in, and of course, with my love for Native American culture, I was fully intending to buy something. Mind you, the whole time I was walking around, not one employee acknowledged me in any way. And this would continue as I waited at a counter on the other side of where I entered for someone to help me with a purchase. After a few minutes, a man darted behind the counter, and I greeted him thinking he came over to help me. But he just stared at me, reached for something behind the counter and walked away! And didn't return! I stood there for about 5-10 minutes before I gave up and decided to leave. (The store was practically empty BTW) I wound up buying some amazing crafts and jewelry along 89A in Sedona, where I got to meet and speak with the lovely ladies who had made those items. Much better experience, and made up for my discouragement for not buying anything at the gift shop. So just know that you don't have to go to the museum to buy some great Native American crafts, there are many places around to go to where you can purchase directly from the artists themselves and don't have to be snubbed by gift shop employees. (This was pre-pandemic, but a friend reminded me of this place and she couldn't believe I didn't share my experience at that time so here we are lol) read more

Was at the Heard for Robert Black Fashion Show, this month's N+U Third Friday event, an eclectic vintage show of sorts featuring local designers. Great use of the large auditorium space and strong community turn-out. Browsed the first floor collections, and stumbled upon a lovely glass/ceramic exhibit. The Heard has renovated and grown impressively since the `90s and is presently much larger than I recall from childhood. Noticed a few family-friendly, interactive exhibits and still serves as a great authority on Southwestern culture. The Museum has excellent outdoor space that could be well used for evening events. read more

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This is an excellent small museum dedicated to the American Indian culture in the Arizona region. There are numerous displays and a worthwhile 45 minute docent tour. They also have a gift shop, cafe and small restaurant. Great place to check out while you are in the area. read more

Heard Museum - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Went to enjoy the building, gardens and native Indian exhibit. So good on all fronts. And in the heat of AZ the wide and open corridors allows breezes to naturally cool you and shelter in shade (no AC required!). Reminds you how ancient architecture and design was right all along. On the theme of the past the exhibit inside is a great overview to the original peoples of this land and offers valuable insight. Nothing revisionist or progressive, or right-wing: just as it was and now is. Push yourself to be informed and join a free guided tour of the museum led by volunteers. read more

Went to the museum last night for their 90th year celebration! I learned so much about Native Americans it was a great experience. The buildings were neat & clean, followed COVID procedures, also the displays were amazing! Thanks for having me! read more

Heard Museum - Museums Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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I came to Phoenix for the Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera exhibit. The collection was impressive, and the museum has a lot to see. I ended up seeing more than I had anticipated and loved the experience. The cost was reasonable, and I was happy because I was able to purchase my tickets online prior to traveling to Phoenix. Since this museum was the purpose of my trip, it was convenient and reassuring that I would be able to get in due to the online ticket purchase process. The exhibits were incredible, and the docents were knowledgeable about the subjects in the museum. I spoke with many of the docents and they seemed passionate about their work. The gift shops and the coffee shop is nice. I especially appreciated the employees in the "Books and More" section, and the coffee shop. Both of these employees were friendly, engaging and were helpful with recommendations. I wanted to see more art in Phoenix, and another museum was on my to-do list. The man at the Books and More shop recommended that I wait until 3pm, and I could get into a particular museum for free, due to the day of the week. I took his suggestion, and saved some cash! Great employees! read more

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One of the simple most impactful experiences of my life. I think walking through the exhibits is something all American citizens, if not all humans should make an effort to experience. A tragically beautiful telling of an uncomfortable and devastating park of our history. Told with compassion, empathy and honesty. read more

This is a great museum. Great displays of American Indian history and artifacts. Entry is free with your Tribal card. After the museum, check out Books and More. read more