This extraordinary museum spotlights the history, life, arts and culture of Native American tribes in the Southwest. Visitors will find art galleries, ethnographic displays, a get-creative kids exhibit and an unrivaled Hopi kachina gallery (many of the pieces were a gift from Barry Goldwater). The Heard emphasizes quality over quantity and is one of the best museums of its kind in America.
The moving Boarding School Experience gallery examines the controversial federal policy of removing Native American children from their families and sending them to remote boarding schools in order to 'Americanize' them. Keep a lookout for unexpected treasures – like the Harry Potter bowl tucked amongst more traditional pottery. Guided tours run at noon, 2pm and 3pm at no extra charge. Overall, allow two to three hours to explore. Also check out the busy events schedule, the well-stocked bookstore and the superb gift shop.
Parking is free. Valley Metro light-rail stops beside the downtown museum at Encanto/Central Ave.
