Excellent exhibits in an historic building. Learned much about the SW native american culture and history. Definitely a must-see.

The Heard Museum is housed in a lovely Southwestern style building surrounding an open courtyard. Their main focus is the art and culture of the native people of the area. The collections are beautifully displayed, with very good labeling and accompanyting explanations. There are excellent free public tours throughtout the day. There is an outstanding exhibit of the boarding school experience of many of the Native Americans, enlivened by photos, films, and recordings of many of the former students.

There's so much to see that it's easy to spend almost an entire day at the Heard, and if you do, you'll enjoy lunch in their cafe,with food, presentation, and service of very high quality..

I have seen a lot of Native American artifacts -- some even in the wild state outdoors. I've seen enough museum exhibits of faded pots that I normally avoid those portion of museums nowadays. However, I read on Travel Advisor that this museum was very good, so I decided to go.

There are many interactive exhibits here -- not just old pottery. The Indian School exhibit is emmotional, as well it should be. You can become educated about the 20+ tribes still living in AZ (who knew there were so many different ones)!

Most importantly for me, however, is the collection of MODERN DAY artistic pieces. There is artwork in numerous formats from modern day Native Americans, inclusing glass work! Some of the pottery will amaze you. There are wonderful shapes and designs. I also recommend attending one of the hourly tours, so you can ask questions of a true Native American.

If you enjoyed the modern day pottery, be prepared for a shock in the gift shop. Even the tiniest piece of pottery was $550 !!

I spent 2 1/2 hours going through the museum including the tour and the gift shop.

My GF came in from San Diego and wanted to see this museum since she had studied Indian Culture in college. It was really fascinating and I learned a lot. I would like to go back and take the guided tour. I can't believe it was once the Heard's residence. The house the museum is in is massive and gorgeous.
We also ate at their cute cafe and had a yummy lunch.