Heard Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary: An Oasis in the Desert

Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, the Heard Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique and immersive experience that celebrates the art, culture, and wildlife of the Southwest. With over 14 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the museum and sanctuary provide visitors with a chance to connect with the region's rich heritage while encountering fascinating wildlife and endangered species up close.

History and Mission

The Heard Museum was founded in 1929 by Dwight B. Heard, a prominent businessman and art collector. His vision was to establish a place that would preserve and promote the art of Native Americans of the Southwest. Over the years, the museum has significantly expanded its collection and now boasts over 40,000 artifacts representing over 120 Native American tribes.

In 1994, the museum expanded its mission by creating the Wildlife Sanctuary. This 300-acre sanctuary provides a safe haven for over 250 species of animals, including endangered desert tortoises, Mexican wolves, and golden eagles. The sanctuary also offers educational programs and wildlife tours led by experienced naturalists.

Art Collections

The Heard Museum houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Native American art in the world. Its galleries display a wide range of art forms, including pottery, basketry, jewelry, textiles, and paintings. The museum's permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Maria Martinez, Geronimo, and R.C. Gorman.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Heard Museum hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase the work of contemporary Native American artists. These exhibitions explore various themes and perspectives, providing visitors with a diverse and thought-provoking experience.

Wildlife Sanctuary

The Wildlife Sanctuary at the Heard Museum offers visitors a chance to observe and learn about the rich wildlife of the Sonoran Desert. The sanctuary is home to over 250 species of animals, including:

• Mammals: Desert tortoises, Mexican wolves, javelinas, coyotes
• Birds: Golden eagles, hawks, owls, hummingbirds
• Reptiles: Snakes, lizards, turtles
• Amphibians: Toads, frogs
• Invertebrates: Butterflies, insects

The sanctuary provides a natural habitat for these animals, allowing visitors to witness them in their natural environment. Wildlife tours led by experienced naturalists offer an in-depth look at the animals and their behaviors.

Educational Programs

The Heard Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs include:

• School field trips: Guided tours for students that explore Native American art, culture, and wildlife
• Summer camps: Hands-on experiences for children that focus on art, nature, and conservation
• Adult lectures and workshops: Presentations and workshops on Native American art, history, and wildlife
• Volunteer opportunities: Opportunities for individuals to contribute to the museum and sanctuary's mission

Special Events

Throughout the year, the Heard Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary hosts special events that celebrate Native American culture and promote wildlife conservation. These events include:

• Heard Museum Indian Fair & Market: An annual event that features over 600 Native American artists and vendors
• Wildlife Art Festival: A juried art show that celebrates the work of wildlife artists
• Native American Film & Video Festival: A showcase of films and videos that explore Native American themes and perspectives
• Conservation Days: Events that focus on raising awareness about wildlife conservation and endangered species

Visitor Information

The Heard Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. It is open to the public seven days a week, with varying hours depending on the season. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the museum's box office.

Hours:

• Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission:

• Adults: $20
• Seniors (65+): $18
• Children (6-12): $12
• Children under 5: Free

Directions:

The Heard Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is located at:

2301 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Public Transportation:

• Light Rail (Valley Metro): Get off at the Central Station and board bus #5.
• Bus (Valley Metro): Bus #5 stops directly in front of the museum.

Parking:

Parking is available on-site for a fee.

Conclusion

The Heard Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique and enriching destination that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the art, culture, and wildlife of the Southwest. With its vast collection of Native American art, its Wildlife Sanctuary, and its educational programs, the museum and sanctuary provide a memorable and educational experience for all.