Museums to explore, iconic landmarks to visit, and seemingly endless opportunities to discover the rich and vibrant world of American Indian art, Arizona abounds with memorable experiences celebrating Native America.
Kick off your journey into Arizona’s Native America on the forested grounds of the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff at the Heritage Festival, June 22 – 23. The museum’s premier festival features Native American artists, dancers, musicians, demonstrators, and cultural experts.
While you’re celebrating the art, culture, and community of the Colorado Plateau and enjoying the sounds and traditions of the region, you can buy direct from artists from different tribes. The festival features Acoma, Apache, Diné (Navajo), Havasupai, Hopi, Hualapai, Pai, Ute, Yavapai, and Zuni artists and traditions. There are hands-on activities and experiences, and the festival ticket also grants entrance to the museum.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy Todd Brenneman
If that’s too short notice for this year, it’s an annual event, so there’s plenty of time to plan ahead. And there’s also plenty of other possibilities on the itinerary for discovering the diverse and vibrant heritage of Arizona’s 22 Native American tribes, each with its own unique traditions and attractions.
Hopi Tribe
Northern Arizona: Stay at the Moenkopi Legacy Inn or the Hopi Cultural Center Motel for a comfortable retreat while exploring Hopi tribal lands. Indulge in authentic Hopi cuisine at the Hopi Cultural Center’s restaurant and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene along the Hopi Arts Trail.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy Arizona Office of Tourism
Navajo Nation
Northern Arizona: Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Monument Valley from the comfort of The View Hotel, the only hotel within the valley. Dive into Navajo culture with traditional cuisine at The View Restaurant and explore iconic landmarks like Antelope Canyon, near Page, and Canyon de Chelly National Monument near Chinle.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy R.S.Ortega
White Mountain Apache Tribe
North-Central Arizona: Escape to the wilderness at Hawley Lake or indulge in modern comforts at the Hon-Dah Resort-Casino. Savor the flavors of Apache cuisine at Cafe Gozhoo and embark on outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting and exploring historic sites.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy Visit Arizona
Gila River Indian Community
Phoenix and Central Arizona: Immerse yourself in luxury and Indigenous-inspired amenities at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass Resort, owned by the Gila River Indian Community. Delight your taste buds at Kai, Arizona’s only five-star restaurant, and rejuvenate your body and soul at Aji Spa, a Forbes Five-Star spa using Indigenous ingredients to create an authentic Native American spa experience.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy Arizona Office of Tourism
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
Phoenix and Central Arizona: Experience the thrill of Fort McDowell Adventures’ guided tours through the Sonoran Desert including horseback riding and Jeep tours, or tee off at the award-winning We-Ko-Pa Golf Club. Unwind at the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort or the Eagle View RV Resort for a truly immersive stay.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy Wekopa Casino Resort
More American Indian Experiences In Arizona
From events like the World Champion Hoop Dance Contest (February 15 – 16, 2025 at the Heard Museum in Phoenix) and the Arizona Indian Festival (February 1 – 2, 2025 in Scottsdale) to numerous sites, including Montezuma Castle National Monument — a well-preserved cliff dwelling built and used by the ancestors of the Hohokam and other Indigenous peoples of the Southwestern United States — you can really immerse yourself in Native American culture across the entire state. There are museums to explore, iconic landmarks to visit, and seemingly endless opportunities to discover the rich and vibrant world of American Indian art, from traditional artworks to contemporary creations.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy Ryan Bonneau
HEADER IMAGE: Courtesy Todd Brenneman
