With one-quarter of Arizona belonging to 22 federally recognized American Indian nations, no trip is complete without exploring these native cultures.
Turn your next Arizona vacation into a rich cultural experience with these immersive activities.
Guided tour of the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Made popular in several films including Forrest Gump, Mission: Impossible II, A Space Odyssey and Westworld – this iconic landscape is a go-to destination to immerse in the history of the Navajo tribe. This Navajo-led tour will not only grant access to much more of the park with less of the crowds, but also get firsthand knowledge of the culture and traditions. Whilst visiting, head to the Trading Post at The View Hotel to check out traditional and contemporary Navajo art.
Explore Antelope Canyon
Part of the Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park, this must-see land formation is located on private land within the Navajo Nation. Therefore it’s only accessible with a Navajo guide. The canyon is made up of two parts, the Upper Antelope Canyon, wider at the top, making it easier to walk through; and the Lower Antelope Canyon. The different routes and varying degrees of difficulty make this destination a popular one.
Walk the Hopi Arts Trail with a guide
Well known for their Katsinas – traditional Hopi handcrafted spirit dolls – the Hopi tribe has a rich heritage of art. To discover their traditional crafts, head on the Hopi Arts Trail. Though this can be done as a self-guided experience, travelers are encouraged to visit with a certified guide. Going with a guide lets you explore beyond the typical trail. You’ll be able to interact with local artists who have proudly preserved their craft. Visitors can also customize their tour itineraries to incorporate visits to other ancient Hopi sites.
The Heard Museum
Founded in 1929, The Heard Museum in Phoenix is one of the oldest in the state. Offering a great overview of all the different American Indian cultures in Arizona, it is a great stop for first time visitors to learn more about the heritage of the lands. Internationally recognized, the museum showcases American Indian heritage from both historical as well as geographical points of view.
Explore the Southwestern Tribes
The Arizona State Museum is the oldest and largest anthropology museum in the region, showcasing a variety of exhibits, hands-on workshops and more. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Southwest Indian pottery and American Indian basketry. It’s perfect for a slightly more academic approach to learning about American Indian culture. The Arizona State Museum also features an extensive research library as well as a museum store.
Learn more at: www.visitarizona.com
