Museum of Native American History
Discover 14,000 years of Native American history through impressive artifacts and engaging exhibits. Always free to visit!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection time
Museum of Native American History
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflection time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover 14,000 years of Native American history through impressive artifacts and engaging exhibits. Always free to visit!
"This museum is a sweet little gem! My children discovered the museum on field trips through their elementary school and insisted on taking us on a tour."
🎯 Free Admission, Donate!
Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged and appreciated. :heart:
👟 Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least an hour, or more if you're an adult, to explore fully. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Artifacts
Discover thousands of years of history through pottery, tools, and projectile points.
Mammoth Skeleton
A towering woolly mammoth skeleton greets visitors, sparking wonder for all ages.
Artisan Jewelry
Explore a unique gift shop featuring beautiful, artisan-made Native American jewelry.
McAdams Bird Effigy Pipe
See unique cultural items like the intricate McAdams Bird Effigy Pipe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Engaging for All Ages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission, Donate!
Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged and appreciated. +1 :heart:
👟 Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least an hour, or more if you're an adult, to explore fully. :clock1:
🎁 Support Through Gift Shop
The gift shop offers beautiful artisan jewelry and is a great way to support the museum. :gift:
♿️ Handicap Accessible
The museum is very accessible, with resting areas and story viewing spots. :wheelchair:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission, Donate!
Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged and appreciated. +1 :heart:
👟 Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least an hour, or more if you're an adult, to explore fully. :clock1:
🎁 Support Through Gift Shop
The gift shop offers beautiful artisan jewelry and is a great way to support the museum. :gift:
♿️ Handicap Accessible
The museum is very accessible, with resting areas and story viewing spots. :wheelchair:
🧒 Kid-Friendly Dig
Kids can dig for arrowheads and keep one for free! :arrowupsmall:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Native American History as a 'sweet little gem' and a 'must-see' in Bentonville. Its comprehensive and well-organized exhibits, spanning thousands of years of history, are a major highlight. The free admission is a significant draw, making it an accessible and valuable cultural experience for all. While some note it might not captivate the youngest children for extended periods, its educational value and unique artifacts are highly appreciated by families and adults alike.
"We have been to several museums of Native American History which had very good artifacts from their local area but nothing compares this museum. MONAH in Bentonville exhibits a comprehensive collection of art works and historic artefacts relating to the Native American History. The museum is the rational size, incredibly well-organized and pleasantly uncrowded. The displays are unique, outstanding and varied. The exhibits are well presented with a logical progression of the periods and cultures covered. Collections are cared for at the highest standards. We enjoyed our walk through the museum galleries. It is free but they do accept donations. This is a must see for the area."
Andy Novikov
"This museum is a sweet little gem. My children discovered the museum on field trips through their elementary school and insisted on taking us on a tour. My 9 year old took me on a private tour and told me everything he learned during his field trip. He also did this with his grandmother, and can’t wait to take more family and friends.
I went back on my own last week to explore and to look at the beautiful artisan made jewelry in the gift shop. Came home with some absolutely gorgeous new pieces that I love so much!"
Jessica Kersey
"One of my favorite places !!!!!
.... and amazingly Free !!!!!!
Fantastic First Nations Museum🪶
with exceptional staff and volunteers. Nice gift shop Too 🛍️
A can't miss ! 🦅"
Hawk GreatSky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Bentonville, Arkansas. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, it's easily accessible by car. Many visitors mention it as part of exploring Bentonville, suggesting it's well-integrated into the local tourism scene. +2
Information on dedicated parking is scarce, but as it's a popular attraction in Bentonville, street parking or nearby public lots are likely available. It's advisable to check local parking regulations upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Museum of Native American History is completely free! While donations are greatly appreciated, there is no charge to enter. +2
Yes, donations are accepted and highly encouraged to support the museum's operations and collections. Many visitors choose to donate through purchases in the gift shop.
Specific opening hours are not consistently detailed in social media or Reddit posts. It's recommended to check the museum's official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Since admission is free, advance booking is not necessary. You can typically walk in during their operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a comprehensive collection spanning 10,000 to 14,000 years of Native American history, including ancient artifacts, pottery, tools, attire, and art. Highlights include projectile points, effigy pipes, and even a woolly mammoth skeleton. +2
Yes, it's great for families! Children can enjoy the mammoth skeleton and participate in activities like digging for arrowheads to keep. Older children will appreciate the educational content.
Most visitors recommend at least an hour for adults. Children might spend around 30 minutes, but those with a keen interest could easily spend more.
The museum is noted as being very handicap accessible, with designated resting areas and story viewing spots.
Yes, there are interactive elements, including the opportunity for children to dig for arrowheads and keep one.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information about on-site dining is not readily available. However, Bentonville has a vibrant food scene, so you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes nearby to enjoy before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. While many social media posts show visitors taking photos, it's always best to check for any posted signs or ask staff upon arrival to ensure you're following their guidelines. +2
Key photo spots include the impressive woolly mammoth skeleton, unique artifacts like the McAdams Bird Effigy Pipe, and the visually appealing displays of pottery and attire. The gift shop also offers opportunities for unique shots of artisan jewelry.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While younger children might enjoy the visual spectacle, older kids will gain a deeper appreciation for the educational exhibits and historical context. The museum is designed to be engaging, offering a blend of fascinating artifacts and interactive elements that can spark curiosity and conversation. Plan for at least an hour to allow everyone to explore at their own pace.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's a perfect way to spend a few hours learning about significant history without spending a dime, making it an excellent addition to any itinerary in Bentonville. The value for money is exceptional, providing a high-quality educational experience.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
You'll find exceptional examples of pottery, tools, and ceremonial objects, alongside a notable selection of artisan-made jewelry in the gift shop. The well-organized exhibits allow for a thorough exploration of different periods and cultures, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of American Indian history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Collections
+1The museum excels at presenting these items in a way that is both educational and engaging. The exhibits are thoughtfully organized, often following a chronological progression that allows visitors to trace the evolution of different cultures and their ways of life. This logical flow helps to contextualize the artifacts, making the history feel more accessible and relatable. The care taken in preserving and presenting these historic artifacts is evident, ensuring that each piece tells its story effectively.
Beyond the tangible objects, MONAH also highlights the artistic achievements of Native American peoples. The gift shop, in particular, is noted for its selection of beautiful, artisan-made jewelry, offering a chance to take home a piece of this rich cultural legacy. The museum's commitment to showcasing the diversity and depth of Native American history makes it a truly significant destination.
Making History Accessible: The Visitor Experience
The museum is also designed to be welcoming to a wide range of visitors, including families with children. The presence of a woolly mammoth skeleton is a particular hit with younger guests, providing an immediate point of fascination. Furthermore, interactive elements, such as the opportunity for children to dig for arrowheads and keep one, add an engaging, hands-on dimension to the learning experience.
For all visitors, the museum provides a comfortable and contemplative environment. It is noted for being handicap accessible, with thoughtful provisions like resting areas and story viewing spots. This attention to detail ensures that everyone can explore the exhibits at their own pace and comfort level, making the educational journey a positive and enriching one for all.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit