From the moment you enter the Museum of Native American History and come face-to-face with a woolly mammoth skeleton you’ll be captivated by the history of the indigenous peoples of the Americas. Spanning some 14,000 years of history, the Arkansas museum has a broad scope, exploring the history of all Native Americans rather than a single tribe. Visit the museum and browse some of its vast permanent collection, with impressive displays of weaponry, arts and crafts and archaeological artifacts.
Explore the permanent collection of the museum to learn about five distinct periods of human existence in the Americas. The collections are ordered chronologically and begin approximately 14,000 years ago, spanning until the early days of European influence.
Pick up an audio wand upon entry and go on an informative self-guided tour. Learn about museum highlights, including the Sweetwater Biface, said to be one of the thinnest flints discovered in North America. Look for a large collection of Gunther points, similar to flints, discovered in California and southern Oregon.
See a large collection of weaponry in the museum gallery. Admire delicately produced bows and arrows alongside war clubs used in battles. Examine diagrams that indicate the way in which the weapons were used.
A large collection of handicrafts and traditional art is a highlight of the museum. Admire Meso-American ceramics, including human effigies, alongside Mimbres pottery. A collection of Mississippian pots shaped like heads are considered to be some of the rarest ceramics in the museum. Capture photographs of the unique vessels as a keepsake.
The Museum of Native American History is in Bentonville, just a short drive north of Fayetteville. Parking is available on-site and the museum is closed Sundays. Admission is free, as are the audio guides. A gift shop is located on the premises and offers great souvenirs from your time in northwest Arkansas.
