The acclaimed PBS KIDS® series produced by GBH Kids, MOLLY OF DENALI® is brought to life in the Heard Museum’s newest cultural experience!
Set in the fictitious rural Alaskan village of Qyah, the show follows the adventures of Molly Mabray, her family, friends, and dog Suki and is infused with Alaska Native values, history, traditions and language.
Hours
Open Tuesday – Sunday
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
*Eligible for Museums for All reduced admission. Add-on experience fee required for other access program passes & select special event dates.

The experience showcases Alaska and Molly’s life in both the summer and winter seasons. Visitors can pretend to fly a replica bush plane, drive a snow machine, and navigate a snow maze in snowshoes. The center of the experience features the Trading Post and the Tribal Hall from the series where guests will have the opportunity to explore the great outdoors of Alaska and Alaska Native life including camping, ice fishing, discovering replica ice sculptures, and caring for sled dogs.
Reflecting the series’ educational focus on introducing Informational Text (IT) curriculum to young learners, technology is integrated throughout the experience, including opportunities for visitors to be part of Molly’s vlog, games, and other hands-on activities and apps available on the PBS KIDS® website. Visitors will explore Alaska Native culture with interactive learning opportunities at the Tribal Hall and the Trading Post will feature Alaska’s geography, unique activities, and native animals.
Experience Highlights
Date: Friday, June 5
Time: 4 – 8 p.m.
Location: Full Campus
This June, step into a refreshing First Friday at the Heard Museum as we bring an evening inspired by Alaska Native arts and culture to the desert. Meet artist James Johnson (Tlingit) for a live carving demonstration between 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., where you’ll see traditional techniques take shape and hear firsthand how his work is rooted in heritage, storytelling, and place. It’s a rare opportunity to experience the artistry and cultural knowledge that flow from the Pacific Northwest coast — cool in spirit, even on a warm Phoenix night.
The Cantina will be open late, serving up a delicious selection of food and drinks to keep you refreshed as you explore. And as always, admission to the Heard Museum is FREE* during First Friday.
*Add-on experience fee required for entry to Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure on select special event dates.
– Adult: $10
– Senior (65+): $7
– Military: $7
– Student (with ID): $5
– Children (6-17): $5
Add-on experience fee can be paid at the door.
Opening Weekend Presenting Partner:
Date: Saturday, June 6 (Day 1)
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Full Campus
The coolest way to kick off your summer! Join us for the opening of Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure — a dynamic, hands-on experience that brings Alaska’s cultures, creativity, and play into the heart of the desert. Be among the first to explore this vibrant installation and launch a season filled with discovery and connection.
❄️ Yup’ik Language & Culture with Alicia Null and Family
Guest artist Alicia Null and her daughters will introduce elements of Yup’ik language and cultural practices using the tradition of drawing in dirt with sticks called “yaariuq.”
🫐 Taste Alaska: Akutaq in Action
Learn how akutaq—a traditional Alaska Native dish often called “Eskimo ice cream” — is prepared, from its unique blend of ingredients to its cultural significance. Watch the process up close and enjoy a small sample of this berry-filled, whipped treat.
🏀 Basketball Activations
Explore the strong connections to basketball across Indigenous communities from Arizona to Alaska.
– Take your shot on the pop-a-shot
– Practice ball-handling skills in a dedicated practice space with a kid-sized hoop
– Pick up a limited-edition mini basketball to take home
– Create your own custom basketball crafts
This high-energy opening is a can’t-miss start to an exciting summer at the Heard Museum. Come ready to explore, create, and keep cool.
Activities available while supplies last.
During this event, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Opening Weekend Presenting Partner:
Date: Sunday, June 7 (Day 2)
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Full Campus
Keep your summer cool with day two of our opening weekend celebration for Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure. This immersive, hands-on experience continues with a full day of creativity, play, and Alaska-inspired fun in the desert.
🫐 Taste Alaska: Try Akutaq
Sample akutaq — a traditional Alaska Native treat often called “Eskimo ice cream.” This berry-filled, whipped dish offers a unique flavor and a refreshing way to connect with Alaska Native food traditions.
🏀 Basketball Activations
Celebrate the connections to basketball across Indigenous communities from Arizona to Alaska.
– Take your shot on the pop-a-shot
– Practice ball-handling skills in a dedicated practice space with a kid-sized hoop
– Take home a limited-edition mini basketball
– Design your own basketball crafts
🐟 Alaska-Inspired Eats & Treats
Head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chips, and more.
🛍️ Shop the Experience
Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse exhibition merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
Activities available while supplies last.
During this event, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Opening Weekend Presenting Partner:
Date: Saturday, June 13
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Snowball fight begins at 1 p.m.
Location: Full Campus
Cool off at one of the Heard’s most popular summer traditions — with a frosty twist. Let It Snow! brings Alaska-inspired fun to the desert, giving families a chance to beat the heat while staying cool indoors with full A/C. Step into the world of Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure* and engage with hands-on activities that invite kids to play, create, and imagine life in Alaska.
Snowy Fun for All Ages (FREE/While Supplies Last):
🌨️ Snap a photo inside an inflatable snow globe with swirling “snow.”
❄️ Join in on a quick and playful snowball fight starting at 1 p.m.
⛄ Build you own mini snowman with snow tray play!
🏔️ Customize your own clear, travel-sized slime with snow-themed mix-ins.
This high-energy, family-friendly event is the perfect way to stay cool, get creative, and make summer memories together — no parka required. Head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chips, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
*Add-on experience fee required for entry to Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure on select special event dates.
– Adult: $10
– Senior (65+): $7
– Military: $7
– Student (with ID): $5
– Children (6-17): $5
Add-on experience fee can be paid at the door.
Date: Friday, June 19
Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Heard Museum
Join us for a family-friendly Juneteenth celebration of black freedom inspired by a special episode of the PBS KIDS® TV series Molly of Denali®. Together, we’ll explore themes of community, culture, and celebration through storytelling, creativity, and hands-on activities.
The day begins with a screening of Qyah Juneteenth / The Mystery of the Missing Meat at 11 a.m., followed by drop-in art activities inspired by the episode and the traditions of Juneteenth.
Schedule:
11 a.m.
Episode Screening: Qyah Juneteenth / The Mystery of the Missing Meat
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Crafts and family activities inspired by the celebration featured in the show
While you’re here, make time to visit Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure, where interactive experiences invite families to learn, play, and explore together.
Celebrate Juneteenth through creativity, community, and meaningful family fun at the Heard Museum.
During this special activation, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Date: Saturday, June 27
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Steele Auditorium Foyer
Cool off with a fun, family-friendly experience featuring a real sparkling ice sculpture! Join in on the fun by racing arctic animal figurines down a mini ice slide, and be sure to snap a photo with the sculpture before it melts away!
While you’re here, head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chips, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse exhibition merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
A perfect mix of art, learning, and hands-on fun for the whole family.
During this special activation, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Programming Partner:

Date: Sunday, June 28
Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Steele Auditorium Foyer, Encanto Room
Enjoy art, animals, and Alaska-inspired fun for the whole family! Celebrate our four-legged friends with a day dedicated to creativity, connection, and care. Husky Day ties into Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure, where sled dogs play an important role in travel, teamwork, and daily life.
With special guests from AZ Husky Rescue — and adoptable huskies on-site — you’ll have the chance to connect what you see in the exhibition with real-life care and companionship.
✏️ Pet Portrait Drawing Sessions
Try your hand at capturing your favorite adoptable friend.
🐕 Adopt Me Bandanas
Create a custom bandana for a rescue husky to help them stand out and find their forever home.
🖌️ Design for Your Dog
Bring your creativity to life by designing a bandana for your own pet.
🐶 Meet Adoptable Huskies
Spend time with huskies from AZ Husky Rescue, learn about their care, and find out what it takes to welcome one into your family.
From sled dog traditions in Alaska to the everyday responsibility of caring for animals, Husky Day offers a meaningful and memorable experience for animal lovers of all ages.
Head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chips, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse exhibition merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
During this event, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Programming Partner:

Date: Friday, July 3
Time: 4 – 8 p.m.
Location: Full Campus
This special evening on our campus in downtown Phoenix brings the spirit of Alaska to the desert, featuring artist James Johnson (Tlingit) in a live carving demonstration from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m..
It’s a unique chance to experience artistry rooted in the Pacific Northwest Coast. Refreshing in both perspective and atmosphere, it offers a cool contrast to a warm Phoenix night.
The Cantina will be open late, serving up a delicious selection of food and drinks to keep you refreshed as you explore. And as always, admission to the Heard Museum is FREE* during First Friday.
*Add-on experience fee required for entry to Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure on select special event dates.
– Adult: $10
– Senior (65+): $7
– Military: $7
– Student (with ID): $5
– Children (6-17): $5
Add-on experience fee can be paid at the door.
Date: Saturday, July 11
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Full Campus
Say hello, take photos, and enjoy a day of creativity and discovery inspired by the adventures of Molly and her friends during the Heard Museum’s Free Family Summer Saturday this July.
Event Highlights
📷 Meet Molly in-person and take a photo together.
❄️ Get creative and make art inspired by Alaska.
⭐ Learn together through hands-on family activities.
Don’t miss the special Alaska edition of our Heardlings Family Map and be sure to stop at activity stations throughout the museum for even more ways to play, create, and explore together.
Make your visit extra special by exploring Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure* — a hands-on family experience that brings Alaska’s stories, landscapes, and traditions to life in engaging and interactive ways. While you’re here, visit the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chips, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
*Add-on experience fee required for entry to Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure on select special event dates.
– Adult: $10
– Senior (65+): $7
– Military: $7
– Student (with ID): $5
– Children (6-17): $5
Add-on experience fee can be paid at the door.
Date: Sunday, July 12
Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Steele Auditorium Foyer, Encanto Room
Back by popular demand, Husky Day returns with a special twist — this time focused on learning about the differences between Huskies & Malamutes.
Inspired by sled dog traditions seen in Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure, this interactive day invites guests to look closely at physical traits, behaviors, and personalities that make each dog unique.
With special guests from AZ Husky Rescue — and real huskies on-site — you’ll have the chance to connect what you see in the exhibition with real-life care and companionship, meet adoptable dogs, and learn about the unique characteristics of each breed.
Head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chips, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse exhibition merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
During this event, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Programming Partner:

Date: Saturday, July 18
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Steele Auditorium Foyer, Encanto Room
Discover the incredible animals, waterways, and outdoor traditions that connect Alaska and Arizona during this family-friendly day of exploration and hands-on learning. Inspired by the landscapes featured in Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure, this special event highlights the unique environments and wildlife that shape life in both regions.
Featured Experiences:
🦅 Meet a Bald Eagle
Get an up-close look at one of North America’s most iconic birds with our friends from Liberty Wildlife. Learn about bald eagles, their habitats, and conservation efforts while having the chance to ask questions and observe this remarkable animal up close.
🐟 Explore Arizona’s Native Fish
Partners from Marsh Education, with volunteers from Marsh & Associates LLC, will share fascinating information about fish native to Arizona and how they compare to species found in Alaska.
🎨 Hands-On Family Activities
– Create “fish stick” puppets inspired by Arizona fish
– Make a salmon lifecycle spinner
– Try pretend fishing for native Arizona species
– See life-size fish models up close
– Learn about the similarities and differences between fish found in the Grand Canyon State and Alaska’s rivers and coastlines
From soaring birds to underwater ecosystems, this day celebrates the outdoors and the diverse environments that make both Alaska and Arizona so special.
Head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chip, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse exhibition merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
During this event, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Programming Partners:
. 
Date: Saturday, July 25
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Steele Auditorium Foyer, Encanto Room
Join us for a special opportunity to meet Sydney Isaacs-Hulstine (Tlingit), an artist and animator visiting all the way from Alaska who helped bring the PBS KIDS® TV series Molly of Denali® and Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure to life. Through drawing activities, screenings, and conversations, guests will get an inside look at the creative world of animation—from first sketches to finished episodes.
Perfect for aspiring artists, storytellers, and curious creators of all ages, this unique day highlights the many paths that can lead to a career in animation and visual storytelling.
Schedule of Activities:
10 – 11 a.m. | Draw with Sydney Isaacs-Hulstine
Every story starts with a character. Join Sydney for a hands-on drawing session and learn how artists develop the personalities and designs that appear on screen.
11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Tale of the Totem/Ice Sculpture Screening & Q+A
Watch an episode of the PBS KIDS® TV series Molly of Denali® with one of the artists who helped create it. Learn how an idea becomes an animated episode, hear behind-the-scenes insights about the creative process, and ask your questions during a live Q+A.
12:30 – 1:30 p.m. | Drawing Workshop
Continue building your artistic skills in a second interactive drawing session inspired by imagery from the series, including elements like the totem featured in the episode.
1:30 – 2 p.m. | Character Drawing & Meet-and-Greet
Draw your favorite characters from the show alongside Sydney and enjoy a casual meet-and-greet to wrap up the day.
Whether you dream of working in animation or simply love the world of Alaska this is a rare chance to learn from an artist who helped shape the series from the inside out.
Head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chip, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse exhibition merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
During this event, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Date: Sunday, July 26
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Steele Auditorium Foyer, Encanto Room
Celebrate our four-legged friends with a day dedicated to creativity, connection, and care. Husky Day ties into Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure, where sled dogs play an important role in travel, teamwork, and daily life.
With special guests from AZ Husky Rescue — and real huskies on-site — you’ll have the chance to connect what you see in the exhibition with real-life care and companionship.
🐶 Learn About Dog Behavior
Ask questions to vet techs in training!
🐕 Meet Adoptable Huskies
Spend time with huskies from AZ Husky Rescue, learn about their care, and find out what it takes to welcome one into your family.
Head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chips, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse exhibition merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
During this event, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Programming Partner:

Date: Friday, August 7
Time: 4 – 8 p.m.
Location: Full Campus
The Heard Museum is the coolest place to be this summer!
Join us for a special family night celebrating the two hour-long specials from the PBS KIDS® TV series Molly of Denali®.
Gather together for adventure, laughter, and stories inspired by Alaska as we screen Molly and the Great One and Wise Raven, Old Crow throughout the evening.
Each special will be shown twice, giving families flexibility to explore, create, and enjoy the museum at their own pace.
Screening Times
4 p.m. & 6 p.m.
Molly and the Great One
5 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Wise Raven, Old Crow
Along with the screenings, guests can enjoy hands-on crafts and activities inspired by the characters, landscapes, and themes from the series—making this a fun-filled night for kids and grown-ups alike.
Whether you’re already a fan of Molly or discovering her world for the first time, this cozy evening at the Heard is the perfect way to learn, imagine, and spend time together.
*Add-on experience fee required for entry to Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure on select special event dates.
– Adult: $10
– Senior (65+): $7
– Military: $7
– Student (with ID): $5
– Children (6-17): $5
Add-on experience fee can be paid at the door.
Programming Partner:

Date: Saturday, August 8
Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Encanto Room
Get up close with amazing animals during this special Saturday experience with the Phoenix Zoo. Inspired by the environments and wildlife featured in Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure, this family-friendly day explores the fascinating connections between animals in Alaska and Arizona.
What to Expect
🐇 Meet a Hawk and a Rabbit
Learn about these incredible animals and discover how rabbits living in Arizona compare to those found in Alaska—from their habitats and adaptations to how they survive in very different climates.
🖌️ See a Painting Armadillo in Action
Watch a talented armadillo create one-of-a-kind artwork in a fun live painting demonstration.
🏔️ Explore the Experience
Continue your adventure with a visit to Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure, where hands-on experiences bring Alaska’s landscapes, cultures, and outdoor traditions to life.
Perfect for animal lovers, curious kids, and families looking for a wild day at the museum.
Head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chip, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse exhibition merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
During this event, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Programming Partner:

Date: Sunday, August 9
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Monte Vista Room, Crossroads Gallery
More information coming soon!
Date: Saturday, August 22
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Full Campus
Join us at the Heard Museum in downtown Phoenix for a Free Family Summer Saturday and meet Molly Mabray from the beloved PBS KIDS® series produced by GBH Kids, MOLLY OF DENALI.® Families can come say hello, take photos, and enjoy a day of creativity and discovery inspired by the adventures of Molly and her friends.
FREE Activities:
📷 Meet Molly in-person and take a photo together.
❄️ Get creative and make art inspired by Alaska.
⭐ Learn together through hands-on family activities.
Don’t miss the special Alaska edition of our Heardlings Family Map and be sure to stop at activity stations throughout the museum for even more ways to play, create, and explore together.
Make your visit extra special by exploring Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure* — where your kids can play and learn about life in Alaska and about Alaska Natives. While you’re here, visit the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chips, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
*Add-on experience fee required for entry to Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure on select special event dates.
– Adult: $10
– Senior (65+): $7
– Military: $7
– Student (with ID): $5
– Children (6-17): $5
Add-on experience fee can be paid at the door.
Date: Sunday, August 30
Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Full Campus
This is the final day to experience Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure — don’t miss your last chance to explore this hands-on journey through stories, landscapes, and traditions inspired by Alaska.
Join us for a special closing celebration focused on traditional youth games from Alaska. Through live demonstrations, guided participation, and an interactive workshop, guests will learn how these games are played, where they come from, and the values they carry across generations.
Try your hand at the games yourself, see them in action, and discover how movement, skill, and play are connected to community and culture in Alaska Native life. This is a rare opportunity to learn directly through doing—perfect for families and curious learners of all ages.
Celebrate the final day with play, connection, and discovery at the Heard Museum.
Head to the Café and Cantina for a menu inspired by the north, featuring items like blueberry milk, smoked salmon, Alaska fish & chip, and more. Don’t forget to stop by Books & More to browse exhibition merchandise and take home a new furry, plush friend.
During this event, Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is included with regular museum admission. No separate ticket required.
Weekly Activities
Wednesday Dance Parties
11:30 a.m. (Approx. 20 min.)
Get moving midweek at our Wednesday Dance Parties! Kids and caregivers are invited to dance together in a joyful, playful space inside Crossroads Gallery. Dancers of all ages will use colorful scarves to explore movement, rhythm, and imagination while celebrating stories from Alaska and beyond.
Thursday Crafternoons
2 – 4 p.m.
Get creative every Thursday with hands-on art making that connects to themes, stories, and visual inspiration from Alaska. These drop-in activities include all supplies and guide participants step-by-step through the project. Every child (and grown-up!) leaves with a finished creation to take home and enjoy.
Friday Snow Tray Play Days
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Each Friday, stay cool with winter-inspired play designed for our youngest visitors! Using freshly made snow, little ones can shape and imagine their own Arctic worlds. With figurines and open-ended materials, build snowy landscapes, create tiny snowmen, and spark creativity.
Molly of Denali: An Alaskan Adventure is a nationally traveling exhibit created by The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum in collaboration with GBH Kids and a team of Alaska Native advisors.
Molly of Denali is a trademark or registered trademark of WGBH Educational Foundation. Used with permission. The series and underlying indicia known as Molly of Denali ©2019 WGBH Educational Foundation. All rights reserved. PBS KIDS® and the PBS KIDS Logo are trademarks owned by Public Broadcasting Service. Used with permission. © 2025 Public Broadcasting Service. All rights reserved.

Made possible at the Heard Museum thanks to:
Win a “Late Night at the Museum” Family Experience
For a limited time, Heard Museum visitors can enter a raffle for a chance to win an exclusive “Late Night at the Museum” family experience for up to 4 people.
How To Enter: Present one admission ticket during your visit in order to receive one entry in the Raffle (limit one entry per household per day). Entry period begins Jun 2, 2026 at 10 a.m. and ends Aug 22, 2026 at 4 p.m. AZ time. View official rules here.
