Appreciating Native Alaskan Heritage:
Must-Visit Cultural Centers & Museums
Alaska, a land of breathtaking natural beauty, is also a treasure trove of Native Alaskan culture. Since November is National Native American Heritage Month, we wanted to highlight some of the more than 60 cultural centers and museums that focus on preserving the rich tapestry and history of over 20 native Alaska cultures. To get started learning more about the people who have made Alaska home for over 10,000 years, here are 9 must-visit cultural sites and museums.
The museum's Native Alaskan galleries feature a diverse collection of over 600 artifacts, including masks, tools, totem poles, textiles, and jewelry. Visitors can also see exhibits on Alaska's natural history, social history, and contemporary art.
Dedicated to preserving and promoting Native Alaskan culture, the Alaska Native Heritage Center offers interactive exhibits, cultural demonstrations, and a gift shop featuring Native Alaskan crafts. Visitors can experience traditional dances like a traditional Yup'ik dance, listen to storytelling, and participate in hands-on activities like beading or carving. The center also hosts a variety of cultural festivals and events throughout the year.
The Alaska Native Medical Center Cultural Center provides insights into traditional healing practices and the importance of culture in Native Alaskan health and wellness. Its exhibits explore traditional healing plants, ceremonies, and the role of cultural practices in promoting health and well-being. Visitors can also find authentic Alaska Native art for purchase in the Craft Shop.
The Yupik Piciryarait Cultural Center in Bethel offers a deep dive into Yupik culture. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring Yupik artifacts, learn about Yupik traditional foods, music, and dance, and participate in educational programs.
The Alutiiq Museum (and Archaeological Repository) showcases the history and traditions of the Alutiiq people. Exhibits explore their maritime culture, fishing practices, and subsistence way of life, as well as the impact of Russian colonization in the region.
The Sheldon Museum & Cultural Center in Sitka offers a glimpse into the region's rich history, including its Native Tlingit heritage and the Russian colonial era. Visitors can explore a collection of Tlingit artifacts, learn about the Russian-American influence, and discover the role of Sitka in the fur trade.
The Sealaska Heritage Institute is dedicated to preserving and promoting Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures. The institute offers a variety of programs, including workshops, language classes, and public lectures. Visitors can also explore the institute's online collections and resources.
The Alaska State Museum features exhibits on Alaska's natural history, cultural heritage, and social history. Its Native Alaskan galleries showcase a wide range of artifacts from different cultural groups. Visitors can also explore Alaska's geology, wildlife, and maritime history.
While not located in Alaska, the Inuit Gallery of Vancouver showcases a significant collection of Inuit art from across the Canadian Arctic, including Alaska, and is well worth a visit. Visitors can explore a variety of Inuit sculptures, prints, and textiles and learn about the cultural significance of Inuit art.
Many Native Alaskan villages have their own museums, offering unique insights into local culture and history. These museums often feature artifacts and exhibits related to local traditions, history, and way of life. There, visitors can learn about the unique cultural heritage of each village.
Native American Heritage Month (November) is a perfect time to visit these cultural sites and learn more about Native Alaskan heritage. Many museums and organizations offer special events, workshops, and exhibits this month, so check out the calendar of events for each.
Another interesting source of Native Alaskan cultural information is an online guide published by Travel Alaska.
By exploring these cultural sites and museums, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the cultures of Native Alaskans. We’re proud to do business in a diverse and vibrant place like Alaska.
