Alaska is home to 11 distinct Native cultures spread throughout five regions of the state. The Alaska Native Heritage Center celebrates the diversity of the Alaskan Native people, sharing their history and traditions through storytelling, traditional music and dance, exhibits and a "living" museum that replicates traditional Native housing.
Best and worst time to go to the Alaska Native Heritage Center
The best time to visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center is in May and June. There are fewer tourists, and admission is free on Mother's Day. The weather is normally warm and dry, giving you more time to explore the outdoor portion of the Center. The worst time to visit is late August through closing in September; there are fewer special exhibits and the weather tends to be colder and wetter.
Must see/do at the Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center is small, so it's easy to see everything in a single day. But if you're pressed for time, make sure to visit the following three areas:
- The Gathering Place: On the ANHC's lower level you'll find The Gathering Place, where you'll have a chance to witness traditional Native storytelling, song and dance, tribal games demonstrations, and more. Each day's performances are printed on a daily schedule.
- The Hall of Cultures: Photographs, authentic artifacts and testimonials from Alaska Natives give visitors a feel for the traditional Alaska Native way of life, which is still being followed by many Alaska Natives.
- The Living Museum: Step outside and stroll around Lake Tiulana, where you'll step inside six authentic, life-size Alaska Native dwellings, from a traditional home to a food cache. Volunteers provide information on each dwelling and its importance to the traditional way of life.
Admission to the Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center is open to the public every day from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. from Mother's Day through mid-September. An admission fee is required for all visitors ages 3 and older.
Parking and public transportation to the Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center has plenty of free, on-site parking. Daily shuttle service brings visitors to the museum from various points around town.
Food at the Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Heritage Cafe offers a variety of specialty coffee drinks, pastries, and Alaskan-inspired sandwiches, burgers and wraps. Vending machines are also available..
Insider tip for visitors to the Alaska Native Heritage Center
Check the Alaska Native Heritage Center website to see if there are any special exhibits or events, from artist demonstrations, Native crafts for sale, or even food truck specials.
Author's bio: Amy Newman has lived in Alaska for 14 years. She has written about Alaska's people and attractions for local, regional and national publication.
