The Alaska Native Heritage Cnter
The Alaska Native Heritage Center has grown into its shoes. Meaning that it had some very large shoes to fill from its opening in 1999. This is a place that has different purposes for different groups. For the Alaska Native populations it is a center for coming together, for sharing their culture and gifts with one and other. But it also is a place for tourists to come and experience, in just a few short hours, many of the different faces of the native groups in Alaska.
The substantial entry fee of $23.50 for adults, $21.15 seniors/military, and $15.96 for children 7 and older (6 and younger get in free) seemed high in the early days of the center. But the offerings now meet and exceed the expectations of a visitor.
They offer free shuttle service from several locations around Anchorage. Once you get there, plan to stay a while to enjoy the programs that are offered inside the center. There is gripping story telling, captivating traditional music and dancing, demonstrations of the competitive events of the World Eskimo and Indian Olympics (you won't believe what these young people can accomplish), and information about the different groups and their cultures from around Alaska. Once you get outside, there is a 1/4 mile loop around a small lake that has traditional dwelling from many of the different regions and culture around the state. At each dwelling/station a representative from that region will tell you about their own group and how the dwelling was built and what purpose it served. There is a craft area where artisans are creating and selling their varied products and sharing the craft with you at the same time.
The Alaska Native Heritage Center also offers classes and workshops to those interested is learning about, for example, carving a totem pole, building an umiak (kayak), and more.
If you can get there, plan at the least, 2 hours into your visit. More if you can. It is the best way to get a grand overview on the incredible cultures that exist throughout the state!
