Alaska Native Heritage Center

The Alaska Native Heritage Center (ANHC), located in Anchorage, is a premier cultural institution dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Alaska's Indigenous peoples. Since its opening in 1999, the center has welcomed over a million visitors, offering immersive experiences that celebrate the state's diverse Native cultures.

About the Alaska Native Heritage Center

With a mission of being an educational and cultural institute for all Alaskans, the Alaska Native Heritage Center shares the history and heritage of the 11 main cultural groups of Alaska. This offers a unique experience to learn about the Indigenous cultures of the area, from centuries-old traditions to the contemporary ways they live today.

Getting There

Situated approximately 10 miles northeast of downtown Anchorage, the ANHC is easily accessible by car, public transportation, or the center's seasonal shuttle service:

• By Car: From downtown Anchorage, take 6th Avenue east, which transitions into the Glenn Highway. Exit at Muldoon Road, cross the overpass, and follow signs to Golden Bear Drive and Heritage Center Drive. On-site parking is available.
  


• By Shuttle: During the summer, a seasonal shuttle service connects downtown Anchorage to the center.
  


• By Public Transit: Anchorage’s public transit system has routes that reach the area, but check schedules for availability.
  

Highlights of the ANHC

• The Hall of Cultures: This indoor exhibit space showcases art, crafts, and tools from Alaska’s Indigenous peoples. Visitors can see traditional items, contemporary art, and participate in hands-on activities like basket weaving or carving. Authentic Native-made goods are also available for purchase.


• The Gathering Place: A central stage for live performances, including traditional dances, storytelling, and demonstrations of Native games. These engaging events provide a glimpse into the vibrant cultures of Alaska’s Indigenous communities.


• Outdoor Village Sites:Six life-sized traditional dwellings surround Lake Tiulana, each representing the unique architecture and lifestyles of Alaska’s major cultural groups. Guided tours provide in-depth insights into the history and cultural significance of these homes.


• Workshops and Educational Programs: The center frequently hosts workshops led by Native artists and craftspeople, offering visitors an opportunity to learn traditional skills like drum-making, beading, or storytelling.

Visitor Information

• Operating Hours: The center is open daily from mid-May through mid-September, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the off-season (October through May), private tours are available by appointment.
  


• Admission: Ticket prices range from $12 to $29, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and children. It's advisable to check the official website or contact the center directly for the most current pricing and any special events.

History

The Alaska Native Heritage Center had a long journey to opening its doors. In 1987, the Center was created by unanimous vote for the Alaska Federation of Natives. This vote called for establishing an Alaska Native culture center that could serve all residents and visitors to the state.

Officially incorporated in 1989, the Alaska Native Heritage Center operates as a non-profit organization. It took 10 years before it finally opened to the public in 1999, and it celebrated 20 years of sharing Alaska’s cultural history in 2019.

Interesting Facts

The incredible history and culture to explore at the ANHC are worth the visit. Whether you’re interested in Native history, traditional songs and dance, or the dwellings they lived in to survive the harsh Alaskan climate, visitors can take a step into the past to find a better understanding of Alaska’s history.

• Six recreated Native dwellings are located along Lake Tiulana, with each village site featuring a traditional building and artifacts that the Native people would have used in everyday life.
  


• The Inupiaq site features whale bones, while other dwellings to explore include a semi-subterranean home and a traditional Southeast Alaska Longhouse.
  


• The Alaska Native Heritage Center is housed on land that was the Native village of Eklutna in the traditional territory of the Dena’ina Athabascan tribe.
  


• Cultural Awareness Workshops, educational programs, and community classes all play a major role in the Center’s mission of spreading awareness of Native cultures.
  

Final Thoughts

Alaska’s future is built on its understanding and appreciation of its past, and the Native people of Alaska are celebrated at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Whether you’re looking to educate yourself on Native culture or spend an afternoon exploring Native village sites, a visit to the ANHC offers beautiful scenery and an important message in preserving the culture of the state’s Indigenous people.

View all of our Anchorage tours here.