About the Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a non-profit educational and cultural organization located on 26 acres in northeast Anchorage. Established in 1987 by the Alaska Federation of Natives, the Center serves as a gathering place for Alaska's Native cultures. The result is a world-class cultural center centrally located in Alaska's largest city.
The Alaska Federation of Native unanimously approved the concept to establish a statewide Native cultural center in 1987. In 1995, the Alaska Native Heritage Center was formed as an independent non-profit organization. The Center received enthusiastic support from the grassroots level to Alaska's highest leadership. Construction of the facility was made possible through $14.5 million raised from federal, state, local, and private sources between 1989 and 1999. In 1994, a building site was secured, and the Center opened its doors to the public on May 1, 1999. Since then, the Center has welcomed over 1,000,000 visitors from around the world.
The Center is in the heart of Dena'ina country and is set against the stunning backdrop of the Chugach Mountains. The facility serves as a hub for preserving and sharing the diverse cultures of Alaska's Indigenous Peoples. Visitors are invited to experience the unique traditions, arts, and languages of Alaska Native Peoples through a variety of educational programs and exhibits. In addition to preserving and celebrating Alaska Native cultures, the Center offers programs and workshops that promote cultural awareness and understanding. The Center also offers resources and support to Alaska Native communities throughout the state.
