November has many highlights such as Thanksgiving. Not many may be aware that it is also celebrated as Native American Heritage Month. Primarily in USA, the month focuses on celebrating the indigenous folks' rich cultural heritage and traditions throughout the American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage month and the foundation they have built for the great nation as it exists today. Native Americans are found in every sphere of modern-day America so there's no better time than now to visit these American destinations that showcase this month-long commemoration of Native American history.
Totem Heritage Center
1. Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Montana
Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana is home to over 10,000 people who are descendants of the Blackfeet Tribe. Located along the Eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, the 607,000 hectares of land is bordered by the Glacier National Park and Canada. The incredible views of the valleys and mountains add to its glory, which is testament to their rich, natural history. With options such as tribal fishing, bison viewing, and camping at Duck Lake, the reservation is a must-visit destination.
2. Antelope Canyon, Arizona
To experience the country's Great Outdoors on Native American land, do pay a visit to the Antelope Canyon in Arizona. This mighty, winding canyon is located on Navajo land near Page in Arizona and is one of the most spectacular natural structures retaining the essence of Native American topography. The canyon, which is formed by erosion, is a photographer's dream where sunlight casts diverse streaks of vibrant reds, oranges, and browns. One should also visit the Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Canyon to really experience Native land in all its glory.
Native American land in Montana
3. Cameron Trading Post In Cameron, Arizona
Arizona's Native American significance is not just constricted to the natural reserves but the culture also reflects in the artistic craftsmanship. Cameron Trading Post is a historic destination fully stocked with handmade jewelry, crafts, home decor and other collectibles. The trading post has been showcasing Native American crafts since 1916. Expect to also find an old-fashioned convenience store and floral garden at the site, ripe for exploring. You can visit the art gallery and gift shop to admire the vast selection of handcrafted goods, including Navajo rugs, Hopi Kachina dolls and silver and turquoise jewelry. Stop by the restaurant to try Navajo beef stew and Navajo tacos before taking in the views of the Grand Canyon region surrounding the trading post.
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4. Taos Pueblo, New Mexico
Taos Pueblo is one of the few places in the U.S.A. where Native American tribes still reside. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this adobe settlement of the Pueblo Indians of Arizona and New Mexico is open to the public, with many tribe members selling their handmade wares. You won't find traditional storefronts in this town, but can explore the settlement to see the hand-built, multi-story adobe homes that date back to the late 13th and 14th centuries, meet local residents and buy distinctive pieces of jewellery and other handmade crafts from locals.
Antelope Canyon in Arizona
5. Silver Eagle in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
Silver Eagle continues to be the largest Native American gallery in the southeast Wisconsin region. This venue houses handcrafted jewellery and authentic Native American merchandise from 20 different Native American nations. It's a haven for anyone looking for jewellery, sand paintings, handcrafted Kachina dolls and carvings. Owner Celeste Ewald has been selling Native American pieces at this trading post-inspired store for more than 15 years. Make some time to browse here, as you can shop a wide collection of jewellery handcrafted by Navajo, Hopi and Zuni tribes, handwoven Zapotec rugs and mats, Navajo sand paintings and Southwest accent pieces.
6. Alaska Native Heritage Center, Anchorage, Alaska
Alaska is home to 11 native communities and their culture and traditions are preserved and honored at the Heritage Center, which is located in Anchorage, Alaska. Learn about them by taking part in various educational programs, live dance performances, guided museum tours, and more. With the Indigenous World Film Festival in February and the World Intertribal Music Festival in August, Alaska Native Heritage Center actively preserves the cultural influence of the Natives beautifully.
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