Native Heritage Center & Museum – Icy Strait Point, Alaska

The Native Heritage Center & Museum at Icy Strait Point offers a powerful introduction to the culture, history, and traditions of the Tlingit people who have lived in the Hoonah area for thousands of years. Through exhibits, artwork, storytelling, and cultural demonstrations, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the community that built and continues to operate Icy Strait Point.

For cruise travelers, this is one of the easiest and most meaningful cultural experiences in the port — a chance to learn about Indigenous life, craftsmanship, and heritage in a welcoming, beautifully curated space.

Fun Facts

• The center highlights the culture of the Huna Tlingit, the Indigenous people of the region.
• Exhibits include traditional regalia, tools, carvings, and clan history.
• Many displays were created by local Tlingit artists and elders.
• The museum sits inside a restored historic cannery building.
• Cultural demonstrations may include carving, weaving, drumming, and storytelling.
• The center helps preserve the Tlingit language, one of the oldest in North America.
• Icy Strait Point is 100% owned and operated by the Huna Tlingit community.
• The museum is one of the most accessible cultural stops for cruise visitors.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Inside the Native Heritage Center & Museum, you’ll find a mix of exhibits, artifacts, and interpretive displays that highlight Tlingit traditions, clan structure, and daily life. The space is warm and inviting, with artwork, photographs, and cultural items that tell the story of the Huna Tlingit people.

Depending on the day, you may also see live demonstrations or cultural performances nearby, including drumming, dancing, or carving. Staff and cultural hosts are friendly and happy to answer questions.

Most visitors spend 20–30 minutes here.

Why It’s Worth Visiting

The museum is perfect for travelers who want a deeper, more authentic understanding of the people who call this region home. It’s educational, respectful, and beautifully presented — and it adds cultural depth to your Icy Strait Point visit.

Where It’s Located

The Native Heritage Center & Museum is located within the Icy Strait Point complex, near the historic cannery and waterfront shops.

How to Get There From the Cruise Port

• Walk: Just steps from the cruise dock.
• Shuttle: Some cruise lines drop passengers directly at the entrance.
• Gondola: Not required, but easy to pair with other attractions.

Best Time to Visit

• Morning offers quieter galleries.
• Midday may include cultural demonstrations.
• Summer (June–August) provides the fullest schedule of activities.
• Rainy days are ideal — the entire experience is indoors.

Tips for Visiting

• Take time to read the clan history displays — they’re beautifully done.
• Ask staff about current cultural demonstrations happening nearby.
• Combine with the Tribal Dance & Cultural Show for a deeper experience.
• Visit the gift shop for locally made Tlingit art and jewelry.
• Bring kids — the exhibits are short, visual, and easy to explore.

Common Complaints

• The museum is small, so visits are brief.
• Some exhibits rotate, so displays may vary.
• Cultural demonstrations aren’t guaranteed every day.
• It can feel crowded when multiple cruise ships are in port.

Final Thoughts

The Native Heritage Center & Museum is one of the most meaningful cultural stops at Icy Strait Point. With beautifully curated exhibits and authentic Tlingit storytelling, it’s a must‑visit for cruise travelers who want to understand the people and traditions that shape this region.

For more ideas to plan your day, explore my full guide to the top things to do at Icy Strait Point.