The center offers engaging experiences for all ages, from life-size walk-through dioramas that transport visitors into the past, to changing exhibits and live performances of contemporary arts and cultures. Extensive interactive exhibits depict 18,000 years of Native and natural history, while two libraries, including one for children, offer a diverse selection of materials on the histories and cultures of all Native peoples of the United States and Canada.

Fall is overflowing with a bounty of activities for the whole family. See our new exhibit, Native Words, Native Warriors, which tells the story of WWI and WWII American Indian code talkers, gain insights into the weapons and tactics used during the Pequot War, and meet cookbook author and ethnobotonist E. Barrie Kavasch as she discusses American Indian medicinal and edible plants.

Watch and discuss Cree filmaker Neil Diamond's documentary Reel Injun, while ventriloquism and puppetry master Buddy Big Mountain delights audiences with his hilarious blend of Native American comedy, ventriloquism, singing, magic, and wonderfully whacky puppets.

As an extra bonus, Smithsonian members, magazine subscribers, and friends can take advantage of Museum Day to receive free admission for one person and an accompanying guest upon presentation of the Smithsonian Museum Day pass, available by clicking here. 

Teacher’s and their families get a special day of sample tours, Native games, art activities and the opportunity to meet and listen to Sandy Grande—a Quechua Native from Peru, during the Educators’ Open House. All this and more: just click on Museum Calendar, on the right-hand side of this page, to discover all our events, month by month.

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