Anchorage Highlights and Indigenous Heritage

Explore Alaska’s largest city while learning about the Dena’ina Athabascan people’s rich cultural heritage. Begin with a downtown tour seeing where Anchorage started along Ship Creek, then visit the Alaska Art Alliance to observe Alaska Native artists practicing traditional carving techniques with ivory, whale bone, and baleen—skills passed down through generations. Continue to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Alaska’s premier cultural institution, where you’ll explore exhibits, walk among traditional dwellings around Lake Tiulana, and experience live cultural demonstrations including storytelling, traditional dancing, and Native Games. This immersive journey provides authentic insights into both contemporary and traditional Alaska Native cultures. After exploring the Native Heritage Center, you will take the short trip back downtown.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Pass by

   Departing the curb your trained driver will guide you through the traditional homelands of the Dena’ina Athabascan. Taking a tour of downtown Anchorage see where it began along the banks of Ship Creek and learn how those humble beginnings grew into the largest city in Alaska.

2. 2

   Ship Creek

   15 min

   Enjoy a quick photo stop along Ship Creek that shows views of the city and the rugged mountains that surround it.

3. 3

   Alaska Native Heritage Center

   2 hours

   Alaska's premier Alaska Native cultural center. The center shares the heritage of Alaska's 11 major cultures. Visitors experience Alaska Native cultures first-hand through stories, dance and more. You will have the opportunity to tour life size recreations of Alaska Native dwellings, see and hear traditional dancing and singing, and watch examples of Native Alaskan games.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   45 min

   Witness Alaska Native artists practicing traditional carving techniques passed down through generations. Observe skilled artisans working with ivory, whale bone, and baleen in this unique Fourth Avenue workshop. Learn about the “Utuqqanaatmiñ” (“From Our Elders”) project while watching beautiful traditional art come to life. Browse authentic handcrafted pieces in the attached gallery where artists sell their creations. This intimate cultural experience offers rare insight into living indigenous traditions and the healing power of ancestral arts.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Important Note: Guest can carry their own infant carrier as we have seatbelts on each seats.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.