ACTIVITIES
TLINGÍT MODERN CULTURE
Something special about Alaska is its strong Indigenous cultural presence, and Sitka is no exception. As the ancestral home to the Tlingít people since time immemorial, Sheet’ ká( Sitka) proudly shares its Indigenous heritage, art, language, and traditions with visitors. We encourage respectful engagement by visiting cultural centers and museums, supporting Tlingít artists, and carrying the values you’ ve learned home with you long after your trip.
CULTURAL CENTERS & MUSEUMS
SHEET’ KÁ KWÁAN NAA KAHÍDI TRIBAL COMMUNITY HOUSE
A modern rendition of a Tlingít clan house offering Native dance performances in full regalia, storytelling, cultural events, and a gift shop with authentic Alaska Native artwork. Built in 1997 on the site of the former Indian Government School, it also houses Southeast Alaska’ s largest hand-carved house screen, titled“ Lovebirds.”
Master carver Tommy Joseph / Naal xak’ w( Eagle / Wolf, Kaagwaantaan) can often be seen demonstrating traditional woodcarving at Sitka National Historic Park ' s carving shed behind the visitors’ center.
SHELDON JACKSON MUSEUM
Founded in 1888, this octagonal building is Alaska’ s first concrete structure and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972. Its collection showcases Alaska Native cultural materials, and summer often brings artist demonstrations and programs.
SITKA NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK
This scenic park preserves the site of the 1804 battle between the Tlingít and Russians. Trails are lined with a renowned collection of Haida and Tlingít totem poles, and the visitor center hosts an active demonstrating-artist program in wood, textile / beading, and metal engraving.
SITKA HISTORY MUSEUM
Inside Harrigan Centennial Hall, this museum takes you on a walk through Sitka’ s history, focusing on the Russian occupation and the American Purchase through artifacts, photographs, rotating displays, and a gift shop.
In Sitka, your travel experiences are made richer by the enduring presence of the Tlingít people. Here, you’ ll witness the overlap of a long-standing culture in a modern world. Show respect with thoughtful questions and careful handling of all artwork, and remember, totem poles are not for climbing.
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