Inupiat Heritage Center

Address:Barrow, Alaska
Tel: (907) 852-4594

Experience the raw beauty of nature and the history of a perseverant culture at the Inupiat Heritage Center, commemorating the historical hunting grounds of the Inupiat people, who survived for thousands of years in the harsh arctic tundra. The center, located in Barrow, Alaska, houses exhibits and programs to educate visitors about the history and significance of the Inupiat culture.

The Inupiat people survived for thousands of years through whaling, and dividing their prize in such a way that it benefited the entire community. However, in the 19th century, over 2,000 whaling expeditions from New Bedford, Massachusetts, arrived in Alaska, and used native Alaskans to man their ships, hunt for food, and shelter shipwrecked crews. In February of 1999, the Inupiat Heritage Center was dedicated as an affiliated area of the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park to preserve the history of whaling tradition in the United States.

Today, the Inupiat Heritage Center features exhibits, artifacts and cultural programs that acquaint visitors with the history of the Inupiat people. The cultural programs, among them the annual art show, elders-in-residence program, and performing arts programs, expose visitors to Inupiat culture. After a visit at the center, visitors can find several restaurants in Barrow, ranging from Filipino to Japanese cuisine.

To get to the Inupiat Heritage Center, take either a chartered or commercial flight from Anchorage or Fairbanks, Alaska, to Barrow.