Native American cultures are a vibrant part of Wisconsin’s rich history. The state is home to 11 tribes – the most east of the Mississippi – providing both an educational and cultural experience for travelers. So, take a trip into history and add meaningful adventure to you next vacation.
Native American Museums
Located in DePere, the Oneida Nation Museum contains the largest exhibit of Oneida clothing, medicine, toys, music and more. In nearby Bowler, visit an archive of Mohican artifacts at the Arvid E. Miller Library & Museum. Exhibits include rare books, microfilm of the Green Bay Indian Agency, and maps dating from the early 1600s.
In other areas of Wisconsin, you can stop in at the Menominee Indian Tribe Cultural Museum in Keshena and the Ojibwe Museum and Cultural Center in Lac du Flambeau that also provide important and meaningful history and artifacts as well as both being wheelchair accessible with knowledgeable tour guides available.
Photo Credit: RJ & Linda Miller
Camping
Located three miles north of Bayfield, the Red Cliff Reservation is home to the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and a popular tourist destination. The Buffalo Bay Campground and Marina offers easy access to Isle Vista Casino, a public boat launch, beach, and of course, a beautiful view. From there, it’s only 5 miles north to Frog Bay Tribal National Park, the first tribal national park in the United States.
Culture
Forts Folle Avoine Historical Park in Danbury was once the site of fur trading posts and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located on 80 acres, the trading posts were re-discovered by archeologists in 1969 - they had been undisturbed for over 200 years! Learn about the fur trade with a re-enactment between traders and the Ojibwe tribe and explore a museum, outdoor wigwams and more. Tours are available of the park, and the buildings and grounds are wheelchair accessible.
Pow-Wows
Drums pound, feet stomp and bright colors swirl at a traditional Native American Pow-Wow. Many celebrations are open to the public and are a great way to get a taste for a tribe’s customs. Here are a few that take place regularly:
Bear River Pow-Wow – in Lac du Flambeau
Honor the Earth Pow-Wow – in Hayward
Menomonie Nation Contest Pow-wow – in Keshena
Ho-Chunk Nation Pow-Wow – Memorial Day and Labor Day
What’s more fun than culture, history, and a little singing and dancing? For more information on Native American culture see our directory .
