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 education and cultural experience for travelers this summer.
Native American Museums
Located in Green Bay, 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.
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.
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. Tours are available of the park as well. Another option, take a tour of George W. Brown, Jr. Ojibwe Museum & Cultural Center, a museum showcasing fours season dioramas of tribal culture located on the Lac du Flambeau Indian Reservation in northern Wisconsin.
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 to check out in the coming months:
Bear River Pow-Wow – July in Lac du Flambeau
Honor the Earth Pow-Wow – July in Hayward
Menomonie Nation Contest Pow-wow – August in Keshena
Ho-Chunk Nation Pow-Wow – September in Black River Falls
What’s more fun than culture, history, and a little singing and dancing? For more information on Native American culture see our directory .
