Your guide to exploring Wisconsin’s Native communities

By Christina Lorey

October 17, 2024

💛 DID YOU KNOW? Wisconsin is home to 11 federally-recognized Native tribes, each with their own distinct traditions and culture.

From natural attractions like effigy mounds and natural parks to museums, restaurants, and golf clubs, there are many ways to authentically and respectfully celebrate the state’s native heritage all year long.

Not sure where to start? We asked Travel Wisconsin for help! Here are their picks…

Indoors

Visit the Oneida Nation Museum in DePere for original Iroquois artwork, hands-on exhibits, and a personal tour about the history of Oneida Nation.The Menominee Indian Tribe Cultural Museum in Keshena and the Ojibwe Museum and Cultural Center in Lac du Flambeau are also informative, interesting spots.

Along with sharing their traditions, many tribes also own top-notch casinos with beautiful restaurants, lounges, hotels, and gambling throughout the state.

🧡 MORE: Wisconsin Casinos, Beyond Blackjack and Bingo

Outdoors

Wisconsin’s reservations span more than 332,000 acres, including lakes, forests, and the country’s first tribal national park, Frog Bay, on the lands of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

Read more about effigy mounds and earthworks in Wisconsin:

🧡 Effigy Mounds in Southern Wisconsin

🧡 Where to See Native American Mounds and Earthworks

Many tribes also invite the public to their annual powwows, where tribal members meet to honor and celebrate their culture through music, dance, traditional clothing, Native food, and handmade art and crafts.

🧡 MORE: Where to Experience a Wisconsin Powwow

Wisconsin’s Native Americans also own a range of businesses throughout the state. During the month of November (Native American Heritage Month), we’re challenging members of our team to support one Native-owned business a week and encourage you to join us!

Author

Christina Lorey

Christina is an Edward R. Murrow-winning journalist and former producer, reporter, and anchor for TV stations in Madison and Moline. When she’s not writing or asking questions, you can find her volunteering with Girls on the Run, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, and various mental health organizations. Send all story tips to [email protected] and sign up for her newsletter here.

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CATEGORIES: LOCAL CULTURE

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