Native American Attractions
The incredibly rich history of the USA runs through every state but here are a few attractions that should give you the best Native American experiences!
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
In Native Choctaw, Okla = people and humma = red, making Oklahoma the land of the red people. However, humma translates to a number of meanings one of which is “an addition to a man’s name which gives him some distinction, calling on him for courage and honor”. This meaning then makes Oklahoma the land of honourable people/courageous nation. Visit Diligwa, a 1710 Cherokee Heritage Village that was opened in 2013. Experience 18 century Cherokee life and learn all about the 4-acres of land on which it sits. Stories are told, lifeways are explained and daily life is demonstrated through interpretive stations.
Valley of Fire – Overton, Nevada
The Valley of Fire got its name from its 46,000 acres of Aztec sandstone, which on a sunny day, look like they are on fire. Situated only an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, this incredible natural formation is the perfect day-trip for all travellers. Take the 1.5 mile hike through one of the most photogenic parts of the Valley of Fire: the Fire Wave or if you would prefer a short hike from your car, take the 10 minute walk through the Pink Canyon.
Holbrook, Arizona
If you are looking for a real Native American experience then Holbrook is where you should head to. With three tribes – Apache, Hopi and Navajo – all crossing through Holbrook, you are sure to get a feel for the Native way of life. Be sure not to drive motor bikes through these ancient lands, they are forbidden as not to disturb residents. From Holbrook, visit the Painted Desert or Petrified Forest and explore the best of nature’s natural beauty.
Utah
Monument Valley is famous for more than just its iconic rock formations and dusty red terrain. Movies such as John Wayne’s The Searcher’s and the famous running scene in Forrest Gump features this incredible landmark. Head down the 17-mile Valley Drive and cross the state-line between Utah and Arizona or if you don’t want to do the drive, get someone else to do it for you with a guided tour.
Also in Utah is the Valley of the Gods and the Mexican Hat, both found on the San Juan River in south San Juan County on the northern edge of Navajo Nation.
Crazy Horse Memorial – South Dakota
The Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota has been under construction since 1948, this amazing landmark may be incomplete but you can still visit it today. South Dakota is the ancestral home of the Lakota, Nakota and Dakota tribes, so this Great Sioux Nation is the perfect opportunity to experience all Native American culture has to offer. Also in the Black Hills of South Dakota is Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and Badlands National Park, all full of lush forests and magnificent mountains.
Get going with your Native adventures and you will be sure to be left wanting more!
